Canon Lens Comparison

[marymoon]

I am weighing my options between these two lenses for my T1i and was looking for some input/opinions...

Canon EF 70-200mm f/4 L
Canon EF 70-300mm f/4-5.6 IS

I'm torn between the photo quality of the L-series lens, and the IS that comes with the 70-300. Both are around the $600 (give or take) range where I am trying to stay (otherwise I'd just get the first with IS ). Please share your experience/opinions.

[RichardTaylor]

I have both.
If 200mm is long enough then get the 70-200
It's not just the IQ - it is the non rotating front element, build quality and fast, accurate focussing.
Only downside is that it is physically a bit longer than the 70-300.

What do you want to use your new lens for?

[inkista]

I haven't used either, but there's a size/weight difference between the two: the 70-300 is black plastic while the 70-200L is white-painted metal. Mounting one of the white Ls does make you hecka more conspicuous. If you're planning on using the lens for travel, or casual snapshot shooting, the 70-300 might be the better lens for the job.

But otherwise, you've pretty much got the tradeoff right: it's IS+reach vs. L glass.

[marymoon]

Thanks for the input!

I've read some reviews that complain of poor image quality in the 200-300mm range of the 70-300. Would you say that is accurate? I don't really "need" the longer focal length for my purposes, so the 70-200 would be sufficient as far as focal length is concerned.

I've been leaning toward the 70-200 all along, but the more I think about it, the further I lean that way. I will mostly be using it to shoot outdoors with ample lighting, and if not I can just use the tripod anyway. I don't think for me that the "pro" of the IS on the 70-300 is going to outweigh all the other "pros" of the 70-200L.

[RichardTaylor]

The IQ of the 70-300 meets my needs for web publishing & prints up to 10x8 (~A4). All my pics are PP'd as I shoot RAW.
It is my general purpose vacation tele lens.

The 70-200 is mainly my daylight event lens. It is super "crisp" even wide open.