Sigma EX 50-500mm F4-6.3 DG APO OS HSM Review
General information
This is a zoom lens manufactured by Sigma and the lens was released 2010.
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 2010 Sigma wrote this regarding Sigma EX 50-500mm F4-6.3 DG APO OS HSM:
"Sigma’s NEW APO 50-500mm F4.5-6.3 DG OS HSM is an advanced optical design of this 10x power high-performance zoom lens that covers the standard-to-super-telephoto range, now with the added advantage of Sigma’s own Optical Stabilization which offers the use of shutter speeds approximately 4 stops slower than would otherwise be possible. Sigma is the only one to offer OS for Sony and Pentax mount where the image is stabilized in the viewfinder if chosen.
For many photographers, having an “all-in-one” lens is an absolute dream. Especially for nature photographers, the idea of a lens suitable for landscape photography at the short end of the zoom range, while still having enough reach for wildlife is a great option. Add to that, the ability to close focus on small objects in the field such as flowers and it’s the perfect backpackers’ lens. Four SLD (Special Low Dispersion) glass elements provide optimum color correction & sharpness throughout the entire zoom range and super Multi-Layer lens coating reduces flare and ghosting and assures high image quality throughout the entire zoom range. With no need to change lenses, there is less chance of dirt or moisture entering the camera and fouling the imaging sensor.
The filter size of this lens is Diameter 95mm and the lens is supplied with a step down ring enabling digital cameras with an APS-C size image sensor to use an Diameter 86mm filter.
*It is not possible to use a Polarizing filter with the step down ring. If you attach a Polarizing filter, you may not be able to remove it from the lens again.
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 75 to 750mm with most cameras
10x high zoom ration ultra telephoto zoom lens
Offers Sigma’s OS System (Optical Stabilization) allowing handheld photography even in low-light situation
HSM (Hyper-Sonic Motor) ensures a quiet & high-speed auto focus
Four SLD (Special Low Dispersion) glass elements provide optimum color correction & sharpness throughout the entire zoom range
A lens hood, hood adapter, front & rear lens caps and carrying case are included with the lens. "
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 50-500 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 50-500mm F4-6.3 DG APO OS 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/4-6,3.
This lens is not considered to have a good aperture value and brightness. It is something to consider before you purchase the lens. To compensate for this you might, while photographing in less favorable light conditions, be forced to either use higher ISO settings (which generates more noise in the image), slower shutter speeds (which may give some motion blur) or flash lightning. Read more at the link below what lens brightness means to you as a photographer.
One thing to consider is that the lens has a variable brightness, which means that depending on how much you are zooming the lens will have a different maximum aperture value. At 50 mm the lens brightness is f/4 and at 500 mm the brightness is f/6,3. Through the link below you can read more about what this could mean for you as a photographer.
Inside the lens there is an image stabilizer, which helps to fend off possible movements and tremors. This is very positive and can be of great help in situations and conditions where the light is inadequate and not enough for decent shutter speeds.
- Read more about the aperture and lens brightness
- Read more about changing brightness at different focal lengths
- Read more about how an image stabilizer works
Filter and Lens Hood
The lens has a traditional filter thread on the front and its measuring 95 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.
If you buy this lens it will come with a lens hood, whose model name is "LH1030-01 738".
Tripod Mount
This lens is equipped with a tripod mount, which makes use of a tripod easier and more stable.
Images of Sigma EX 50-500mm F4-6.3 DG APO OS 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.
- Has a built-in image stabilizer
- Long focal length with its 500 mm
- 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
- Poor aperture value with its f/6,3
- A variable lens brightness at different focal lengths
- The lens is not sealed against moisture and dust
- Heavy (1970 gr)
Our Review Ratings
Time to grade Sigma EX 50-500mm F4-6.3 DG APO OS HSM.
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| Value |
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| Overall rating | 3 of 5 |
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