tamron vs sigma 70-200 m f2.8

samithphotography · Jul 21, 2012

I currently have the Tamron ld di sp macro and the sigma ex apo dg, both are 70-200mm f2.8 and I looking to keep just 1 one them. Ive done some research and still undecided. Which lens is better for portrait/wedding photography? If you could, please list the pros and cons. I would like your input from those with experience in both. Thanks,

Tee · Jul 21, 2012

Since you have both of them, which one do you use more?

samithphotography · Jul 21, 2012

I just got them for a great deal within the week and i briefly tested them today. I cant really tell the difference in sharpness that much. Heres what i got so far sigma build quality feels better, the focus ring is smoother, quicker AF. the tamron is slightly sharper, its a little longer but weigh less, can shoot and focus at closer range and the pinch cap fits better(not that its a deal breaker). I just wanted to see if I was missing anything that others have had experience with.

Tee · Jul 21, 2012

I've seen and used both at various times but have never owned either. I feel the Sigma is better and the reviews between the two favor the Sigma as well.

Derrel · Jul 21, 2012

What about the Tamron's frequently-alleged tendency toward sloooooooooooooooooow focusing? I have read a number of reviews of the Tammy, and every single one of them mentions focusing speed as being a major drawback; I have also read a couple other reviews where focusing accuracy/reliability were questioned pretty strongly...

I know Sigma has made multiple variants of their 70-200/2.8...not sure if the EX APO DG model you have is their latest model or the model from one generation back...

You apparently have both lenses there; is one on-approval or something? Why are you asking "us", if I might be sold bold as to ask?

rexbobcat · Jul 21, 2012

Tamron's focusing is ungodly slow and noisy.

Bukitimah · Jul 21, 2012

I am jealous that you have both. What is the $ difference and do let us know your decision and reasons. I am waiting to get one.

samithphotography · Jul 22, 2012

Derrel said:
What about the Tamron's frequently-alleged tendency toward sloooooooooooooooooow focusing? I have read a number of reviews of the Tammy, and every single one of them mentions focusing speed as being a major drawback; I have also read a couple other reviews where focusing accuracy/reliability were questioned pretty strongly...

I know Sigma has made multiple variants of their 70-200/2.8...not sure if the EX APO DG model you have is their latest model or the model from one generation back...

You apparently have both lenses there; is one on-approval or something? Why are you asking "us", if I might be sold bold as to ask?

I bought the tamron on ebay and i like it. its not as slow as some make it out to be, especially since im not shooting sports. I just aquired the sigma from a someone who had no idea what they had and got it for REALLY cheap. I couldnt pass up the deal. I figured I could make some profit on it if i didnt like it more than the tamron. and before i made my decision on which to get rid of, i figured i would ask first from people who have used both.

samithphotography · Jul 22, 2012

Bukitimah said:
I am jealous that you have both. What is the $ difference and do let us know your decision and reasons. I am waiting to get one.

I bought the tamron for 575-ish and found the sigma at a local pawn shop for 300. my mouth dropped when i saw it for soooo cheap. It is in mint condition (not a single blemish) and they are selling on ebay for 800 currently. I decided to go with the tamron bc it is sharper, can shoot at closer range, and a bit lighter. Since im not shooting sports and mainly doing portrait/wedding stuff it doesnt bother me that it is slower (really not by much). if i was rich i would buy the nikon but thats a whole other story.