UPgrading my lens

[FranDaMan]

Currently we have a Canon 75-300 USMII on our Canon550D.
We got it cheap when we got the body. It's just not really a good lens. Very soft throughout the whole range, even when stopped down. CA is through the roof.

Now I am being laid off, I get a nice severance package. I am hoping to get a new job soon. If I do I wanna get a nice replacement for this lens.

What would be a nice step up from this lens ?
Budget would be around €500 ($700US)

 

[Big Mike]

Have a look at the 70-300mm IS. It's a similar lens but I've always heard that the image quality is much better...plus, having IS on a long lens like this, certainly helps.

If you really want to step up in quality, but are willing to trade some focal length, the 70-200mm F4 L, is a superbly sharp lens and exhibits the quality you would expect from a Canon L lens.

 

[FranDaMan]

I secretly have been eying the 70-200 F4. They have them regularly second hand at a big store here in Holland.

 

[subscuck]

I'd second the 70-300 IS. It really is a nice lens at just over $500US. It has the same issues as any conventional zoom design, but IQ is head and shoulders above the very consumer 75-300. It fits well in your budget, and covers the same focal range.

 

[FranDaMan]

Hmmm....that would be a hard choice. The L quality over extra range.....CHOICES !!!

 

[Big Mike]

There is a new 70-300mm IS L...but I doubt that it's as good as the 70-200mm and it's also way above your price range.

 

[FranDaMan]

It is €1300 new, so yes.....out of my price range.