LENS TEST RESULTS

Get close up with our top five telephoto lenses

1st Tamron SP 70-200mm f/2.8 SP Di VC USD

What’s good: Strong build quality; effective stabiliser; superb image quality

What’s bad: Relatively big and heavy compared with 70-200mm f/4 lenses

We say: A standout performer

3rd Sigma APO Macro 180mm f/2.8 EX DG OS

What’s good: Equally effective as a macro lens and fast telephoto prime

What’s bad: Lacks the versatility of a zoom; big and heavy build

We say: It’s like getting two lenses in one

4th Nikon AF-S 70‑200mm f/4G ED VR

What’s good: Reasonably compact design; good stabiliser; excellent handling

What’s bad: Sharpness proved a little lacking in our D7100 tests

We say: Better suited for full-frame bodies

2nd Canon EF 70-200mm f/4L IS USM

What’s good: Razor-sharp at most zoom settings; weather-sealed lightweight build

What’s bad: It’s a stop slower than the competing Sigma and Tamron zoom lenses

We say: Worthy of Canon’s ‘L’ billing

5th Sigma APO 70-200mm f/2.8 EX DG OS HSM

What’s good: Fast f/2.8 constant aperture; very sharp at short to mid zoom settings

What’s bad: Sharpness drops off a bit at 200mm focal length and at f/2.8 aperture

We say: Amazingly inexpensive