Originally posted by Chaos_Realm I have the 18-55 WR. and I think that it's great. excellent image quality for the price and the "kit range".
Chaos_realm: Glad you like it - sure took it's time to get there, though ;-)
OP: Well - the 18-55WR would be no different than what you have, but having the WR is certainly nice. I only had mine for a short time, as I upgraded to a DA * 16-50mm. While I haven't used the WR capabilites extensively on either lens, it has been great to have WHEN you need it.
I personally think the 18-55 lens is very underrated. I took some great pictures with it, just like the DA 55-300mm lens I still own. I could see not being able to use higher ISO could present a problem in a rainy, gray day. However, all the times I used my WR/DA* lenses outside in rain, I used them with a tripod - late night and rain....
If I was you I would upgrade your 18-55mm AL II to the WR lens, just so you have the WR capability with ONE lens. Personally I would not trade the 55-300mm for the 50-200 WR.
Another option is the 17-70mm, which has seals, though not a full WR lens. Obviously there is the 18-135 lens, but you are also paying a LOT compared to the 18-55 WR. Until I got the DA* I compromised and had the 18-55WR as well as a 16-45mm. Oh well. LBA....