The 17-70mm focal range is also close to what's possible before a swag of optical performance compromises come into play in order to enable a longer zooming ratio. Consequently, the Sigma is a strong performer across its entire focal range with excellent uniformity of sharpness and brightness.

The kit lenses you get with digital SLRs are good value, but they're not always terribly good lenses. The problem is though, that the next step up from the camera maker's own lens range is a big one. For example, Canon's EF-S 17-85mm has a list price of £600 and Nikon' 16-85mm is £550.

Yes, I would recommend this to a friend

Consistent Output; Durable; Easily Interchangeable; Rugged; Sharp Focus; Strong Construction

Slight vignette

5/5

bargain lens; amazing images; quiet in AF mode

works best in natural light; extra equipment needed; MF is 'noisy.

I purchased this lens as an upgrade for my Canon 400D 17-55mm kit lens about 6 months ago. I am glad I did! It’s a little gem, that seems to get over looked. I did plenty of research before parting with my cash, and had my eye on the Canon 17-85mm EFS.

I've had the lens now for 1 week and I've put it thru some basic macro and non-macro shots in both low-light, ambient light and sunlight conditions. The lens has performed exceptional in all instances. Paired with my new Canon T4i camera I am getting amazing images in my opinion.

Outstanding macro; sharp images; excellent OS

zoom rotation is backwards from the other Sigma lenses I've used

Hands down best lens for the money. While it's not Nikkor, it is also not over $1k. When my original lens broke after 4 years of abuse (I live in East Africa) I replaced it with a different Sigma. After not getting the same quality shots I bought this one again.

Since I was very pleased with the Sigma 30mm 1.4 EX and 180mm macro EX, I bought this lens second hand to see if it could replace my good old but dying EF 24-85 3.5-4.5 USM (own Canon 10-22, 70-200L f:4, 100-400L, 400L 5.6, 60 2.8 macro, 18-55 IS kitlens, use also 17-40L and 50 1.4).

fast and correct AF; good image stabilisation; sharp on wide angle at f:2.8; short focus distance

not sharp at f:4 on the long side; big and heavy; yellowish color tone compared to Canons

Tried to save some money by buying an after market product. Did not take go pictures when lens was entended out to 70mm. Built cheap. You get what you pay for. Taking back. Going to get the actual Canon lens.

Yes, I would recommend this to a friend

Easily Interchangeable; Fast / accurate auto-focus; Nice Bokeh

Heavy