More 17-40 and 18-55 IS. This time, I tested the micro adjust feature on both lenses. The 18-55 IS did not need any adjustment. The 17-40 appears to have needed +9 adjustment. Please click the images for the full results:
The 17-40 is greatly improved on the long end after the micro adjust, although it seems to have lost just a touch compared to the previous test at 17 and 19mm. In fact, it is so improved that it surpasses the 18-55 IS from 30-40mm. The 18-55 IS still seems superior at the corners around 35mm, but the 17-40 retakes the sharpness crown at the center.
After auto focus micro adjust of +9, the 17-40L delivers the all around superior performance. A very good example of the color cast from the 18-55 IS is available in the first two pictures. The L jut does an amazing job with color balance there – neutral with no cast. The garage door and driveway have an almost pink/purple cast on the 18-55 IS. For the money, the 18-55 IS is a great performer, holding it’s own with the 17-40L in sharpness, but not in color. Also, the IS on the 18-55 increases its usability. You can’t beat it for the money.
