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Hi Folks,

I am looking to replace my kit lens with a better walk-about lens, and thinking of an 18-200 coverage. Budget is a factor

Does anyone have any experience with the TAMRON 18-200MM f3.5 - f6.3 XR Di II on a 350d? What should I expect to pay for a good, used example? Or are there better, similar lenses to spend my cash on?

Appreciate your advice and suggestions,
Thanks

Gary

I looked at a Sigman 18-200 (for my Nikon) which I think was around $450 at the time, if I was on a budget I'd have probably gone for it.. as I could spent more I decided to go for the Nikkor, the VR has proved very useful and I like the feel of a more substational lens. On the 350D, the Sigma is probably a good fit.. I'm afraid I don't recall trying the tamaron.. but I did look at a few reviews.. I'd see if you can't set one in the shop see if you like it.

Thanks Craig. My cubicle mate at work has the Nikon 18-200 VR and I am almost ready to swap my Canon for a Nikon just for that lens

I had a play with both Sigma and Tamron in the shop today and I really don't see a whole bunch of difference. I reckon I may have to take my camera in and take a few test shots with both of the lenses.

Just fyi - here is a side-by-side paper specification comparison. I'd be interested if anyone has used either or both of these, and what the experience has been like.

Model name..............Tamron AF 18-200 f3.5-6.3 XR Di......Sigma 18-200mm F3.5-6.3 DC
Focal length............18-200mm.............................18-200
Max aperture............F/3.5-6.3............................F3.5-6.3
Angle of view...........75° 33' - 7° 59'.....................69.3 - 7.1 degrees (SD format)
Lens constr.............15 elements in 13 groups.............15 Elements in 13 Groups
Min focus distance......0.45m (17.7")........................45cm / 17.7 in.
Maximum magn. ratio.....1:3.7 (at f=200mm MFD 0.45m).........1:4.4
Filter diameter.........62mm.................................62mm
Overall length..........83.7mm (3.3") *......................78.1 (3.1in)
Maximum diameter........73.8mm (2.9")........................70mm (2.8in)
Weight..................398 grams (14oz.) *..................405g / 14.4 oz.
Diaphragmblades.........7 blades.............................7 Blades
Minimum aperture........F/22.................................F22
Standard accessory......Flower-shaped lens hood..............Petal Hood
Lens Mount..............Plastic..............................Metal
Price (new).............600..................................450

Um, on those specs I'd go for the Sigma as it is cheaper and has a metal mount, rather then a plastic mount.