The type of photography that you are planning to use is an important decision factor. Here we have evaluated the Sigma 200-500mm F2.8 EX DG and the Canon 200mm f2.8L II USM for their suitability to various photography scenarios:
Size and Weight Comparison
The size of a lens is a crucial factor to consider when comparing two lenses. Sigma 200-500mm F2.8 EX DG is the longer of the two lenses at 726mm. The Canon 200mm f2.8L II USM with a length of 136mm, is 590mm shorter. Besides being longer, the Sigma 200-500mm F2.8 EX DG also has a larger diameter of 237mm compared to the Canon 200mm f2.8L II USM's 83mm diameter.
The weight of a lens is equally significant as its external dimensions, particularly if you intend to handhold your camera and lens combination for extended periods. Canon 200mm f2.8L II USM weighs 765g, 95% (14935g) lighter than the Sigma 200-500mm F2.8 EX DG's weight of 15700g.
Filter Threads
Both the Sigma 200-500mm F2.8 EX DG and the Canon 200mm f2.8L II USM have the same Filter thread size of 72mm.
Below are links to the 72mm filters that we recommend you to consider for these lenses:
Lens Mounts
Both the Sigma 200-500mm F2.8 EX DG and the Canon 200mm f2.8L II USM has the same Canon EF lens mount. Some of the latest released cameras that are compatible with the Canon EF lenses are Canon 1D X III, Canon 6D MII and Canon 5D MIV.
Sigma 200-500mm F2.8 EX DG is also available in Sigma SA and Nikon F (FX) mounts.
Focal Range
Sigma 200-500mm F2.8 EX DG has a focal range of 200-500mm and
2.5X zoom ratio . When it is mounted on an APS-C sensor camera with 1.6x crop, it provides a 35mm (FF) equivalent of
320 - 800mm.
On the other hand, the Canon 200mm f2.8L II USM is a prime lens with fixed focal lenght of 200mm. When it is mounted on an APS-C sensor camera with 1.6x crop, it provides a 35mm (FF) equivalent of 320mm.