Outstanding quality in a compact design
Pros:
Quality glass, VR actually works, crisp and quiet focus
Cons:
Price, limited availability has prompted dealers to gouge
The Bottom Line:
Superb optics and good range in a size that's just right
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Overall Rating:
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Author's Review
I was expecting compromises with this lens (after all, what zoom is ever as good a prime, right?) but I've never been more pleased with the quality of my pictures or the compactness of my DSLR setup.
I was turned off initially by the high price--and in fact tried out several Sigma lenses to save money--but each of them produced "soft" images that wouldn't enlarge well.
So, I reluctantly coughed up the money and purchased the 18-200VR. Immediately noticed the difference and haven't looked back. I'm not a pro so my eye for optical flaws isn't terribly critical, but I can tell you the barrel and pincushion described by various digital pundits is overstated. At both the short and long ends I've really not noticed any distortion whatsoever.
Bottom line for me is accurate focus and sharp detail. On both counts the 18-200VR far exceeded my expectations. At full jpeg resolution I can zoom into a small portion of the image and see the smallest details in surprising clarity. With some sharpening in software, the pictures just amaze.
I purchased a D70 a few years ago and some Sigma tele zooms to go with it. Some pics were fine, but others were way off, and the inconsistency got me so frustrated that I finally sold everything and blamed the camera. When I repeated the drill with my new D200 I came to the realization that lenses probably DO make a difference, and while the 18-200 VR is a substantial added investment, I'll give it credit for being worth every dollar.
Potential buyers will have to reconcile their lust for this lens with the near impossibility of finding it in stock at any price. I was on a wait list for several months, and did get a fair deal from a reputable merchant, but I am probably among the lucky ones. The speculative pricing "bubble" that has swirled since its release is, quite frankly, ridiculous and unnecessary. Take a deep breath, enjoy virtually the same picture quality from your 18-70 kit lens, and wait just 6-9 months for production to catch up and prices to fall. The 18-200VR is an amazing product, and I'm really grateful to have one, but it's not worth a grand on eBay. Be patient, and you will be rewarded!
