Sigma 150mm F2.8 EX APO DG HSM Macro: Review

Posted to Lenses 2010-10-13

Sigma 150mm F2.8 EX APO DG HSM Macro review:

Hobbyist and professional photographers who want one of the latest and greatest macro lenses should consider the Sigma 150mm F2.8 EX APO DG HSM Macro Lens, which is manufactured for a variety of SLR cameras. This premium accessory offers clearer magnification than many other macro lenses, and it is also one of the world's first high speed tele-macro lens. The quality and performance that this Sigma offers exceeds expectations, and the price tag is not too shabby either. Overall, a highly-recommended device.

As one of the finest mid-level tele-macro lenses, this one measures 3.1 x 5.4 inches and weighs nearly 2 pounds. Because it is manufactured with special low-dispersion glass, you can ensure that your camera will capture high image quality. This model features ultra-quiet, high-speed autofocus with full-time manual focus override, which is perfect for advanced photographers. Everything else aside, the price is also lucrative enough to attract users of all budgets, so in the long run this lens is definitely an excellent value.

Rating:

4.6 out of 5

Features

Utilizing an improved camera mount, this motorized macro lens system features a minimum and maximum focal length of 150 millimeters, with a minimum focus of 15 inches. The minimum aperture range is F22 and the maximum range is F/2.8. The camera macro magnification power is at 1 to 1, and the lens real angle of view is approximately 16.4 degrees. There are nine diaphragm blades, and the filter size measures 72mm.

Performance

Although this lens offers superior image quality, the high-speed AF performance is inconsistent on more than one occasion. Fortunately, the majority of photographers use manual focusing, so this is relatively a minor issue. Open wide, this lens performs as seriously as any other tele-macro, but aesthetically the lens body could use improvement. Needless to say, very few if any consumers have complained about this accessory. If you are looking for a high-quality, high-speed macro lens at a reasonable price, then this is definitely the one for you.

Summary

All in all, it is difficult to complain about this lens. Sigma has outdone itself by producing a very effective, high-speed tele-macro lens that allows hobbyist and professional photographers alike get closer to their subjects than ever before. While the autofocus performance is not as well as expected, overall the lens itself outperforms expectations with regards to image quality and ease of use. If you do not want to spend upwards of $1000 on a manufacturers macro lens, then by all means this is the one for you.

Pros

Classy- offers superior image quality and focal length
Affordable- priced very reasonably compared to others
Performer- one of the world's first high-speed tele-macro lens
Professional- intricate features and glass elements

Cons

Improvable- inconsistent autofocus accuracy