lens recommendation

[RivaLJ]

I am trying to decide between a 18-200 or a 28-300 for my sony a300.
I currently have the kit 18-70 and the 70-300.
I want a general walk-around lens.
Thanks!

 

[annnewjerz]

I am trying to decide between a 18-200 or a 28-300 for my sony a300.
I currently have the kit 18-70 and the 70-300.
I want a general walk-around lens.
Thanks!

If those are the two options you are considering---while I don't have a Sony---I would recommend the 18-200. I have this lens in the Nikon mount and it VERY convenient as a walk-around general purpose lens. Most people will say that there is some sacrifice in the IQ at the 200 end of the lens, but a lot of the people that have this lens are willing to make the trade-off since they don't have to switch out lenses.

 

[KAT4DISNEY]

Do you find you use either the wide end of your kit lens more or the zoom on your 70-300 more? That might help you decide which lens you would prefer.

I do not have experience with any of the 28-300's but have used the Sony 18-200 and it is a very nice lens (although I'm not sure which brand you are looking at). Personally I use both wide and zoom but for a walk around lens I definitely would go with the wider 18-200 and give up a little on the zoom where you can crop the picture if necessary.

Would you be able to afford a little bit more and go to the 18-250 Tamron or Sony? They are virtually identical and highly regarded. I have the sony version and think it's a great walk around and would give it a big thumbs up! It would give you the wider angle and a compromise on the zoom.

 

[zackiedawg]

I'm with Kathy...the 18-200 is probably the recommendation I'd make of your two choices, but I'd also highly recommend considering a step up to the 18-250 from either Sony or Tamron, as it does appear in most reviews to have not only extended the zoom range but also improved the optics and increased the overall image quality. Of course, if they're out of your price range, then they're out of your price range...the 18-200 should still be a solid and very convenient all-purpose walk around lens.

I have the A300 with the 17-55 kit lens (never used), a Minolta 50mm F1.7, a Tamron 200-500, and the Sony 18-250. The 18-250 probably handles 90% of my photos, with it's excellent quality and amazing versatility, while the other two step in for those specialty shots that require those specific lenses. The 18-250 is my go-to lens for Disney trips.

 

[RivaLJ]

I just ordered the Sony 18-250 from Keh.com. It's in Like New condition, so I was able to save a little money.
I kind of regret getting the 70-300 at this point. I got it at Circuit City and it was a really good price. Who can pass up a bargain?!
I wanted to limit the lenses I take to Disney. The 18-250 and a 50mm 1.4 should suffice.
Thanks for the advice!

 

[KAT4DISNEY]

That's great that you found a "used" one - congratulations!

I also purchased my 18-250 from KEH - like new condition. I couldn't even tell that someone had ever taken it out of the box and I loved saving the money.

So it's the 70-300 G lens that you purchased from Circuit City? That is a great lens and it's an awesome price that Circuit City had them for. I agree it's probably not one I'd want to carry around Disney all day though and it starts a little on the long end to be very versatile at the parks, other than AK. I think that in other situations you'll find you're glad to have that lens - and if not, I'm sure you'll be able to resell it and most likely still come out ahead.