So you got your 5D MarkII and now you want to save some money on lenses. Great, make sure you read this post about the cost/benefits of doing so first. Here is a short list of the best value lenses.
Sigma 12-24mm f/4.5-5.6
If you want to go wide without using a fisheye, this is your only alternative. Very popular for architecture, landscape and street shooters. Be aware that sharpness used to vary a lot in older models so you better get it new.
Tamron AF 28-75mm f/2.8
At a fraction of the cost of the 24-70 from Canon, this lens is a real bargain for such a good performer. Dont let the low price fool you, this lens offers an exceptional value!
Sigma 24-70mm f/2.8
A bit wider than the Tamron version. Get this one, the 12-24 and a 70-200 and you have everything covered in a set of 3 lenses for (almost) the price of a single L glass. Not bad!
Sigma 70-200mm f/2.8
A very good alternative to the Canon model for half the price. Everything on this lens is on par with its competitor except focussing speed and size. So it should be more interesting for videographers than photographers.
Sigma 20mm f/1.8
Cheapest wide prime lens you can get! I really see a lot of use for this lens for videophotographer.
Tamron AF 90mm f/2.8 Macro
Of all the lenses in this list, this one has to be the biggest underdog. Everyone I know who uses this lens is happy about it. It is a very nice alternative to the Canon EF 100mm f/2.8 Macro
I am sure there are other gems hidden out there. I just reviewed the lenses I have personally played with. If you feel that I missed something, feel free to add it to the comments below!
Andrew Howe suggested the Tamron AF 28-300mm f/3.5-6.3 XR Di LD VC
Comments
[...] has samples and the function is the same on the 5D mk ii. Here’s an interesting 50D sample • Best Sigma and Tamron lenses for 5D from Canon5Dtips also Should you buy third party lenses? • Rumor: Apple to Integrate [...]
One you didn’t include is the Tamron 28-300 f3.5-6.3 VC. After hauling my full bag around the US and Canada on a recent holiday, I realised I needed a walkabout lens that I could fit in my small bag. This lens has predictable drawbacks at the extremes but it is light, compact and the VC works efficiently and quietly. On the 5D MkII its range means you have 90% of shooting scenarios covered and there is still room in my bag to squeeze in my 50 1.4 for low light. It was a strong enough argument for me to spend my precious 15mins in B&H buying it (darn queues in the Empire State). I also have a 15mm Sigma Fisheye. I have only just started to experiment with this for video.
Thx Andrew, you are right. I dont know how I could have missed that one! Added to the list.
you forgot one:
Tokina 11-16/2.8
if you want to go wiiide… this is the choice.
stefan, that tokina does not cover full frame
12-24 is beautiful lens, if you can find good copy. unfortunately, yield of good ones is pretty low
What about the new Tamron AF18-270mm F/3.5-6.3 Di II VC . I’m looking to get that one
Sigma 35mm f1.4 at 400$ Rock & Roll
Only fixe lenses offer best results and proper light.
+1 for the Tokina 11-16. It’s 2.8 throughout, pretty heavily built, and super duper wide.
…for the 7D, I must add.
Anybody know how the Tamron AF 28-80mm f/3.5-5.6 lens works with the 5D mark II – is it any good? couldn’t find any test footage. How about the Canon 50mm f/1.8? Thanks!
I will check fo the 28-80. But for the 50f1,8, it cant be used because the lens does not have a real focus ring. Well, it could be used but it wont be practical. If you are interested in a 50mm lens only for video, check this post: http://www.canon5dtips.com/2010/01/50mm-duel-zeiss-50mm-1-7-planar-t-vs-canon-50mm-1-4/ The Zeiss could be a good alternative.
Hi!
I have the sigma 50mm 1.4 EX DG and it is incredibly nice. Very good built. I love it.
Hi Pau. I agree with you, it is very well built and ultra sharp but bulkier, heavier and more expensive than the 50mm1.4 Canon. That is why it is not on the list. It is not really an alternative and more of an upgrade 
