Question Between the 16-35mm f/2.8 L II USM & the 16-35mm f/2.8 L USM

[F1P]

Hello, I am looking into buying a 16-35mm lens but I an not sure how much of a difference there is between the L USM & the L II USM.  Does anyone have any suggestions, comments or advice?  I am looking at 2 used ones and I am not sure how much the price difference between the two matters.  

[ScottyP]

The current one is the mk.III.  

[ScottyP]

The version II came out in 2007 and the version I came out in 2000. The Review sites people generally consult will tell you folks were a bit disappointed there was not more improvements between I and II.  I just reread the "discontinued lenses" section at ___________ and confirmed that.  I think if you can get a significantly better deal on version I than on version II you wouldn't be missing a lot, based on the reviews. 

I've not used the first two versions but I have version III and it is really awesome. I had to totally relearn composition, perspective and choice of subject getting into a wide angle lens but now it is probably tied as my favorite lens, and the shots it gives really stand out from all my other shots (when I get it right).  

[ScottyP]

I sent you a message. 

[F1P]

Yes, I saw that there is an L III version but it’s beyond my price range

[ebiggs1]

Each one is very good.  The newer ones are just a tad bit better.   I have 2 and I had 1 very nice lenses.  You'll be happy with either.

[RobertTheFat]

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@ebiggs1wrote:

Each one is very good.  The newer ones are just a tad bit better.   I have 2 and I had 1 very nice lenses.  You'll be happy with either.

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The 16-35mm f/4L IS USM is also very good. Not as good an indoor lens as the various versions of the f/2.8, obviously, but I rarely use a WA lens indoors.

[shadowsports]

I have the v2.  16mm and wide open is good.  Nice sharp landscapes.  Just gets better from there.  I didn't see the need for a v3.  While Canon does make refinements between the versions, I don't think the v3 is needed unless you are earning a living with your camera.   

[ebiggs1]

" I didn't see the need for a v3."

Well there is always room for improvement but you certainly have a valid point.  If your current gear is meeting YOUR requirements, that is all that is necessary.  How good is good?  You be the judge.

[Tim · Accepted solution]

Hello F1P, 

The original EF 16-35mm f/2.8L USM is no longer in service life, which means that if you had to send in for repairs that are in excess of a cleaning, Canon would not be able to service it.  The service life expired in December 2013.