Canon EF-S 17-55mm f/2.8 IS USM Lens vs. Canon EF 16-35mm f/2.8 L II USM Lens

[JTPAIN]

Hi,

So which one of these genuinely has better image quality and produces better images on a Crop Sensor - 600d or equivalent

[Rocco]

That's hard to say. They're both very sharp with good color and contrast. 17-55 has a couple of things going for it that the 16-35 doesn't.

1. IS. VERY handy to have imo.
2. 19mm more focal range. That may not be an issue if you already have a good 50mm prime.

I guess it comes down to if you're going to stay with a crop sensor for the next year or two? I have a 7D and the 17-55mm.. been using that combo for almost exactly a year now and I'm absolutely happy with my choice. For what it's worth, when I do go for a FF (next tax season, most likely) I'll end up with the 16-35 and the 50 1.2.

[JTPAIN]

Would you say that IS makes such a substantial difference?

[Sean Setters]

Would you say that IS makes such a substantial difference?

It certainly doesn't hurt...

[Rocco]

Would you say that IS makes such a substantial difference?

It does for me. If you happen to be a shooter that takes 90% of your shots on a tripod, then probably not. I have a lot of use for it.

Guess that's a question best answered by you and your shooting habits. I'm with John on this one. For a crop camera, the 17-55 is the better choice. It also holds it's value relatively well. If I needed quick cash I'm sure I could sell mine without much waiting for 700-800 without too much waiting. So if you ever make the jump to FF and decide to get the 16-35, you can sell the 17 to help with the purchase.

[neuroanatomist]

Based on testing sites like photozone.de, and based on the fact that I have both the 17-55mm f/2.8 IS and the 16-35mm f/2.8L II and have used them on my 7D, I'd say the 17-55mm delivers slightly better optical quality than the 16-35L on the crop sensor. Not a huge difference, but it's there. If you have both a crop and a FF camera, or if you need the weather sealing with a 7D, it would make sense to get the 16-35mm. If you're 'planning on going FF someday' get the lens that's best for the camera you have NOW - and in this case, that would be the EF-S 17-55mm f/2.8 IS, IMO.

[Rocco]

BTW, based on all of the threads you're starting, sounds like your photography game is about to go up a notch. Congrats!

[JTPAIN]

Thanks for the help - looks like, for now at leasts, the 17-55 is the best option.

[JTPAIN]

I certainly hope it is!! - just raising funds and working out costs!