Buying either a New Nikkor 80-200 or Used 70-200 2.8

[Atmosphere]

Hello I have a couple questions about these two great nikon zoom lenses. I am in the market for a new zoom lens to upgrade my 70-300 4.5-5.6 and I am considering both of these lenses. They would be both around the same price point ($1,100 for 80-200, $1,200 for 70-200 VR I used)

-I really want VR but can you get away without it when shooting in lower light with the 80-200?

-The 70-200 VR I is 4 years old and has been used for studio shooting. Is there anything I should watch out for with a 4 year old lens?

-Basically my question is between a new 80-200 2.8 or a used 70-200 2.8 VR I

Thanks and I appreciate all of the responses!

Sorry if I posted in the wrong section

 

[ann]

For years the 80-200 was my favorite lens, you should be able to find one used cheaper than $1,100. Mine was in excellent condition per my camera store and I sold it for $600.

I now have the 70-200 and it is a great lens.

If you can get either for roughly the same dollar, i might go with the 70-200 as there have been changes in the formula for the glass. just my two cents.

do you have the opportunity to test both? take a few shots of the same subject with the same focal lengths.

 

[2WheelPhoto]

70-200

 

[KmH]

I agree that $1100 for a 80-200 2-ring is overpriced, unless it is the AF-S version they made few of.

The 70-200 is a bit better optically, and does have the VR which at 200 mm and under I rarely found useful for any lens.