Sigma 70-200mm 2.8 Original or Tamron for K5

<p>I'm getting into purchasing a 70-200mm/2.8 for my K5. My primary concerns are cost and sharpness; but not necessarily wide open. Realistically, stopped down to f4-5.6 will be the norm anyway.<br>

Basically I've narrowed it down to two that I'm most interested in. The first is the Tamron SP AF 70-200mm F2.8 Di LD (IF) Macro, and the second is the Sigma 70-200mm 2.8 EX DG APO. The Sigma is the original one, not either of the two most recent models, no HSM. <br>

<br />What I'm really interested in and have been searching for, is a comparison or at least an in depth review of the old Sigma. Can anyone relate as to how these two lenses compare?</p>

<p>I can't compare the two lenses, but I did have the Sigma 70-200mm 2.8 EX DG APO. I used it on my K5.<br>

My impressions were:</p>

<ul>

<li>Reasonably sharp across the frame at 2.8, with no vignetting.</li>

<li>Very sharp by 4.0</li>

<li>Nice colour rendition -- I think Sigma coatings match Pentax's quite well</li>

<li>Focussing was fast for the amount of glass in the lens. Much faster than I had experienced with Nikon screwdriver-focussing of a 70-200 2.8.</li>

<li>Fit and finish of the lens were excellent.</li>

<li>The lens was smaller than many 70-200 2.8s but it was still a big lens.</li>

</ul>

<p>I eventually sold the lens, as I found it more convenient to use a couple of smaller prime lenses to cover that range. But for many kinds of work, the flexibility of 70-200 is needed, and the Sigma won't disappoint.</p>

 

<p>Ted,</p>

<p>Check Pentax forums. The old Sigma is reviewed there under Legacy lenses and I suspect the Tamron is there under new lenses.</p>

<p>http://www.pentaxforums.com/userreviews/<br>

Reading between the lines it looks like Tamron is the better macro option, Sigma has the better autofocus and a non-statistical slightly-sharper review.</p>

<p>Any input guys: Sigma 70-200mm/2.8 APO EX with moderate internal dust and a small scratch on the front element: 475.00. Too high considering issues?</p>

<p>Look before you leap. If you can return it then go ahead. Make sure you try the lens in a situation where you can check for glare.</p>

<p>You will never see internal dust or front element scratches in your photos. 475 sounds like a good deal. I paid 700, if I recall correctly.</p>