Canon efs 17-55 f2.8 vs canon 17-40 f4

[Don Madej]

I have a canon 50d and I am looking for a new wide angle zoom lens. The efs 17-55 f2.8 is very tempting. The image stabilization and large aperture are definite pluses,but I have also heard very good things about the 17-40 f4 L lens. Has anyone used them both? Any impressions about either lens would be greatly appreciated. Thanks.

[Michael Pancier]

Don, I've used them both. If you're never going to use a full frame camera, I'd suggest the 17-55 2.8. Note it's heavier than the 17-40 and serves as a nice portrait lens at the 55mm end. So in that respect it's more versatile. The 17-40 is strictly for landscape and interiors, but it works on full frame camera. A cheaper alternative would be the 17-85 ESF USM IS lens. It's a nice walk around lens, although you'll need different filter sizes or adapters on it.

[alain vandal]

The 17-55 f2.8 are a very very good lens, but EF-S. If you don't think going to FF or pro body, this is THE choice.