Sigma vs Tamron (Macro)

Hi guys,

I've searched the forum, in vain, for a comparison so if it's already addressed please tellme where .

If not my query is :-
How does the Tamron 90mm 2.8 DI macro stack up against the Sigma 70 2.8 EXDG macro.
Price is very similar.
Sigma heavier - is this a quality thing (eg less plastic?)
Tamron Longer - a little off putting

I would like it to perform in two rolls ie Child Portraiture and Macro so my initial leaning is to the Sigma

Comments, opinions, guidance all gratefully accepted


regards
Bernard

For portrait the 70mm would indeed be better although i've used the DFA 100 also a lot for portraits you're jst standing further away.
One thing though for portraits certainly for childern is that macro lenses aren't fast when it comes to focusing so if focus speed is important i would look further.

I would go with your gut. Over on the other forum (Pentax Forums) I have heard excellent things about the Sigma, including from a guy predominantly using it to shoot his son. Have a look at their lens review database.
The tamron is also excellent though.

I have not used the Sigma 70 2.8 EXDG macro, so can't comment. However, I do own and use the Tamron 90mm 2.8 DI macro, which is a really great lens, If you wan't a fast focussing portrait lens, a macro is best avoided. If you will be using the Sigma or the Tamron for macro work, IMO the Tamron will be better suited, portrait wise I would still go for the the Tamron, mine is razor sharp, the colour rendition is great and for the price you can't go wrong. The focus limiter switch on the Tamron also comes in very handy which I don't know is on the Sigma? However, both are great lenses and will give great images if used effectively.

Thanks for your all comments guys.

Reviews on tother site more or less come out equal, so no significant advantage by one over the other.

I did learn that the Sigma 70 has no aperture ring so I've decided on the Tamron 90, simply so I can add an extention tube(s) if I want to get even closer.

I'll post pics when it arrives and I've had a play with it

regards
Bernard

Tamron arrived Monday, but confined to the house due to a bug, so I've been playing indoors and come up with :-
https://www.pentaxuser.com/forum/topic/lilly-flower-28402

Overall very pleased with it.

Bernard

Ideal subject for your new macro then, although if it's keeping you in the house maybe you need a wide angle.

Seriously though .. if its the flu one that turns into a hacking cough I feel your pain, I am at the cough stage.

Just get an extension ring with A contacts .. that's what I did with the 70mm. 70mm is slightly sharper than the Tamron and apparently better than 1:1 but 90mm is a better working distance for most subjects.

Thanks for your sentiments - its not flu, doc "thinks" it's some sort of infection/gastro---itis/{fill in your own idea} which leaves you very lethargic. Got two sets of pills to take until Monday next

I have a set of very old "contactless" Pentax extension tubes, hence the need for an aperture ring.
I been monitoring ebay for months now and nothing pops up.

regards
Bernard