Sigma 18-300mm F3.5-6.3 DC Macro OS HSM Contemporary Review
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