We all know that when it comes to lenses, you don't have to stick to the big names to get great quality. What's more, you'll almost always pay significantly less for a third-party lens with the same features, and a few manufacturers regularly produce lenses with equal or higher ratings than the “big guys”. As always, we're keeping an eye out for those awesome bargain lenses and it's time to tell you about a few more. Without further ado, here they are:
Sigma 18-35mm F1.8 DC HSM Zoom
We certainly don't have to introduce anyone to Sigma's lenses. They've been setting the bar high for years. This is a breakthrough lens and all you need to do to understand why is look at that maximum aperture size of f/1.8. It's the first to successfully maintain such a wide aperture throughout a wide angle zoom range. That means better low-light performance and better bokeh than the competiton, even at wide angles.
It's designed specifically for APS-C sensor cameras, but will mount on your full-frame, too, with very little vignetting. Internal focusing keeps the length fixed and it won't rotate your filters when you zoom or focus. The HSM motor is both fast and silent. Because it's compatible with Sigma's USB Dock, you can even fine-tune the focus as well as update the lens firmware when necessary.
As is typical with Sigma, the build of this lens is incredible, with their signature light weight, solid grip and smooth operation. It's got all the quality features you'd expect, too. It's available in Canon mount, Nikon mount, Sony Alpha mount and Pentax K mount versions.
Tamron AF18-270MM F/3.5-6.3 Di II VC PZD Zoom
Talk about a walk-around lens for your crop sensor camera! This one covers just about any shooting situation you'll encounter and it bears another name that we don't have to introduce. Tamron is an award-winner and this lens is an example of why.
With a 15X zoom range from 18mm to 270mm, you might not ever have to take this one off your DSLR. It's no bare-bones lens, either – it features an ultra-quiet and fast piezo-electric focusing drive and Tamron's own tri-axial vibration compensation that can get you up to 4 stops more hand-held shooting! It's compact, lightweight and fast, and engineered just for your APS-C camera.
Imagine the freedom of composition, quick adjustment to changing scenes or subject movement and the general range of genres you can cover with this incredible zoom range! If you're looking for the ultimate all-in-one lens, this may be it. You'll be amazed at the low cost, too! Take a look at the Sony mount, Nikon mount, or Canon mount version, depending on the DSLR you're shooting with.
Don't worry; we'll keep our ears to the ground and bring you more awesome deals and groundbreaking gear! Meanwhile, check out one of our favorite photo gear retailers, below: