Digital-only speedsters in the 16–55mm range are at home in the Canon, Nikon, Pentax, and Tamron catalogs. All offer fast f/2.8 constant apertures and image stabilization (except for the Pentax, which puts IS in the camera).

The Sigma 17-50mm F2.8 EX DC OS HSM ($980 list) is a standard zoom lens for APS-C cameras . Like most Sigma lenses, it's available in a variety of lens mounts-Canon, Nikon, Sony/Minolta, Pentax, and Sigma in this case.

Soft wide open

For those who are looking for a pro lens at wide angle zone, this lens fits the bill perfectly. I have a T1i and was looking fr a good upgrade from my kit lens. The other options are Canon 17-55 and Tamron 17-50.

This Sigma lens, which can only be used on DX bodies, is a very versatile lens with few drawbacks.

The best sub-$700 stabilized f/2.8 midrange zoom

No full time manual focus

Gary Wolstenholme takes a look at Sigma's flagship standard zoom for APS-C digital SLR cameras. Sigma's 17-50mm f/2.8 EX DC OS HSM costs around ￡590 and is available for Sigma, Canon, Nikon, Sony and Pentax SLR cameras that have an APS-C or smaller sized sensor.

Excellent performance in the centre between 28 and 50mm when stopped down; Effective Optical Stabiliser; Compact and lightweight for an f/2.8 zoom

Lens really needs stopping down for best results; Sharpness towards the edges; Focus ring cannot be disengaged

The Sigma AF 17-50mm f/2.8 EX DC HSM OS is a highly competitive APS-C standard zoom lens and Sigma's best product in this class so far. It's not a flawless lens but none really is.

Great standard zoom! Didn't know what I was missing. Smaller than Canon's offering and much more affordable. Autofocus at first seemed iffy but was using in inadequate light. Turns out to be most accurate 3rd party lens I have.

Consistent Output; Fast / accurate auto-focus; Nice Bokeh

A compact standard zoom lens for APS-C digital SLRs from Sigma with a bright constant f/2.8 aperture, optical stabilisation and a silent focusing motor.

Excellent performance in the centre between 28 and 50mm when stopped down; Effective Optical Stabiliser; Compact and lightweight for an f/2.8 zoom

Lens really needs stopping down for best results; Sharpness towards the edges; Focus ring cannot be disengaged

This lens worked wonderfully for a wedding I recently photographed. Great pictures from this lens and my Canon 60D. About half the price of the Canon lens.

Fast focusing; Very sharp

heavy and bulky

Piqué superlatif pour ce sigma et surtout dès la pleine ouverture; le centre est exceptionnel, les angles très bons (il faut visionner à 100% pour distinguer la différence entre les angles et le centre). Avec un Canon 60D, les clichés à 2.8 en basse lumière sont étonnants de précision.

Piqué à toutes les focales et dès 2.8; Qualité de construction; Livré complet avec pare soleil et housse; Compacité et poids

Aucune