Which is sharper, the Nikon 80-200mm 2.8 or 70-200mm VR

net1994

I would like to rent one of these lenses, as I heard the IQ is phenomenal. Though one person suggested the 80-200 as it has the same IQ, without the VR part of the 70-200 lens?

What do you think. I may end up buying whichever is the sharpest. With the 80-200 ED lens being over half the price cheaper than the 70-200VR…I’d like to see if it is a viable alternative. I know the 80-200 doesn’t focus as fast as the 70-200VR lens…but I use a 18-200VR 3.5 lens on a D50, so don’t think I would really notice the difference.

Thanks

ziggy53

Those two lenses are very close in general. The VR will improve your ability to shoot with a slower shutter speed without physical support (tripod etc.).

Ultimately the VR will probably yield more keepers for field and event use, especially in low light.

Harryb

Here are reviews of the 70-200 and the 80-200.

Remember that your glass is your major investment. As good as the 80-200 the 70-200 is better. The folks at Photozone wrote about the 70-200 "Performance-wise the results are excellent and slightly superior to the old AF 80-200mm f/2.8ED." If you can afford the 70-200 go for it, you won't regret your decision. If $ is a major concern then the 80-200 is a fine choice.

Shizam

I know this wasn't mentioned but I have it on good authority that the Canon 70-200 L IS 2.8 is the sharpest...

Harryb

Shizam wrote:

I know this wasn't mentioned but I have it on good authority that the Canon 70-200 L IS 2.8 is the sharpest...

Perhaps but then you would have to shoot with an inferior camera body :poke

Shizam

Touche!