The 70-200VRII' sharpness @ 200mm @ F2.8, simply stunning...

[Stany Buyle]

Underneath picture has been taken handhold @ 200mm, iso400, 1/500 sec and F2.8.
The way the subject "pops-up" in the picture is of course a result of the highly accurate Nikon AF system...



and a 100% crop:

[joema]

Although the Nikon AF system is good, at f/2.8 any flaws in the optical system become apparent. My suggestion is the main reason for the sharp image is the quality of the 70-200 VRII at f/2.8. I have a Sigma 50-150 f/2.8 and it's just not that good (at f/2.8 at 150mm). Stopped down or at the wider end, it's better.

It's a very demanding test to shoot at full telephoto and wide open at f/2.8. That is where the 70-200 shines.

Anyone considering the various "pro" 2.8 telephoto zoom lenses should shoot many evaluation shots at f/2.8 at longest focal length. If possible borrow from a friend or compare to other similar lenses on the same camera in the same conditions. Don't make your decision based solely on reviews, but rather on your own hands-on tests.