I'm thinking of picking up the Canon EF 200mm F/2.8L lens in the near future.
The version 1 lens is ~ $150 cheaper than the version 2 lens. My question is: How much better is the version 2 lens than the version 1 lens as far as optics are concerned? Are we talking night and day or only minor changes?
Optics are the same between the 2 versions, the only difference is the V1 had a built in hood that is considerably smaller than the separate hood on the V2.
formula4speed wrote:
Optics are the same between the 2 versions, the only difference is the V1 had a built in hood that is considerably smaller than the separate hood on the V2.
That's quite reassuring. For $570 used, it seems like a steal.
I have the 200 2.8 (MKI) and it's kickass. Certainly among my sharpest optics. Like others have said, the optical design of the MK/MKII are the same. The earlier version merely has a slide out hood rather than twist on.
A highly recommended lens, in the same performance league as 135L: excellent IQ, very fast AF drive, small, light and unobtrusive black. The production consistency seems to be very good as we don`t hear too many `soft copy`complaints.
One of my favourite BIF lenses, although with it one has to be prepared to crop a lot and-or have access to closer targets.
I, too, really like the 200/2.8 (Mk II). I use it almost exclusively for field sports like HS football at night. I also like using it for landscapes and garden photography. And, I most like the small size (I don't like carrying around one of the 70-200/2.8 zooms) and relatively low price (I bought mine new when they were considerably cheaper than current price, but you can find good deals used).
There are advantages to the built-in hood; I've had to replace the hood due to carelessness on my part (I set the hood down during a football game while packing the camera, and forgot it).
Finally, here's one from the garden with the 200L:
The 200 2.8 is an awesome lens! It is one I always regret selling but, will be buying another for sure. I had the mk2 but, everything I've heard says the mk1 is just as good.
After so many years I wanted to buy this lens finally I got a used mk1 version, about 1 month ago. I thought I was not going to use a lot. I feel so stupid I waited so long.
Never used the mk2 version but mine is really crisp and sharp. So if you can save money and find a good used one, get it.
Well, I took the plunge and picked one up. The only concern I have is that now that it's Winter with Daylight savings time, it's getting dark before I even leave the office
I really need to insure I get out on the weekends more.
