This is an interesting lens. Obviously, it is one stop of light slower than the Canon 24-70 f/2.8 Mk II, but it does have Image Stabilization and is a lot smaller. This lens has a bit less range than the Canon 24-105 f/4 IS, but has less distortion at the wide end and a more advanced stabilization system. The Tamron 24-70 f/2.8 VC is another competitor with similar image quality and price, but that one is a bit slower to autofocus.

There are a lot of choices, obviously, so why would you choose this one? Honestly, the macro feature is very nice to have for those who like to shoot close up, and it works very well. The size and weight are a plus, especially when traveling. That’s where I see the place of this one—a nice, small, high quality walk-around lens with the option of shooting macro. One thing I would note: the weak point of the lens is at 50mm, it actually is a bit sharper zoomed out fully to 70mm.

March, 2013