VR1 or VR11

RobH

RobH

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Rob
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Hello all,

I'm contemplating taking the plunge and buying a 70-200 vr, but unsure which version to get. I'm currently using a D300, but will in time move to a 3/700 variant.

I think I read somewhere, that the VR1 is more prefered to the VR2, though I can't appear to find a thread that states this :suspect:

No real avenue of photography, I quite like shooting whatever really.

Your thoughts will be gratefully received.

Rob.
 
Thanks guys,

I thought I had read correctly.... out of interest why do you think this?

Rob.
 
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gramps said:
Because that's what they've got ... VRll all the way unless you like vignetting :exit:
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Seeing as the OP has a D300 its never going to be a problem now is it, even with full frame D3S and D700 i have never even noticed let alone it be a problem, you could of course turn on Vignette control on in camera which i do when using ultra wide angles and it works amazing

Like i said, its not a problem.

MKI all the way as the focus breathing of the MKII can drive you insane.
 
RobH said:
but will in time move to a 3/700 variant.
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All reviews highlight that it is a better lens for FX, of course DX won't see a lot of difference but if moving to FX then there will be advantages - breathing affects the 200mm end (problem for some ... advantage for others) but the 70mm end is true, which is not the case with the VRl.
OP might want to check some respected reviews.

Whichever he chooses they are great lenses and I wouldn't part with my VRll.
 
Have the VR1, used the VR2 while my VR1 was in for repairs. I would have been perfectly happy if it were a straight swap. Yes the VR2 breathes. It won't matter if you're mostly shooting beyond about 5m. If you're going to use it for portraits, it may be a big deal.

bythom.com said:
Marked 200mm is really:
1.4m 134mm
2m 147mm
3m 164mm
5m 176mm
10m 186mm
Infinity 192mm
Click to expand...

So depending on the distances you shoot, it may not matter. It didn't for me.
It is sharper, even on DX. The IS is better, it ghosts less, focus speed is about the same.
If they were the same price, I'd get the VR2 without question. Given it'd cost me £800+ (counting time and postage) to upgrade, the slight sharpness boost, VR boost (as I usually have VR off) and reduction in ghosting isn't worth it. It can take TCs well though, such that it's arguably better than the 80-400 at 400. That might be something to consider.
 
I have the VR II, have never used the VR I so cannot give an informed opinion on how they compare. I can, however, say that the VR II is a stunning lens that will spoil you very quickly with it's incredible sharpness, contrast, fast and silent focus, and versatility. I suspect the VR I compares very favorably, since most owners appear very pleased with it. And, to be honest, the 80-200 non-VR lens is also a stellar performer by all counts.

What I'm saying is that you cannot make a bad equipment decision here, so long as you're comfortable with the price you pay.
 
In fairness, you can never really get an answer that may suit you. Everyone has different needs. What suits one, may not suit another.
I have had both. In fact, I had two vr1's. Absolutely superb lenses. Really are. I moved over to the vrII when it was released. It does breathe, but that only becomes an issue if you shoot close up.
For myself, I find that the vrII focus speed is faster. I'm not going to claim it's sharper. I think my photography improved around the same time and that's probably more of a reason that the shots are sharper.
The vrII stabiliser in my opinion is much better. If you're budget allows, I would say get the vrII.
I have now known of 3 vrI lenses with focus motors failing. Now the vrII's may do the same when they've done a few miles, but so far (mine has done a few) its still perfect.
So, in reality, buy the lens that suits you best. Take no notice of what bad reports you have read. Because both are superb lenses. It's down to what you need.
I remember shortly after the vrII came out, there was an outcry about dust inside the barrell. It went worldwide. I even bloody started looking into the barrell to see if mine was affected! You had to shine a torch in at an angle to see it. Pixie dust! The claims were that the coating inside was poorly manufactured.
It turned out be nothing at all. We all went back to looking through the lens at the correct end and using it for what it was supposed to be used for.
It's laughable now to think what an uproar it caused. I'm convinced to this day that a Canon shooter thought it up... ;) :D
Buy either and you will have a good lens. :thumbs:

Kev.
 
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Cheers for the info guy's,

I'm currently speaking to someone about a 24-70 & 70-200 vr2

Rob.
 
Get them bought Rob. You will absolutely love them! Have a great Christmas. :thumbs:

Kev.
 
I've rejected the lenses :( there is a saving to be made over purchasing both new to the tune of £800. I'm quite gutted, as these are two lenses I wish to purchase and to keep for many years.

The thing that has put me off, is mainly my lack of knowledge on how much usage a lens can take, I'm still contemplating buying new and having the piece of mind of a warranty ect.

Rob.
 
RobH said:
The thing that has put me off, is mainly my lack of knowledge on how much usage a lens can take.
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If you can afford brand new fine, however remember that these are 'pro' lenses designed to be used by busy photographers as tools of the trade, they are by nature designed to be able to accept use.
 
Cheers Gramps, I guess it's just a little wariness of throwing 2k at someone I don't know & not knowing how much usage they have had.

Little careful thought over the next e days I guess.

Rob.
 
Gary Coyle said:
Get the serial numbers and check against the database for approx year of manufacture
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Gary,

I thought of that, but in my hands they would be lucky to shoot a few hundred shots, In a pro's hand this could be in the multiple of 10k's, thus a massive difference in usage.


Rob,
 
Could always buy used from a store if that's a concern. Gray's of Westminster, mpbphotographic and Cameraworld (and I'm sure other stores) offer warranties on used equiment. You probably won't need it, but if it's peace of mind you're after that is an option to consider.
 
RobH said:
Gary,

I thought of that, but in my hands they would be lucky to shoot a few hundred shots, In a pro's hand this could be in the multiple of 10k's, thus a massive difference in usage.


Rob,
Click to expand...

But it couls help you decide between a 2 year old or 10 year old lens, i know which id rather own regardless of actual usage
 
Gary,

They are apparently aprrox 14 months old, maybe a rash decision on my part to reject them, just it's a lot of dosh with any guarantee.

They are still available at present and not a million miles away.

Rob.
 
Those were the prices being asked, reduced to 2k and value of my lens £260. I'm not that knowledgeable about what wear and tear and degree of usage these can take, which is my main concern.

Apparently the lenses are immaculate and just over a year old.

Rob.
 
gramps said:
As said before, they are 'pro' lenses, built to cope - is the seller a pro or an amateur?
If the latter I don't see how you can lose!
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He started a tog business earlier this year, but apparently isn't enjoying it, be bought lenses used @ 6 months from a amateur i believe. Now isn't enjoying the photography, day job & family life.

Is a partner in a studio and doesn't need the pro lenses as he's studio based.

Rob.
 
Thanks Nikon.

It appears that both are more than adequate lenses, I just need to sort my sorry ass out :)

Rob.
 
gary,

I'm going to look over them tomorrow and do a deal if all is good. apparently they are only around 12 months old.

Rob.
 
Rob, i had a VR1 and now have a VR2. I could tell little,if any, difference to be honest.

Admittadly I don`t do all genres of photography, but for what I do mainly, the VR1 was fine. I sold it due to lack of use, bought an 80-200 F2.8(cracking lens for the money by the way), started doing something that I needed VR for again so got the VR2.
 
Well,

My little trip down the road was very rewarding, I'm now the proud owner of a Nikon 24-70 & 70-200 vr11

Off to london tomorrow, so think I'll take them along :)

Rob.
 
Cheers Gramps,

Smiling like the proverbial Cheshire cat :)
 
Congrats! I'm sure you will be very happy with them. Cracking pair..

Kev,
 
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