Sigma 18–250mm f/3.5–6.3 DC Macro OS HSM: Is it the All-Star All-Purpose Superzoom Lens?
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An approximate 35mm equivalent focal length range of 28–400mm.
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Maximum aperture of 3.5–6.3.
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Canon, Nikon, Pentax, Sigma and Sony metal mounts (APS-C/DX format DSLRs only).
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Built-in Optical Stabilization system (excluding Pentax and Sony versions).
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Fast, quiet Hypersonic Motor (HSM) focusing.
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High quality plastic components for a substantial feel in the photographer’s hands.
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Above-average smoothness during zoom and focus ring rotation.
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Two exterior switches for autofocus and image stabilization control.
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Barrel lock to retard zoom creep.
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Typical “double trombone” lens operation.
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Sigma: 16 elements in 13 groups with 1 Super Low Density (SLD) glass element and 3 aspherical elements.
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Tamron: 16 elements in 13 groups with low density and aspherical elements.
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Nikon: 19 elements in 14 groups with 3 Extra low Density (ED) elements.
Tamron and Sigma’s hold on the all-purpose superzoom lens market was recently challenged by the release of Nikon’s AF-S DX 18–300mm f/3.5–5.6G lens during June 2012. Not only does it carry the Nikon brand, but also offers the longest focal length range in any superzoom lens. (It also has the biggest price tag.) Sigma doesn’t seem to be interested in relinquishing any of its share of this market, however, and the evidence is the June 2012 introduction of its 18–250mm f/3.5–6.3 DC Macro OS HSM lens.
Want to see reviews from other photographers? Read them HERE on Amazon OR you can read reviews HERE on Adorama.
It will help to eliminate the confusion caused by the similarity of the name of this updated Sigma superzoom to its predecessor. It is the “18–250mm f/3.5–6.3 DC OS HSM,” while the updated version is the “18–250mm f/3.5–6.3 DC Macro OS HSM.” You’ll notice the word “Macro” missing from the name of the older models. This is a significant distinction because it represents one of the major improvements of the new lens, a minimum focus of 13.8” compared to its predecessor’s 17.7”.
The other major difference between the older and newer lens is size and weight. The “Macro” version is 2.9 x 3.5” (73.5 x 88.6mm) and 16.6 oz. (470g) while the “non-Macro” lens is 3.1 x 4” (79mm x 101mm) and 22.2 oz. (630g).
In all other respects, the new Sigma superzoom has the same features as its predecessor.
What will interest the all-purpose superzoom lens buyers the most is how the new Sigma compares to its “ancient” rival, the Tamron 18–270mm f/3.5–6.3 Di II VC PZD, and the newer Nikon AF-S DX 18–300mm f/3.5–5.6G.
The best place to start is size and weight because they are two of the primary factors when choosing to shoot with any superzoom. For enthusiasts and hobbyists, it’s a big step from the little 18–55mm kit lens that was bundled with their entry-level or mid-level DSLR purchase to the extra weight and bulkiness of a superzoom. That is why for this particular type of lens being absolutely sure one is ready to carry a much bigger lens is just as important (and maybe more so) as which brand to buy.
Weight and Dimension Comparisons of Superzoom Lenses
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Lenses |
Dimensions |
Weight |
|
Sigma 18–250mm f/3.5–6.3 |
2.9 x 3.5” (73.5 x 88.6mm) |
16.6 oz. (470g) |
|
Tamron 18–270mm f/3.5–6.3 |
3.5 x 3.8” (88mm x 96.4mm) |
15.9 oz. (450g) |
|
Nikon 18–300mm f/3.5–5.6 |
3.3 x 4.7” (83mm x 120mm) |
29.3 oz. (830g) |
Although the Tamron is a bit lighter, it is also a bit thicker and longer than the Sigma. The Nikon is a “heavyweight” by comparison.
Other points of comparison are 35mm equivalent focal length range and the glass element configurations. The Sigma has the equivalent focal lengths of 27–375mm for 1.5x APS-C DX format and 29–400mm for 1.6x Canon APS-C). At 18–270mm and 18–300mm, respectively, Tamron and Nikon deliver more 35mm equivalent focal length than the Sigma, with 28–419mm for the Tamron and 27–450mm for the Nikon. The comparison of optics is very similar.
All three lenses have their own versions of autofocus motors and image stabilization systems that provide the relatively same performance. The Sigma, Tamron and Nikon superzooms all share a similar tradeoff of all-purpose use against image quality. This is a characteristic of all superzooms; but most photographers buying one are willing to trade some image quality to have one lens that will shoot virtually all kinds of composition they choose to create.
The Sigma 18–250mm f/3.5–6.3 DC Macro OS HSM superzoom lens does an excellent job of finding that balance point; and provides a superior close-up capability that just might make it first on the list of superzooms…as of today!
The Sigma 18–250mm f/3.5–6.3 DC Macro OS HSM superzoom lens is available from Amazon for $549.00
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