Minolta AF 75-300 F4.5-5.6  reviews

sharpness: 4 

color: 5 

build: 5 

distortion: 4 

flare control: 3 

user: FKA   review date: March-08-13  

tested on film camera:

tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP:

tested on full frame:24MP

compared to:

Beercan 70-210
Tamron 70-300 USD
Minolta - 75-300 F4.5-5.6 New

price paid:

€200

positive:

Minolta Colours
Price
Focal Range
Focus Limiter
Good Bokeh

negative:

Heavy
Loud
Bad flare Control en CA

comment:

This was one of the first lenses I ownded and used it on a Sony A55. A bit big and heavy for this camera.

Decent focus speed, strong build en beautiful colors. Produced better pictures than the New version, but was significantly slower in AF. Performed a bit better than the Beercan but for me personally theres a better focal range on the Big Beercan.

In hindsight and for a bit extra money I'd go for the Tamron USD, but you should be willing to settle for less depth of colour en no focus limiter.

sharpness: 4 

color: 4 

build: 5 

distortion: 4 

flare control: 5 

user: TheEmrys   review date: January-13-13  

tested on film camera:

tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP:

tested on full frame:24MP

compared to:

Minolta 70-210/4
Minolta 75-300 *New*
Tamron 200-400 LD

price paid:

135 USD

positive:

Great focus speed
Sharp
Focus limiter

negative:

Bulk

comment:

Amazing Lens. This has become my best lens in a matter of 10 minutes. Focus is amazingly fast. Does not hunt at all. May have minor CA on odd surfaces with particular sun angles. However, this lens has removed nearly every use I had for a pristine new in box Beercan other than taking outdoor portraits or anything else that will benefit from that wonderful bokeh. Above 280mm, gets a bit soft. Throughout the rest of the range it is completely sharp.

As loathe as I am to say it, this is a much better choice than a Beercan, if you can find it. If you can find a Big Beercan for ~$200 USD, get it. There will not be a better performer for under $350. And if you have the choice between a Big Beercan an a Beercan, get the Big Beercan. Overwhelmingly pleased with this lens.

sharpness: 3.5 

color: 5 

build: 5 

distortion: 5 

flare control: 4 

user: godsakes   review date: October-04-12  

tested on film camera:

tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP:

tested on full frame:24MP

compared to:

Tamron 70-300mm USD

positive:

one of the better budget 300m zooms
AF limiter
Pleasant image

negative:

Quite bulky (long)
Some CA

comment:

This is one of the better budget 300mm zooms, while it's not as good as the Tamron USD the gap isn't huge, the big beercan is only held back by worse CA control and a slight glow to it's images (when pixel peeping), which is to be expected as many lenses of it's generation have those issues compared with modern lenses.

In the big beercan's favour is the classic minolta colours, exceptional build quality and a AF limiter.

One gripe I do have is this lens is quite long making it awkward to pack in smaller bags.

PS don't be put off by my sharpness rating of 3.5, I've rated the tamron at 4 so I have to rate it lower (only primes have ever got 5s from me)

sharpness: 4.5 

color: 4 

build: 5 

distortion: 5 

flare control: 4 

user: stan_pustylnik   review date: July-06-12  

tested on film camera:

tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP:

tested on full frame:24MP

compared to:

Tamron 70-300mm USD
Minolta Maxxum 70-210mm f/4
Minolta 135mm f/2.8 AF
Tamrom 90mm f/2.8 Macro 1:1

price paid:

$50 at Craigslist

positive:

sharp
good bokeh
built quality
reliable
AF speed
inexpensive
AF limiter
infinity limiter

negative:

Purple Fringing - very bad
heavy.

comment:

As inexpensive telephoto zoom lens - it is good find.
This lens is heavy-built like a tank. AF is fast on FF A850.
Bokeh is good - as BC lens. Sharpness is good up to 250mm, detail becomes little softer at 300mm.
Minimal focus - very good.
Only issue that seriously drove me crazy - Purple Fringing. I couldn't use this lens in contrasty conditions because of PF.

sharpness: 4.5 

color: 4 

build: 4 

distortion: 4 

flare control: 4 

user: grudyjsy   review date: July-03-12  

tested on film camera:

tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP:

tested on full frame:24MP

compared to:

price paid:

75 GBP (Used)

positive:

Sharp
Focus limiter
Fast focus

negative:

Weight (Too heavy)
No tripod mount

comment:

sharpness: 4 

color: 5 

build: 5 

distortion: 5 

flare control: 4 

user: GoBlueDevils4   review date: July-01-12  

tested on film camera:

tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP:

tested on full frame:24MP

compared to:

Minolta 70-210 F4
Minolta 50 F1.7
Sony DT 18-55mm

price paid:

100 USD (used)

positive:

Sharp when stopped down
Awesome build quality
Focus limiter is nice
Smooth bokeh

negative:

Heavy! Doesn't balance well on smaller bodies
A little soft wide open but still usable
CA's can be prevalent

comment:

I bought this lens to compare specifically with my copy of the 70-210 F4 beercan. I was very pleased with the beercan, but I often found myself wishing for a bit more reach. I decided to buy the big beercan and whichever one I liked more I would keep. The big beercan gives me images as good as the beercan in just about every regard. While the constant F4 aperture of the beercan is nice, I found that I took most of my pictures outside in direct sunlight so it really wasn't necessary. The extra reach of the big beercan outweighs the benefit of the constant aperture of the beercan for me. The focus is quick enough and the build quality is spectacular. CA can be an issue in some instances but for the most part it's usually not noticable, maybe a little better control than the beercan. Just be aware that this lens is heavy and can be a pain to lug around all day. If you already have the beercan, it's really not all that much bigger/heavier so you'd probably be used to it anyways. Overall a very highly reccommended lens.

sharpness: 5 

color: 5 

build: 5 

distortion: 5 

flare control: 5 

user: Prabu   review date: June-05-12  

tested on film camera:

tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP:

tested on full frame:24MP

compared to:

75-300 D
75-300 New

price paid:

187 USD (used)

positive:

build
IQ

negative:

heavy
a bit noisy

comment:

This is a lovely lens. IQ wise it is almost similar to the 75-300 New version, but this is a tad sharper and looks slightly more saturated. It is built much much better than the other two 750-300s. It is a bit heavy, but given the IQ I would not mind even if its twice as heavy :-)

sharpness: 5 

color: 5 

build: 5 

distortion: 5 

flare control: 3 

user: Freddan_6   review date: February-05-12  

tested on film camera:

tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP:

tested on full frame:24MP

compared to:

Minolta 70-210 F4, Minolta 70-210 4.5-5.6, Minolta 35-70 F4. Minolta 50 1.4

price paid:

1200 SEK = 136€

positive:

Sharp and good colors.

negative:

Heavy. Bad flare control. Noisy.

comment:

Very sharp. Good for birding, Sometimes the autofocus is noisy. In bad light it might hunt. Very sharp. Very nice colors. I bought this used as a kit with a Dynax 7000i and Minolta 35-80 4.5-5.6 for 1200 SEK, approx 136€ or 179$.

sharpness: 5 

color: 5 

build: 5 

distortion: 5 

flare control: 5 

user: JimmyMelbourne   review date: November-26-11  

tested on film camera:

tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP:

tested on full frame:24MP

compared to:

Minolta 70 - 210 f4
Sony 18 -250

price paid:

130 CHF

positive:

Build
Heft
Price
Minolta colours

negative:

Can be tricky with focus

comment:

I think I got a bargain, I love this lens but have not tried it too much outside yet, but cant wait to take it to the park and do some european snow shots with it. Have waited a long to find a copy and cannot be more pleased with it. The 70 - 210 is a slightly better portrait lens in my opinion.

sharpness: 4.5 

color: 5 

build: 5 

distortion: 4 

flare control: 5 

user: chriseen   review date: June-28-11  

tested on film camera:

tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP:

tested on full frame:24MP

compared to:

24mm f2,8
50mm f1.4
35-70mm f4
70-210mm f4
50mm Macro f2,8
100mm F2,8 macro
80-200mm f2.8

price paid:

250 euro

positive:

Build like a tank
Sharpness, very sharp in this range, sharpness is excellent
Range
Good, smooth Bokeh
focus limiter
Macro ability
Nice minolta glass colours
Very good contrast

negative:

Discontinued .
Better to use a third party extend-able rubber lens hood to avoid any flare.

comment:

This has been an interesting and rewarding purchase.
This is the lens that should have always had the reputation that was attributed to the Beercan.
It is simply brilliant.
It is sharp,very sharp with magical colours & bokeh, snappy focusing and fast for a 300mm lens.
It is finally getting to that stage.
It is simply better .

It ‘s as sharp as the beercan, and even the minolta D , With flash at f9 - 16 astonishingly sharp for portraits at 150-300mm (looks like macro) .
This is a truly versatile lens.
While at extremes of range it can be soft if not stopped down a little, it matches the Beercan within the Beercan's "sweet spot" range and allows extra length if needed .
I like this lens a lot, I bought it to compare with an the 70-210 f/4 and my tests indicate that this lens is sharper than the 70-210 Beercan and the contrast seems better.
But your results may be different.
The focus limiter switch is another benefit that the 70-210 lacks.
So the focus limiter allows a faster AF than the beercan.
Great lens. Sturdy. Very nice bokeh, very good sharpness, suberb color rendition.
So this "big beercan" : It does not disapoint !
I am happy to found out a specimen of this lens in mint optical condition.
If you can find one go for it, JUST BUY IT !

sharpness: 5 

color: 5 

build: 5 

distortion: 5 

flare control: 5 

user: derekw   review date: May-08-11  

tested on film camera:

tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP:

tested on full frame:24MP

compared to:

Minolta 75-300 New

price paid:

110 GBP

positive:

Sharp, even at 300
Minolta colours
Focus limiter
55 dia filters
Build

negative:

Weight
Minimum focussing distance

comment:

Better bokeh than 75-300 New. Otherwise similar sharpness and colour rendition.

sharpness: 4.5 

color: 5 

build: 5 

distortion: 5 

flare control: 4 

user: cruiser   review date: May-03-11  

tested on film camera:

tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP:

tested on full frame:24MP

compared to:

Sony 70400

price paid:

140 EUR

positive:

+sharp up to 250mm
+creamy bokeh
+build

negative:

-soft from 250mm to 300mm
-CA

comment:

It is easy to fall in love with this lens. I like to hold the camera by the lens, which works nicely. Try this with a 70400 if you dare. The colors are fantastic. If you don´t know Minolta colors use this lens to find out. It will make your pictures shine even on a dull day. Sharpness is good up until 250mm. Beyond it you get a soft focus lens for free (see flower picture in forum sample images - it compares 250mm f5.6 to 300mm f5.6). Bokeh is very creamy especially for a zoom lens. There is some CA, though as it is not an APO lens.

sharpness: 4.5 

color: 5 

build: 5 

distortion: 4 

flare control: 4 

user: Depth of Field   review date: March-17-11  

tested on film camera:

tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP:

tested on full frame:24MP

compared to:

Minolta 200mm F2.8 HS

positive:

True minolta colors
Sharpness
Smooth Bokeh
Build quality

negative:

Don't mind the weight
Sharpness till 250mm good
Above becomes little soft

comment:

At 200 mm in the center as (almost) sharp as the Minolta 200 HS
Only the corners are softer.

This is a true value for the little amount of money you pay for these days.
Weight is no problem

sharpness: 5 

color: 5 

build: 5 

distortion: 3 

flare control: 3 

user: blek   review date: December-25-10  

tested on film camera:

tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP:

tested on full frame:24MP

compared to:

Minolta zoom xi 100-300
Minolta AF 70-210 f4.5-5.6 II
Minolta AF 70-210 f4 Beercan

price paid:

1.600.000 IDR

positive:

MINOLTA COLORS
Sharp!!!
Build like a tank
Bokeh
Focus limiter

negative:

Little soft above 200mm
Bad at low light but that is normal

comment:

Smooth bokeh and sharp, just like the zoom xi, minus the zoom xi's motorized focus, and that is good.
When you hold it, it is clear that in your hand is the bazooka from the glorious Minolta days. Yes, it is very heavy compared to the zoom xi but that is the "Feel" that I am looking for. Nice bokeh for a lens, neat for a telephoto.

Oh, and the price is just perfect btw. :P

For that, I am crazy enough to use this as my walkaround lens. =))

sharpness: 3.5 

color: 4 

build: 4 

distortion: 4 

flare control: 4 

user: Webbi   review date: November-13-10  

tested on film camera:

tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP:

tested on full frame:24MP

compared to:

price paid:

170 Euro (used)

positive:

beautiful colors
beautiful bokeh!
no CA's

negative:

Sharp aperture f8
Sharp up to 200mm
Soft at long end
slow Auto Focus
plastic hood

comment:

From 70-200 focal length this lens produces outstanding crisp images with a wonderful bokeh, beautiful colors. Focal length from 200mm upwards, however the images are soft. The slow autofocus is not very helpful, especially in animal photography. It may be natural that only mine from 200mm is not good. For others it may be different.

sharpness: 4.5 

color: 4 

build: 5 

distortion: 5 

flare control: 4 

user: glencraig59   review date: September-28-10  

tested on film camera:

tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP:

tested on full frame:24MP

compared to:

Min 100-300 APO D; Min 70-210 BC

price paid:

169 USD used

positive:

Good range, well-built.

negative:

Need to stop down to f/8 to be tack sharp.

comment:

I tested for sharpness as follows: took a complete set of pictures with a tripod at all focal lengths and apertures and looked at an area 100% on screen one-third in from left and bottom edges.

Compared to the beer can, this big beer can is not quite as sharp wide open, though still acceptable, except at the long end, 250-300 mm. By "acceptable" I mean only some very slight softness at 100%; I could still read the fine print in my images. Pictures were tack sharp by f/8 at all focal lengths from 75-210 mm, except 135 mm, which was tack sharp by f/6.3.

At 250 and above, my copy of this lens is not usable wide open, and shows a severe color shift as well as very soft images. The 100-300 APO is better at this end with both color and wide-open sharpness. At 250 mm, I had to stop down to f/11 to make it tack sharp, but by 300 mm this was back to f/8.

In sum: from 75-200, usable wide open, better one stop down, and tack sharp by f/8; 250-300, not usable wide open, stop down to at least f/8 for good results.

sharpness: 5 

color: 5 

build: 5 

distortion: 4 

flare control: 4 

user: jychook   review date: September-01-10  

tested on film camera:

tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP:

tested on full frame:24MP

compared to:

Konica Minolta 75-300mm F3.5-5.6
Tamron AF70-300mm F/4-5.6 Di LD MACRO

price paid:

200 USD(used)

positive:

Sharp, nice colour for the price paid. Solid body, built like a tank. Smooth bokeh.

negative:

Heavy, lenght, the lens hood can' be remove or clip on while front cap is on its place.

comment:

I got this lens from ebay in reasonable price ($200 USD).It is very sharp when the aperture is above F5.3. A bit soft on the edges when the aperture is wide open (depends on the sunlight). Nevertheless the lens is great for the price I paid. The solid metal body is built like a tank (could be used as a self protection weapon I suppose). Smooth bokeh even better than its succesor. I am definitely pleased with my copy (like new no signs of use at all!!)

sharpness: 4.5 

color: 5 

build: 5 

distortion: 4 

flare control: 4 

user: Ovas   review date: August-27-10  

tested on film camera:

tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP:

tested on full frame:24MP

compared to:

70-210f4 beercan, 100-400 f3.5-6.7.

NIKON 70-300 VR + D700.

price paid:

185 USD

positive:

Sharp and cheep performance.

negative:

heavy and big

comment:

This is my "beercan" on my A900, as beeing used to the 70-210 on APS-C cameras this gives more like that range on FF. I am very satisfied with this lens, and this is the 2nd I have. The other with very much lower number was not as sharp. Compared to the NIKON combination it is sharper all over specially wide open and at 300mm on my A900.

These are more seldom these days and the SONY 70-300 is better in all aspects, but 3-4 times more expensive.

If you are on a budget this is a nice cheep lense.

sharpness: 4.5 

color: 5 

build: 5 

distortion: 4 

flare control: 4 

user: Asiri   review date: July-27-10  

tested on film camera:

tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP:

tested on full frame:24MP

compared to:

Beercan
Mini Beercan
Minolta 35-105

price paid:

210 USD (Used)

positive:

Very sharp
Focus Limiter allows for fast focus - very useful feature
High IQ
Beautiful Color
Smooth Bokeh
Value for price

negative:

Rotating filter ring

comment:

Definitely sharper than my "Beercan", however not as useful in low light. You won't find a better lens for twice the price you pay for this.

sharpness: 5 

color: 5 

build: 5 

distortion: 5 

flare control: 5 

user: leung0323   review date: July-24-10  

tested on film camera:

tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP:

tested on full frame:24MP

compared to:

price paid:

160 USD

positive:

negative:

comment:

sharpness: 4.5 

color: 5 

build: 5 

distortion: 4 

flare control: 4 

user: firtha   review date: July-17-10  

tested on film camera:

tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP:

tested on full frame:24MP

compared to:

Sigma 75-300 APO
Minolta 70-210 Beercan

price paid:

200 USD (used)

positive:

negative:

Very soft above 200 mm

comment:

Can't elaborate much on the other reviews for positves and negatives, just want to get my numbers into the overall average.

This lens is sharper AT OR BELOW 200 mm than the Sigma and Beercan. My particular copy is VERY soft above 200 mm, and worst at f8, better at f22 or f5.6 (kind of a surprise). The sigma would be a better lens to use above 200 mm, and this lens below 200mm.

Having said that, the images are still usable above 200, just don't try to crop them...

sharpness: 4.5 

color: 5 

build: 5 

distortion: 5 

flare control: 4 

user: kozmo   review date: July-02-10  

tested on film camera:

tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP:

tested on full frame:24MP

compared to:

bc
tamron 70-200 2.8
sony 55-200

price paid:

$230

positive:

build
focus limiter
color
bokeh
range

negative:

weight
ca

comment:

Exactley what I expected. Thought about the APO but liked this range starting at 75. Found a mint copy at a decent price and went for it. Great color and bokeh and sharp enough esp stopped down a little. Would have loved the G, but for its price this is a nice pick up. You know what you are getting with this old minolta glass. Lasted this long should last a while longer.

sharpness: 4 

color: 5 

build: 5 

distortion: 5 

flare control: 3 

user: paso144   review date: May-26-10  

tested on film camera:

tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP:

tested on full frame:24MP

compared to:

70-210 F/3.5 - F/4.5
beercan
75-300 'new'

price paid:

85 euro

positive:

Sharp stopped down.
Build quality.
Range.

negative:

Weight.
Really prone to flare.

comment:

Another classic from Minolta. Very sexy looking but weighing half a ton. Sharpness is ok wide open but only gets real good above F/8 which is too heigh for me. With this kind of zoom range the shutter times will be unusable. IQ is very good with a nice smooth bokeh making the subjects really pop out.
In stead of this gem you might also consider the 75-300 'new' which IQ is as good and is a lot easier to handle.

sharpness: 5 

color: 5 

build: 5 

distortion: 5 

flare control: 5 

user: Alphaholik   review date: May-08-10  

tested on film camera:

tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP:

tested on full frame:24MP

compared to:

Beercan
Sigma 100-300MM F4.5-5.6

price paid:

350

positive:

Sharp
Bokeh
Build
Focus Limiter

negative:

Heavy

comment:

I bought this in "Mint" Condition, Hood was wrapped in original wrapper. Women I bought it from said she thought it was "unused" Her husband had owned a camera shop and had come down ill. Sounded unlikely until I received the lens. looked Brand New. The gold foil sticker on lens had no fading what so ever. I bought a new Sigma 18-50MM F2.8 and the foil sticker faded from touching after just a couple of uses!!! I had an original beercan lens but I found this lens to be superior in EVERY way. I am simply amazed by it's performance. And after I learned how to use the limiter properly I find the AF to be Fast & Accurate. I HIGHLY recommend this lens!!!

sharpness: 4 

color: 5 

build: 5 

distortion: 5 

flare control: 4 

user: luca.bottazzi   review date: March-29-10  

tested on film camera:

tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP:

tested on full frame:24MP

compared to:

18-70 Kit
16-80 CZ

price paid:

280 USD (mint)

positive:

Beautiful colors
Superb build quality
Focus limiter

negative:

Sharp only stopped down

comment:

I bought this on e-bay at a quite high price, but the lens came with his case, a filter and was nothing but perfect. I'm very happy with it.

-Sharpness: I can't say that this lens is not sharp, it is if stopped down to f7.1/f8, but the Zeiss is just in another league.
-Colors: beautiful, beautiful, beautiful.
-Build: Superb, it makes the CZ looks like a child toy. As a mechanical engineer, I can say that every detail is perfect, a real masterpiece.
-Distortion: with my APS-C sensor, only the central part of the lens is used, so the distortion is very small
-Flare: no major issues.

sharpness: 4.5 

color: 5 

build: 4 

distortion: 4 

flare control: 5 

user: terenz   review date: March-28-10  

tested on film camera:

tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP:

tested on full frame:24MP

compared to:

Sony 75-300mm kit lense
Minolta 70-210 beercan

price paid:

180 USD

positive:

good colours
solid build
smooth focus and zoom

negative:

weight
CA
zoom creep

comment:

Soild build lense but the old build means CA abounds.

My lense is older so haa a bit of zoom creep. Then again zoom is smooth.

Bit slow.

Weight of this lense dictates using MLU on an A850 even with tripod and remote trigger.

sharpness: 4 

color: 4 

build: 5 

distortion: 5 

flare control: 4 

user: StormK   review date: March-05-10  

tested on film camera:

tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP:

tested on full frame:24MP

compared to:

70-210 kitlens
KM 100-300
beercan

positive:

Sharpness when stopped down.
Looks and feel.
Smooth zoom

negative:

CA
a bit soft wide open
To heavy for the 5D

comment:

I got my my beercan and this at the same time and at first this was the sharpest but then i began getting much sharper results from the beercan and this then looked a bit soft wide open. It's still sharp and stopped down to F8 it really delivers but you need some decent light light then. My 5D has trouble coping with weight and when using flash the 1/125 sek really isn't keeping it steady enogh. I'm looking forward to testing it on a hope to see soon a700. Hopefully that'll be a better combination. Still recommended though.

sharpness: 5 

color: 5 

build: 5 

distortion: 5 

flare control: 4 

user: bono   review date: February-06-10  

tested on film camera:

tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP:

tested on full frame:24MP

compared to:

Minolta 70-210 f/4, Tamron 70-300 4,5-5,6 1:2 Macro, Minolta 100-200 f/4,5

price paid:

115 Euro

positive:

- Sharp, even at 300mm
- Nice colours
- Focus limiter
- Small filter size

negative:

- long
- heavy

comment:

I bought this lens with some other Minolta stuff on ebay. It is in a really good condition. I took it out for some shots on my Alpha 500 and I am very happy with the results. There are some slight CAs, but the lens is sharp and well built. It is very long, though and it gets longer while zooming. If you also use the hood, you will have the longest lens around. It is also very heavy. But I love it!

sharpness: 3.5 

color: 5 

build: 4 

distortion: 5 

flare control: 4 

user: nitrosyl   review date: January-16-10  

tested on film camera:

tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP:

tested on full frame:24MP

compared to:

- Minolta 70-210mm f/4 (beercan)
- Minolta 100-300mm f/4.5-5.6 APO
- Sony 70-300mm f/4.5-5.6 SSM G
- Sony 75-300mm f/4.5-5.6

positive:

- built like a tank (all metal)
- useful focus limiter
- 300mm @ tele end (needless to say)

negative:

- chromatic aberration
- a tad soft wide open, stop down for max resolution
- focus speed is a bit slow

comment:

A beautiful piece of work built by Minolta in the 80's, and a solid step-up from the Minolta/Sony 75-300/4.5-5.6 kit lens (plastic, relatively new).

Its fantastic build quality is still unparalleled by any of the modern Minolta/Sony equivalents, but unfortunately its optic performance is shadowed by the brilliant Sony 70-300mm f/4.5-5.6 SSM G. Not a fair comparison though since the Sony 70-300 G is a lot more expensive.

sharpness: 5 

color: 5 

build: 5 

distortion: 5 

flare control: 4 

user: lowcost4dslr   review date: January-04-10  

tested on film camera:

tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP:

tested on full frame:24MP

compared to:

Minolta 75-300 D
Minolta 135 2.8
beercan
Jupiter 21M (M42 200mm f4.0)
Jupiter 37A (M42 135mm f3.5)

price paid:

117€

positive:

Sharp
Minolta colors
nice bokeh
Built quality
Fast AF with focus limiter

negative:

CA when shooting in sun direction

heavy

comment:

I was disappointed by the beercan. So I tried this "big beercan" : It does not disapoint !

It is sharper than the beercan, and the minolta D : so it replaces both in my bag.

It is long and heavy but it is not a problem for me while it is less than 1kg

Same hood as the beercan but metal built.

Chromatic aberation can be a problem when shooting in the sun direction. For me this is the only downside of this lens.

sharpness: 4.5 

color: 5 

build: 5 

distortion: 4 

flare control: 4 

user: berlin steve   review date: January-01-10  

tested on film camera:

tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP:

tested on full frame:24MP

compared to:

Sony DT 3.5-5.6/18-70, Minolta:Beercans 35-70, 70-210mm & 75-300mm; 50mm f1.7; 135mm f2.8; Minolta 28-135; Tokina 28-70 2.8 AT-X; Tokina SD 70-210

price paid:

EUR 133

positive:

-IQ
-Built like tank
-Minolta classic colours
-value for money

negative:

-Weight of small family hatchback car
-Hunts a little more than BC
-slightly slower AF than BC

comment:

UPDATE- I FINALLY GAVE IN. I believe the 70-210 is the better lens of the two, and sold my BBC after long deliberation. It remains a great lens in my opinion, but if you already habe the BC, then you probably don't need this. If you don't have either, then this is a great lens to have if you only want to buy one.

I was surprised when this got delivered how similar in size and weight this is to the 70-210 BC. Just a tad longer when not zoomed than the BC, they could almost be mistaken for twins.

First impressions are very positive. Colours, sharpness and general IQ very similar to BC, just that it has a slightly slower AF and hunts a little more than the BC. Of course that is the payoff for not having F4 all the way, but having 300mm stretched out full instead.

Mine came in very nice condition (almost like new), but was missing the lens hood. The good news is that the BC hood fits perfectly till my replacement non Minolta rubber hood arrives for whichever beercan draws the short straw. My BC has a battered barrel, but glass is clear and not affected in comparison.

Both give me similar end results, and I wouldn't really like to say which is better. They are both good with pros and cons arguing that I should keep both rather than use this to replace and sell off the 70-210 which was my initial plan.

Build quality is as good as its reputation. Focus noises are a little different from the trusted 70-210 BC, but not unpleasant or excessive.

I'm going to hang on to both BC and BBC till summer, and then decide if I will keep both (my current gut feeling) or sell off the one that is not being used. They are on the face of it very similar lenses, and yet quite different too.

If I didn't have a BC to compare against, then I probably would have been happy owning just this zoom and wouldn't have bothered looking for the 70-210. Having 'driven' both I like them both on their own merits. I suspect many other BBC users started on the BC and went big at some stage. Those BBC users who don't have BC on the other hand are less likely to know the merits of the 'almost as big' brother.

If you don't have a BC, and might want the extra reach, I can thoroughly recommend this BBC. If you need the F4 all the way and slightly faster AF, then go for BC. But you won't have the 300mm to play with. If you can afford both, then go for it. 2nd hand prices are stable but not too silly- so buy now and sell the one you don't like if not happy.

sharpness: 5 

color: 5 

build: 5 

distortion: 5 

flare control: 5 

user: DarkScribe   review date: December-05-09  

tested on film camera:

tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP:

tested on full frame:24MP

compared to:

Tamron 75-300, Sigma 75-300, Minolta 100-300, Sony 75-300.

price paid:

Bought new

positive:

This is the lens that should have always had the reputation that was attributed to the Beercan. It is finally getting to that stage. It is simply brilliant. It is sharp, magical colours & bokeh, snappy focusing (if you learn how to use the limiter switch properly) and fast for a 300mm lens.

negative:

Very little other than like almost all wide-range Minolta zoom and some short zoom, you need to add a third party extendable rubber lens hood to avoid flare. It is also heavy, as many point out. I LIKE heavy - it translates to "solidly built".

comment:

This is a truly versatile lens. While at extremes of range it can be soft if not stopped down a little, it matches the Beercan within the Beercan's "sweet spot" range and allows extra length if needed. I own all the Beercans, 35-70 F4, 70-210 F4, and this one and after a year or so of never really needing the Beercan if I had the Big Beercan, I stopped carrying its little brother. Although on an A100 or similar it could possibly offer advantage with the constant F4, with the A700 and its native 200 ISO it is easy to increase ISO and compensate for the fraction of a stop advantage the Beercan offers. They are both fine lenses, but the Big Beercan has the advantage.

sharpness: 5 

color: 5 

build: 5 

distortion: 4 

flare control: 5 

user: alphavenged7x   review date: November-23-09  

tested on film camera:

tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP:

tested on full frame:24MP

compared to:

Minolta 28-85
SAL 18-70

price paid:

300USD

positive:

-Build like tank
-Bokeh
-Range
-Cheap for lens like this
-FRL is nice
-Sharp like G lens

negative:

-Wight
-Discontinued
-AF little bit slow compared to Minolta 28-85
-CA sometimes

comment:

I really love this lens, this is my second beercan lens. Lovely color and build. This lens make you look pro in some condition.

AF very slow at 300mm idk whats wrong, but compared at 75mm its significant faster than at 300mm

sharpness: 4.5 

color: 5 

build: 5 

distortion: 5 

flare control: 5 

user: mystainsane   review date: September-23-09  

tested on film camera:

tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP:

tested on full frame:24MP

compared to:

Beercan

positive:

Limiter is nice.

negative:

This is pretty heavy.

comment:

sharpness: 5 

color: 5 

build: 5 

distortion: 5 

flare control: 4 

user: thomas00   review date: August-25-09  

tested on film camera:

tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP:

tested on full frame:24MP

compared to:

Minolta 70-210 F4
Tamron 70-300 Di Ld
Sony 55-200

positive:

Sharp
Bulid
Color
Bokeh

negative:

Heavy
Slow AF
Minimal CA

comment:

sharpness: 3 

color: 4 

build: 3 

distortion: 5 

flare control: 5 

user: roo   review date: August-11-09  

tested on film camera:

tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP:

tested on full frame:24MP

compared to:

-100-300 Xi
-Tamron SP 300mm f5.6 Macro Adaptall 2
-Vivitar S-1 135mm f2.3
-Vivitar S-1 90mm f2.5 Macro

price paid:

120 USD (used)

positive:

-Range
-Manual focusing is relatively easy
-Bokeh is natural for zoom lens

negative:

-Not sharp
-Stopping down doesn't help much
-In macro range image quality becomes even worse
-Weight that doesn't contribute the optical quality
-No tripod mount
-High expectation due to high ratings here

comment:

I can't understand why this lens is so highly rated here. The results are always disappointing where sharpness is required.

I use 300mm most frequently and high resolution is desired the most in pictures taken at 300mm. That is partly because I have prime lenses for shorter focal ranges. Another reason is that at 300mm I tend to take pictures that should more desirably be taken at longer focal ranges. Those pictures are examined to see if they are good enough to be cropped (and they never miss to fail this examination!). So in that sense my rating may be on the strict side although I guess many other people are in the similar situation to mine. So I don't have as good an idea about shorter focal ranges, but I can at least say that image quality does not compare to prime lenses listed above.

I think the Big Beercan is not much better than my 100-300 Xi, although I haven't use Xi for a few years.

This lens is as sharp as the Tamron at 300mm except the macro range where Tamron clearly does better job. But Tamron is another disappointing lens even though it is even more highly rated in mflenses.com than this lens is here and I don't understand this either.

Needless to say, I'm not talking about blur due to camera shake or object shake or due to inaccurate focus.

Big Beercan is better than Tamron in terms of CA. I have a feeling that it is as good as or slightly better than Vivitar S-1 135mm also when it comes to CA. However, there is still a certain level of CA that can be a problem especially when you take a bird have sky in the background. Besides CA color is just good but not particularly impressive.

I would appreciate the weight and build quality only if they contribute to the image quality, which does not apply here I think.

Distortion and flare have never been a problem.

So in summary, Big Beercan is not a magic. It is just a consumer zoom lens and you shouldn't expect more than that. You get just what you paid. Range is good and image quality may be slightly better than typical zoom available at this price.

sharpness: 4 

color: 5 

build: 4 

distortion: 5 

flare control: 3 

user: riki   review date: August-07-09  

tested on film camera:

tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP:

tested on full frame:24MP

compared to:

Sony 75-300
Sony 70-300g

positive:

Focus Limiter
Sharp

negative:

Weight
difficuilt to put on tripod

comment:

Great sharp lens and built like a tank.

Got this lens as a replacment for the sony 75-300. I was considering the 70-300g which is really nice and much better but also more expensive and the beercan, which is hyped too much so the cost is higher.

I think the lens is great to use and am very happy with it. Although its 4.5-5.6, the lens is f5.6 from 140mm-300mm. Also youve got to stop the lens down so you need to think about your ISO or shutter speeds.

I also mention the shutter speeds because it's quite hard to put on a tripod. The lens doesnt have a tripod collar and the zoom ring covers the back half of the lens so fitting one yourself would be hard. Its really heavy (for its class) and also it's long - putting the center of gravity further out, so theres going to be quite a bit of torque if you just attach it to the tripod mount on the camera body. Maybe if you have a tripod which is better than mine it would work, but I've been getting away with well braced handheld shots and good sunlight.

That being said, the focus limiter works really well, it stops it hunting arond when it cant find focus. I got mine without a hood and often the pictures looked washed out. I got a filter threaded rubber one and that helps a lot.

I didnt notice a lot of CA so far but Ive been using it stopped down to f6.3 mostly. If I take pictures of trees against the sky then I notice it but not in normal shots. Found it to be a lot sharper than the 75-300, not as sharp as the 70-300g or a prime.

Everyone talks about the colour being great, but as long as you shoot raw then you change that around as much as you like in PP.

sharpness: 4.5 

color: 5 

build: 5 

distortion: 5 

flare control: 5 

user: Combatmedic870   review date: July-16-09  

tested on film camera:

tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP:

tested on full frame:24MP

compared to:

Beercan
SAL55-200

price paid:

125 USD

positive:

Focus limiter!!!!!!!
Just as sharp as beercan when shooting F6.3-F9
Boken!
Colors!
Very sharp!

negative:

300mm can be soft.

comment:

This is one of my favorite lenses. I use this lens all of the time specifically for my birding! The focus limiter is awsome!!!!! I will probably use this lens for a while until I can afford the SAL75300G! I believe this is where sony got the G version from! The focusing is fast(with the limiter). It is "pixel peeper" sharp!
My copy the outside is very ugly....But optically it is PERFECT!!! I got it for a steal at $125! I really can not tell you how happy i am with this lens! @300mm it can be soft...But at 295mm its sharp! kind of weird!!! you can notice the softness before you shoot it then I go down to 295 and refocus it and its extremely sharp! It could possibly be the focusing on it...It is after all 25 years old! I will probably never sell this lens..probably couldnt anyhow, seeming how the paint on the body is jacked up on it! Its very big and heavy...but o well! BTW...I have never used a tripod with the lens and the results have been great!

sharpness: 5 

color: 5 

build: 5 

distortion: 5 

flare control: 5 

user: soken   review date: May-27-09  

tested on film camera:

tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP:

tested on full frame:24MP

compared to:

Sony 75-300
KM 35-105 F3.5-4.5

price paid:

150SGD(used mint)

positive:

Classical minolta color,
very sharp in this range, tank like built.

negative:

comment:

Looking for this lens for quite some time, finally got one from a good friend, condition, he rated at 7.5 as he is a strict collector, for me I wlll rate at 9.5 as everything work perfect with this lens. Very sharp comparing to Sony kit lens. Will definitely keep it.

sharpness: 3.5 

color: 4 

build: 5 

distortion: 4 

flare control: 4 

user: AlphaBjerke   review date: May-15-09  

tested on film camera:

tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP:

tested on full frame:24MP

compared to:

SAL75300

price paid:

200

positive:

Well built
focus limiter

negative:

Very heavy
slow focus
Not sharp

comment:

Well, I was very disappointed with this lens. I worked very hard to locate one for a decent price and had heard so much about it, but it fell short of expectations to me. I was looking for something to replace my SAL75300 because I was not happy with the sharpness. It turned out that I kept the SAL75300 because it was definitely sharper and had better contrast than the big beercan. I must have had a bad copy, but I was extremely disappointed. If the big beercan was just a smidge sharper, I would have kept it in spite of its incredible weight. I knew it was going to be heavy, but I had no idea it was THAT heavy. I really wish it worked out, but it was not meant to be.

sharpness: 5 

color: 5 

build: 5 

distortion: 5 

flare control: 5 

user: smoljan   review date: May-03-09  

tested on film camera:

tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP:

tested on full frame:24MP

compared to:

Minolta 70-210mm f/4
Minolta 100-200mm f/4.5
Minolta APO 100-300mm f/4.5-5.6
Tamron LD Macro 70-300mm f/4-5.6
M42 telephoto primes and zooms

price paid:

200 USD (used)

positive:

bokeh
sharp
colour
contrast

negative:

none

comment:

In my opinion, this lens is an excellent autofocus telephoto zoom lens. Comparing to 70-210mm Beercan, you gain extra reach and loose 0.5 to 1.5 stops, but image quality is the same or better with this lens. I noticed less CA with Big Beercan than with Beercan. Nice bokeh, sharpness, colours, contrast.

sharpness: 4 

color: 5 

build: 5 

distortion: 5 

flare control: 3 

user: joel22484   review date: April-21-09  

tested on film camera:

tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP:

tested on full frame:24MP

compared to:

Sony 18-70 Kit
Minolta 70-210 4 Beercan
Minolta 70-210 4.5-5.6
Minolta 50 1.7
Minolta 75-300 (non-BBC)
Minolta 35-70
Sigma 17-70

price paid:

$150 USD used

positive:

Sharp
Good, smooth Bokeh
Build
Focus limiter
Macro ability

negative:

Heavy
Old
Like the beercan, I've seen a lot of the rubber grips with the white stuff on them from being old.
Mine tends to hunt in low light, so the focus limiter is useful

comment:

How can you go wrong with the beercan's big brother? With all the hype of the beercan, I think the BBC lives up to the beercan name and reputation. While there is a lot of overlap in the range, they are completely different lenses.
The beercan is nice because it has the constant f4 aperture. The big beercan is nice because it has a longer range. Both are sharp, have nice colors, bokeh, build is very solid.
This lens is harder to find than the beercan, but surprisingly usually goes for a cheaper price. I haven't figured that one out unless it's just because people either don't need the range, or don't know about it. Either way, I say it's a great lens to have to get you up to 300mm.

sharpness: 4.5 

color: 5 

build: 5 

distortion: 5 

flare control: 5 

user: vangio   review date: March-12-09  

tested on film camera:

tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP:

tested on full frame:24MP

compared to:

AF 17-35mm 2,8-4 (D)
AF 24mm 2,8
AF 28-75mm 2,8 (D)
AF 28-85mm 3,5-4,5
AF 28-135mm 4-4,5
AF 35-105mm 3,5-4,5
AF 50mm 1,7
AF 70-210mm 4
AF 75-300mm 4,5-5,6 1st
Tamron AF 11-18 4,5-5,6
Beroflex 400mm 6,3 1st

price paid:

175 € (used)

positive:

very sharp
range

negative:

weight
f4,5-5,6

comment:

Focusing is a little loud and not fast, but the limiter helps. Build is excellent...the zoom ring is nice and smooth. Buy it.

sharpness: 5 

color: 5 

build: 5 

distortion: 5 

flare control: 4 

user: villykl   review date: February-23-09  

tested on film camera:

tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP:

tested on full frame:24MP

compared to:

Minolta 70-210 f4
Sony 70300 g ssm
Tamron 18-200

price paid:

210 usd

positive:

sharp
fast( for me)

negative:

weight
hood

comment:

Bought as in good condition on Ebay , but received broken lens (focusing ring). NO refund,returns. However I love this lens. While fixing Minolta bought Sony 70300 g ssm and sent to Sony for calibration. Probably I am unlucky MAN.

sharpness: 4.5 

color: 5 

build: 5 

distortion: 4 

flare control: 4 

user: perese   review date: February-22-09  

tested on film camera:

tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP:

tested on full frame:24MP

compared to:

Cosina 19-35/3.5-4.5
Minolta 50/1.7
Sony 18-70/3.5-5.6
Minolta 28-135/4-4.5
Sigma 70-300/4-5.6 APO II Macro

price paid:

~100 EUR used

positive:

Shapness, The build of the lens, Color,

negative:

Weight, but hey this is the deal with build
Crappy hood (clips)

comment:

I love my copy, it is so sharp and have very good colors compared to my Sigma. The waight could be a issue, but I like when I get the balance with the camera. The hood could be better, but mine was a homemade but with original clip. I bought this copy with the cosina and 50/1.7 for a couple of years. I paid 250 EUR for all of them, so the price is just guessing.

sharpness: 5 

color: 5 

build: 5 

distortion: 4 

flare control: 4 

user: Ome_Joop   review date: January-10-09  

tested on film camera:

tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP:

tested on full frame:24MP

compared to:

Vivitar 70-210 F4.5-5.6
Minolta 70-210 F4
Sigma 100-300 F4.5-6.7
Cosina 100-400 F4.5-6.7

price paid:

140 Euro

positive:

Sharp
Built
AF Limiter

negative:

Weight, you need a workout!
Not really fast AF
Not an constant F4

comment:

Having a Cosina 100-400 with the built of a wet cardboard box it's nice to see a lens build like a tank!
Although this old lens is lacking 100mm vs the cosina it will outperform it anytime anywere (says more about the cosina i know)!
Buy a cheapo 1.4 teleconverter (better yer a 2x) for it and you even outperform it range (and anything else) wise:)

sharpness: 4.5 

color: 5 

build: 5 

distortion: 5 

flare control: 3 

user: hanning99   review date: December-07-08  

tested on film camera:

tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP:

tested on full frame:24MP

compared to:

Minolta 70-210 4,5-5,6.

price paid:

250

positive:

Sharpt when stopped down, still useable wide open.
Wheight provides stability, feels like it can take a punch or two.
Colours, true minolta colours.

negative:

Wheight becomes an issue when carrying it long time.
AF hunts in lowlight.

comment:

Well, I wanted the beercan but found this one for a steal and in mint condition. Payed about 1500 Euro and ended up with a mint (if not compl new) lens.

This lens about as sharp as I´ve seen in a long time, and moreover the bokeh really gives the pics a real quality. Granted, the lens isn´t that fast forcing wide open shots many times, and then it looses a bit of contrast and sharpness. Still, considering I used this lens throughout a whole wedding shoot (all day, out- and indoors) I can´t really complain. And neighter did the lucky couple.

So, why should you buy this lens:
Price is still pretty good second hand.
Great sharpness, colour, contrast and bokeh. (Borderline beercan and 50 mm 1,7)
The extra reach over the beercan.
Old minolta quality means heavy but sturdy.
The focus limiter is quite helpful making focusing a bit less of a hassel. Still, it hunts and more often than most I have to manually focus in low light.
If you get a good sample you are most likely to get your money back with intrest if/when you sel
l it.
Some reasons not to buy it:
The SOny 75-300 G lens seems a fairly good alterantive, faster AF and with the prices on this old Big beercan rising it poses more the better alternative.
If you want to lower the wight of you camera pack, this isn´t the lens for you.

For what its worth; best telephoto and portrait lens (second to the 50 mm 1,7) I HAVE the pleasure to use.

sharpness: 5 

color: 5 

build: 5 

distortion: 4 

flare control: 4 

user: edhoku   review date: November-09-08  

tested on film camera:

tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP:

tested on full frame:24MP

compared to:

Sigma 70-300
Tamron 28-200

price paid:

US$170

positive:

Build like a tank
Sharpness is excellent

negative:

heavy like a tank
I don't like the hood

comment:

I bought this from ebay, the condition is good. Very impressed with the sharpness this lens offer. Wanted a beercan but can't afford it. So bought this and have no regrets. The only thing that bother me is the weight and size. Works very well on my Sony A350.

sharpness: 5 

color: 5 

build: 5 

distortion: 4 

flare control: 4 

user: al tent   review date: August-17-08  

tested on film camera:

tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP:

tested on full frame:24MP

compared to:

Minolta 70-210

price paid:

150.00ish

positive:

Feels like a tank

negative:

Feels like a tank

comment:

I have never had a lens with this focal length before. I am very impressed. Great clarity and sharp as well. Good colors, it has not been off my 5D since I got it, and I thought it would be an occasional use lens.
I thought after reading the other reviews it would be a bit more manageable than the beercan but if anything it is a bit more stout.
I spent a lot of time with this on a fox D50-150 D Tripod, also new, using mannual focus, and it impressed me. Sharp, the 'macro' was clear on ink paintings. Very distinct lines on the closeups.

sharpness: 5 

color: 5 

build: 5 

distortion: 4 

flare control: 4 

user: wahgongzai   review date: August-06-08  

tested on film camera:

tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP:

tested on full frame:24MP

compared to:

Beercan 70 - 210
Sigma 100 - 300
Sigma 75-300 macro

price paid:

120 USD

positive:

Sharpness
Build
amazing fast focus under good light

negative:

a bit heavy, but I am okay with it

comment:

I first used this lens when I borrow it from my senior. Fall in love with it at once. 2 years ago finally bought a used-lens from a friend and have been my regular outdoor zoom lens since.

Although it is heavier than my A100, I am okay with the weight. The sharpness that this lens offer is amazing.

sharpness: 5 

color: 5 

build: 5 

distortion: 5 

flare control: 5 

user: LECHER   review date: August-03-08  

tested on film camera:

tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP:

tested on full frame:24MP

compared to:

Beercan
Little Beercan
Pony Beercan
28-135 f/4.5

price paid:

300 USD

positive:

What can I say.... Everything

negative:

None yet

comment:

OK, I guess I got a great lens. I hear people say it is too heavy, too slow, focus problems or bad CA and Flare issues.

I guess I am stronger then them and my camera reacts faster than theirs. I also don't shoot the sunrise, (not) or have to play with CA in PS.

I got lucky and bought a great copy. As sharp and any other lens I have in my arsenal. Even without focus limit it is fast enuff for birds on the wing. Taking shots of surfer girls is easy and gives me pleasure. This lens does it well.

sharpness: 4.5 

color: 5 

build: 5 

distortion: 5 

flare control: 4 

user: Capetown   review date: July-12-08  

tested on film camera:

tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP:

tested on full frame:24MP

compared to:

Minolta 100 F2,8 D Macro
Minolta 70-210 F4,0 Beercan
Minolta 100-200 F4,5 Beercan
Tokina 80-200 F2,8

price paid:

112 EURO

positive:

Sharp - Good optical performance in all ranges (when stopping down >7,1) and nice Minolta Colors.
Perfect build

negative:

Some people say "little bit heavy"
Relative slow AF
Price is going up!

comment:

I have all Beercans and use the 75-300 most of the time.

I pick up the small Beercan only when I go outsite, because of the low weight. I have made some tests with the 70-210 and the 75-300. I think the big Beercan useful in most situations. Particularly the sharpness is the same.
The optical performance of the 75-300 in all focal lengths is very good. For optimum sharpness you have to stop down > 7.1.

I had luck and get the lence for 112 euros. However, the price for the 75-300 is going up.

sharpness: 4.5 

color: 5 

build: 5 

distortion: 4 

flare control: 4 

user: madecov   review date: May-31-08  

tested on film camera:

tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP:

tested on full frame:24MP

compared to:

Tamron 70-300 f4-5.6 LD DI

price paid:

$250.00 USD (used)

positive:

Great color, very sharp one stop down. Limit switch for focus. Small filter size. Great construction.

negative:

Loud Focus, Slow focus, very heavy

comment:

Not a lot to add to everyone else's comments.
Very nice but heavy lens. Focus seems to be a bit slower than the Tamron I used as a comparison. It's also a bit loud. These could be just my particular copy.

If you come across one at a decent price snap it up.

sharpness: 5 

color: 5 

build: 5 

distortion: 5 

flare control: 5 

user: petesidewalk   review date: May-29-08  

tested on film camera:

tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP:

tested on full frame:24MP

compared to:

K/M 75-300 Big Beercan
K/M 35-70 4
Sony 18-70 Kit Lens
K/M 50 1.7
K/M 70-210 4.5-5.6
K/M 70-210 4 Beercan
K/M 28 2.8
K/M 28-80xi
K/M 28-135 4-4.5
K/M 35-70 3.5-4.5
Tamron 200-400 5.6 LD NEW
Sigma 75-200 2.8-3.5
K/M 80-200 2.8 HS G
Sigma 75-200 2.8-3.5

price paid:

235.00USD

positive:

very sharp F7.1+
amazing colors, amazing!
focus limiter
solid build
bargain vs. G or APO

negative:

a little heavy
prices going up

comment:

Big beercan. It has great sharpness stopped down in proper light. It's colors are amazing. It is built like a Mack truck, for those not familiar(an American truck known for being able to be driven off a cliff and then driven off, ha ha). Focus limiter speeds up focusing well. Tremendous bang for the buck investment. This is a "must-own".

sharpness: 4 

color: 5 

build: 5 

distortion: 5 

flare control: 4 

user: womprat4   review date: May-04-08  

tested on film camera:

tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP:

tested on full frame:24MP

compared to:

price paid:

50 USD

positive:

- build
- collectible - easy to resell
- nice color

negative:

- heavy
- long
- slow AF, but has limit switch to help

comment:

Image quality is quite nice. While not really sharp until about f8, the images have a nice atmosphere to them. Nice colors and sense of depth to the shots.

Carrying this beast around is a bit of a chore...it's really heavy and does not balance well on the a200 or a700 with grip. It's an awkward size as well to fit into many bags. Also, due to the weight, it's hard to hold it steady near 300mm, since it's waiving all over the place in your hands...certainly pushed the limits of my camera's SSS.

Focusing is a little loud and not fast, but the limiter helps. Build is excellent...the zoom ring is nice and smooth and feels like quality.

I didn't have much desire to acquire the big beercan, but, when I accidentally stumbled on a very close to mint copy with it's original hood, box and manuals, etc, you can't walk past that (especially for $50! wow)...I'm glad I got it, a nice addition to my collection.

sharpness: 5 

color: 5 

build: 5 

distortion: 4 

flare control: 4 

user: MDuclow   review date: March-04-08  

tested on film camera:

tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP:

tested on full frame:24MP

compared to:

Sigma 75-300 4-5.6 APO (push-pull)

price paid:

200 USD (Used)

positive:

Build, very solid, Love these old Minolta lenses! Very Sharp stopped down just a bit, Focus limiter helps.

negative:

Non-digital lenses tend to be more prone to flare, but it is controllable with this lens

comment:

This is a really good lens. Stop it down just a bit and it will produce some great pictures. The focus limiter switch is very helpful. The build is classic old Minolta (which we all love!) and the colors and contrast are great! Shoot with the sun to your back and you will get IQ comparable to much more expensive lenses. IQ is comaparable to some of my primes, even.
I really like this lens and would buy it again in a heartbeat. What can you say, it's a big beercan, loved by all for a reason. Don't hesitate to pick one up.

sharpness: 4.5 

color: 5 

build: 4 

distortion: 4 

flare control: 4 

user: eccles   review date: January-14-08  

tested on film camera:

tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP:

tested on full frame:24MP

compared to:

Minolta 75-300 (D)
Minolta 70-210 Beercan

price paid:

L34 approx (used)

positive:

Excellent resolution when stopped down
Good range
Solid build

negative:

Zoom creep
AF drive pin noisy when using MF

comment:

I already had a 75-300 D lens that was ok but I wanted better performance at 300mm where the D lens was rather soft.
I bought the big beercan for L100 as part of a job lot, selling the other items, and leaving this lens at a net price of around L34. I had to add caps and a hood but the lens came with a filter fitted and the glass was superb.
I was expecting a lens much longer than the beercan but it's only about 1/2" longer.
This sample gives a slightly irritating whirring noise from the rear AF drive pin as it freewheels when using manual focus. I did a partial strip down and the gear seemed well lubricated and in good order so I'll accept that this is how it is. I'll be using it mainly in AF anyway.
There is also some zoom creep when hanging from the camera face down. Fortunately, the zoom gearing is such that the creep peters out well before it hits the end stop so there's no nasty clunk like that encountered with some Sigma lenses.
Using it in real life situations in the field gave nice sharp images with saturated colours and plenty of detail.
Moderately sharp wide open and very sharp when at f8, this lens outperformed my 75-300 D lens, especially at the long end. With static tests I found the D lens was better at f8 than f5.6 at 300mm as one would expect, but the big beercan was better wide open than the D lens at f8, and improved still further when stopped down. It may be marginally better than the beercan at comparable apertures and focal lengths but it's a close call. Both are pretty good.
Build is very good but I've knocked off a point because of the noisy AF drive pin.

sharpness: 4 

color: 4 

build: 5 

distortion: 4 

flare control: 4 

user: dogears   review date: November-27-07  

tested on film camera:

tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP:

tested on full frame:24MP

compared to:

Beercan (Min70-210/4)

price paid:

n/a

positive:

Very good built
Comparable to the Beercan

negative:

Needs good light

comment:

I compared this to the beercan and the main difference is the reach and it really needs good light to perform. It's a very good lens for street photography due to its reach|flexibility.
It's really a tool for another purpose (as against the beercan).

sharpness: 4.5 

color: 5 

build: 5 

distortion: 5 

flare control: 5 

user: Acksal   review date: November-26-07  

tested on film camera:

tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP:

tested on full frame:24MP

compared to:

Beercan
Min 200/2.8 G HS
Min 300/4 G HS
Tokina 80-200/2.8 Pro

price paid:

200 USD

positive:

IQ
Build

negative:

A little soft after 200mm

comment:

Typically warm and deep Minolta colours. Very sharp up to about 200mm but gets a little soft after that. I've had to dust off the cobwebs when my beercan packed it in and I've realised I should have used it more. IQ is comparable to the beercan and it's a little slower. But the extra reach is handy when the need to capture the moment is more important than the IQ. Having said that the IQ at 300 is still quite acceptable. IQ isn't a patch on the 200/2,8 G and the 300/4 G, but that's not exactly comparing apples to apples. It's not the heaviest lens I've got but it does feel a little unbalanced on the 5D and the A100. In contrast, the 300/4 G is half as heavy again but sits comfortably in the hand.

sharpness: 4 

color: 5 

build: 5 

distortion: 5 

flare control: 3 

user: 1hander   review date: November-21-07  

tested on film camera:

tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP:

tested on full frame:24MP

compared to:

price paid:

185.00 usd (used)

positive:

very well built
decently fast focus on a700
focus limiter
colors

negative:

a bit heavy
CA
some flare

comment:

I really like this lens, it was my only 300 range for a while, i have a 70-200 g ssm with a 1.4 TC, but i still use this on a regular basis because I like the colors so much.

Its fun to shoot with on the A700 and fast focus with the limiter. Again if you stop it down a couple stops its really sharp, i get some really great shots with this lens all the time. I had a slight squeeking when i purchased it, but a trip toi the camera repair shope and some lube fixed that.

There are better lenses in both IQ and speed but not too many for the money. I got lucky and found a really great sample on my first try.

sharpness: 5 

color: 5 

build: 5 

distortion: 4 

flare control: 5 

user: Dixon042   review date: November-07-07  

tested on film camera:

tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP:

tested on full frame:24MP

compared to:

70-200 Beercan
100-200
100mm Macro
85mm

price paid:

250 USD

positive:

Legendary Minolta color bokoh

negative:

Not a good low light performer
Hard to find mint condition

comment:

The only way I would stop using this lens is if I purchased the new f/2.8 zoom and they run $2,000.00.In good light I feel this lens is comparable as long as it is in mint like new condition.Difficult to find in Mint condition(no dust in glass scratches smooth zoom)I own #2 of them I like em so much.A lot moor reach than the 70-200 Beercan.AS it is getting darker the 70-200 Beercan performs better.

sharpness: 4 

color: 5 

build: 5 

distortion: 5 

flare control: 4 

user: NM Guy   review date: October-06-07  

tested on film camera:

tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP:

tested on full frame:24MP

compared to:

Sigma 70-300
Minolta 28-135
Sigma 70-200 APO EX DG
Tamron 200-500
Minolta 100 2.8 macro

price paid:

$135 USD

positive:

Wonderful color
Handy, serviceable macro
Good sharpness

negative:

Heavy
Focus speed on digital

comment:

This is the lens I go to when I expect to need the range and the light is good. Very good color and respectable sharpness.

The Sigma 70-200 APO EX DG as well as the Tamron 200-500 will give sharper photos at a given /f stop. The Minolta compensates with better (in my opinion) color rendition. You pick your poison in that regard. Any will give great photos when used within their limitations though.

The focus speed isn't particularly good but the range limiter makes it acceptable if the action isn't too fast and furious. I've gotten some good photos of aircraft in flight.

The macro function has proven to be very handy and quite effective. Surprisingly good bokeh, particularly with macros. It is a 1:2 (I believe) macro, not true 1:1.

The long minimum focus length has been a problem, on occasion.

This lens has been a tremendous 'bang for the buck' purchase. If you expect to use the range in good light and can find one, it is certainly worth a try.

sharpness: 5 

color: 4 

build: 5 

distortion: 5 

flare control: 4 

user: silversurfer   review date: September-27-07  

tested on film camera:

tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP:

tested on full frame:24MP

compared to:

Tamron 70-300 LD Di
Sigma 70-300 APO DG
Minolta 100-300 D APO

price paid:

109 USD (used)

positive:

Sharp throughout range
Solid Build
Focus Limiter

negative:

A little heavy

comment:

Although I have multiple lenses in this range, I find myself reaching for this one more and more when I need the reach. This lens beats the Sigma and Tamron for sharpness at 300mm.

Using the macro function is much easier on this lens compared to Sigma. No switch to deal with. Just zoom to 300mm and shoot!

CA is not so much a problem with me as I don't shoot in high contrast situations much, however when I do, the Sigma handles that better. The Tamron - worse.

This lens compares favorably to the Minolta 100-300. Although color rendition is not as good as the 100-300, the range is better, it has a macro function and I got it for around 1/4 the price. Pluses for the 100-300 are the APO coating and "D" specification.

sharpness: 4.5 

color: 4 

build: 5 

distortion: 4 

flare control: 5 

user: supergluemann   review date: July-17-07  

tested on film camera:

tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP:

tested on full frame:24MP

compared to:

50mm 1.7
18-70mm

price paid:

$100(usd)

positive:

-Smooth zoom and focusing.
-Built like a tank.
-Good lens all around I enjoy shooting with it.

negative:

-Heavy.
-Slow focusing.

comment:

Fun lens to shoot with, great for the price as a telephoto.

sharpness: 5 

color: 5 

build: 5 

distortion: 5 

flare control: 4 

user: madcat207   review date: May-07-07  

tested on film camera:

tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP:

tested on full frame:24MP

compared to:

Minolta AF 75-300 f4.5-5.6 new

price paid:

$200

positive:

Built like a tank
Focus limiter

negative:

Metal body is more prone to scratching

comment:

It is said that all "original" Minolta AF lenses have a certain charisma to them. The build, the colors, and sharpness are all something special; like the other originals, the Big Beercan(BB) certainly fits this bill.

As soon as i got my lens, i knew i was holding something of quality. Before I bought this lens, I had the later 75-300 (the "New"); it gave good enough pictures, but didn't feel like anything special. Looking at the two, you can immediately tell the difference; the later model was plastic, flimsy, and felt cheap - the BB just felt amazing. The zoom is smooth, as is the focusing. The metal body will be prone to scratches and dings, which it's only drawback. However, given metal or plastic, I will take metal any day.

But the real point, is what the lens does, not how it looks. I would like to break the rest of this review down to a few key points now:

Focusing:
- Pros: One of the biggest advantages with this lens, is the mechanical focus limiter. It works quite well, and really speeds up AF, should your AF ever hunt. Focusing in general is fairly fast and accurate, but it can have a tendency to "micro adjust", depending on the subject.
- Cons: No close focus; being limited to 5' as your closest can be slightly limiting. The focus ring is a tad small, and can be odd if you are not used Minolta original lenses (almost all of their original glass feature this small ring).

Zooming:
- Pros: The BB is built great - the zoom ring moves very freely, and will never hinder you in a fast situation.
- Cons: I am not sure if it is just my copy, but the lens can be prone to zoom creep (if you have the camera hanging from your neck for instance).

Imaging:
- Pros: This lens has the colors that Minolta made their name off of; if you are looking for vivid pictures, you will NOT be disappointed. The lens is SHARP, especially at f/8; given good lighting, you will not be disappointed birding or aircraft shooting. Surprisingly nice bokeh, even stopped down.
- Cons: The coatings are not "digital", and of course can be prone to flaring. The lens lacks some sharpness wide open - now, its not to say images aren't usable; only saying that you will be happier if you can afford the stop-down to F/8.

All in all, for the price, there is no better lens. Some will say that the regular beercan is better; i would say the only advantage is the constant f/4. Given that the BB has a better reach and faster focus (with the limiter), anyone in the market for either, should focus on the BB first. They may be harder to find, but are worth the effort

sharpness: 4.5 

color: 5 

build: 5 

distortion: 4 

flare control: 4 

user: HandsOn   review date: April-20-07  

tested on film camera:

tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP:

tested on full frame:24MP

compared to:

Minolta 28-135
Minolta 50 f1.7
Tamron SP90 f2.8 macro
Sigma 90 f2.8 macro
Minolta 50 f2.8 macro

price paid:

L130

positive:

Very sharp when stopped down.
Good colour and contrast.
Nice bokeh.

negative:

Heavy and Large compared to modern lenses.
Not the fastest AF, but limiter helps

comment:

This has been an interesting and rewarding buy. I was very tempted to go for longer focal length primes, but wanted the versatility of a zoom when out and about. I had read reviews that said this lens was sharp, but being a zoom I wondered whether these were really true. However, I bought a mint example and soon discovered that it was surprisingly sharp when stopped down. I would have given the lens a rating of 5 for sharpness if it were not for the fact that it is noticeably softer when wide open. From f8 onwards though, the images are truly excellent. I am used to the results from macro/prime lenses and it is not quite fair to compare with those, but having said that it does not disappoint. I'm not as keen to use it in lower light conditions for obvious reasons. AF is also quite noisy and a little slow. The focus limiter helps. Additionally, its weight and size are a slight drawback, but frankly I bought a lens with a 300mm max focal length so that it can be effectively used at that end of the range. This lens delivers very sharp images at 300mm remarkably well, didn't cost that much and yet can still be used to frame a wider shot.

sharpness: 5 

color: 5 

build: 5 

distortion: 5 

flare control: 4 

user: wimski99   review date: April-04-07  

tested on film camera:

tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP:

tested on full frame:24MP

compared to:

Sony AF DT 18-200 F3.5-6.3
Minolta AF 70-210 F4 (beercan)
Minolta AF 100-300 xi F4.5-5.6

price paid:

pack.deal (+/- E120)

positive:

SHARP
Fast
Build

negative:

Rare

comment:

I have been looking for a BIG Beercan for quite a while... but since yesterday, I've got him!
So I took some time today to compare the results of my four tele-zooms to decide which one(s) to sell.
Not an easy decision: all zooms are GOOD, but different. The Beercan and the BIG Beercan are both very SHARP, with the Minolta-glass CoLOURS. The xi is very light and small (nice for travel), and the Sony is very versatile (and light). Don't forget the Sony is a full-range zoom, starting at 18 and ending at 200.
There are also con's: The Beercan's are heavy, the xi has a (quite slow) motorized zoom and the Sony is not that sharp at both ends (particulary at 18).
I'm glad i finaly own a BIG Beercan. So this one is going to stay. Not only is it as sharp as the Beercan (or sharper), it is also faster due to the focus limiter.
The Sony also stays. Ideal for traveling "light".
So I'm afraid the xi has to go. If I can sell it for a decent price (probable together with my 3xi and 28-80xi).
And the Beercan... Although i won't use it that often anymore i'm pretty sure i'll keep it. As a "collectors-item".

sharpness: 5 

color: 5 

build: 5 

distortion: 5 

flare control: 4 

user: Thatkatmat   review date: March-17-07  

tested on film camera:

tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP:

tested on full frame:24MP

compared to:

Sony 75-300
Beercan
Tamron 28-200 3.8

price paid:

$150 + $12 shpng

positive:

Very Sharp
Lifelike Color
Fast AF

negative:

Wish it was a 10mm-400mm :)

comment:

Got a chance to finally take this lens out in the sunshine to a Japanese Garden today. I think it's better than my copy of the Beercan (and the Beercan was my favorite lens) The Bokeh is beautiful, it gives rich colors and is supersharp. I paid $162 on ebay thanks to a member here. For me, perhaps the best purchase for my a100 so far. Did some tests, my kit Sony 75-300 is sharper indoors than both the big and little beercan so I will keep it for indoor sports. But for outdoors, this Minolta will definately be in my bag, at least til I can get my hands on a 70-200 2.8 g. I wonder after shooting with this just how much better could the G be?

sharpness: 5 

color: 5 

build: 5 

distortion: 5 

flare control: 5 

user: peterVL57   review date: February-28-07  

tested on film camera:

tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP:

tested on full frame:24MP

compared to:

Minolta AF 75-300 f4.5-5.6 new

price paid:

135 euro

positive:

Very sharp, good focusing, beautiful colors, Build, minimal CA

negative:

a bit heavy

comment:

Great lens. If you can find one...buy it !

sharpness: 5 

color: 5 

build: 5 

distortion: 5 

flare control: 5 

user: Roger   review date: February-15-07  

tested on film camera:

tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP:

tested on full frame:24MP

compared to:

18/70 kit lens

price paid:

US$ 200,00

positive:

Sharp, sharp. Splendid colors
rendition.Build.

negative:

Is not made anymore.

comment:

Superb piece of glass.Sturdy. I am happy to found out a specimen of this lens in mint condition.

sharpness: 4.5 

color: 5 

build: 5 

distortion: 5 

flare control: 4 

user: Bryman   review date: February-14-07  

tested on film camera:

tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP:

tested on full frame:24MP

compared to:

70-210 beercan
Sigma 70-300 apo

price paid:

L40 (used)

positive:

Build, sharpness, old Minolta colour rendition, minimal CA

negative:

For this price nada, nichts, zero!

comment:

Picked this up in superb condition for a steal on eBay - thanks again for the link,Bill :)
Accurate and fast enough focus except in VERY poor light - the focus limiter is useful at both close and far settings.
This copy seems sharpest at the longer focal lengths and stopped to f8 and up. Softer, but still acceptable at the wide end where my beercan is better and replaces this one. The extra weight isn't an issue when the results compensate for carting both these classics around ;)
With flash at f11 - 16 astonishingly sharp "macro" portraits at 150-300mm.

sharpness: 5 

color: 5 

build: 5 

distortion: 5 

flare control: 4 

user: nigelbrooks   review date: January-25-07  

tested on film camera:

tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP:

tested on full frame:24MP

compared to:

KM 75-300 F4.5-5.6(D)

price paid:

L100 (used)

positive:

Built like a tank.
Sharp, sharp, sharp
Focus limiter

negative:

Tank-like build means it's heavy.
Silly lens hood clips

comment:

Everything the bbeercan has but faster AF. Shame it's not constant aperture but fast enough for most work. Pin-sharp (I find my later version a little soft at the wide end) and, if you can find one for a good price - BUY IT!

sharpness: 5 

color: 5 

build: 5 

distortion: 5 

flare control: 5 

user: maxfarphoto   review date: December-06-06  

tested on film camera:

tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP:

tested on full frame:24MP

compared to:

Minolta 70-210 f4 (beercan)

price paid:

€ 180 (second hand)

positive:

Sharpness
Build
Focus limiter

negative:

comment:

Sharp, sharp, sharp.
Focus limiter allows a faster AF than the beercan.
IMHO a good choice for nature photography.
This is a rare lens and I am happy I found one.

sharpness: 4.5 

color: 5 

build: 5 

distortion: 5 

flare control: 4 

user: photomanicus   review date: November-18-06  

tested on film camera:

tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP:

tested on full frame:24MP

compared to:

50/1.7; 70-210/4

positive:

Sharpness, color, build.

negative:

Odd hood grip

comment:

Great lens. Sturdy. Very nice bokeh, very good sharpness, suberb color rendition.

sharpness: 4.5 

color: 4 

build: 5 

distortion: 4 

flare control: 4 

user: gil2   review date: October-25-06  

tested on film camera:

tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP:

tested on full frame:24MP

compared to:

-The smaller 70-210 f4
-Tamron 28-300mm XR
-Sigma 70-300mm APO

positive:

- build
- usable sharp
- color
- focus limiter

negative:

- They don't make this build/quality anymore

comment:

The big beercan. It substituted as a birding lens when my Bigma DG went for service. You can still get this for a song and very usable lens. Test shots with the A100 in the link below.

http://art4less.smugmug.com/gallery/1747379

sharpness: 4 

color: 5 

build: 5 

distortion: 5 

flare control: 4 

user: gm4jjj   review date: November-18-05  

tested on film camera:

tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP:

tested on full frame:24MP

compared to:

Minolta 70-210 f/4, Sigma 70-300 APO DG f/4-5.6

positive:

Sharp, especially when stopped down. Focus limiter.
Lovely build.

negative:

Heavy, Lens cap difficult to put on when lenshood is on.
Slight PF on extreme contrasty edges

comment:

I like this lens a lot, I bought it to compare with an old 70-210 f/4 and my tests appear to indicate that this lens is sharper than the 70-210 Beercan and the contrast seems better. Obviously there could be variations between samples, so your results may be different. The lenshood is easily knocked off as it grips onto a single ring.The focus limiter switch is another benefit that the 70-210 lacks.

Sharper at 300mm than my SIgma 70-300 APO DGF/4-5.6, but I do notice some PF with this lens and not with the Sigma.

It is f/4.5 75-110mm, f/5 110-145, f/5.6 145-300

Overall though I now prefer the Sigma 70-300 APO DG Macro f/4-5.6, up to 250mm, though the build of that is nowhere as good.