I’m torn: Nikon 24-70 f2.8 or Sigma equivalent

[AndyL]

September 8, 2008 at 5:07 pm

I’m not a rich man, but I love my photography. I’m not a pro, but would like some fast glass for shooting indoors, friends weddings etc.

I have a Nikon 50mm f1.8, a 12-24mm f4 Tokina for my landscapes and a Sigma 70-300mm APO and a Nikon 18-200mm VR for all day/holiday/single lens use.

I was considering getting rid of the 18-200 and replacing it with the Nikon 24-70 f2.8, but at £1000, its bloody expensive and I’m not sure I can justify that sort of wedge. A salesman mentioned the Sigma version as a cheaper alternative, and it makes sense if it is a reasonably good lens. But of course, the pro nikon glass will hold its value well.

So as a keen amateur, am I mad blowing £1k (I could afford it, just, but its a lot of money to me) on a lump of pro glass? Is it so much better than the £300 sigma to make the extra wedge worth it?

I’m not even sure if this is a question that can be answered, but any help would be appreciated!

Thanks,

Andy

[randomway]

September 8, 2008 at 5:49 pm

If you don’t need the silent focusing and the better sharpness, I don’t see the point investing that much into a lens that doesn’t make money for you. If you have to think about it, I’d say you’re better off choosing the cheaper option. The Sigma will produce very similar images, and you will still have enough money for a flash or a tripod or whatever else you’d need. That’s my opinion.

[Martin]

September 8, 2008 at 6:36 pm

I have the Nikon 24-70 2.8 now about 5 weeks and its just excellent. Image sharpness, colour, contrast, build quality etc is just excellent.

Just back from a trip to Alaska and took a few thousand shots with it

Haven’t used the Sigma version of it but if money is an issue get the Nikon 24-85 AF-S 3.5-4.5 (Nikon has four zooms that start at 24. The 24-70 2.8 is the best followed by the 24-85 the other two are not great) I used to own the 24-85 before I broke it by accident in April. Its an excellent lens, its totally sharp. The only problem with it is the build quality. I would have got another only I needed the better build quality as I am hard on lenses. The build quality of the 24-85 might be fine for you though (as good as the Sigma im sure), I really recommend it

M