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05/29/2010 10:26:51 PM · #1 |
| I would like to get different peoples opinion on new or used. If you could save like $300-$400 on a used 70-200mm f2.8 is usm lens form either B&H photo or Adorama,...would you buy it used?????????????/ |
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05/29/2010 10:30:28 PM · #2 |
From organizations such as these two I would most certainly consider it... but certainly not from other venues where my return options would be either very limited or non existing.
Ray |
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05/29/2010 10:58:13 PM · #3 |
| I just bought a refurb lens from Adorama. Except for coming in a refurb box and being less money, I would not have known the difference. I have not bought an actual used one, but those are sources I feel are trustworthy. Their condition ratings are probably pickier than I am. |
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05/29/2010 11:40:49 PM · #4 |
I buy and sell a lot of camera gear on Fred Miranda. If you look at my lens list in my profile I don't have a single lens in my lineup that I bought new. I've saved hundreds on them and couldn't be happier. But I've always bought from reliable members on the board.
Matt |
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05/29/2010 11:57:35 PM · #5 |
| Depends what the item is and the saving over new. Lenses I tend to be less likely to go pre-owner and flashes & misc more so but depends. |
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05/30/2010 12:02:21 AM · #6 |
My Sigma DP2 was an open box item from New Egg. They prepare you for the worst (the camera could be filthy with accessories missing, scratches, dents, dings, etc.). What I got was like brand new. The first picture I shot showed that it was exposure #4. So someone shot three pictures and sent it back, saving me about $250.
I take my chances and usually do okay. Stick with reputable dealers though. B&H and Adorama are safe bets. |
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05/30/2010 12:16:57 AM · #7 |
| I bought a referb 70-200 F2.8L IS from Adorama, Lens is inspected by Canon service people, and the lens gets the same warranty as new, and I saved $350.. |
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05/30/2010 03:04:55 AM · #8 |
I've bought numerous used items from both individuals and from companies, in addition to refurbs. I've always been happy. The closest thing to a negative experience was when my girlfriend bought her Zune refurbed from Tiger Direct. It came and everything worked, but one of the buttons was really wonky right off the bat. She got really really worried about everything and got really upset, but all it took was calling them (mind you, it was 10PM my time, and they answered), saying what was wrong, and putting it into a box. Before she had even shipped it, another flawless one was on the way, no questions asked, with only 5 minutes spent on the phone. If you work with reputable retailers, there isn't a lot of an issue, IMO.
Also, as  bvy noted, a lot of the refurb items are actually simply open box returns that have not really been used.
The one caution I would have for you is if you're hard on gear. Some are, some aren't, only you can answer that. Make sure to determine the warranty BEFORE to ascertain any limitations and if your usage may possibly lessen the survival of the product.
Other than that one time though, all my experiences have been fine, with zero problems or failures. |
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05/30/2010 11:26:45 AM · #9 |
I have bought used from BH, Adorama, and KEH. I tend to have had both the best savings and best experience with KEH. although they are not factory cleaned etc. the quality is reliable and consistent and the prices are GREAT. navigating the site itself is a pain and the relatively high shipping costs can be as well if youre buying say a lens hood. but overall i am extremely satisfied with my interactions with KEH. i would comment more on the 2 big names but i have not had as much experience with their used depts. (1 or 2 transactions compared to >5 with KEH)
-Max |
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05/30/2010 11:58:02 AM · #10 |
I have not bought any used lenses. However... I just haven't had any problem with lenses (except when I've dropped them, and even then they still work, they just make funny noises.
So the moral of the story is -- I'd trust used lenses much more than used cameras, because they seem to have long, long lifetimes.
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05/30/2010 12:43:34 PM · #11 |
| I have bought most of my f/2.8 lenses used through an Norwegian photosite. Haven't had any trouble with them. |
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05/30/2010 04:26:40 PM · #12 |
Originally posted by MattO:
I buy and sell a lot of camera gear on Fred Miranda. If you look at my lens list in my profile I don't have a single lens in my lineup that I bought new. I've saved hundreds on them and couldn't be happier. But I've always bought from reliable members on the board.
Matt |
Like Matt with the exception of my nifty 50, none of my lenses were purchased new - there are even more than listed in my profile because I've traded up in some cases. In addition to lenses Ive also purchased 2 SLR bodies, a flash, photo backpack, Wacom Tablet and other random accessories. I feel compelled to share some wisdom.
1. Be Patient. If the deal isnt right, regardless of why, dont do it and wait for the next one. I've actually gone to see things with the actual cash in my pocket and passed on the deal.
2. Ask Questions. If its an internet sale you can't ask too many. How Old? Are you the original owner? If not, how long do you have it? How Many Clicks? Are you a hobbyist or a FT working Pro? (In general I wont buy from a FT working Pro over the net - to them its a tool and their stuff sees hard use in most cases. Ask the seller if they have images taken with it on their site - sometimes looking at their site gives you an indication of whether they are a FT pro or more of an amateur/hobbyist regardless of what they tell you.),Can I see more pictures? Is there dust inside the glass? Why are they selling? Pay attention to buy sell ratings - people that have good ratings on ebay or fred or POTN usually want to keep it that way and will be honest with you.
3. Test Drive. If your looking in person (craigslist, Camera club), bring a card, laptop and body and/or lens as necessary to evaluate the images. Take your time. If its a zoom, does it operate smoothly, does it have creep, does it focus quickly and accurately, any funny noises? Does it look beat up or showroom new with perfect paint, rubber and not a spec of dust anywhere.
4. Best Deals. In my opinion from a hobbyist that has to trade up to the newest latest thing. This is the grandfather who bought a Canon 70-200L 2.8 IS to take pictures of his grandsons little league games. Now he wants the mark II version along with a 1D mark IV body. An ego thing for him, and a great deal for you.
I have purchased from ebay, craigslist, Fredmiranda, Photgraphy on the Net (a canon shooters site) and even from a local internet based photo club.Ive yet to have a single problem. Its also important to keep in mind that in many cases a routine lens repair is $200-300, sometimes thats way less than what you're saving over new - so even if something does go wrong youre still ahead.
I havent purchesed used from a retailer. My impression is that the deals there just arent as good. Nothing against them - they have to make a profit so they mark it up over what they pay. We buy new equipment from them because we have to - the manufacturers wont sell to us, but thats not true in the used market.
Happy Hunting |
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05/30/2010 04:43:32 PM · #13 |
Originally posted by photodude:
Originally posted by MattO:
I buy and sell a lot of camera gear on Fred Miranda. If you look at my lens list in my profile I don't have a single lens in my lineup that I bought new. I've saved hundreds on them and couldn't be happier. But I've always bought from reliable members on the board.
Matt |
Like Matt with the exception of my nifty 50, none of my lenses were purchased new - there are even more than listed in my profile because I've traded up in some cases. In addition to lenses Ive also purchased 2 SLR bodies, a flash, photo backpack, Wacom Tablet and other random accessories. I feel compelled to share some wisdom.
1. Be Patient. If the deal isnt right, regardless of why, dont do it and wait for the next one. I've actually gone to see things with the actual cash in my pocket and passed on the deal.
2. Ask Questions. If its an internet sale you can't ask too many. How Old? Are you the original owner? If not, how long do you have it? How Many Clicks? Are you a hobbyist or a FT working Pro? (In general I wont buy from a FT working Pro over the net - to them its a tool and their stuff sees hard use in most cases. Ask the seller if they have images taken with it on their site - sometimes looking at their site gives you an indication of whether they are a FT pro or more of an amateur/hobbyist regardless of what they tell you.),Can I see more pictures? Is there dust inside the glass? Why are they selling? Pay attention to buy sell ratings - people that have good ratings on ebay or fred or POTN usually want to keep it that way and will be honest with you.
3. Test Drive. If your looking in person (craigslist, Camera club), bring a card, laptop and body and/or lens as necessary to evaluate the images. Take your time. If its a zoom, does it operate smoothly, does it have creep, does it focus quickly and accurately, any funny noises? Does it look beat up or showroom new with perfect paint, rubber and not a spec of dust anywhere.
4. Best Deals. In my opinion from a hobbyist that has to trade up to the newest latest thing. This is the grandfather who bought a Canon 70-200L 2.8 IS to take pictures of his grandsons little league games. Now he wants the mark II version along with a 1D mark IV body. An ego thing for him, and a great deal for you.
I have purchased from ebay, craigslist, Fredmiranda, Photgraphy on the Net (a canon shooters site) and even from a local internet based photo club.Ive yet to have a single problem. Its also important to keep in mind that in many cases a routine lens repair is $200-300, sometimes thats way less than what you're saving over new - so even if something does go wrong youre still ahead.
I havent purchesed used from a retailer. My impression is that the deals there just arent as good. Nothing against them - they have to make a profit so they mark it up over what they pay. We buy new equipment from them because we have to - the manufacturers wont sell to us, but thats not true in the used market.
Happy Hunting |
I think this is all the advice you need!! But, just one point, what's all this about Grandads and egos?? Eh?? :) |
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05/30/2010 05:06:40 PM · #14 |
| Of my three current lenses, only the 50mm was brand-spankin'-new from Henry's. The 18-200 came from ebay, and vikas sold me Siggy. |
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05/30/2010 05:53:37 PM · #15 |
| I've bought 2 lenses brand new, the nifty fifty, and my Tammy 10-24. After researching prices on them, there was not an overwhelming price advantage to buying these lenses used, so I gave the business to the local camera shop. |
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05/30/2010 06:11:10 PM · #16 |
Originally posted by photodude:
2. Ask Questions. If its an internet sale you can't ask too many. How Old? Are you the original owner? If not, how long do you have it? How Many Clicks? Are you a hobbyist or a FT working Pro? (In general I wont buy from a FT working Pro over the net - to them its a tool and their stuff sees hard use in most cases. Ask the seller if they have images taken with it on their site - sometimes looking at their site gives you an indication of whether they are a FT pro or more of an amateur/hobbyist regardless of what they tell you.),Can I see more pictures? Is there dust inside the glass? Why are they selling? Pay attention to buy sell ratings - people that have good ratings on ebay or fred or POTN usually want to keep it that way and will be honest with you.
Happy Hunting |
I'm a Pro, nearly full time, and I assure you while my gear is a tool, if you can find a mark on any of my "tools" you would be surprised. I just sold a 4 year old 70-200 F2.8 Non IS and besides the one mark on the barrell the new owner thought it was new. Not all Pro photogs beat the heck out of their gear.
Matt |
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05/30/2010 06:42:38 PM · #17 |
Originally posted by MattO:
Originally posted by photodude:
2. Ask Questions. If its an internet sale you can't ask too many. How Old? Are you the original owner? If not, how long do you have it? How Many Clicks? Are you a hobbyist or a FT working Pro? (In general I wont buy from a FT working Pro over the net - to them its a tool and their stuff sees hard use in most cases. Ask the seller if they have images taken with it on their site - sometimes looking at their site gives you an indication of whether they are a FT pro or more of an amateur/hobbyist regardless of what they tell you.),Can I see more pictures? Is there dust inside the glass? Why are they selling? Pay attention to buy sell ratings - people that have good ratings on ebay or fred or POTN usually want to keep it that way and will be honest with you.
Happy Hunting |
I'm a Pro, nearly full time, and I assure you while my gear is a tool, if you can find a mark on any of my "tools" you would be surprised. I just sold a 4 year old 70-200 F2.8 Non IS and besides the one mark on the barrell the new owner thought it was new. Not all Pro photogs beat the heck out of their gear.
Matt |
With all due respect, in my opinion, you're the exception, not the rule. In general I would say it's fair to say that even if you are careful not to bang or scratch your equipment, in general it gets more use than with a hobbyist. |
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05/30/2010 06:58:41 PM · #18 |
Originally posted by snaffles:
Of my three current lenses, only the 50mm was brand-spankin'-new from Henry's. The 18-200 came from ebay, and vikas sold me Siggy. |
I had a good experience with Henry's as well. I bought a (used) 70-300 D Nikon lens, and a little tab was broken off the aperture ring at the back. I emailed them about it. They said to send it back, and a few days later, a new or like new one arrived in the mail from them. They take care of their customers.
If you buy on eBay, be sure to read and read again every word of the ad. Sometimes one or two words can be the difference between very happy and a major oops.
Cosmetic problems, no matter how insignificant re the operation or usefulness of the item can take the price of things way down. I got one of my fav lenses recently, in great shape except for a piece of tape around the rubber focus sleeve, for $14.99 and $10 shipping. It's a 70-210 f3.5 Vivitar Series 1 VMC Macro focusing manual zoom. I'm impressed with it's sharpness, contrast, bokeh, and feel, even after using many Nikon lenses.
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05/31/2010 06:23:40 PM · #19 |
I've ordered a used lens through E-bay as it was the only way to buy the lens, because they stop making it back in 2004. It actually cost quite a bit more then new.
Message edited by author 2010-05-31 18:24:12. |
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05/31/2010 06:59:57 PM · #20 |
The used prices of the good Nikon lenses are way up now because the Nikon DSLR's can use any of them back to about 1971. With a slight modification to the aperture ring of the lens, you can use the Non Ai, back to about 1962 or so. With the proliferation of DSLR's the old manual Nikon glass has become pricey. I bought a bunch of them about 3 or 4 years ago, and the current prices are about double or higher than they were then.
The Canon system is a different story though, with the older FD lenses requiring an expensive retrofit, or an adapter which adds another element to the light path. Some of the great old FD lenses are pretty cheap now.
I can't remember if the retro Pentax and Minolta glass will still work without adapters on the new digitals.
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05/31/2010 07:30:15 PM · #21 |
Originally posted by MelonMusketeer:
I can't remember if the retro Pentax and Minolta glass will still work without adapters on the new digitals. |
i think pentax is only company for which you could use all their SLR lenses on their dslrs bodies with or without adapter (one without any corrective measures).
About minolta, not all the glass could be used on dslr bodies. I know this because once their fame 55mm f1.2 rokkor was available cheap and i asked in sony/minolta forum if it is good idea to buy. Almost everyone advised against buying because it could not be used on dslr bodies. (without corrective adapter ). |
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06/01/2010 02:34:33 AM · #22 |
i suggest you go for new one.
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06/01/2010 06:37:24 AM · #23 |
Originally posted by shootinglover:
i suggest you go for new one. |
Based on what?
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06/01/2010 06:40:40 AM · #24 |
many of my lenses are used, the more important thing is that you can see the lens, can try the lens and only after this buy a used lens.
i have not had any problem with used equipment... |
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06/08/2010 01:40:58 PM · #25 |
Originally posted by tomgm36:
I would like to get different peoples opinion on new or used. If you could save like $300-$400 on a used 70-200mm f2.8 is usm lens form either B&H photo or Adorama,...would you buy it used?????????????/ |
Somebody sent me a guide to selecting used lenses a year or two ago, (it isn't an Adorama thing); if you'd like to drop me an email I'd be delighted to pass it on to you.
Helen Oster
Adorama Camera Customer Service Ambassador
helen.oster@adoramacamera.com
Message edited by author 2010-06-08 13:41:24.
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