Which of these is the better Macro lens? The Canon 100mm f2.8 macro or the Sigma 105mm macro? Thanks. Yes, I know Canon has an instant $35 rebate until Feb.17th on this lens.

Cindy -
this link will show a comparison
http://www.the-digital-picture.com/Reviews/Sigma-105mm-F-2.8-EX-DG-Macro-Lens-Review.aspx
OK I already found all the stuff, and even read all the stuff
Whats the bottom line? Easy the number of unacceptable out of
focus pictures for the Sigma exceeds any reasonable limit.
That statement alone make the Canon lens a Best Buy!
You owe me cookies and more cookies please! :)

Chocolate chip? ;0) Thanks.

Cindy - you must be a mind reader, Yes! Yes! Yes! Chocolate Chip is the best! And dont go stingy on the morsel size! You are Welcome! :)

They are both excellent lenses Cindy. The Sigma is slightly sharper round the edges and the Canon is faster to focus. Given that a macro lens is normally used with manual focus I’d save a few dollars and get the Sigma. Actually the Sigma 150mm macro is the one on my shopping list.

Cindy, do you already have some lenses?

Darryl, I have a Sigma 17-70mm lens, a Sigma 70-300mm lens and a Canon 28-135mm lens.

Well, ok then, you could also use some extension tubes instead of buying a macro lens.

Are the images just as clear as with the macro lens and are they much cheaper?

Much cheaper and they do not have any optics so should be as clear as the lens you already have. Nothing beats the 100mm Canon lens for clarity in my experience.

If your still looking Cindy here is a good comparison of 8 Macros. He starts of saying that most macro reviews are done while using the lenses at normal distances. He does it at macro distances. His conclusions will surprise you. Well they surprised me.

Very interesting, Robert. Thanks for posting that link. It really was very informative and gave me a new avenue to follow. I'll be ordering soon. :)

You’re welcome Cindy. I think it’s time I treated myself to a real macro lens too :-)

I ordered the Tamron 90mm macro after reading the article and then doing more research on the lens. BH Photo had the lens for $450 and Tamron is offering a $90 rebate if you buy the lens before March 31, 2008. I didn't see this rebate offer at any of the retailers but BH Photo. Also, I would have had to buy a hood for $40 more for the Canon and one comes with the Tamron already. Robert did me a big favor. Thanks, Robert!

You’re welcome Cindy. I’m determined to get me a real macro lens before long and the Tamron is my number one choice. I’m looking forward to seeing some shots from your lens :-)

Footnote: The lens arrived the day after I ordered it! BH Photo is really on the ball!

Wow that’s quick. Now where is that macro shot from Cindy :-)

Ok I’ve seen it and I’m impressed. Note to self… save harder.