I want to buy a 200mm f/2 lens. Though I am considering both the Canon and the Nikon versions, my preference is the Nikon simply since I prefer the less conspicous black color.
That being said, my question is - is there much of a difference between nikon 200mm f/2G and the Version II other than the nano crystal and the extra VR stop? Is image quality pretty comparable?
Also, if anyone knows of a good deal online for a new one let me know please!
lastly--without getting into any arguments or brand fights, are the Nikon and Canon versions of the latest 200/2 pretty similar in IQ.
Either one that you choose is going to be an excellent lens. I opted when I got the Nikon version to go with the MK I version because of price. If I would have had the money I would have gotten the II just because it does have a full stop better of VR in it.
Otherwise you can't go wrong with any version of lens because it is just stellar in what stuff it can produce in the right hands.
Pair it up with a 1.4 extender and you essentially have a 280mm f/2.8 lens that still focuses very fast and is as versatile as any lens can get on any camera body.
Ross -- Thanks a lot for the feedback.
Is there any problem with getting the 'imported' model of the VR II which seems to be a lot cheaper? I don't mind taking a risk if something goes wrong..
I own both the Canon and Nikon Mk I. They seem comparable in performance/IQ both really superb. The Canon 200 outclassed my Canon 300mm F2.8 (certified "good copy " too). The Canon can look black (enough) with a wetsuit foam kit.
The Canon may have the edge in VR/IS over the Nikkor Mk I but only in extremely low shutter speeds. You have the option of buying a gently used Mk I Nikon (as I did) and saving lots of money over the Mk II or the Canon.
I, mostly, hand hold the lens so I never use the lens hood(s). The Nikon is heavier and is also (more importantly) front heavy. I use a custom rig to shift the balance backward but it's heavy and costly. On a tripod this means nothing.
Your shooting style and the body really matters. At this point I don't own a Canon body I want to use with their 200mm. Not sure if the 1Dx will be the ticket (none of the others is) compared with my D4. May have to sell the Canon 200mm. Meanwhile, the price is not going down. Anyone else speculating in Canon lens futures?
I haven't used any of the 200 f2s so i'm just parroting here
The VRII has Nano Crystal coating so it reportedly has improved contrast and performs better in backlit situations when compared to the previous VR model. Also the VRII has more effective VR than the previous VR model. Other than that it seems that they have about the same resolving power and focussing speed.
The issue with buying 'grey' market lenses has to due with the fact that Nikon USA will not repair the lens. It isn't an issue of having to pay vs warranty work. It is that Nikon USA repair shops will not repair even on your dime. There are other Authorized repair shops so this may or may not be an issue for you.
