Originally posted by Ubuntu_user Bummer. I was hoping that it would be decent for macro.
Well, what is a good macro lens that would be decent priced yet wouldn't compromise quality?
If you're just looking for a good macro lens, there a lot of good choices for less than the price of a 50-135. Granted you lose the versatility of the zoom, but in return you get a super sharp macro lens that is lighter and more compact than the 50-135. The Tamron 90, Sigma 70/105 and Pentax 100 (any of them; F, FA, DFA) are all good choices for an AF macro lens that can also do well to double as a short telephoto/portrait lenses.
If you're looking to miminize the cost, the Tamron 90 would be a pretty good choice. If you don't mind spending a little more money, the Pentax DFA100 (the older one or the newer WR one) is a really great lens. I borrowed one this weekend (DFA100, non WR) and found the quick-shift to be really useful when shooting a mix of macros and non-macros (w/ AF). In addition, I was quite happy with the IQ from the DFA100.