Originally posted by InfinitySL Is the 55-300 lens $50 better than the 70-300? Am I losing out on much by going with the less expensive route? Is there anything (situation, etc) that I will be able to do with the first that I won't be able to do w/ the second.
As an owner of both lenses, I would definitely recommend buying the Pentax lens. The differences are:
- Pentax 55-300 has nicer colour and contrast (punchier looking photos)
- Pentax has a more useful range (55 vs 70 mm)
- Pentax is sharper wide open at 300mm
- Tamron has greater magnification (1:2 vs 1:3.6)
- Tamron more prone to purple fringing
- Pentax corrected for distortion and CA in newer bodies
Spend the $50, you won't regret it. The 55-300 has a regular spot in my kit bag. I only keep the Tamron for backup and to loan to my wife or daughter. Add a Raynox DCR-150 later for real macro magnifications, not 1:2 semi-macro.