[synnyster]

I'm really torn between these 3 lenses. On one hand, I want the wide end of the Sigma 17-70. On the other hand, I want the constant F/2.8 of the Sigma 24-70 and the Tamron 28-75. The Sigma 24-70 is wider than the Tamron, but much larger and heavier. And I don't know if 28mm is wide enough. I've also contemplated the Sigm 17-50mm, but the long end might not be long enough. Does anyone has any insight on my dilemma? Sample pics would also be appreciated. Also, what is the real world difference from 17mm to 24mm to 28mm?

[metalfab]

Why not look at the Sigma 18-50MM F2.8 EX DC Macro or Tamron SP AF17-50mm F/2.8 XR Di II LD which are both 2.8 throughout.

I'd look at those lenses as well but I'm having great images from my kit 18-55 that I can't justify the $400+ cost at this time.

[Clem Nichols]

I think you're probably going to find that there's more practical difference in the focal length of the Sigma 17-70 vs the other two than in the aperture range. By that I mean there will be more times you need the extra wideness of the lens than there will be times you need the extra speed. Just my opinion, mind you. I have the 17-70, and find it to be a great walk-around lens that stays on my camera more than all my other lens combined. Yours FWIW

CN

[Bramela]

I agree with Clem. I have had the 17-70 for about 12 months and it is a very good walkabout lens. I like the wide end , but be careful of vignetting when wide opem. A good Macro lens as well.
Highly recommed the 17-70 for serious consideration.

[Lowell Goudge]

maybe the real question is do you ever plan to get something ultra wide like a 10-20 or 12-24?

If the answer is yes, I would take the 28-75, and then go for the ultra wide.

if the answer is no, then you have a problem because either 24 or 28 is not wide enough, but you are giving up on speed unless you look at a 16-50

Its really an issue of mapping out your long term photographic plans

[simonkit]

Another vote for the sigma 17-70, great lens. I bought it instead of the Pentax 16-45, which had too limited a focal range for me - I often found I needed slightly more tele-photo with the 18-55 kit lens so the Sigma gave me more options.

Just for info I've complimented the sigma with the Tamron 70-300, another lens I'm very pleased with even though it does suffer a little purple fringing that needs correcting in PP

simon