Nikkor 70-200VR vs 80-200 2.8

[adam*]

I'd like to hear opinions from anyone who has owned both.

Is the 70 worth alot more second hand - about £250 more?

What's the difference in focus speed (AF-s versions)

Any other opinion.

Adam

[V8burble]

To confirm... you are talking 70-200VR vs 80-200 AF-S?

If so, yes I've used both, and own the 80-200 AF-S. I would say that the AF speed is no different in use. I don't know the figures, but both snap to focus in an instant. I can see no difference in sharpness although it is said that the 80-200 is sharper over the entire frame (possibly noticable with a full frame body, which I don't have). There is a difference in light fall off to the corners on the 80-200 wide open but not as noticable as reviews made out. For the portrait work I use my 80-200 for it's a stunning lens, sharp as anything at f/3.2 and still very sharp at f/2.8. So, if you need VR then that's a good reason to get the 70-200. Also, remember that the 80-200 AF-S only ran 1999-2003 so if it has not had a new AF motor fitted then you should budget for it soon (Mine has, and it ain't cheap).

Is the 70-200 worth the extra £250... possibly :shrug:

Hope that helps

[Jim B]

Have got the 80-200 2.8 AF-D (two ring version), and the AF keeps up well for rallying/motorsport in good light, obviously get the odd OOF shot in low light but it doesn't happen often.

Obiiously the AF-S version is going to be quicker, but I wasn't sure it was worth the extra money, the AF-D version seems to be quick enough for what I do. :shrug:

[adam*]

I am yes burble. Doesn't sound like there is that much in it really. Guess it's just up to me whether I decide I need the VR!

[Hairyduck]

I've got the 80-200 2 ring version, pre VR. It's slighly noiser in use I think than the new models but the biggest issue for me is the minimum focussing distance which is 1.8m, I think the new ones are still about 1.4m but it's noticeable from a usability perspective. Given my 18-200 will focus to within 0.5m that's normally the lens I take when going walkabout

[adam*]

What's the difference in physical size between the lenses?

[Martyn...]

What's the difference in physical size between the lenses?

Adam here is a useful link listing all Nikkor lenses, with brief specification, serial numbers, and in most cases photo's LINK (http://www.photosynthesis.co.nz/nikon/lenses.html#300)

[adam*]

Thanks martyn.

Virtually nothing in it really which is nice to know.

Anyone know if the 80-200 is weather sealed?

[Martyn...]

Thanks martyn.

Virtually nothing in it really which is nice to know.

Anyone know if the 80-200 is weather sealed?

Not sure adam, but have another useful Nikon link LINK (http://www.nikonlinks.com/equipment_lenses_zoom-telephoto.htm) site is called Nikon Links, has links to most Nikon stuff on the web, nicely catalogued for you :thumbs:

[V8burble]

Are any Nikon lenses weather sealed? It's not a leading question... I just don't think so.

By the way neither lens are lightweight, as long as you know that before you buy. For me I find that a good thing as it makes for a steady hold, but others may think otherwise. Such is the trade off for f/2.8.

When I used the VR on the 70-200 I found that it had to 'settle' for at least 1/2 a second. Doesn't sound much, but it is when you are working with young ones LOL. There are times when VR is great but I found I didn't need it most of the time.

Hope that helps

[adam*]

Are any Nikon lenses weather sealed? It's not a leading question... I just don't think so.

By the way neither lens are lightweight, as long as you know that before you buy. For me I find that a good thing as it makes for a steady hold, but others may think otherwise. Such is the trade off for f/2.8.

When I used the VR on the 70-200 I found that it had to 'settle' for at least 1/2 a second. Doesn't sound much, but it is when you are working with young ones LOL. There are times when VR is great but I found I didn't need it most of the time.

Hope that helps

Yeah I found the VR quite slow, no way near as good as Canon's IS. Weight isn't an issue, i've been using a 24-70L and 70-200L for years now, quite like the weight like you said.

And yes some are sealed with gaskets - 24-70, 70-200VR and quite a few others.

[V8burble]

And yes some are sealed with gaskets - 24-70, 70-200VR and quite a few others.

Interesting, thanks... and there was me thinking it was just a selection of Canon ones :bonk: thanks for that :)

[adam*]

There's a list somewhere, usually it's just the top end ones.

I was swaying towards the 80-200 for sure for the big price savings, but spoke to a press photographer I know and he said to definitely get the VR.

[dong_allen]

vr is a very useful function you should have

[DigitalRelish]

vr is a very useful function you should have

It is, for those who find it useful. It isn't, for those who don't. :)