equipment recommendation - Sigma 70-200mm vs. Nikon 80-200mm auto-focus speed

I'm considering the newest Sigma 70-200mm F2.8 EX DG APO MACRO HSM II and comparing it against the older (but still for sale) Nikon AF 80-200mm F2.8 D ED.

These are roughly in the same price class, though the Sigma is a little less expensive. In Canada, the Sigma is available for $949, and the Nikon for $1029.

The Sigma has a 10-year Canadian warranty, the Nikon a 5-year Canadian warranty.

Neither has OS or VR, but adding VR puts both lenses out of my price range (and I don't need the stabilization for shooting sports).

The Nikon seems to be regarded as a better built lens, with better optics (but some reviews claim the optical quality of the Sigma approaches that of the Nikon so as not to be as much of a factor in the decision making process).

The Sigma has the HSM AF motor, while the Nikon is AF, but not AF-S (the AF-S model is no longer available new, and is considerably more expensive even used).

Reviews of the Nikon indicate that the AF speed depends on how well the camera body can drive it (ie. faster on a pro body than on a consumer body).

I would be using a D90 and wonder if the Sigma with its HSM would be significantly faster in auto-focus speed than the Nikon? And, whether this should be an issue to consider given that the intended us of the lens is for sports?

Are there other issues I should be considering?

I would love to hear people's experience with either lens as well as any recommendations.

Answer

I have used both, and the Nikon does feel marginally faster when it comes to autofocus than the Sigma. However, if they are both within your budget, I'd go with the Nikon every day of the week. It's a little bit sharper, feels a little bit more professional, and is just that tiny bit nicer in every way.

Don't get me wrong; The Sigma is a mighty fine lens, and I have used it extensively, especially for concert photography, but if everything else is the same, and the extra 80 dollars or so doesn't make a difference to you - go with the Nikon.

Although, obviously, it'll be down to you as a photographer to make either lens shine :)