Super zoom lenses - any users?

[JJ!]

I have decided to start saving for L glass, so in the mean time I am going to get a big ol' zoom lens to cover just about everything the 50mm does not do.

Has anyone used the Tamron 18-270 or Sigma 18-250?

I know IQ is going to suffer, but I want a jack of all trades to get me by for a few months or so.

Also considering the Canon 18-135, but only worth it if the IQ is better than the super zooms mentioned.

 

[cowasaki]

I had used an 18-200 for a couple of years on the D200. Lenses with a massive range like that are useful and handy but you are never going to get the same IQ as primes or smaller zooms. The 18-200 is actually a good example but you can see the difference as you move on the other lenses. It is certainly worth considering one but check it out. I can only talk generally as I'm from the other side of the fence!

 

[BooBear]

I've read a couple of good reviews of the Tamron 18-270, which is surprising given its range. I'm in the same boat as you - sometimes just want something with a good range that means I don't have to swap lenses (eg when doing a long hike) - and am also considering the tamron. Will keep an eye on this thread and poach any advice you are given!

 

[maarten.dhaese]

These superzooms will still cost around £400 new.

If you were willing to split your setup in 2, the Canon 18 55 IS would cost about £70 second hand.

The Canon 70 - 300 IS USM would cost about £330 second hand.

Neither are L glass, but both have pretty good reputations optically, especially the 70 300. Also you get IS on both. Remember that with L lenses, a large part of the cost is due to the superior build quality of L lenses.

Even though I have the 100-400 L IS, I find myself taking the 70 300 IS USM on most occasions because it is a lot more portable and the image quality comes very very close to the 100-400 L IS.

A superzoom is still a good idea if you go on a lot of outings where you can only bring a single lens.

 

[chris321]

Personally I dislike the idea of superzooms! One of the main reasons I first bought a DSLR was to have something that was more adaptable and could perform better than a bridge camera. Unfortunately I don't have enough cash for an entire line-up of primes, and there comes a point where it becomes impractical, however I try to minimise the zoom ranges on the lenses I have.

If you want a budget setup, I'd suggest the 18-55 IS and 55-250 IS (both together for probably about £240 new, less if secondhand). That'll give you all the range you want, with IS, and possibly better image quality for a lot less money (that can go towards the wonderful L-ness. O.K, so you'll have to switch every now and again, but personally I think it's worth it!

I can see the appeal of super-zooms, and plenty of people use them, so they can't be too bad, but personally I'd rather not!

 

[HoppyUK]

Being a Canon user JJ, I think you're in luck. Get the EF-S 18-200 and you might never look back

I say buy Canon because you can use the DPP software you got free with the camera to get rid of CA, vignetting and distortion that is the problem with superzooms. Update it free for the latest version from the Canon website.

DPP is unique, and uses the Exif data to select very effective custom correction data according to the specific lens, focal length, f/number and focusing distance. Sorted It only works with Canon lenses, and you have to shoot Raw, but it's very good and very easy.

Give it a try - you've already got it. Turns any lens into L grade

 

[JJ!]

I understand that I can get a couple of IS lenses for the same price, but this is a one lens set up for outings, holidays etc whilst I save up for superior kit.

An at the same time, it will help me see what range I use the most and what the best set up is to go for. Super zooms seem to hold there value fairly well, so I will not be losing a big chunk of wedge in the long run (as long as I don't drop it lol!)