p.2 #2 · 70-200 f/2.8 IS vI vs. II Bokeh Comparison
The biggest difference, which is still very small, is apparent exposure. The MKI seems slightly underexposed. There is a boost in contrast from the MKII which gives that appearance as well, but the white's, specifically in the fence crops, appear brighter. All-in-all there are no discernible difference in real world use. The reason the MKI looks slightly softer because it is softer.
p.2 #3 · 70-200 f/2.8 IS vI vs. II Bokeh Comparison
Thanks all, I found it to be an interesting test.
To my eye, the color and contrast were the biggest difference. I didn't find much overall between the two in terms of bokeh structure. The only one that got a little busy to my eyes was the 200mm less blur shot where the added contrast of the V2 lens started to show more of the background structure than the V1 lens.
Overall though, I would say the character/quality of bokeh should not really be a factor when deciding between the V1 and V2 lenses. The improved IS, faster/more accurate focusing, contrast, color, flare resistance, and close focus distance are all much more pertinent and noticeable differences.
