Camera Labs

Assuming it all arrives as expected I just got what I think is a cracking deal on a D70s (£329.99). I considered a D80 or a D50 and also Canon 350D/400D.

I couldn't justify the extra £200 for the D80 (I'd rather spend it on lenses and other bits), I didn't find a D50 much cheaper than I've paid for the D70s and I tried a friend's EOS 400D and wasn't that keen on the size/feel of the thing.

As I've only got a body, I've got to decide what lens(es) to get. I would rather spend a little more and get something worthwhile than essentially waste a couple of hundred on lenses that aren't up-to-scratch. I made that mistake when I bought lenses for my 35mm SLR 13 years ago and was always annoyed with how inadequate they were.

I've read the cameralabs review/comparison of the Sigma, Tamron and Nikon 18-200 lenses. This kind of thing appeals because I take pictures in a variety of situations (sport, landscape, wildlife). What I'm not sure of is whether the Nikon will, in my hands, be noticeably (£250) better than, say, the Sigma.

I'd also be interested to know whether getting the Nikkor DX 18-55 and 55-200 lenses would give me better quality pictures than the Sigma 18-200.

Thanks, Ed

Hi Ed, welcome to the Cameralabs forums!

You'll find lots of fans of the Nikkor 18-200mm here. It's a great lens and the major benefit over the Sigma and Tamron is of course Vibration Reduction, although the focusing is quicker and noticeably quieter, the build quality better, and it's also a little brighter at the telephoto end.

Sigma announced a new version of their 18-200 with stabilisation some time ago, but there's still no sign of it, and I suspect it will still be similar to the existing model in terms of focusing and build.

I'd say the Nikkor 18-200mm VR is one of the most compelling lenses for a Nikon body - and a good reason to go for a Nikon body in the first place.

To satisfy yourself though, you should go into a store with your D70s and try out both the Nikkor and the Sigma on it to see which you prefer. I'm sure you'll prefer the Nikkor, but having them both there at the same time will allow you to decide whether the Nikkor's worth the extra. If you can afford it, I'd definitely go for it. Especially after your comment about spending more to get something worthwhile.

Gordon

Here is an update with information on the new Sigma 18-200 with optical stabilization (OS): http://www.cameralabs.com/forum/viewtopic.php?t=188

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Thomas (beware: Nikon-fanboy and moderator!) My Lens Reviews, My Pictures, My Photography Blog
D800+assorted lenses