telephoto

Sigma has an enviable corner on the f/2.8 long telezoom market: Its massive 200–500mm and more manageable 120–300mm full-framers are the sole occupants of the niche. Now, Sigma has upgraded the latter, adding image stabilization to this pro’s 70–200mm staple on steroids. The tele regions are great for wildlife, while the zoom range and speed will enthrall sports shooters.

Canon has five 70–300mm and 75–300mm zooms in its catalog, including this new full-framer, the first L-series lens in the class. It’s for serious Canon shooters who want a longer, lighter, and less-expensive alternative (though it’s still $1,600, street) to the 70–200mm f/2.8L IS zoom. With two UD elements for reduced chromatic aberration and increased sharpness, this 112–480mm equivalent (on APS-C bodies) sports O-rings and seals for dust- and water-resistance, a new fluorine coating on the front element to fend off smudges, and Canon’s quiet USM focusing motor.