Top Result: Nikkor 70-200mm f/2.8G ED VR II AF-S Lens

Match Score

99%

Pros

Excellent sharpness
Vibration reduction
Excellent build quality
Weather sealed
Magnificent optical quality

Cons

Extremely expensive
Very heavy
Significant focus breathing (annoying for long landscape photos)

Note From Jim

The Nikon 70-200 is one of the best lenses ever made. The problem is that it's extremely expensive. The Tamron 70-200mm is 95% as good for half the price. It's a tough call, but I will say that you won't be disappointed with either. They are both absolutely incredible lenses.

Option 2: Tamron 70-200mm f/2.8 Di VC USD Lens

Match Score

95%

Pros

Excellent sharpness and optical quality
Vibration reduction
Good build quality - weather sealed
Lighter weight
Less expensive

Cons

BARELY less sharp in the corners compared to the Nikon

Option 3: Sigma 70-200mm f/2.8 APO EX DG HSM OS FLD Lens

Match Score

88%

Pros

Even cheaper than the Tamron
Good optical quality and sharpness
Vibration reduction

Cons

Heavy
Not quite as optically good as the Tamron