topic Canon 80-200 vs sigma 70-200 in Gear Guide

Canon 80-200 vs sigma 70-200

Rgauden — Sun, 13 Apr 2025 03:28:38 GMT

I’m debating between these two lenses for sports photography. I’ve heard that the 70-200 is really good, but costs quite a bit more than the 80-200. I’m wondering if there is much of a difference between the 2?

Re: Canon 80-200 vs sigma 70-200

shadowsports — Sun, 13 Apr 2025 13:10:42 GMT

Greetings,

What camera do you plan to use this lens with?

What type of sports will you be shooting? Indoor, outdoor, day, night?

The 80-200 came in 2 variants, a f2.8 (1989) model and a variable aperture f4.5-5.6 (1992) model. Which are you considering?

A canon lens is always going to provide the best overall compatibility, whether you are using a DSLR or adapting to mirrorless. There is one caveat or exception in this case. The 80-200 was released so long ago, I would not expect it to work well or at all adapted to mirrorless. Its just too old. I believe the Sigma was released in 2023.

Please answer the questions above and tell us more about your gear.

Re: Canon 80-200 vs sigma 70-200

Rgauden — Sun, 13 Apr 2025 13:35:31 GMT

I was planning on getting the cannon eos 70D, and was gonna try and shoot both indoor and outdoor sports.

Re: Canon 80-200 vs sigma 70-200

ebiggs1 — Sun, 13 Apr 2025 15:52:53 GMT

Is the Sigma a 30+ year old lens too? That's a long time for a lens. Make sure it all works and has no fungus. And, is cheap. I, personally, can not recommend anyone buy a 30+ year old lens to use as a regular everyday lens.

Plus I wouldn't even recommend you buy a 70D unless you know it is in good working order and you can get it for cheap. It is a 12 year old DSLR trying to live in a new RF world. Of course the camera/lens you have is always better than the camera/lens you wished you had. Check them out thoroughly.

Re: Canon 80-200 vs sigma 70-200

Rgauden — Sun, 13 Apr 2025 16:57:36 GMT

What version of a canon 70-200 would you recommend if I’m on somewhat of a budget?

Re: Canon 80-200 vs sigma 70-200

ebiggs1 — Mon, 14 Apr 2025 14:24:20 GMT

"I’m on somewhat of a budget?"

Aren't we all? All the Canon models are good it depends more on how well cared for the lens is and the price. The older a lens is and particularly one that has sit for a long time is still in good working order. Fungus can grow and lubes dry up, dirty, etc. Check it out thoroughly.

The newer Sigma 70-200mm f2.8 lenses are very good too. I,ve got one and until Tamron came out with their outstanding G2 line, I put the Sigma in second place albeit a distinct second to the Canon offerings but still a very good lens.

I guess my advice is get the newest most current Canon model you can afford. Second choice is the Sigma.

"the camera/lens you have is always better than the camera/lens you wished you had. Check them out thoroughly."