A good macro lens is a powerful tool in the hands of the right photographer. There are plenty out there, but few are as light, compact, and sharp as the Sigma 70mm F2.8 DG Macro Art ($569), a full-frame macro that can be bought for Canon, Sigma, and Sony cameras. It doesn't have a lot of flaws, but is a bit slow to focus, and doesn't include any sort of optical stabilization. Sigma's take on an affordable macro is an excellent lens, but one with a lot of competition. Our Editors' Choice is the Tamron SP 90mm f/2.8 Di Macro 1:1 VC USD, although it isn't available for all of the same systems as the Sigma. Light and Compact The size and weight of the 70mm ($519.00 at Amazon) varies a bit based on the version you get. If you shoot with a Canon SLR or a Sigma SA-mount camera you'll get the relatively tiny version—4.2 by 2.8 inches (HD) and 1.1 pounds. The versions for L-mount cameras from Leica, Panasonic, and Sigma, and E-mount Sony mirrorless cameras is slightly longer, about 7.5 inc...
The Sigma 70mm F2.8 DG Macro Art is a small, light 1:1 macro lens with sharp optics, but slow autofocus.
Excellent resolution; 1:1 macro magnification; Minimal distortion; Compact; Affordable; Available for multiple camera systems
Physically extends to focus, slowing performance; Omits optical stabilization; Not available in Nikon mount