As a working pro for 35 years, always trying to make gear decisions (with limited funds, of course) and just learn more in general, I find Tony's videos outstanding. The level of professionalism and quality of content is simply stunning. No bumbling vignetting or bunny trail aberrations, just tack-sharp information. Bravo!
I disagree with your position on the durability where the Tamron at least is concerned: I shoot in desert conditions on a monthly basis, as well as 12-14 hour weddings on the regular. That lens has put up with multiple drops and one seriously notable tripod knock. It is not built, in my mind, any less robustly than the Canon. These days high impact plastics make for professional constructs quite a bit as much as any metal. I beat the daylights out of my lenses and I don't think it's quite accurate to state that the Sigma and the Tamron are suddenly relegated to amateur status where it's just people on a budget taking pictures of their family. No. Acuity, distortion, CA, stabilization, lines per millimeter: the Tamron is every bit as good as the Canon lens where it counts: what happens on silicon and goes to the memory card. The image quality is simply excellent. And I say that as a "working professional" that hits up to 5 states a month of travel and photographic work. The Nikon VR II is NOT worth the extra money. period.
+Marc Morris Another thing about the "plastic" is the fact that it is dimensionally more stable than metal, keeping the glass inside in relation to each other more stable as well. For amateurs and semi professionals there is no reason nowadays to buy these very expensive brand lenses.
I have both the F4L IS and the F2.8L IS II. I bought the F4 first but before my son decided to take up ice hockey. After years of suffering with the high ISO because of being at indoor rinks, I bought the F2.8 and it was a huge improvement.
In one video you gave everyone so much useable information where now they can make an excellent choice on picking a lens. You do an amazing job helping the public out with your knowledge.
Junior525 Tony and his wife Chelsea have the best photography channel on CZcams hands down. They are with a subscribe. They have a really good book called Stunning Digital Photography you should check out.
This video came just in time. I just bought a Sigma 70-200mm 2.8 and I'm a portrait/wedding photographer. It was the best for my budget. I researched the heck out of the differences. Seeing this video and getting your opinion on it is invaluable. THANK YOU!
I have to say IMO Tony is by far the best reviewer on youtube or anywhere else for that matter! I almost pulled the trigger on the Nikon 70-200 after just getting the Nikon 14-24 2.8 i am now going to save $1000 and get the Tamron! thank you Tony
Thank you so much, I've been really asking myself about my next major photo equip purchase. The few minutes you took about possibly buying a Tamron and having the money left over for a studio...nailed it.
Tony this is the first video of yours I've had the pleasure to watch and I thank you so much. Your attention to detail, ability to cover as much as you do, and actual real life quality comparisons make your videos among the best, if not the best I've seen. Excited to see the rest. Keep up the great material.
Great review. Would love to see an update of it. Tamron has added the ultra sonic motor (usm) which addressed the noise issue and also has VC (equivalent to Canon’s IS) and still beats Canon on price by well over $1000. It’s almost a no-brainer!
Good review Tony. This is a lens I was looking to replace and to be honest the Tamron is my choice. This of all the reviews I've seen is the most concise and clear.
I've been using the first generation (1999) Sigma 70-200mm f/2.8 for concert photography for the last decade. I bought it for 350€ and never, ever regretted it! However, it is true: The sigma is slower than the Nikon/Canon. I recently started out photographing professionally, upgraded to a full frame body and the next upgrades are the Nikon 24-70 f/2.8 and Nikon 70-200 f/2.8 because they really are faster :-). Great video Tony!
The amount of vitally important information compressed in this one video is just pure honey! Tony, you have tactfully covered a lot of useful aspects of these lenses and photography in general, for which i say a massive 'Thank you!
After watching yor videos I did adquire my first DSLR and bought your book on itunes, I most say that reading your book and with your videos I have learn a lot. Thanks :)
Great review Tony! I think another very important advantage of the TAMRON is the warranty. SIX YEARS!!! I had Tamron lenses when I used to use crop sensor cameras and as a wedding photographer, and I beat my gear a lot. I sent a a 17-50 f2.8 zoom twice in first five years and the second time I sent it, they replaced by another lens, who look way better than mine.
I tried the tamron and the canon at B&H back and forth and I took so many pictures and to me the difference in quality isn't worth the extra $1000. You can't go wrong either way. Great video again tony, btw your book was the first photography book I bought when I purchased my Dslr last year.
I wathced this video back when I was deciding to buy the Canon 70-200 and I am glad I did it is clear concise and unbiased. I dont regret buying the canon and stil eventually picked up the rest of the gear I anted as well as needed. I took my son out on a scooter and a skateboard and the IQ was amazing.
Hey buddy, I'm from Malaysia, and I definitely appreciate the white body outside in the midday sun. My friend actually stopped shooting on his black Nikon lens because it was actually getting to hot to handle. But i do hate that it attracts stares, but then again, a 70-200mm in whatever colour would attract stares almost anywhere.
Great video. Tamron really amazes me with some of their lenses, especially lately. I've owned Nikon, Tamron and Sigma lenses. My 3 favorite lenses are all Tamron! The build quality and focus are *slightly* inferior to the Nikon, but the image quality is just incredible.
Tony.. You just solved a dilemma I had for over a year. A Tamron VC and accessories it is then! Brilliant n easy to digest video with no clutter. Thumbs up
I use it on a 80D now. I´ve already use the Tamron on my uncle´s 6D, and on what concerns to the lens performance, the sharpness, the colors and fastness, they are very similar. Both great lenses, and if you are on a budget, don´t be afraid of buying the sigma. Great performer.
Its actually brilliant timing that this video was released today. I've been asking myself which 70-200 I want to pick up and I came to the conclusion that they are all good but that I would go with the Sigma over my native brand Canon... just because I think the money saved would be better used elsewhere. Really enjoyed the video.
FYI - if you're on a crop-sensor, then Sigma also makes a 50-150 which is supposed to give the same field-of-view as the famous 70-200 lenses do on full-frame cameras. a bit cheaper than the 70-200, but same size/weight.
I came to the same conclusion. Haven't regretted it. Have had the Sigma version for about six weeks. I shoot a lot outdoors but don't beat my equipment all to he!!. I'm not overly impressed with the fit of the hood extension but otherwise love the decision. One of these days an extra grand may mean nothing to me. (Do I detect sarcasm? LOL) Until then... Great vid.
Settled on the Sigma 70-200 OS. Couldn't be happier! A$1000 v A$2500 for IS II was no brainer for non-professional, occasional paid job usage. Sharp, well built for price. I really do not understand why quite a few people say this lens is not sharp, and i'm talking at f2.8 - it has plenty of sharpness, given it is not necessarily edge to edge. Thanks for the excellent review Tony.
Excellent, objective evaluation. I used my sister's Tamron 70-200 f2.8 this past weekend and could barely hear the autofocus. In fact, on a few occasions, I needed to check to see if I had inadvertently switched to manual focus. Not sure why TN says it's loud. Unless...Tamron's technology has changed over the last five years and has gotten quieter
Tony I'm in the process of buying a Tamron 70-200 lens and this video helped out a lot!! Thanks!! A friend buys and sell and offered it to me for $500.00 so I can't pass it up. Love all the videos and great advice from the both of you.
This is one of the best comparisons I've viewed on youtube. Tony, does your review apply equally to the Nikon side? Does the Nikon flare and have similar aberrations as the Canon?
Mike Kojoori We're planning a comparison of Nikon portrait lenses now. The Nikon 70-200 is very different from the Canon--it has the same focal breathing problem that the Tamron & Sigma have. I haven't yet tested the image quality differences, but they're probably very minor.
I'm looking forward to it. At this point a telephoto zoom is just a luxury. I pay the bills with the 14-24 and the 24-70. It would be nice to have a fast, long lens for events, when they present themselves.
This video was so helpful, especially the part at the end where you suggest what people can do with the money they save if they buy an off-brand lens. Thanks for tips!
I've searched a lot of videos looking for my answers with regards to equestrian photography and this is bar far the best, well done, liked, subscribed and shared :) Thank you
But it makes no sense for sports and wildlife - it is not an alternative for a 70-200mm lens. It is MORE useful on an APS-C camera because of the crop factor.
Thanks for a great review! I have had the Canon 70-200 mm f/2.8 II lens for a couple of months now, and let me just say it is my favourite lens. It is the one I take the most pictures with, and I estimate that it is about 50% of my pictures, if not more. The bottom line is that this focal length range has proven very useful to me. It may not be worth the price difference from the Tamron based on optical quality alone, but when you use it all the time, as I do, the extra build quality is very nice to have. Tony's review explained the differences and greatly helped me make up my mind.
Thanks to you, too, Tony, for a great video blog! I have the utmost respect for your knowledge and sincerity on the subject of photography and equipment for photography. The focus breathing issue on the Tamron was a major factor in deciding to go for the Canon. I felt like I would be cheated out of a bit of focal length if I chose the Tamron. It is not entirely fair to market the Tamron as 70-200 if it delivers significantly less focal length than 200 when focus is close, in my opinion. Other than that, the Tamron seemed fine. So, I later tested that in my photo store, not because I distrust your reviews, but because I wanted to see the difference for myself. I put the camera down on a specific spot, and put both lenses on 200 mm and on their closest focusing distances, 1.2 m and 1.3 m for Canon and Tamron, respectively, and took one picture with each lens. The difference was indeed significant, more so than I expected. The subject filled up way more of the frame with the Canon.
Hey Tony & Chelsea , Thank you for all your advice and guidance, I just bought your Stunning Digital Photography book, I especially like your wildlife section. I actually bought one for my photography friend, a lot of information for a few dollars. keep up the great videos, I look forward to watching them.
I disagree with some of your observations in this video which seemed to sway in favour of Sigma/Tamron over Canon. 7:28 The Canon is noticeably sharper than the Sigma. 8:31 The Canon and Tamron had roughly equal CA and neither were bad, the Canon example was not quite in focus creating softer edges and that exaggerated any CA on them. 8:43 There was no obvious CA when the Canon was actually in focus and tack sharp. 9:02 The Tamron and Sigma have worse purple fringing than the Canon. 12:06 The Sigma might have been softer but the purple fringing on out of focus areas was pretty bad. 17:00 Really, the white colour is a downside? Personally I like the idea of having something that looks like it belongs in an elite range of lenses rather than just another black dong. If you're self conscious about the colour of your lens then that's your own issue. You didn't compare autofocus tracking ability between the lenses which is something I actually do care about. Missing shots completely due to AF failure is a bigger issue than minor differences in optical quality or the colour of your lens. You didn't acknowledge that the focus breathing of the Canon actually makes it better for shooting small objects that are nearby and head portraits than the other two due to it effectively being ~230mm. Canon's closer focus distance combined with a longer effective focal length means it's maximum reproduction ratio is much higher and this shouldn't be underestimated because you're getting significantly higher resolution of your actual subject than with the Tamron or Sigma. Lenses are an investment so deliberating over their cost is a moot point and in this case I believe you get what you pay for. The optical quality of the Canon was no worse than it's cheaper siblings while providing some perks.
Sigma Octantis confirmation bias at it's finest. Hey man I get that you want to justify overspending on a lens...but price is always a big deal. Not everyone needs the best of the best to get great images but you do...that's fine too. They are all good lenses. 70-200 2.8's with image stabilization are just amazing period.
To me it seems the Tamron has way less CA than the Canon. The images from the Canon is about as sharp as the other two, how can you see from a 1080p video?
I've used the Canon 70-200mm f/2.8 plenty of times when I worked for a photography studio, and I was wanting to buy the Sigma version of the same lens but they're all on backorder. Your review convinced me that the Tamron is just as good as even the canon so thanks!
i love your reviews, and the way you tailor your opinion to the many varying circumstances of different photographers. thank you. I didnt realise I hadnt subscribed to your channel yet but now I have.
Is focus breathing really a big issue? All you have to do is just step forward a step or two and the problem is solved. For people who dont have that huge budget to buy the Canon 70-200, I feel that Tamron 70-200 is the best option. Would you say the same Tony?
Great review. I'm in the market for a 70-200 and your review has been very helpful. Instead of thinking so much about the lens and the brand I now can focus on the situation I will be using the lens. Thank you.
Thank you for some very instructive and sensible advice in this video Tony. After much thought and chatting with other photographers, I ordered a Canon 70-200mm lens which I have just today received. I'll be teaming it with my 70D to do some portraits. I think I'm going to close my eyes to the red and green chromatic abberation and focus on the more flattering bokeh. I hope it won't disappoint!
Another fantastic and informative video Tony. I've recently bought my first dslr, a Canon 70d and absolutely love it. I've been watching your videos way before I bought it and am learning so much from you. The way you explain photography is so easy to understand. I'm looking to buy a new lens soon as all I have is the 18-135 STM kit lens with the Canon. I'm basically finding my feet and noting what sort of range I'm using. I take alot of landscape shots but very interested in portrait and one of the 70-200 lenses you review here will be on my list to check out. Anyway. Thanks again for the fantastic videos. Keep them coming :)
Good to see an honest real world review. I've got the Sigma and although I know its not as good as the Nikon, everyone online seems to suggest you are letting your clients down by not having the best. I've had it several years now and its took some abuse and its still going strong so I just cant find the justification to sell it to buy the Nikon.
I've had my Sigma 70-200mm f2.8 OS for over 6 months now. love it! as a college student who doesn't have $2k to spend for a Nikon or Canon's version, the Sigma is definitely a good starting point. down the road I might get the Nikon 70-200mm 2.8
Great review. One of the best i have seen for lens reviews. Sage advice about getting the most amount of gear for your money too. Think im going to have to get the tamron to save some money for some strobes. Us beginners dont seem to out enough emphasis on lighting despite it being so dang important to separate from the pack of medicore photographers.
Great. That's how a video demo is supposed to be done.You made my lens selection for my nikon d5100 quite clear. I will be looking for your book. Thanks
Really great review! I've bought a basic Nikon 3200d for my wife as her first camera - cheap body but want to fit it with some nice glass. She's really unsure as to what direction she wants to go in terms of use, one day it's landscapes the next it's macro type shots. This review has helped me understand the difference in build quality and generally what to be looking at when making a decision as to what lens to buy her
As always Tony you just tell it like it is.. I was about to replace my Sigma 70-200 f2.8 with the Canon but after this im now looking at things in a different way. Many thanks Tony.
The absolute best review on the whole of CZcams! How well will these perform on a Canon 80D? I know it has a crop sensor so some math will be involved. Thanks for all of the valuable info you pass along to all of us amateurs!
I watched this video weeks ago and got a Sigma 70-200 instead of the Canon for my A7RII. I bought it from Calumet for just 899 Euros. I was okay with it to get only decent sharpness by f2.8 like many reviewers said. But I was surprised how good and how sharp it is wide open. It is much sharper than my Nikkor 70-200 VRI. I think the A7RII and the Sigma are a very good combo. But if you use it for your Sony A, don't forget to update your Metabones adapter to the latest firmware. Thank's Tony for your good advice.
what a great review. very thorough on the top brands in the industry. 90% of what I do is sports related and there have been plenty of times where my Nikkor 70-200 has been bumped, hit by a ball, etc and it has performed against this blunt trauma like an armored tank. I need a second 70-200 and with both the Sigma and the Tamron being plastic is a deal breaker for me. I will buy once and cry once, again! Thanks for a great comparison.
That was really helpful, thank you. I mainly do outdoor work and the noise of the lens is less important I guess so plenty to think about with other ways to spend the saved money
Great review as always. I really like the ending that uses real examples of what one might buy with their savings. This puts the savings in real terms versus simply saying that one less is more or less expensive than another. Keep up the good work.
I definitely agree that I don't like the white build of some of the Canon lenses. Reminds me too much of gear from the past! Great review of each lens.
Very clear and objective review, unlike visiting some shops where they basically push the branded goods to you like its the only decent choice and ignore the more affordable aftermarket options as though they are complete thrash.
Thank you for your video post Tony. I have the Tamron version of the 70-200 and I don't have any of these issues that your having. In fact when I tested the lens out with the Nikon VR2 at 200mm they were about the same. That being said I am a Nikon shooter and I don't know if it varies between Canon or Nikon. I don't really see why it would. But my Tamron 70-200 is worth every penny.
So helpful! Thank you! The advice towards the end was most helping as a cropped camera owner looking to eventually move up to a full frame camera.... But... Needing to budget and take it one purchase at a time to get there. Thanks!
I have the Sigma APO 70-200mm F2.8 EX DG Macro HSM and have had it for a few years. Was lucky enough to get a great deal for it from a friend who happened to receive an extra one as a payment. I was shooting on Canon 5Dii's and iii's and a 6D back then. I had really wanted the Canon lens obviously, but as the price was a steal I went with the Sigma, thinking it would do until I bought the Canon. Fast forward a few years and I am still happily using the Sigma. Have moved over to Sony Alphas these days and the Sigma is still going great guns! I run a small production company, filming mainly 4 & 5 star hotels. I know that there are many who rabbit on and on about the Canon L series but I have had such awesome use out of this bad boy. Even using both Metabones and Sigma adapters on the Sony Alphas. The bokeh is very nice, the centre is very sharp and the colour cast I find to be very pleasant.
Thank you both! Hands down, the best side by side comparison of these three lenses I have seen. Good technical and common sense evaluation for different uses and budgets. Btw, found my way here via a sponsored thingy on fb and Modern Lens Mag.
Thank you for the review of these three lenses, and for the very pragmatic advice on which one to purchase. You've helped me make my decision, and I'll be looking up your book.
So, the takeaway from this video is that for studio portrait photography, the Canon has greater chromatic aberration, flare and vignetting than the less expensive Sigma and Tamron. The Canon on the other hand, has less focus breathing, better build quality and faster AF(subjective).
I loved your video. The explanations in the end for those thinking if the price difference is worth it and your way of getting to anyone^s heart. thank you !
Super helpful video!!! I currently use the 60D and I really want to upgrade and hopefully buy one of these lenses. After reviewing your video I think that I will be purchasing a 6D and then down the line going with the Tamron lens. Thank you so much for you helpful video!
Order the Tamron 70-200 on Amazon at help.tc/t200
Order the Sigma 70-200 on Amazon at help.tc/s200
Order the Canon 70-200 on Amazon at help.tc/c200
Ks.Tadeusz Guz
Ks.Tadeusz Guz.pl
Which one fits the Nikon d5300?
gabbies makeup & mascara I think they all have Nikon mount.
Does everything that you stat in this review still stand up in 2017?
Is this true with the updated 70-200 lenses?
As a working pro for 35 years, always trying to make gear decisions (with limited funds, of course) and just learn more in general, I find Tony's videos outstanding. The level of professionalism and quality of content is simply stunning. No bumbling vignetting or bunny trail aberrations, just tack-sharp information. Bravo!
"It's probably more than you will spend on your body"
You underestimate how much I can eat.
Underrated comment!
3 years later running across this and it cracked me up 😂😂😂.
😂😂😂😂😂😂😂😂
Very balanced and unbiased review yet professional. Almost unique characteristic and highly ethical.
discoverer Thanks!!
I disagree with your position on the durability where the Tamron at least is concerned: I shoot in desert conditions on a monthly basis, as well as 12-14 hour weddings on the regular. That lens has put up with multiple drops and one seriously notable tripod knock. It is not built, in my mind, any less robustly than the Canon. These days high impact plastics make for professional constructs quite a bit as much as any metal. I beat the daylights out of my lenses and I don't think it's quite accurate to state that the Sigma and the Tamron are suddenly relegated to amateur status where it's just people on a budget taking pictures of their family. No. Acuity, distortion, CA, stabilization, lines per millimeter: the Tamron is every bit as good as the Canon lens where it counts: what happens on silicon and goes to the memory card. The image quality is simply excellent. And I say that as a "working professional" that hits up to 5 states a month of travel and photographic work. The Nikon VR II is NOT worth the extra money. period.
+Marc Morris Another thing about the "plastic" is the fact that it is dimensionally more stable than metal, keeping the glass inside in relation to each other more stable as well. For amateurs and semi professionals there is no reason nowadays to buy these very expensive brand lenses.
I have both the F4L IS and the F2.8L IS II. I bought the F4 first but before my son decided to take up ice hockey. After years of suffering with the high ISO because of being at indoor rinks, I bought the F2.8 and it was a huge improvement.
The comment I needed as a ice hockey player.
In one video you gave everyone so much useable information where now they can make an excellent choice on picking a lens. You do an amazing job helping the public out with your knowledge.
4 yrs ago and still pertinent and on point. One of the best reviews I've seen comparing lenses and kudos to you Mr Northrup for sharing this.
Dear lord.. this guy just gave me the answers i was looking for and gave the best review out there
Junior525 Tony and his wife Chelsea have the best photography channel on CZcams hands down. They are with a subscribe. They have a really good book called Stunning Digital Photography you should check out.
Junior525 indeed.....
This video came just in time. I just bought a Sigma 70-200mm 2.8 and I'm a portrait/wedding photographer. It was the best for my budget. I researched the heck out of the differences. Seeing this video and getting your opinion on it is invaluable. THANK YOU!
this is legit the best review ive seen
I am just now pricing and comparing these lenses, no idea how glad I am you just posted this video.
I have to say IMO Tony is by far the best reviewer on youtube or anywhere else for that matter! I almost pulled the trigger on the Nikon 70-200 after just getting the Nikon 14-24 2.8 i am now going to save $1000 and get the Tamron! thank you Tony
Update my fiancé just bought me the tamron 70-200 f2.8 vc as an engagement gift and it's awesome. This lens is a beast
BxSquirrel wow congrats ! 😀 share some images now
you can never guess this guy's age.
+GunnedOutlaw Acts like one too.
+Shalaka Juvekar I'm gonna guess late 30s....
+Shalaka Juvekar I looked it up and he was 40 in this video, so I was close :3
he is a vampire
Yoo freal! This guy goes from lookon 35 banker . to 45 yr old samurai. Smart dude tho
Thank you so much, I've been really asking myself about my next major photo equip purchase. The few minutes you took about possibly buying a Tamron and having the money left over for a studio...nailed it.
honestly the way you review products is simply amazing. You are the best when it comes to proper reviews.
Tony this is the first video of yours I've had the pleasure to watch and I thank you so much. Your attention to detail, ability to cover as much as you do, and actual real life quality comparisons make your videos among the best, if not the best I've seen. Excited to see the rest. Keep up the great material.
Great review. Would love to see an update of it. Tamron has added the ultra sonic motor (usm) which addressed the noise issue and also has VC (equivalent to Canon’s IS) and still beats Canon on price by well over $1000. It’s almost a no-brainer!
Good review Tony. This is a lens I was looking to replace and to be honest the Tamron is my choice. This of all the reviews I've seen is the most concise and clear.
I've been using the first generation (1999) Sigma 70-200mm f/2.8 for concert photography for the last decade. I bought it for 350€ and never, ever regretted it!
However, it is true: The sigma is slower than the Nikon/Canon. I recently started out photographing professionally, upgraded to a full frame body and the next upgrades are the Nikon 24-70 f/2.8 and Nikon 70-200 f/2.8 because they really are faster :-).
Great video Tony!
The amount of vitally important information compressed in this one video is just pure honey! Tony, you have tactfully covered a lot of useful aspects of these lenses and photography in general, for which i say a massive 'Thank you!
Havn't seen the vid yet but am surprised to see the Tamron outscore the Great White on this website. www.cameraegg.org/best-lenses-for-canon-eos-6d/
not surprised.. I've got the sigma version though, and it's brilliant so far! never used the canon version so i can't compare :)
After watching yor videos I did adquire my first DSLR and bought your book on itunes, I most say that reading your book and with your videos I have learn a lot. Thanks :)
I am actively deciding between the Tamron or Canon @ 70-200mm and this is the best video comparing the two! Great work Tony.
Matias_V what did you decide on?
Great review Tony! I think another very important advantage of the TAMRON is the warranty. SIX YEARS!!! I had Tamron lenses when I used to use crop sensor cameras and as a wedding photographer, and I beat my gear a lot. I sent a a 17-50 f2.8 zoom twice in first five years and the second time I sent it, they replaced by another lens, who look way better than mine.
I tried the tamron and the canon at B&H back and forth and I took so many pictures and to me the difference in quality isn't worth the extra $1000. You can't go wrong either way. Great video again tony, btw your book was the first photography book I bought when I purchased my Dslr last year.
I think one of the biggest differences is in autofocusing
Ordered your book yesterday and waiting for it to arrive!
Thanks, Mike!
I wathced this video back when I was deciding to buy the Canon 70-200 and I am glad I did it is clear concise and unbiased. I dont regret buying the canon and stil eventually picked up the rest of the gear I anted as well as needed. I took my son out on a scooter and a skateboard and the IQ was amazing.
Hey buddy, I'm from Malaysia, and I definitely appreciate the white body outside in the midday sun. My friend actually stopped shooting on his black Nikon lens because it was actually getting to hot to handle. But i do hate that it attracts stares, but then again, a 70-200mm in whatever colour would attract stares almost anywhere.
Holy shit! It's a white Jamie Fox
+Vigilant Lance Clegane Young Col. Sanders....
Canon's Jamie Fox
ay mama mia..
Vigilant Lance lol
Vigilant Lance he does lol
The Canon lens is now around $1899 on Amazon brand new.
Great video. Tamron really amazes me with some of their lenses, especially lately. I've owned Nikon, Tamron and Sigma lenses. My 3 favorite lenses are all Tamron! The build quality and focus are *slightly* inferior to the Nikon, but the image quality is just incredible.
Tony.. You just solved a dilemma I had for over a year. A Tamron VC and accessories it is then!
Brilliant n easy to digest video with no clutter. Thumbs up
I own the Sigma 70-200 2.8. It's a wonderful lens
Carlos Amadis what body? And have u compared it with tamron. Any suggestions?
I use it on a 80D now. I´ve already use the Tamron on my uncle´s 6D, and on what concerns to the lens performance, the sharpness, the colors and fastness, they are very similar. Both great lenses, and if you are on a budget, don´t be afraid of buying the sigma. Great performer.
Carlos Amadis Is Tamron really that loud?
Radim Nejedlý No. They are silent. The Canon is slightly more silent. If u are thinking of buying one don't be afraid.
Carlos Amadis what about is
Its actually brilliant timing that this video was released today. I've been asking myself which 70-200 I want to pick up and I came to the conclusion that they are all good but that I would go with the Sigma over my native brand Canon... just because I think the money saved would be better used elsewhere.
Really enjoyed the video.
FYI - if you're on a crop-sensor, then Sigma also makes a 50-150 which is supposed to give the same field-of-view as the famous 70-200 lenses do on full-frame cameras. a bit cheaper than the 70-200, but same size/weight.
I came to the same conclusion. Haven't regretted it. Have had the Sigma version for about six weeks. I shoot a lot outdoors but don't beat my equipment all to he!!. I'm not overly impressed with the fit of the hood extension but otherwise love the decision. One of these days an extra grand may mean nothing to me. (Do I detect sarcasm? LOL) Until then... Great vid.
Settled on the Sigma 70-200 OS. Couldn't be happier! A$1000 v A$2500 for IS II was no brainer for non-professional, occasional paid job usage. Sharp, well built for price. I really do not understand why quite a few people say this lens is not sharp, and i'm talking at f2.8 - it has plenty of sharpness, given it is not necessarily edge to edge. Thanks for the excellent review Tony.
Excellent, objective evaluation. I used my sister's Tamron 70-200 f2.8 this past weekend and could barely hear the autofocus. In fact, on a few occasions, I needed to check to see if I had inadvertently switched to manual focus. Not sure why TN says it's loud. Unless...Tamron's technology has changed over the last five years and has gotten quieter
did you guys get a special deal for two jackets in partner look? thx for the video!
9:10 thought something was behind my screen LOL
Tony I'm in the process of buying a Tamron 70-200 lens and this video helped out a lot!! Thanks!! A friend buys and sell and offered it to me for $500.00 so I can't pass it up. Love all the videos and great advice from the both of you.
One of the best reviews I have seen yet for this lens, thanks making it
This is one of the best comparisons I've viewed on youtube. Tony, does your review apply equally to the Nikon side? Does the Nikon flare and have similar aberrations as the Canon?
Mike Kojoori We're planning a comparison of Nikon portrait lenses now. The Nikon 70-200 is very different from the Canon--it has the same focal breathing problem that the Tamron & Sigma have. I haven't yet tested the image quality differences, but they're probably very minor.
I'm looking forward to it. At this point a telephoto zoom is just a luxury. I pay the bills with the 14-24 and the 24-70. It would be nice to have a fast, long lens for events, when they present themselves.
Would have love to see what the results on the DX looked liked
This video was so helpful, especially the part at the end where you suggest what people can do with the money they save if they buy an off-brand lens. Thanks for tips!
I've searched a lot of videos looking for my answers with regards to equestrian photography and this is bar far the best, well done, liked, subscribed and shared :) Thank you
+DJM Photography Thanks!
Which One will be Better Tamron OR Sigma ?
I use Canon 80D & I am new in Photography
The Tamron is the better lens but you can get some really great deals on the sigma especially if you buy second hand.
go to website fred miranda and you can find these lenses cheap you have to buy membership to trade however
Forget zoom lenses. 85mm f1/4 is the best portrait lens.
+Predarnold I´m kinda pendling between the 70-200 vs 85. Why do you think the 85 is better?
+DomedagsProfeten
It's cheaper and can work nicely on APS-C and Full Frame. 70-200 is less useful on APS-C.
But it makes no sense for sports and wildlife - it is not an alternative for a 70-200mm lens. It is MORE useful on an APS-C camera because of the crop factor.
Thanks for a great review!
I have had the Canon 70-200 mm f/2.8 II lens for a couple of months now, and let me just say it is my favourite lens. It is the one I take the most pictures with, and I estimate that it is about 50% of my pictures, if not more. The bottom line is that this focal length range has proven very useful to me.
It may not be worth the price difference from the Tamron based on optical quality alone, but when you use it all the time, as I do, the extra build quality is very nice to have.
Tony's review explained the differences and greatly helped me make up my mind.
Thanks, Martin!
Thanks to you, too, Tony, for a great video blog! I have the utmost respect for your knowledge and sincerity on the subject of photography and equipment for photography.
The focus breathing issue on the Tamron was a major factor in deciding to go for the Canon. I felt like I would be cheated out of a bit of focal length if I chose the Tamron. It is not entirely fair to market the Tamron as 70-200 if it delivers significantly less focal length than 200 when focus is close, in my opinion. Other than that, the Tamron seemed fine.
So, I later tested that in my photo store, not because I distrust your reviews, but because I wanted to see the difference for myself. I put the camera down on a specific spot, and put both lenses on 200 mm and on their closest focusing distances, 1.2 m and 1.3 m for Canon and Tamron, respectively, and took one picture with each lens. The difference was indeed significant, more so than I expected. The subject filled up way more of the frame with the Canon.
Hey Tony & Chelsea , Thank you for all your advice and guidance, I just bought your Stunning Digital Photography book, I especially like your wildlife section. I actually bought one for my photography friend, a lot of information for a few dollars. keep up the great videos, I look forward to watching them.
Thanks, Dan!!
Bad example having those lenses on the table with no caps, open end up though...
1,000% agree! I wish Canon made the 70-200 in black, I want to be as discreet as possible
I can't thank you enough for the wonderful contribution that both of you are making. Greetings and love from India.
Who let Tony's evil twin host this episode?
Mirror universe crossed over.
I disagree with some of your observations in this video which seemed to sway in favour of Sigma/Tamron over Canon.
7:28 The Canon is noticeably sharper than the Sigma.
8:31 The Canon and Tamron had roughly equal CA and neither were bad, the Canon example was not quite in focus creating softer edges and that exaggerated any CA on them.
8:43 There was no obvious CA when the Canon was actually in focus and tack sharp.
9:02 The Tamron and Sigma have worse purple fringing than the Canon.
12:06 The Sigma might have been softer but the purple fringing on out of focus areas was pretty bad.
17:00 Really, the white colour is a downside? Personally I like the idea of having something that looks like it belongs in an elite range of lenses rather than just another black dong. If you're self conscious about the colour of your lens then that's your own issue.
You didn't compare autofocus tracking ability between the lenses which is something I actually do care about. Missing shots completely due to AF failure is a bigger issue than minor differences in optical quality or the colour of your lens. You didn't acknowledge that the focus breathing of the Canon actually makes it better for shooting small objects that are nearby and head portraits than the other two due to it effectively being ~230mm. Canon's closer focus distance combined with a longer effective focal length means it's maximum reproduction ratio is much higher and this shouldn't be underestimated because you're getting significantly higher resolution of your actual subject than with the Tamron or Sigma.
Lenses are an investment so deliberating over their cost is a moot point and in this case I believe you get what you pay for. The optical quality of the Canon was no worse than it's cheaper siblings while providing some perks.
Sigma Octantis confirmation bias at it's finest. Hey man I get that you want to justify overspending on a lens...but price is always a big deal. Not everyone needs the best of the best to get great images but you do...that's fine too. They are all good lenses. 70-200 2.8's with image stabilization are just amazing period.
To me it seems the Tamron has way less CA than the Canon. The images from the Canon is about as sharp as the other two, how can you see from a 1080p video?
I've used the Canon 70-200mm f/2.8 plenty of times when I worked for a photography studio, and I was wanting to buy the Sigma version of the same lens but they're all on backorder. Your review convinced me that the Tamron is just as good as even the canon so thanks!
i love your reviews, and the way you tailor your opinion to the many varying circumstances of different photographers. thank you. I didnt realise I hadnt subscribed to your channel yet but now I have.
Is Chelsea a professional model? She's hot.
@loryn kirkhart Hitting on her? Good lord, woman. Relax. He complimented her. And yes, she is hot.
good video! your hair looks fake! hahaha
I really enjoyed this review, Tony is the youtube reviewer you have been looking for.
Is focus breathing really a big issue? All you have to do is just step forward a step or two and the problem is solved. For people who dont have that huge budget to buy the Canon 70-200, I feel that Tamron 70-200 is the best option. Would you say the same Tony?
I have owned the Tamron 70-200 for almost a year and love it!
Great review. I'm in the market for a 70-200 and your review has been very helpful. Instead of thinking so much about the lens and the brand I now can focus on the situation I will be using the lens. Thank you.
Thank you for some very instructive and sensible advice in this video Tony. After much thought and chatting with other photographers, I ordered a Canon 70-200mm lens which I have just today received. I'll be teaming it with my 70D to do some portraits. I think I'm going to close my eyes to the red and green chromatic abberation and focus on the more flattering bokeh. I hope it won't disappoint!
Another fantastic and informative video Tony. I've recently bought my first dslr, a Canon 70d and absolutely love it. I've been watching your videos way before I bought it and am learning so much from you. The way you explain photography is so easy to understand. I'm looking to buy a new lens soon as all I have is the 18-135 STM kit lens with the Canon. I'm basically finding my feet and noting what sort of range I'm using. I take alot of landscape shots but very interested in portrait and one of the 70-200 lenses you review here will be on my list to check out. Anyway. Thanks again for the fantastic videos. Keep them coming :)
halcyondaystunes Thanks, and you're welcome!
Good to see an honest real world review. I've got the Sigma and although I know its not as good as the Nikon, everyone online seems to suggest you are letting your clients down by not having the best. I've had it several years now and its took some abuse and its still going strong so I just cant find the justification to sell it to buy the Nikon.
I've had my Sigma 70-200mm f2.8 OS for over 6 months now. love it! as a college student who doesn't have $2k to spend for a Nikon or Canon's version, the Sigma is definitely a good starting point. down the road I might get the Nikon 70-200mm 2.8
Great review. One of the best i have seen for lens reviews. Sage advice about getting the most amount of gear for your money too. Think im going to have to get the tamron to save some money for some strobes. Us beginners dont seem to out enough emphasis on lighting despite it being so dang important to separate from the pack of medicore photographers.
I own the Tamron 70-200 F2.8 VC because for me it's a hobby and I love it.
Great. That's how a video demo is supposed to be done.You made my lens selection for my nikon d5100 quite clear. I will be looking for your book. Thanks
Really great review! I've bought a basic Nikon 3200d for my wife as her first camera - cheap body but want to fit it with some nice glass. She's really unsure as to what direction she wants to go in terms of use, one day it's landscapes the next it's macro type shots. This review has helped me understand the difference in build quality and generally what to be looking at when making a decision as to what lens to buy her
As always Tony you just tell it like it is.. I was about to replace my Sigma 70-200 f2.8 with the Canon but after this im now looking at things in a different way. Many thanks Tony.
I've been enjoying many of your videos and I've grown to really like your style.
Thanks, many thanks.
Quite possibly the best, most sensible advice I've heard in a while. Thank you!
The absolute best review on the whole of CZcams! How well will these perform on a Canon 80D? I know it has a crop sensor so some math will be involved. Thanks for all of the valuable info you pass along to all of us amateurs!
Forgot to say, great review, love the real world stuff and down to earth way of presenting it!!!!
I watched this video weeks ago and got a Sigma 70-200 instead of the Canon for my A7RII. I bought it from Calumet for just 899 Euros. I was okay with it to get only decent sharpness by f2.8 like many reviewers said. But I was surprised how good and how sharp it is wide open. It is much sharper than my Nikkor 70-200 VRI. I think the A7RII and the Sigma are a very good combo. But if you use it for your Sony A, don't forget to update your Metabones adapter to the latest firmware. Thank's Tony for your good advice.
what a great review. very thorough on the top brands in the industry. 90% of what I do is sports related and there have been plenty of times where my Nikkor 70-200 has been bumped, hit by a ball, etc and it has performed against this blunt trauma like an armored tank. I need a second 70-200 and with both the Sigma and the Tamron being plastic is a deal breaker for me. I will buy once and cry once, again! Thanks for a great comparison.
Really well balanced and non-judgmental review. Super super appreciated!!
That was really helpful, thank you. I mainly do outdoor work and the noise of the lens is less important I guess so plenty to think about with other ways to spend the saved money
Great review as always. I really like the ending that uses real examples of what one might buy with their savings. This puts the savings in real terms versus simply saying that one less is more or less expensive than another. Keep up the good work.
I really like all your videos Tony, very helpful and balanced with real world tips and suggestions.
Esub Miah Thanks!!
When it comes to photography reviews you're the best Tony! Great reviews and non biased. Keep up the good work...
I definitely agree that I don't like the white build of some of the Canon lenses. Reminds me too much of gear from the past! Great review of each lens.
Very clear and objective review, unlike visiting some shops where they basically push the branded goods to you like its the only decent choice and ignore the more affordable aftermarket options as though they are complete thrash.
Thank you for your video post Tony. I have the Tamron version of the 70-200 and I don't have any of these issues that your having. In fact when I tested the lens out with the Nikon VR2 at 200mm they were about the same. That being said I am a Nikon shooter and I don't know if it varies between Canon or Nikon. I don't really see why it would. But my Tamron 70-200 is worth every penny.
This was one of the most useful videos that I have ever seen. Thank you for that.
So helpful! Thank you! The advice towards the end was most helping as a cropped camera owner looking to eventually move up to a full frame camera.... But... Needing to budget and take it one purchase at a time to get there. Thanks!
I have the Sigma APO 70-200mm F2.8 EX DG Macro HSM and have had it for a few years. Was lucky enough to get a great deal for it from a friend who happened to receive an extra one as a payment. I was shooting on Canon 5Dii's and iii's and a 6D back then. I had really wanted the Canon lens obviously, but as the price was a steal I went with the Sigma, thinking it would do until I bought the Canon. Fast forward a few years and I am still happily using the Sigma. Have moved over to Sony Alphas these days and the Sigma is still going great guns! I run a small production company, filming mainly 4 & 5 star hotels. I know that there are many who rabbit on and on about the Canon L series but I have had such awesome use out of this bad boy. Even using both Metabones and Sigma adapters on the Sony Alphas. The bokeh is very nice, the centre is very sharp and the colour cast I find to be very pleasant.
Thanks for the terrific review, Silver Foxx! I'm an amateur and will go with the Tamron. I travel a lot and I like the idea of a lighter lens.
Thank you both! Hands down, the best side by side comparison of these three lenses I have seen. Good technical and common sense evaluation for different uses and budgets. Btw, found my way here via a sponsored thingy on fb and Modern Lens Mag.
Rick Pawlenty Thanks! Though we've never paid for any advertising, so I don't know what you might have seen....
Very helpful comparison with examples
Thank you for the review of these three lenses, and for the very pragmatic advice on which one to purchase. You've helped me make my decision, and I'll be looking up your book.
Literally loved the review.. you have covered all the aspects reguarding these lenses.. Loved it.
So, the takeaway from this video is that for studio portrait photography, the Canon has greater chromatic aberration, flare and vignetting than the less expensive Sigma and Tamron. The Canon on the other hand, has less focus breathing, better build quality and faster AF(subjective).
Very informative! Thank you for making the effort to review the three lenses. Very comprehensive. Great work.
one of the best way to give a review for lens. great great review. i like all the points of view you gave us.
Great video as usual guys with very helpful real world examples. Love it!
I loved your video. The explanations in the end for those thinking if the price difference is worth it and your way of getting to anyone^s heart. thank you !
Super helpful video!!! I currently use the 60D and I really want to upgrade and hopefully buy one of these lenses. After reviewing your video I think that I will be purchasing a 6D and then down the line going with the Tamron lens. Thank you so much for you helpful video!
got the canon f/2.8L IS II for $2100 new a few months back. it's awesome!