Quote Originally Posted by elmo_2006
There's really no easy answer but possible recommendations. It comes down to preference. I knew going into the purchase that I needed the IS and that travelling around with a tripod/monopod was wishful thinking as there are moments where you would have wished for the IS version.

I agree. It really depends on your preference. Sure, budget can sway your decision, but a decision based on budget alone is a decision you may very well regret later on. I recommend you think about your shooting conditions. There have been countless instances where IS has made it possible for me to shoot - mostly when I shoot images of musicians and public speakers in dimly-lit venues. Of course, it has it's limitations, which many have pointed out already - It can only do so much. But what it has done for me has easily justified the $500 CAD cost difference between the IS and non-IS versions.


Just like Elmo_2006, this is just another personal anectdote. My $0.02.