Sigma 24-70mm F2.8 EX DG HSM: Review

Posted to Lenses 2009-09-27

Sigma 24-70mm F2.8 EX DG HSM review:

The Sigma 24-70mm F2.8 EX DG HSM lens comes with a large aperture DG lens that is specially designed for wide angle and short minimum focusing distances. Its exterior is designed with an EX finish that is used to signify a superior build and quality, while enhancing the appearance of the lens as much as possible.

Equipped with a Hyper Sonic Motor (HSM) which means the lens is driven by ultrasonic waves, effectively providing a quieter, higher speed automatic focus, the Sigma 24-70mm has a maximum aperture available of F2.8 to give you a larger range of quality across all zoom ranges. The unit can be mounted to SIGMA, Canon, Nikon, Sony and Pentax Autofocus (AF) mounts, so you are well covered in terms of compatibility with your current Digital SLR camera.

Rating:

3.6 out of 5

Quality

Inclusion of the Hyper Sonic Motor (HSM) technology that Sigma has developed, the 24-70mm lens provides excellent quality. This unit is the 3rd generation of this range of lens from Sigma and it shows a good understanding of the requirements of professional and amateur photographers to have quality parts included in their equipment. This model also makes an improvement over previous generations by being more compact as well as having an EX finish providing that quality professional appearance.

Performance

Where this lens really performs is in taking portraits and landscape photography, so you will notice a big difference in the capacity to capture the right image after bayoneting this onto your existing Digital SLR camera. The F2.8 aperture gives excellent exposure across all zoom ranges so you'll be comfortable knowing that what you are shooting is what you will see in the end product. For on the go performance the lens weighs 27.9ounces so you should be able to feel the balanced weight when attached to your digital camera.

Summary

If you are looking at getting this lens for your DSLR camera and you shoot mostly portraits and landscapes then you shouldn't be disappointed. Any other fast moving images may require a different lens and there are other lenses in the Sigma range that can look after this job for you. The Sigma 24-70mm F2.8 EX DG HSM lens is a worthy addition to the next generation of lenses.

Pros

Maximum aperture available of F2.8
Good for portait photography
Quieter Focus
Compatibale with SIGMA, Canon, Nikon, Sony and Pentax Autofocus (AF) mounts

Cons

Limited wide angle with DSLR's