Sigma 70-200mm 1:2.8 EX DG OS HSM Review

Sigma's latest image-stabilized fast telezoom offers a fine option for budget-conscious buyers, with a unique combination of features for the price. It can't quite match its Canon and Nikon equivalents, but then again it's not as expensive either.

Budget-aware buyers looking for an optically-stabilized fast telephoto lens.;

Applications for which portability or discretion is more valuable than outright image quality. Event photographers who regularly shoot in wet or dusty weather.;

Sigma APO 70-200mm F2.8 EX DG OS HSM Review

The Sigma APO 70-200mm F2.8 EX DG OS HSM ($1,259) is a less-expensive professional alternative to similar lenses from Canon, Nikon, and Sony. The stabilized 70-200mm f/2.8 zoom is the go-to lens for many an event shooter, and getting one for under $2,000 is an appealing prospect. For the most part, the Sigma 70-200mm delivers solid performance, but it doesn't offer the impeccable image quality that you'll get from our Editors' Choice Canon EF 70-200mm f/2.8L IS II USM ($2,199.00 at Amazon) . The APO 70-200mm ($1,389.00 at Amazon)  is available for Canon, Nikon, Sigma, and Sony cameras, but because it's an older lens it's not available for the Sigma's mount conversion service. It measures 7.8 by 3.4 inches (HD) and is heavy at 3.2 pounds. There are a couple of toggle switches on the lens barrel: one to change between automatic and manual focus, and the other to adjust the image stabilization mode. It can be turned off, put in Mode 1 for standard shots, or put in Mode 2 for shots w...

The Sigma APO 70-200mm F2.8 EX DG OS HSM is a value option for professional shooters who want a stabilized f/2.8 telezoom.

Excellent center sharpness through most of its range; Fixed f/2.8 aperture; Includes tripod collar; Optically stabilized

So-so images at 200mm f/2.8; Distortion at 70mm; Edge performance could be better