Sigma 18-35mm F1.8 DC HSM Review
Prior to the introduction of the Sigma 18-35mm F1.8 DC HSM ($799 direct) lens shutterbugs with APS-C D-SLR cameras had to make a choice when it came to lens functionality. You can go with a zoom lens and cover a range of focal lengths, but even top-end models only opened up to f/2.8. Or you can opt for a prime lens with a wide aperture, but it doesn't support zooming. Sigma aims to change that with this lens. It's impressively sharp, but it is a bit large compared with slower zooms or fast prime lenses, and its zoom range is modest at 1.9x. It stills earns high marks and our Editors' Choice award; the lens is an accomplishment, and the fact that it doesn't come with a sky-high price tag means that more photographers will actually be able to shoot with it.
The lens is currently available to order in Sigma, Nikon, and Canon mounts, but Sigma also plans on offering it for Pentax and Sony/Minolta cameras. It isn't compatible with full-frame bodies; the image circle only covers an APS...
The Sigma 18-35mm F1.8 DC HSM delivers on its promise; it boasts the speed and sharpness of a prime lens, along with the convenience of a zoom.
Sharp; Wide aperture; Reasonable price tag; Available for several camera systems
Big; No optical stabilization; Some wide-angle barrel distortion; Modest zoom ratio