I finally upgraded to a 90D and now I'm desperate for more reach for birding and some deer I see around my place in Oregon. I've been looking at the Sigma 150-600mm Contemporary since it fits my $1,000 budget but some forums say it has focus pulsing issues on the 90D body specifically. Then others swear by the Tamron G2 version but its a bit more expensive and maybe heavier? I'm gonna be hiking a lot so weight is kinda a big deal. Is the Canon 100-400mm L II worth the extra cash even if its used and has less reach? I'm just torn on if the extra 200mm is worth the potential headache of third party glass...
Jumping in here because i totally agree about the autofocus speed. That 90D sensor is picky with glass.
- Canon EF 100-400mm f/4.5-5.6L IS II USM: Best AF tracking and super sharp, but you lose reach.
- Sigma 150-600mm f/5-6.3 DG OS HSM Contemporary: Cheaper and lighter, tho pulsing happens.
- Tamron SP 150-600mm f/5-6.3 Di VC USD G2: Heavier but better weather sealing. The 100-400 handles the high resolution better imo.
Regarding what #1 said about the 90D sensor being picky, they're spot on! That 32.5MP sensor is a total beast and really demands the best optics to shine. I've spent so much time out in the woods with these and honestly, glass quality makes or breaks those birding shots!
- Canon EF 100-400mm f/4.5-5.6L IS II USM: The autofocus is lightning fast! Seriously, for birds in flight, nothing beats it. You can always crop a bit because the 90D has so much resolution anyway.
- Sigma 150-600mm f/5-6.3 DG OS HSM Contemporary: Love the weight on this one for hiking, but yeah, the pulsing on the 90D is real and can be super frustrating when you're trying to nail focus...
- Tamron SP 150-600mm f/5-6.3 Di VC USD G2: Way more robust than the Sigma and the weather sealing is amazing for Oregon weather! If you can find a used Canon L, just jump on it. Its such a fantastic lens and the reliability is just way better than third party stuff tho. You're gonna love how it feels on your camera!
