Whats the best 2.8 multi purpose lens for a Canon 5D

RumDaddy · Mar 29, 2011

I made my mind up to upgrade from a 50 D to a 5D/Mark III this spring. But Ill have limited money for the lenses. So which 2.8 lens do you guys feel is the most multipurpose lens? I also want to get a good fish eye lens and am open for suggestions.

Thanks.

Juice · Mar 29, 2011

The 24-70mm f/2.8L is great, it definitely gets the most use out of my lens lineup. Very sharp, I love it!

There is a 17-55 f/2.8 IS, but it isn't L glass. I don't think IS is that important at those focal ranges, so I'd rather have L glass. However, I've never shot with the 17-55, so I can't really speak for it.

I have the 15mm f/2.8 fish eye. I couldn't really justify the L version since it's a pretty specific-use lens which I don't use often, so I didn't want to spend the extra money on it. On a full frame, you'll get a 180 degree angle of view, which is pretty cool. I'm looking forward to getting a full frame body to make full use of this lens.

Big Mike · Mar 29, 2011

I agree that the EF 24-70mm F2.8 L, is the best multi-purpose lens for the 5D. However, note that the EF-S 17-55mm F2.8 IS, is an EF-S lens, and as such, is not compatible with the 'full frame' 5D.

A less expensive option would be something like a 24(28)-70mm F2.8 from either Sigma or Tamron. They are about half the price of the Canon, but maybe 80-90% as good.
Another option for a great multi-purpose lens might be the 24-105 F4 L IS. It doesn't have F2.8, but it has more range and IS, along with the great 'L' quality.