It's difficult to make a direct comparison (I know, I've tried ).

What tripod is "equivalent" for testing purposes? How steady are you naturally?

I think each person needs to perform his/her own tests using their own equipment (including the tripod normally used) to see how the IS stacks up on an individual basis. I know that, for me, my 4 IS lenses either handheld or on a monopod is good enough for a majority of my shooting.


Quote Originally Posted by Ron Kruger
I also tested the same way with ISO set at 800 (1/2000, f/10) to also check for noise difference. The results for IS on and IS off were the same, and I could tell no difference in noise levels.
Noise wouldn't change at the same ISO.