Sigma EX 17-50mm F2.8 DC 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
standard zoom lenses, a normal lens where you have the possibility to zoom in and out.
Product description from Sigma
At launch 2010 Sigma wrote this regarding Sigma EX 17-50mm F2.8 DC OS HSM:
"Sigma’s new 17-50mm F2.8 EX DC OS HSM large-aperture standard zoom lens covers a focal length from 17mm wide angle and offers a large aperture of F2.8 throughout the entire zoom range, making it ideal for many types of photography especially portraiture and landscapes. The OS, Sigma’s anti shake feature offers the use of shutter speeds approximately 4 stops slower than would otherwise be possible. The OS feature allows Sony and Pentax users the option of viewing a stabilized image in the viewfinder, a feature offered only by Sigma. HSM provides fast and quiet AF. Sigma’s own FLD glass elements, which have performance equal to fluorite along with two glass mold and one hybrid aspherical lens, provide excellent correction for all types of aberrations. The Super Multi-Layer coating reduces flare and ghosting. This lens boasts superior peripheral brightness and provides sharp, high contrast images even at the maximum apertures. With a minimum focusing distance of 11 inches throughout the entire zoom range and a magnification ratio of 1:5. When you need to stand ready for any photo opportunity you need a fast aperture so you can shoot in low existing light or at maximum range with a flash. This Sigma lens is perfect. With its compact size and light weight, it’s a necessary addition to your camera bag
For use with smaller chip APS-c digital cameras only
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
FLD glass elements with performance equal to fluorite glass for compensate for color aberration
Ultra compact with overall length of just 3.6”
A lens hood, front & rear lens cap 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 designed and meant for Canon and Nikon cameras with a smaller sensor (often referred to as 'APS-C') which means that the lens does not fit all camera models. By clicking on the link below you can make sure that the lens works with your camera model and you should do an additional check with your local dealer as well, before you buy the lens just to be sure.
The ability to use autofocus is available for all cameras.
The lens has a focal length of 17-50 mm. Since the lens is designed to be used on a camera with smaller sensor ('APS-C') the focal length will be equivalent to 27-80 mm if you have a Canon camera or 26-75 mm if you have a Niko camera.
- See compatible cameras and perceived/equivalent focal length
- See a full camera compatibility chart for Sigma EX 17-50mm F2.8 DC 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/2,8.
This aperture value indicates that the lens is very 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.
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 17 mm or at 50 mm the aperture value can be f/2,8.
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.
Filter and Lens Hood
The lens has a traditional filter thread on the front and its measuring 77 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 "LH825-03 583".
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.
- The lens brightness, f/2,8
- Constant maximum aperture value regardless of focal length
- Has a built-in image stabilizer
- Has a built-in autofocus motor
- A lens hood is included
- Works only on cameras with APS-C sensor
- The lens is not sealed against moisture and dust
- Heavy (565 gr)
Our Review Ratings
Time to grade Sigma EX 17-50mm F2.8 DC OS HSM.
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| Overall rating | 3 of 5 |
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