Canon Lenses Vs. Sigma, Tamron

If you're looking to buy photographic equipment for your new digital SLR camera, choosing lenses can be quite confusing. Canon, Sigma and Tamron are all experienced manufacturers of high-quality optics and offer different options depending on each photographer's needs. Though Canon is the most widely recognized, each brand is quite popular and commonly found in most camera stores.

With so many lens manufacturers it is often difficult to know what lenses are best for your camera. Understanding the differences make choosing a lens easier.

Canon

Canon has been making photographic equipment for over 50 years. It's one of the most widely known brands of cameras and lenses. For those who are looking for point and shoot cameras, Canon offers the most options. Its L series lenses is the usual choice for professionals using Canon cameras.

Sigma

Sigma has been making cameras and lenses for over 40 years. Although it does make a small number of point and shoot cameras, it specializes in lenses. Many of its third party lenses offer excellent optics at more affordable prices than similar length Canon lenses.

Tamron

Like Sigma, Tamron manufactures third party lenses which fit Canon cameras. It does not make point and shoot cameras, instead focusing on lenses. Tamron excels at providing alternates to more expensive lenses, while still maintaining excellent quality.

Which Is Best?

The simple answer is none of them. Though Canon's L lenses are generally considered having the best glass for a Canon camera, many people are not in the market to spend thousands of dollars on a single lens. For the majority of the market, each manufacturer offers excellent optics at a variety of prices. Canon's lineup is more extensive, but often the focal lengths and aperture abilities overlap.

How To Choose

Choosing the best lens means figuring out what type of photography you are interested in (i.e., landscape, portrait, low light, sports) and how much money you are able to spend. Decide on a focal length and price and then shop around to see what Canon, Sigma and Tamron offer. Chances are they each offer a lens in your desired range, but some will carry different features which affect the price such as image stabilization. Lastly, it is always a good idea to go to a camera store and try out each lens. Each lens handles differently and may make the difference between two closely matched lenses.

References

• Tamron, Sigma or Canon Lens
• "The Digital SLR Guide," Jon Canfield, 2007