Originally posted by photoshoper 
I'm searching for best image quality from a sub 200$ lens for the pentax k-30 ,,
Pentax 18-55mm
sigma 18-50mm f/2.8-4.5
sigma 18-125mm non HSM version
????
Only have a disagreement with one comment made in the thread about these lenses. All the reports I have seen regarding the Sigma 18-50 f/2.8-4.5 have been middling to negative - especially on the wide end. It is not as good a lens as the more-recent Pentax kit lenses (even accounting for the slightly better speed). Sometimes this Sigma gets confused with the fixed f/2.8 which is a much better (and far more expensive) lens.
I would mildly argue in favor of the 18-55 WR simply based on its WR match to the body. Build is actually better than the 16-45 (but not optics). I make the appeal based not so much on overall image quality (which in all fairness seems adequate in all respects), but with the thought that it becomes an important niche lens in your growing arsenal for instances when you are likely to encounter inclement weather or wet areas. Once you get to know your needs, you remain free to: 1) get a better mid-range zoom, or 2) start collecting prime lenses (vintage or new). Still, you won't outgrow your 18-55 WR because you will want to have it around for inclement weather (or rafting, etc.).
Some of the other choices might not be as likely to remain in the kit over the years.
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