Originally posted by que es tu If you want a reliable, durable inexpensive lens with great IQ I would definitely recommend the HDDA 55-300 f4-5.8 wr (screwdrive). I bought mine used 4 years ago, and it is still going strong. It is a very versatile lens.
I agree completely. This is beyond question the best solution for a K-5 and K200D. And it even has its own advantages over the newer PLM. I found upon replacing my earlier DA 55-300mm having the same optics, that this newer version with the HD coatings was definitely giving me better imaging in so many instances I considered it a major upgrade for this lens. Others here have posted having the same experience- much better than the non-HD, non-WR. Of course, AF is not speedy and quiet, as is true of the new PLM model. But IQ is quite similar, with each having its own strong points. It might be worth comparing the two as tested by ephotozine, if interested.
Its advantages over the new PLM lens- not internal focusing so there is no focus breathing. This is not always an issue but could be when working at relatively close range. If you get fairly close to a bird, for example, you'd get a larger image in your frame. Its AF is slower largely due to a longer focus rotation, but then this is better for fine-tuning manual focus. It also has a slightly faster aperture range. It can keep to f/4-4.5 out to near 200mm, with very good IQ. About one stop off from a very expensive, very heavy 70-200mm f/2.8 lens, which also cannot provide 55mm imaging.
I know of these advantages and thus what the new PLM version can bring of its own. And I also have the little K-S2 and the KP, both of which will work fine with PLM lenses. But I have no intentions towards replacing my DA 55-300mm HD WR lens with the new PLM model, nor do I have any interest in any other PLM lens offered, including the DA* 16-50mm f/2.8 PLM, as I am very satisfied with my Sigma 17-50mm f/2.8 EX DC HSM lens, which I acquired as a closeout for a fraction of the price. For my uses, I am doing quite well without the PLM advantage.
Last edited by mikesbike; 08-22-2022 at 04:31 AM.