Sigma APO 70-200mm F2.8 II EX DG MACRO HSM: Review

Posted to Lenses 2009-01-22

Sigma APO 70-200mm F2.8 II EX DG MACRO HSM Review:

The Sigma APO 70-200mm F2.8 II EX DG MACRO HSM is an update to the company's excellent EX DG Macro HSM of the same focal length. The lens features improved coatings which help suppress flare, much closer focusing and full-time manual focus (allows for manual adjustment of focus, even when set to AF). The lens incorporates Sigma's high-tech ELD (Extraordinary Low Dispersion) glass for less chromatic aberration.

The lens is large (over 10 inches long) and heavy (weighs over 3 lbs.), and feels well-built. The manual focus ring has a long range so exceptionally fine adjustments in focus are possible. The zoom ring feels a little stiff, but this may loosen somewhat with use. Due to Sigma's HSM (Hyper Sonic Motor) auto focus drive, the AF is fast, smooth and quiet. Performance of the lens is excellent in the range from 70-135 mm and very good from 135-200 mm. There is some slight vignetting at 70mm.

Rating:

4.6 out of 5

Quality

This lens features Sigma's outstanding reputation for high quality at a moderate price. Use of the ELD glass and the HSM AF drive bring the quality of this lens up a step over its predecessor. And the fit and feel are truly professional. The finish is hard-coated and baked-on for durability. The optical formula and construction produce above average results throughout the range of focal length. Truly a pro quality lens.

Value

This lens proves to be an excellent value for the price. It is priced considerably lower than its counterparts from camera manufacturers, yet in some cases provides superior performance. It is fast and close focusing (a uniform 38 inches throughout the range of focal lengths. The lens is well-constructed, quiet and the weight is comfortable enough to be used all day. This could well become the primary lens for a wildlife or nature photographer.

Summary

This lens is an excellent choice in a medium-range telephoto. It should prove quite versatile, being suited for portrait and close-up work as well as at longer distances. It features a magnification that ranges from 1:8.8 to 1:3.3. It's quiet enough for nature and wildlife photography and fast enough for shooting sports. Overall an excellent lens at a reasonable price, given its capabilities.

Pros

70-200mm f2.8
Fast and quiet AF
Reasonably light weight
Solid, durable construction

Cons

There are no cons for this product