Sigma EX 100-300mm F4 DG APO HSM Review
General information
This is a zoom lens manufactured by Sigma and the lens was released 2004.
The lens belongs to the category
telephoto zoom lenses, a telephoto lens where you have the possibility to zoom in and out.
Product description from Sigma
At launch 2004 Sigma wrote this regarding Sigma EX 100-300mm F4 DG APO HSM :
"Designed for use with full frame digital SLR cameras. May also be used with smaller APS-c size sensors with a corresponding effective increase in focal length to about 150 to 400mm with most cameras
HSM (Hyper-Sonic Motor) ensures a quiet & high-speed auto focus
Inner zooming and inner focusing eliminates front lens rotation & suitable for use of polarizing filters
A lens hood, front & rear lens caps and carrying case are included with the lens.
Sigma’s APO 100-300mm F4 EX DG is a telephoto zoom lens that allows photographers to take advantage of a long focal length for effect such as shortening perspective between the subject and background of blending subject that are in and out of focus. Three SLD (Special Low Dispersion) glass elements provide optimum color correction & sharpness throughout the entire zoom range. Compatible with Sigma 1.4 & 2x Tele Converters. This lens is an excellent performer in the EX professional series, incorporating key technologies such as apochromatic formulation for sharp images with precise color and a hypersonic motor for fast focusing."
Compatibility, autofocus and focal length
The lens is available for both Canon and Nikon cameras, but there are two different versions of this lens (one for each brand and mount) so it is important that you ask for and choose the right version when bying the lens.
This lens is constructed to fit all models of Canon and Nikon cameras, regardless of camera model or type of sensor.
The ability to use autofocus is available for all cameras.
The lens has a focal length of 100-300 mm. Depending on which camera the lens is used, the experienced and perceived focal length will be different. Please visit the list of compatible cameras below, it will provide the equivalent focal length you get on each camera.
A positive thing is that this lens has a versitale zoom range, where the difference between 'maximum zoomed out' to 'maximum zoomed in' increases the lens versatility since you as a photographer easily can compose your picture without moving yourself physically.
- See compatible cameras and perceived/equivalent focal length
- See a full camera compatibility chart for Sigma EX 100-300mm F4 DG APO HSM
- Read more about focal length and your field of view
- Read more on the cameras impact on the perceived focal length
Lens brightness and image stabilizer
The lens brightness and aperture value is f/4.
The lens is to considered fairly bright. This will make it so much easier shooting in darker environments where you do not want or can use flash lighting, for example in churches or at different sports venues. Lenses with good aperture values and longer focal lengths, such as this lens, tend to be popular amongs sports and nature photographers.
A feature worth commenting, which is also related to lens brightness, is that the brightness and maximum aperture-value remains constant regardless of focal length used. This makes it easier for you as a photographer. No matter if you are have the focus ring and focal length at 100 mm or at 300 mm the aperture value can be f/4.
The lens lacks image stabilization, which otherwise os good for avoiding the blur that can occur when using slow shutter speeds.
Filter and Lens Hood
The lens has a traditional filter thread on the front and its measuring 82 mm which also the filter you will use must have. If you use for example an UV filter can be a cheap insurance against scratches and dust.
Together with the lens there is a lens hood included but we have unfortunately no further information on model etc so feel free to contact us if you know more.
Tripod Mount
This lens is equipped with a tripod mount, which makes use of a tripod easier and more stable.
Images of Sigma EX 100-300mm F4 DG APO HSM
In order to see larger product images of the lens, click the link below.
Things to consider before buying
Below you will find some summarized points and facts that can be considered as the 'pros and cons' of this lens. These are based entirely on the facts and values that are accessible through the lens specification, so we highly recommend that you also read the reported reviews available (see tab 'Reviews'); this in order to get a more complete view of the lens and its capabilities. Reviewer opinions reflect the lens, its use and its optical performance in a more accurate way, but any way - here a few different points to consider before buying this lens.
- Constant maximum aperture value regardless of focal length
- An impressive focal range
- Works on all sensor types
- Has a built-in autofocus motor
- A lens hood is included
- A tripod mount is included
- No built-in image stabilizer
- The lens is not sealed against moisture and dust
- Heavy (1440 gr)
Our Review Ratings
Time to grade Sigma EX 100-300mm F4 DG APO HSM .
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| Overall rating | 3 of 5 |
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