I like that this lens works in small rooms and outdoors without having to swap lenses. This replaced my two kit lenses. Only issue is the zoom is a little stiff so no fast adjustments or smoove zoom but it doesn't creep when using which is good .

You can't expect the same performance from a superzoom lens like the Sigma 18-300mm F3.5-6.3 DC Macro OS HSM Contemporary ($579) as you can from a prime lens or a shorter high-quality zoom like Sigma's own 17-70mm F2.8-4 DC Macro OS HSM .

16.7x zoom range; 1:3 macro reproduction; Image stabilization; Available for multiple APS-C systems; Compact

Inconsistent sharpness; Noticeable image distortion; Dim corners

You can't expect the same performance from a superzoom lens like the Sigma 18-300mm F3.5-6.3 DC Macro OS HSM Contemporary ($579) as you can from a prime lens or a shorter high-quality zoom like Sigma's own 17-70mm F2.8-4 DC Macro OS HSM. But the convenience of an all-in-one zoom is not to be discounted, and the 18-300mm is a solid choice for photographers who desire wide angle coverage, telephoto reach, and close focus capability without having to swap lenses. But it's on the pricey side for a lens that isn't going to deliver top-quality images, and for that reason we rate the Sigma's less expensive, less ambitious 18-200mm F3.5-6.3 DC Macro OS HSM Contemporary slightly higher. DesignDespite its long zoom range, the 18-300mm is fairly compact. It measures 4 by 3.1 inches (HD), weighs 1.3 pounds, and supports 72mm front filters. Because the lens is designed to match the image sensor found in consumer SLRs, it's much smaller than similar superzooms for full-frame bodies, including ...

Sigma's 18-300mm F3.5-6.3 DC Macro OS HSM Contemporary lens covers an incredible zoom range, but makes compromises to do so.

16.7x zoom range; 1:3 macro reproduction; Image stabilization; Available for multiple APS-C systems; Compact

Inconsistent sharpness; Noticeable image distortion; Dim corners

This is a very good all round lens. If you need to travel light with just one lens, then this lens gives a greater range and flexibility than most other lenses. Performance is very good, but there are a few limitations as you would expect with a zoom lens of this range.

At this point we would like to thank both the Sigma Corporation headquarters and its Polish subsidiary, the Sigma ProCentrum for a speedy delivery of the final specimen of the tested lens.

useful focal range; good image quality in the frame centre; chromatic aberration corrected noticeably better than in the case of direct rivals; proper correction of spherical aberration; distortion correction better than that of the rivals; moderate coma at longer focal lengths; not especially...

weak image quality on the edge of the frame (apart from the 50 mm focal length); noticeable vignetting at both ends of focal range

This low-cost all-in-one lens is well-made and allows me to get great photos at a wide range of magnifications. While not as sharp as prime lenses, this lens is, in my opinion, acceptably sharp and easily corrected in DxO Optics Pro or similar programs to get great output.

low cost

This low-cost all-in-one lens is well-made and allows me to get great photos at a wide range of magnifications; While not as sharp as prime lenses, this lens is, in my opinion, acceptably sharp and easily corrected in DxO Optics Pro or similar programs to get great output.

Sigma are continuing to gradually update their lenses to fit into their 'Art', 'Sport' and 'Contemporary' lens lines. This new lens sports a 16.7x zoom range, silent focusing and optical stabilisation.

It seems that in the world of photography today the demand for lighter, and more versatile, gear is at an all time high. The average photographer (if there is such a thing) wants to be able to cover a huge variety of subjects, and carry as few lenses as possible. Shooting quick and light has …

The Sigma 18-300mm 3.5-6.3 DC HSM OS Macro is another impressive addition to the Sigma Global Vision Contemporary line. With a 16.6x zoom ratio covering focal lengths from wide to telephoto, this lens also offers a 1:3 macro ratio.

is one that is making us take a close look at the category again. Designed for cameras with APS-C sensors, it isn't the engineering feat that the is. This is part of Sigma's Contemporary series, but instead feels like an Art lens in many ways.