Sigma 17-50mm f/2.8 EX DC OS HSM

Photo answers review

Photo answers rating

As far as build quality is concerned, the Sigma 17-50mm f/2.8 EX DC OS HSM is very sturdy, with a rigid zoom barrel that doesn’t need much rotating to go through all the focal lengths. The lens is fitted with Sigma’s new FLD (‘F’ Low Dispersion) glass elements, and provides excellent correction for chromatic aberration. There are two FLD glass elements, as well as one hybrid aspherical lens which gives excellent correction for curvature. With all this techy-talk we decided to test the Sigma for image quality. It was extremely quick to focus, and easy, quick and smooth to rotate. All this, and at such a reasonable price too certainly provides food for thought... Combine this with the advantage of a great optical stabiliser and this Sigma is an attractive option.

PA verdict
The distinctive rattle when we first lifted the lens up to the camera body made our hearts sink. Thankfully our initial fears were unfounded, as shooting at all focal lengths during our time at a local market showed impressive image quality throughout the frame, and reinforced the solid results we’d already found when we shot our test chart in the studio. With its near-silent focusing you could easily shoot away discreetly without anyone hearing a thing. Sigma has definitely succeeded in continuing to create another affordable option for users of the top-selling DSLRs.

Key spec
Price: £489
Mount availability: Canon, Nikon, Sony, Pentax & Sigma 
Image stabilisation: Yes
Max. aperture: f/2.8
Min. aperture: f/22
Min. focus distance: 28cm
Construction: 17 elements in 13 groups
Diaphragm blades: 7
Filter thread: 77mm
Weight: 565g

www.sigma-imaging-uk.com/

As featured in the November 2012 issue of Practical Photography, for a back issue please contact please contact 0844 848 8872.