Which lens would be beter?

[hag408]

I am looking to buy a 70-220 2.8f lens for my Canon 40D. If I can find a cheap one, I can get a Canon lens. I am looking at a Sigma or Tamron. Which would be the better buy, the Sigma EX 70-200mm f2.8 II APO DG Macro HSM or the Tamron 70-200mm f/2.8 Di LD (IF) Macro AF?

Thanks

[dlambert]

Based on reviews I've seen over time, the Tamron is usually considered sharper, but somewhat slow to focus, while the Sigma focuses faster but isn't quite as sharp. If you want sharp & fast, there's always Canon's, of course, so I think it ends up being one of those cases where it depends largely on how you're planning to use the lens.

[hag408]

Mainly for sports photography.

[RichardTaylor]

In what sort of lighting conditions?

[hag408]

From full daylight with baseball and track to night football with stadium lights to basketball, wrestling and volleyball inside the gym.