Which is better?

[fierceshoes]

I'm looking at two different sets of lenses and need to know which you think is "better."

The first is a set of Tokina 28-80mm and 100-300mm.

The second is a set of Tamron wide angle telephoto 28-80mm and telephoto 75-300mm.

I'm just learning and like to shoot some still life, portraits, and some landscape.

Thank you for your advice!

[coldrain]

Both are lenses from very old 1990's lens stock, are you looking into buying some bundle offering on ebay, by chance?

Those kinds of bundles are best avoided... as the lens quality will just disappoint (and 28mm just id not wide angle on an A100).

[fierceshoes]

Yes, I was looking at some bundles. Would they be better quality than the 18-200 Sony lens that came with my A100?

[coldrain]

Probably equal or a bit worse. The Sony 18-200 (tamron 18-200) is worst at 200mm, and the tele lenses you list will not be better there.
And the 28-80's do not go as wide as the 18-200.

[DonSchap]

Speaking from experience ... the one lens 18-200mm solution is the best way to go when you start with a kit. The other lenses you mentioned were originally designed for use with a 35mm film camera, they are not optimized for use on a digital. Your photgraphic results with those "older" lenses will be flakey and questionable. That, certainly, is not the way you want to start out with your new camera.

The 18-200 WAS designed specifically for use on the APS-C sensor digital camera (SONY A100) and will offer a better overall result. Of course, there are better lenses out there, but not at that low cost.

Enjoy your 18-200mm, it should serve you well.

As another suggestion: You might want to invest in a external flash to extend that lens' indoor capability.

If you want a bit more reach ... marry this up to a SIGMA APO 135-400mm f/4.5-5.6 DG ... which will be a good outdoor lens for football games, nature, etc.

Good luck

[AllanMarcus]

I will be brief...

Take a look at the Tamron 18-250. I think it's the best general all around lens on the market today.

-Allan