Even though there's a slight drop in sharpness at 200mm, the Sigma delivers excellent overall image quality, making it exceptional value at the price.

Value for money; Overall performance; Dual-mode image stabilizer

Slight loss of sharpness at full zoom; f/2.8 maximum aperture makes it big and heavy

The Sigma APO 70-200mm F2.8 EX DG OS HSM ($1,259) is a less-expensive professional alternative to similar lenses from Canon, Nikon, and Sony. The stabilized 70-200mm f/2.8 zoom is the go-to lens for many an event shooter, and getting one for under $2,000 is an appealing prospect.

Excellent center sharpness through most of its range; Fixed f/2.8 aperture; Includes tripod collar; Optically stabilized

So-so images at 200mm f/2.8; Distortion at 70mm; Edge performance could be better

I purchased this lens after a recomentdation. After using it for a day to get familiar with it, I found that it was just too slow for an f2.8 for the money. The focus seemed to be just a little bit off when wide open at 200mm.

Nice Bokeh; Strong Construction

Slow Focus

After reading what feels like dozens of reviews - all complimentary, I decided to take the plunge and get one of these - I do a lot of indoor fast action and kids photos, needed something fast and decent zoom. Unbelievably sharp photos, better than my prime lens...

Easy to use; Build quality

This is the first time I have used a lens of this size, weight and features. So far I am pleased with the ease of which I can test each of the auto, manual focus and stabalizer features. For my style of photography I am pleased with the image clarity and colour.

I shoot at a semi-pro level. This was a great lens to add to my bag. It did not break the bank like the Canon 70-200 2.8 IS. I have shot with both lenses side by side. I will say the Image Stabilization on the Canon is better just not 2x the price better.

One of the favorite lenses among news photographers, a 70-200mm f/2.8 or 80-200mm f/2.8 zoom also appeals to many serious photo enthusiasts. Although large and heavy, lenses of this type offer several benefits.

A lens with a 70-200mm focal length range, a wide, fixed max f/2.8 aperture and optical stabilization is destined to become a critical part of most people's lens kit. With this lens model now offered by many manufacturers, "Which one is right for you?

Lens is a little heavy, but better that cheap, light weight plastic. Lens is used mostly for shooting indoor concerts & sporting events and seems to fast focus very well.

Consistent Output; Durable; Easily Interchangeable; Fast / accurate auto-focus; Rugged; Strong Construction

Heavy

In terms of overall performance there's no beating the Canon and Nikon 70-200mm lenses. They do the best job of focusing on fast-moving subjects. However, this Sigma isn't too far behind when it comes to tracking movement.