difference between "Bigma" versions?

rfortson · 01-31-2007, 05:08 PM

I noticed that there are two versions of the Bigma for sale, with a $10 price difference. Does anyone know the difference between them? The more expensive one explicitly says "IF". Does that mean that the other version actually rotates the front element during focusing?

Any comments/help would be greatly appreciated.

Alvin · 01-31-2007, 07:22 PM

IF is Internal Focusing. It means that the length of the lens will not change as you focus. I'd go with IF if there was only a $10 difference between comparable lenses.

I've put a link below to Sigma's website explaining the stuff associated to their lenses.

Sigma - Lenses - Overview

Cheers!

roentarre · 01-31-2007, 07:43 PM

Hi Russ

I remembered the newer version only came around for few years. The newer version is supposed to have more accurate AF, faster HSM and better optical quality. The weight is reduced as well.

I only have the new version and I cannot really tell you the real difference. Back in the old days, the lens was reported to be too chunky and hunting way too much even in broad day light.

But this glass is really outstanding with a good long reach.

01-31-2007, 05:08 PM	#1
rfortson Veteran Member Join Date: Sep 2006 Location: Houston TX Photos: Gallery Posts: 2,129	difference between "Bigma" versions? I noticed that there are two versions of the Bigma for sale, with a $10 price difference. Does anyone know the difference between them? The more expensive one explicitly says "IF". Does that mean that the other version actually rotates the front element during focusing? Any comments/help would be greatly appreciated.

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01-31-2007, 07:22 PM	#2
Alvin Veteran Member Join Date: Dec 2006 Location: Mississauga, Ontario, Canada Photos: Gallery Posts: 2,517	IF is Internal Focusing. It means that the length of the lens will not change as you focus. I'd go with IF if there was only a $10 difference between comparable lenses. I've put a link below to Sigma's website explaining the stuff associated to their lenses. Sigma - Lenses - Overview Cheers!

01-31-2007, 07:43 PM	#3
roentarre Veteran Member Join Date: Oct 2006 Location: Melbourne, Australia Posts: 11,783	Hi Russ I remembered the newer version only came around for few years. The newer version is supposed to have more accurate AF, faster HSM and better optical quality. The weight is reduced as well. I only have the new version and I cannot really tell you the real difference. Back in the old days, the lens was reported to be too chunky and hunting way too much even in broad day light. But this glass is really outstanding with a good long reach.