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

Sigma EX 70-200mm F2.8 II APO HSM DG Macro

General information

This is a zoom lens manufactured by Sigma and the lens was released 2008.
The lens belongs to the category telephoto zoom lenses, a telephoto lens where you have the possibility to zoom in and out.

The lens has macro-properties but is unable to reproduce things in their real size (otherwise called '1:1'). You should therefor consider taking the term 'macro' with a pinch of salt and if the macro-possibilities you are looking for you should perhaps look at other options.

Product description from Sigma

At launch 2008 Sigma wrote this regarding Sigma EX 70-200mm F2.8 II APO HSM DG Macro:

"Sigma’s APO 70-200mm F2.8 II EX DG Macro HSM is for any serious photographer where the 70-200mm focal range is often the most important second lens to own after the initial standards lens or mid range zoom. The fast aperture is extremely useful and important in low light environments or when shooting fast moving situations where a higher shutter speed demands maximum lights thru the lens. Over 5 low dispersion, SLD (Special Low Dispersion) and ELD (Extraordinary Low Dispersion) glass elements provide optimum color correction & sharpness throughout the entire zoom range Super Multi-Layer lens coating reduces flare ghosting and assures high image quality throughout the entire zoom range. Its exceptional versatility as an all-around lens is perfect for journalists and wedding photographers. This latest version of the Sigma 70-200mm is well regarded for its outstanding image quality, light weight and ease of operation.

Designed for use with full frame digital SLR cameras. May also be used with smaller APS-c size sensors with a corresponding effective increase in focal length to about 100 to 300mm with most cameras

HSM (Hyper-Sonic Motor) ensures a quiet & high-speed auto focus

Minimum focusing distance of 39 inches & high close-up capabilities with a maximum magnification of 1:3.5

Extremely compact design weighing only 48.3 ounces & measures only 7 inches in length

A lens hood, front & rear lens caps and carrying case are included with the lens. "

Product description from Sigma at launch 2008

Compatibility, autofocus and focal length

The lens is available for both Canon and Nikon cameras, but there are two different versions of this lens (one for each brand and mount) so it is important that you ask for and choose the right version when bying the lens.

This lens is constructed to fit all models of Canon and Nikon cameras, regardless of camera model or type of sensor.

The ability to use autofocus is available for all cameras.

The lens has a focal length of 70-200 mm. Depending on which camera the lens is used, the experienced and perceived focal length will be different. Please visit the list of compatible cameras below, it will provide the equivalent focal length you get on each camera.

A positive thing is that this lens has a versitale zoom range, where the difference between 'maximum zoomed out' to 'maximum zoomed in' increases the lens versatility since you as a photographer easily can compose your picture without moving yourself physically.

Lens brightness and image stabilizer

The lens brightness and aperture value is f/2,8.

This aperture value indicates that the lens is very bright.  This will make it so much easier shooting in darker environments where you do not want or can use flash lighting, for example in churches or at different sports venues. Lenses with good aperture values and longer focal lengths, such as this lens, tend to be popular amongs sports and nature photographers.

A feature worth commenting, which is also related to lens brightness, is that the brightness and maximum aperture-value remains constant regardless of focal length used. This makes it easier for you as a photographer. No matter if you are have the focus ring and focal length at 70 mm or at 200 mm the aperture value can be f/2,8.

The lens lacks image stabilization, which otherwise os good for avoiding the blur that can occur when using slow shutter speeds. Since the lens is bright, with good aperture value, the lack of image stabilization might not be that big of a deal, although a image stabilizer is always an advantage to have.

Filter and Lens Hood

This lens does not support the use of filters which is slightly negative. To have the option to use filters, for their optic purpose or as protection, would have been nice but no.

If you buy this lens it will come with a lens hood, whose model name is "LH850-01".

Tripod Mount

This lens is equipped with a tripod mount, which makes use of a tripod easier and more stable.

Things to consider before buying

Below you will find some summarized points and facts that can be considered as the 'pros and cons' of this lens. These are based entirely on the facts and values that are accessible through the lens specification, so we highly recommend that you also read the reported reviews available (see tab 'Reviews'); this in order to get a more complete view of the lens and its capabilities. Reviewer opinions reflect the lens, its use and its optical performance in a more accurate way, but any way - here a few different points to consider before buying this lens.

  • The lens brightness, f/2,8
  • Constant maximum aperture value regardless of focal length
  • An impressive focal range
  • Works on all sensor types
  • Has a built-in autofocus motor
  • A lens hood is included
  • A tripod mount is included
  • Not possible to use filters
  • The lens is called 'Macro' but can not reproduce at a scale of 1:1
  • The lens is not sealed against moisture and dust
  • Heavy (1370 gr)

Our Review Ratings

Time to grade Sigma EX 70-200mm F2.8 II APO HSM DG Macro.

Build Quality     
Image Quality     
Autofocus     
Sharpness     
Versatility     
Value     
Overall rating 3 of 5

Best deals on Sigma EX 70-200mm F2.8 II APO HSM DG Macro

Make sure to check out our price information page for best offers on this lens.