Sigma 17-70mm F2.8-4 DC HSM OS Macro Review
General information
This is a zoom lens manufactured by Sigma and the lens was released 2009.
The lens belongs to the category
standard zoom lenses, a normal lens where you have the possibility to zoom in and out.
The lens has macro-properties but is unable to reproduce things in their real size (otherwise called '1:1'). You should therefor consider taking the term 'macro' with a pinch of salt and if the macro-possibilities you are looking for you should perhaps look at other options.
Product description from Sigma
At launch 2009 Sigma wrote this regarding Sigma 17-70mm F2.8-4 DC HSM OS Macro:
"Sigma’s 17-70mm F2.8-4 DC Macro OS HSM is the practical zoom! A large-aperture, standard zoom lens for digital cameras with an open-aperture value of F2.8 (at 17mm) and covers the most frequently used focal lengths. With an aperture fast enough to be used in many light situations, its close focusing for use with very small object and its outstanding optical performance make this an ideal all-around lens for landscapes, portraits, still life studies, group shots and just about any everyday photo situation. 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 ensures quiet and high speed AF capability. With a faster aperture than the typical camera “kit lens” it is an excellent choice for the photographer who has higher expectations for their photo equipment.
Designed exclusively for use with smaller chip APS-c cameras
Offers Sigma’s OS System (Optical Stabilization) allowing handheld photography even in low-light situation
Close focusing down to only 8.7” away for a 1:2.7 magnification which is approximately ½ life size
Three aspherical & ELD glass elements provide critical sharpness & low distortion
A Super Multi-Coating is used to reduce the occurrence of flare & ghosting and delivers high performance across the entire focusing range
A lens hood and front & rear lens caps 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 17-70 mm. Since the lens is designed to be used on a camera with smaller sensor ('APS-C') the focal length will be equivalent to 27-112 mm if you have a Canon camera or 26-105 mm if you have a Niko camera.
- See compatible cameras and perceived/equivalent focal length
- See a full camera compatibility chart for Sigma 17-70mm F2.8-4 DC HSM OS Macro
- 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/2,8-4.
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.
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 17 mm the lens brightness is f/2,8 and at 70 mm the brightness is f/4. 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 72 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 "LH780-04".
Images of Sigma 17-70mm F2.8-4 DC HSM OS Macro
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.
- The price (more info)
- 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
- A variable lens brightness at different focal lengths
- The lens is called 'Macro' but can not reproduce at a scale of 1:1
- The lens is not sealed against moisture and dust
Our Review Ratings
Time to grade Sigma 17-70mm F2.8-4 DC HSM OS Macro.
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| Overall rating | 3 of 5 |
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