Sigma?

[mrod]

Does anyone have any general thoughts or experiences with Sigma lenses in terms of quality and performance? I'm looking at some basic, cost-effective, entry-level ones (a 18-50 and/or 55-200).

Mike

[Larop]

I have a Simga EX DG 70-200 F2.8 APO that I got for use with my D-80 and I have been very impressed with the sharpness and overall operation of the lens. It's tight and autofocus is quick. I think it's a great value and if you look at various forums you'll see alot of people using zooms of this focal length and F2.8 for many situations. I also have a shorter Tamron zoom F2.8 that I had to send in for warranty repair because the zoom wouldn't hold position and was very loose. Tamron did repair it at no charge in about 3 weeks. So far I haven't had any problems with my Sigma.

L

[Codebreaker]

I have a Sigma 17-70 DC on my Canon 400D and get excellent results from it.

Colin

[rkmart]

I have a SIGMA 24-70mm F/2.8 DG and I find it is very sharp. I keep it on my camera most of the time. :):)

[Bayla]

Mike,

I have a Sigma Compact Hyperzoom 28-200mm 1:3.5-5.6 MACRO which my dh bought on recommendation after I dropped my camera & damaged my Canon 28-135mm lens. I'm very pleased with it.

Bayla

[lexcell]

As I have already stated, I prefer to stick with the manufacturers brand of lenses whenever I can. However, when budget is a concern (when is it not a concern?), you can get some pretty good quality lenses for less money when buying a Sigma/Tamron lens.

Right out of the box, they can pretty much stand up to a Nikon or Canon equivalent in image resolution. The entry level lenses are about the same in construction and durability. But, when you look at the higher end lenses, Canon and Nikon will withstand the time of heavy use and abuse better.

Occasionally, I have come across a third party lens that is not compatible with a new camera. Nikon and Canon do not share their technology with anyone so third party manufacturers have to backwards engineer their products. And, they do an excellent job. But, they do not know what whiz bang new feature is just around the corner and what that extra contact on the lens will do in future camera models. This is the exception rather than the rule but, something to think about.

Most importantly, buy a lens that suits your style of photography. Do some research and find the lens that will capture your subjects the way you want it to. Don't let the lens you buy determine your style (which is what the kit lenses do by not giving you the choice of which lens to buy).

Things to consider are:
Focal length (angle of view)
Zoom or prime
Speed (maximum aperture)
Minimum focus distance (how close you can get)
Cost

[MikeH]

I have a Sigma 17-70 DC on my Canon 400D and get excellent results from it.

I also have the 17-70 DC, but on a 350D. This is an excellent lens, great results across the range. It's a popular choice for Canon owners as an alternative to the kit lens. This lens hardly comes off my camera.

[mlspmk]

I have to agree, the Sigma 17 - 70 is one heck of a lens. Well priced - I love mine.