Which F2.8 lens would you get?

[phyrewall]

Given the three lenses:

• Sigma 18-50mm F2.8 EX DC
• Leica D Vario-Elmarit 14-50mm f2.8-3.5
• Zuiko Digital 14-54mm F2.8-3.5

I'm trying to figure which would be the better F2.8 lens to get in terms of image quality and performance, price differences aside.

While I love Zuiko lens, and I heard Leica has good/great quality lens too. Although, I should say that I'm partially biased at the moment towards Sigma because of its fixed max aperture.

My interest in either of these three lenses stems from the fact that I plan to use it for portrait shots at the 35-50mm zoom range. I would have included the Zuiko 12-60mm here but there already was a previous discussion on it vs the 14-54mm.

Can anyone share their opinion which one they would get if they were in my shoes, and explain why?

Thanks!

[egnaro]

it quite hard to choose actually becuz of price.

Put money aside, I will go for Leica 14-50 F2.8-3.5 1st, reason is becuz it a LEICA!!!

follow by Zuiko 14-54

last will be Sigma. even if it has macro feature, I will not buy becuz it is a macro zoom lens.

to me, macro shd only use prime lense unless no choice.

[splim]

there is only 1 lens that can give you F2.8 @35-50mm, Sigma 18-50mm F2.8 EX DC what choice do I have

[olymac]

Originally Posted by phyrewall Given the three lenses: Sigma 18-50mm F2.8 EX DC Leica D Vario-Elmarit 14-50mm f2.8-3.5 Zuiko Digital 14-54mm F2.8-3.5 I'm trying to figure which would be the better F2.8 lens to get in terms of image quality and performance, price differences aside. While I love Zuiko lens, and I heard Leica has good/great quality lens too. Although, I should say that I'm partially biased at the moment towards Sigma because of its fixed max aperture. My interest in either of these three lenses stems from the fact that I plan to use it for portrait shots at the 35-50mm zoom range. I would have included the Zuiko 12-60mm here but there already was a previous discussion on it vs the 14-54mm. ......

If I am not wrong, you use the E520. If you were using the E420, then no brainer - get the Leica coz of in-lens IS. But if you do have body IS, then the in-lens IS is redundant; adds to cost and complexity (?more chance of mechanical failure).

My personal experience with the 14-54/f2.8-3.5 ...... great lens for portraits

Check this thread if you have not yet .....

[phyrewall]

Originally Posted by splim there is only 1 lens that can give you F2.8 @35-50mm, Sigma 18-50mm F2.8 EX DC what choice do I have

@splim, yeah this was my initial thoughts exactly. The Sigma seems to trump over the Zuiko and Leica because of the F2.8 even at 50mm. I was thinking it might be good for low light shots.

Originally Posted by egnaro last will be Sigma. even if it has macro feature, I will not buy becuz it is a macro zoom lens. to me, macro shd only use prime lense unless no choice.

@egnaro, I'm not to keen on macro photography nowadays. But do you think the macro feature on the Sigma has a negative effect on it, meaning let's pretend that there are two versions of this kind of lens (an Sigma 18-50mm F2.8 EX DC and another Sigma 18-50mm F2.8 EX DC Macro), will the one without the macro feature be better for portrait photography?

Originally Posted by olymac If I am not wrong, you use the E520. ... ... My personal experience with the 14-54/f2.8-3.5 ...... great lens for portraits

@olymac, yes I'm using the E-520 so the Leica IS becomes redundant to me at this point but it might prove handy for the backup body I'm planning to get. I wouldn't mind getting the Leica if the performance of the lens (focusing speed especially in low light and image sharpness) is better among the 3. I also read a similar thread before, comparing the Zuiko 14-54mm with the Zuiko 12-60mm, and I was convinced that the 14-54mm/f2.8-3.5 was the more suitable one for portraits. Thanks for the link you shared, I'll check it out.

Overall, I just wish I had the moolah to go out and buy all 3 of them, so that I can take it for a field test, and compare which one is the most suitable for me. Then probably sell the other two that I don't want to keep.

Anyone knows where I can rent all 3 of them, perhaps?

Thanks to all those who have voted in the polls, so far. Please keep the votes coming in, and feel free to share your opinions and preferences.

Confused-ly yours ,

phyrewall

[microcosm]

Maybe its just my silliness, but I look at these three lens this way...

Sigma - Out. Would not consider Sigma unless there is a special reason like a super prime or something. I have been disappointed too many times by the optical quality of Sigma lenses (except the 105/150 macros). Even then, if there is a Zuiko lens that covers the focal length, aperture is not really a major concern.

Leica - With Leica giving me the impression that they are pulling out of collaboration with Panasonic (given G1's releases with lenses no longer bearing the Leica badge), I am cautious about buying a Panny-Leica lens now (unless it is very cheap). Moreover, the extra money that goes into the built in MOIS is redundant for Oly bodies. Optical quality is only a fraction better than the 14-54mm.

ZD 15-54 - This is already a subperb lens and designed for Oly camera bodies. Why not? And from all user stories from around the world, this is also a very hardy lens (the build quality of Panny-Leica lenses is not as good as ZD builds if you hold both lens in your hands), so I think the choice is clear.

When it comes to (1) Optics quality (2) Built quality (3) compatibility (4) Value of the lens, I think 14-54 wins hands down.

But this is my way of seeing things. Constant f2.8 might be tempting for some with the Sigma, but having to sacrifice optical quality is definitely a no-no. For the Panny-Leica, the build quality is a concern, though it is not a fragile piece, but still, comparing that to the ZD 14-54, the latter is still a much better build and I have my confidence in it.

Just my two cents in this discussion. So for me, 14-54mm.

A killer combination would be the Leica elements in a ZD lens enclosure! Wow. That would be awesome.

[mojims]

Actually, I'm also faced with the same dilemma, whether to choose between the Pana/Leica 14-50 or the ZD 14-54... the only difference is that, I have a E-410, which is why I'm inclined towards the Pana/Leica due to the IS. Since I you have an E-520, I would suggest the ZD 14-54 instead.

Btw... possible to get any of these lenses on 0% installment?

[phyrewall]

Originally Posted by microcosm ... ... But this is my way of seeing things. Constant f2.8 might be tempting for some with the Sigma, but having to sacrifice optical quality is definitely a no-no. For the Panny-Leica, the build quality is a concern, though it is not a fragile piece, but still, comparing that to the ZD 14-54, the latter is still a much better build and I have my confidence in it.

after reading the posts from the other thread as well, I'm starting to see a lot of suggestions/recommendation for the ZD 14-54mm, which is good because it basically reinforces my earlier decision on getting it instead of the ZD 12-60mm.

I just got sidetracked by the Sigma last night when I stumbled upon a positive review about it.

Thanks to everyone for sharing their thoughts on this.

Originally Posted by mojims Btw... possible to get any of these lenses on 0% installment?

with the economy nowadays, I wouldn't recommend buying any lens on credit card, even if it's on 0% installment. what happens if you suddenly lose/quit your job? I'd only buy the lens if I have saved enough cash for it

[mojims]

Originally Posted by phyrewall with the economy nowadays, I wouldn't recommend buying any lens on credit card, even if it's on 0% installment. what happens if you suddenly lose/quit your job? I'd only buy the lens if I have saved enough cash for it

Ah, don't worry... I'll be in this job until the next 2 years... even if I want out, I can't...

[mactigasuku]

You may not be able to find a new copy of the Sigma 18-50/2.8 in SG ..... I tried a few months back

[OlyFlyer]

Let's put it this way:

I would not get the Sigma, because it is a Sigma. Normally I don't trust reviews, but it seems as the concensus is to buy Sigma if there are no other options. The constant f/2.8 is not something which would make me buy one.

Leica - supposed to be the best of the three options, but I am not sure I'd be ready to pay for. I'd have to look out not to pay too much for the brand, so I'd scrutinize the lens before making up my mind.

Oly 14-54. I have this lens and I am very happy with it. Given the three alternatives, unless money was not an issue, I'd buy this lens today as well.

To finish it off, assuming the Sigma is the cheapest, if I could only afford that lens I would still not buy it but would save for one of the other two. The only Sigma lens I ever was tempted to buy was the 135-400. The lens is now discontinued, which may be just as well. I am not very sad to have missed the chance, especially considering the very short life of the lens. I wonder why they discontinued.

[phyrewall]

Thanks!

The more I read up on it, the more it makes sense to go with the Zuiko 14-54mm. I realized that if I get the 14-54 with the 50-200mm, i basically covered what the Sigma 18-50mm had to offer, and in a much better performance kind of way, too (I think).

Good thing I'm also saving up for an extra body -- that way I don't need to switch the two ZD lens; just carry two bodies

[mactigasuku]

Originally Posted by phyrewall Thanks! The more I read up on it, the more it makes sense to go with the Zuiko 14-54mm. I realized that if I get the 14-54 with the 50-200mm, i basically covered what the Sigma 18-50mm had to offer, and in a much better performance kind of way, too (I think). Good thing I'm also saving up for an extra body -- that way I don't need to switch the two ZD lens; just carry two bodies

The E520 will last you for a while ..... save up for the coming A or E-X ... then the E520 will be your backup ...

[phyrewall]

Originally Posted by mactigasuku The E520 will last you for a while ..... save up for the coming A or E-X ... then the E520 will be your backup ...

tempting thanks for the the tip.

[Blu-By-U]

I have and had all 3 of those lenses.

1) Sigma 18-50/2.8 - Lovely lens. the constant 2.8 is good and bright. As for built, it's heavier that the other 2 and it uses a 72mm filter. Like most Sigma lens, there is a AF/MF switch. For a panorama shooter, this switch is a real advantage. You just AF to a desired point then switch to MF..you cannot do that with any of the other lenses mentioned here.
Another small plus is the 72mm filter. Since the wide of this lens is not really there, you must couple this lens with 11-22 or the 9-18. The 11-22 and the 9-18 uses the same filter size so it would save you some money just investing in one set of filters..like the CPL and NDs.

2) Leica 14-50/2.8-3.5 - Another gem.. this lens is as mentioned costly but the bokeh and the contrast is . One fantastic lens for portraiture. The added IS really works and it's boon for the bodies without IS. Hopefully in the near future, Olympus will make the Aperture ring usable on the Olympus bodies. This lens also have the 72mm filter and so sharing filter with the 11-22 and 9-18 is easier.

3) Zuiko 14-54/2.8-3.5 - Made of Olympus by Olympus. This is a weather sealed lens and the kit lens of the famed E-1. It's a professional glass. Like all Zuikos, beautiful. This lens couples well with the 50-200. A pair made in heaven both lenses sports the 67mm filter thread.

For my own preference, I sold the ZD14-54 in preference for the Sigma 18-50/2.8 all because of the 72mm filter range and that AF/MF switch.

So depending on your shooting styles and area of focus, any of the 3 lenses are good in their own rights.

[olymac]

Seems like all the lens are great and will fit your purpose .... just the cost and some personal preferences .... beehoon versus tanghoon versus mee-tai-mak ....

[Blu-By-U]

Correct olymac. Each of those lenses have their advantage and disadvantage. So choose wisely.

My current lens that's almost used 70% of the time..14-150/3.5-5.6. The OIS on lens is a real help to my aged E-330.

[phyrewall]

Thanks for sharing your experiences.

[egnaro]

Originally Posted by Blu-By-U I have and had all 3 of those lenses. 1) Sigma 18-50/2.8 - Lovely lens. the constant 2.8 is good and bright. As for built, it's heavier that the other 2 and it uses a 72mm filter. Like most Sigma lens, there is a AF/MF switch. For a panorama shooter, this switch is a real advantage. You just AF to a desired point then switch to MF..you cannot do that with any of the other lenses mentioned here. Another small plus is the 72mm filter. Since the wide of this lens is not really there, you must couple this lens with 11-22 or the 9-18. The 11-22 and the 9-18 uses the same filter size so it would save you some money just investing in one set of filters..like the CPL and NDs. 2) Leica 14-50/2.8-3.5 - Another gem.. this lens is as mentioned costly but the bokeh and the contrast is . One fantastic lens for portraiture. The added IS really works and it's boon for the bodies without IS. Hopefully in the near future, Olympus will make the Aperture ring usable on the Olympus bodies. This lens also have the 72mm filter and so sharing filter with the 11-22 and 9-18 is easier. 3) Zuiko 14-54/2.8-3.5 - Made of Olympus by Olympus. This is a weather sealed lens and the kit lens of the famed E-1. It's a professional glass. Like all Zuikos, beautiful. This lens couples well with the 50-200. A pair made in heaven both lenses sports the 67mm filter thread. For my own preference, I sold the ZD14-54 in preference for the Sigma 18-50/2.8 all because of the 72mm filter range and that AF/MF switch. So depending on your shooting styles and area of focus, any of the 3 lenses are good in their own rights.

from this, I can see that you can't go wrong with any of these 3 lens.

[microcosm]

Another interesting thing to consider regarding any lens... how does it perform WIDE open? Most lenses are almost useless wide open (soft). Ended up with a lot of post process sharpening and creating artifacts. (Personal point of view). And the issue with colour casting on some third party lenses. That is why I stick to a lens designed for the system that it was designed for, you cannot go wrong. If I wanted really cheap investments in gear, I would have stuck to prosumer level cameras like the Panasonic LX-3 which also yields very good results.

The truth is, one will end up upgrading eventually to the better lenses. (Panny-Leica build quality just don't make the cut, from my personal experience seeing the number of Panny Leicas returned for repairs when working with Beijing Four Thirds). This might be the reason why Panasonic ended their working relationship with Leica. This is only an assumption... the 25mm f1.4 is considered a failure despite having good optics. Those with good working copies are really considered lucky. We had about 3 returns per month, which is really bad considering the number of lenses built was not that many.

I have been using a number of lenses from various makers since the introduction of the E-1, and never have I sold any ZD lenses because they were crappy. But I cannot say the same for any other lenses. Though I have to say I am impressed by the Leica 14-50mm. Even the $100 kit lens you get with a E-4/5xx series cameras can produce stunning results, as demonstrated by some of the shooters in this forums. That says a lot about ZD itself. So if you use an Olympus camera, it is only wise to stick to the lenses designed for the system.

Again, this is my personal point of view from my own user experience and working with various Four Thirds group and communities from around the world. An observation and personal hands on. Based on your budget and shooting style, as mentioned by Blu, different lenses will cater to your various needs.