By Sean Setters
When it comes to Canon lenses, newer is always better. We know that Canon doesn't typically release a lens update unless it can improve upon performance, build quality or features. It's the natural evolution of technology that we all benefit from in the long run.
But are there times when buying an older / used lens makes sense? I think so – and that's why I recently purchased a used Canon TS-E 24mm f/3.5L Tilt-Shift Lens. More on that later.
Here are some of the reasons why you might consider and older, used lens in place of a new one:
First, I don't really plan on using the TS-E very often. Yes, I'll do a few real estate jobs with it, but it's never going to be a lens I'm reaching for on a daily basis. Also, because this lens will be used primarily for architecture, I'll be using narrow apertures more often than not making wide aperture image quality less of a priority. One relatively significant compromise I made by purchasing the older model lens was losing the ability to do tilt and shift adjustments independently of one another. By that, I mean that I can only shift at a perpendicular angle to my shift (whereas you can perform both adjustments independently of one another in the new model). But considering I picked up the lens for $620.00 and in excellent condition, the relatively small concessions I made ended up saving me $1,379.00 over the retail price of the TS-E 24mm f/3.5L II. That's no small chunk of change and the extra money in my pocket makes my concessions that much easier to live with.
Risks of Buying Used
There are always risks involved with buying used products. You may not be able to obtain satisfactory answers to questions such as, "How well was the item cared for by its previous owner(s)?" or "Is there a deficiency in the lens that is undiscernible by the product pictures shown?"
eBay is a great venue for purchasing used gear. However, dealing with personal sales on eBay can be challenging when/if you are unsatisfied with purchase. It's best to only bid on items from sellers with high positive feedback ratings. If the seller has a liberal return policy, that's certainly a plus. While most of my dealings on eBay have been very positive, be warned – there will always be more risk in purchasing used products on eBay compared to buying new/retail ones.
You can also check out B&H's Used Department. You may not save as much as you would bidding on eBay, but B&H does offer a 90-day warranty on most of their used products, meaning there is significantly less risk involved with the purchase.
Another risk to consider when purchasing older lenses is that Canon may not be able to service your lens if it breaks. And even if they can fix it, how much will the out-of-warranty service repair bill eat into your initial purchase savings?
With all things considered, though, purchasing an older model /used lens can make a lot of sense under the right circumstances – and may end up saving you a bundle in the process.