can't decide between 24-70 2.8L and 24-105 4L IS

[Old Boy]

Still owned both 24-70 and 24-105. I agree with Flipfreak's opinion. Didn't give up 24-105 as I also own FF camera and also have a 1.6 cropped camera. If I have to give up one, my decision is to let go 24-105.The reason is all the good points about 24-70 as shared by many. I won't bother to bring 25-105 for night shoot, not that it won't perform as good but 24-70 offers larger aperture and faster.

 

[tf2628]

Hi,
I was also having same situation like you 2 months ago, finally I taken the Tamron 28-75 f2.8 and for around S$600. It go well with my 50D.

 

[ianhyk]

Hmm my opinion:

If you're not considering full frame soon, then the ef-s 17-55 f2.8 might be the lens to get. It gives you the stabilisation that the 24-105 has, and the f2.8 that you want from the 24-70, and is wider when zoomed out compared to both 24-105 and 24-70. I think the wide angle might benefit you more than the extra reach of the 24-105. and IQ wise it is definitely very very good. haha imo.

 

[spawnx]

lol adding to the discussion, 24-70L and 24-105L are actually complementing lenses rather than competing... but of course at our budget we can usually only afford one.

went through the same dilemma as you and ended keeping my 24-105L. from my hands-on experience, heres my opinions..

24-70L

pros:

1. f2.8 is invaluable in low light conditions, its the biggest thing i miss about it
2. at f4, the sharpness is simply stunning... beats 24-105L slightly in the center and by a long shot at the corners. (f5 onwards not so obvious)
3. aesthetically and status wise, 24-70L wins... haha

cons:

1. no IS plus heavy weight, gives me less keeper shots at slow shutter speeds compared to 24-105L; 24-105L gives sharper shots cos of handshake reduced, but has more motion blur


24-105L

pros:

1. love the IS especially on the tele end, and in low light... handholding at 1/13-1/20 is not a problem at all.
2. I do a lot of event photography with flash so dont really need the f2.8 (prime lens mounted on spare body just in case), appreciate the longer reach of the 24-105L to get into the action
3. when I do street photog, the longer reach is also beneficial
4. personally prefer the bokeh of 105mm at f4-5 vs 70mm at f2.8-4


so as you wld have guessed, im recommending the 24-105L! hope this helps