hey folks. i was looking to get a new lens at b&h, and noticed that the imported lenses are typically 30 dollars less than the same lens with the usa tag.

are they cheaper quality or do they just come without a warranty? should i avoid them or take advantage of a good deal?

Generally they do not come with a US warranty. However B&H usually has a warranty on them for a year.. I normally just buy the US version especially if I am buying pro glass.

Generally they do not come with a US warranty. However B&H usually has a warranty on them for a year.. I normally just buy the US version especially if I am buying pro glass.

that's cool. is there any quality difference, though? thats my main concern. id rather pay 30 more dollars than get an inferior lens.

as they are all made in the same factory. It's just that you are paying a premium, in effect an insurance premium, to get the official importer's warranty

Simon

do you folks have any experience buying used lenses from b&h?

I've bought two used lenses and a used EOS 3 from B&H. I've never had any problems with any of them.

Danielle

I've bought two used lenses and a used EOS 3 from B&H. I've never had any problems with any of them.

Danielle

cool. what kind of guarantee does b&h offer on used stuff?

Used equipment policy (http://www.bhphotovideo.com/bnh/controller/home?O=UsedHomePage.jsp&A=getpage&Q=readmoreused.jsp)

They're pretty good as far as the used policy goes. In addition to the used equipment, I've bought nearly everything I have from them and have never had any complaints.

Danielle

I buy a lot of used stuff from KEH with good results as well.

--Jeff

Bought used gear before, but never from KEH or B&H. Both have very good reputations and I do buy most new stuff from B&H.

If you're talking about Nikon grey market lenses, there might be a problem. Nikon won't service them - warranty or not. You'll have to take them somewhere else and the service place won't be able to buy the parts from Nikon US.

That's the story. I think that if stores can get grey market lenses then they should be able to get grey market parts, too. And - how many problems do you have with some lenses, say a 50mm prime? Probably not worth worrying about - the lenses are the same it's just the warranty that's different. Bottom line.

I personally buy USA lenses, but everyone's different. I would probably recommend a USA version lens especially if you're looking at something with VR, etc. Always look at the price for both because some USA lenses have a rebate which can make them the same price or less than a grey market lens.