Sigma 10-20mm F4-5.6 EX DC HSM

Canon EF

Review

The Sigma 10-20mm F4-5.6 EX DC HSM is a lens designed primarily for digital SLR cameras with APS-C sensors, making it a great choice for Canon EF mount cameras. This ultra-wide-angle zoom lens has garnered attention from photographers who enjoy landscape, architecture, and interior photography, thanks to its impressive field of view and sharp performance.

Build and Design

This lens features a solid build quality, typical of Sigma's EX lineup. The exterior is composed of high-quality materials that provide durability while remaining relatively lightweight. The lens weighs in at around 500g, which is manageable for extended periods of shooting. The focus and zoom rings are smooth and provide a good grip, allowing for precise adjustments during shooting. The lens hood included with the Sigma 10-20mm is a welcome addition, helping to prevent flare and improve contrast in bright lighting conditions.

Optical Performance

Optically, the Sigma 10-20mm excels in delivering sharp and detailed images even at wide apertures. The lens is equipped with Super Multi-Layer Coating, which helps to reduce ghosting and flare, making it ideal for shooting in tricky lighting conditions. At 10mm, you can expect some distortion, a common trait among ultra-wide-angle lenses, but it can usually be corrected in post-processing. The focal length range also allows for versatility, enabling photographers to capture expansive landscapes or tight interiors with ease.

Autofocus and Usability

The Hyper Sonic Motor (HSM) provides fast and quiet autofocus performance, which is essential for both stills and video work. However, there are some nuances to consider; while the autofocus is generally reliable, it can occasionally hunt in low-light situations or when faced with a low-contrast subject. The lens features a minimum focusing distance of 24 cm, giving you the ability to get up close to your subjects while still capturing the vastness of your surroundings.

Pros and Cons

Pros

• Ultra-wide zoom range (10-20mm) for expansive views.
• Solid build quality with a lightweight design.
• Sharp images with good color rendition.
• Fast and quiet autofocus thanks to HSM.
• Good control over flare and ghosting.

Cons

• Some distortion at 10mm, which may require correction in post.
• Autofocus can struggle in low-light or low-contrast situations.
• Lack of image stabilization may be a drawback for certain users.

Verdict

The Sigma 10-20mm F4-5.6 EX DC HSM lens is an excellent choice for Canon EF mount photographers seeking an affordable ultra-wide-angle solution. With its solid build, sharp optical performance, and effective autofocus, it provides good value for those who primarily shoot landscapes or architectural photography. While it does have some minor drawbacks—such as distortion at the wide end and occasional autofocus challenges in less-than-ideal lighting—its benefits outweigh these issues for most users. Overall, this lens is a strong contender in the wide-angle category and should be on the radar of anyone looking to expand their photographic horizons.