Sigma 17-70mm F2.8-4 DC Macro OS HSM | Contemporary

Canon EF

Review

The Sigma 17-70mm F2.8-4 DC Macro OS HSM | Contemporary is an impressive offering in the versatile zoom category, particularly for Canon EF mount users. This lens strikes a balance between performance, versatility, and price, making it an attractive option for both enthusiasts and serious photographers.

Build Quality and Design

One of the first things you’ll notice about the Sigma 17-70mm is its solid construction. The lens feels durable in hand, with a clean matte finish that doesn't show fingerprints easily. The zoom and focus rings are smooth and provide a nice tactile feedback, which is a pleasure during use. Weighing approximately 565 grams, it’s reasonably lightweight for a lens with this range and build.

Image Quality

In terms of image quality, this lens does not disappoint. The F2.8-4 maximum aperture allows for good low light performance, while still maintaining a decent depth of field. The lens produces sharp images throughout most of its focal range, especially at the wide open apertures. Chromatic aberration and distortion are well-controlled, particularly for a zoom lens. When shooting at the macro end, the lens delivers impressive detail and bokeh that many would find suitable for close-up work and portraits.

Autofocus Performance

The autofocus system is powered by a Hyper Sonic Motor (HSM), which provides fast and silent focusing, making it excellent for both stills and video. In general, the autofocus is reliable, but in low light conditions, it may struggle slightly more compared to some of the higher-end models. The lens also offers a full-time manual focus override, which is a convenient feature for precise adjustments.

Versatility

With a zoom range that covers wide-angle to short telephoto (17-70mm), this lens is incredibly versatile. It’s suitable for everything from landscapes and portraits to street photography and casual family snapshots. The macro capability, allowing for 1:2 magnification, adds another layer of functionality, making it a great tool for photographing details.

Pros and Cons

Pros

• Solid build quality with a comfortable grip.
• Good image quality across the zoom range with minimal distortion.
• Fast and silent autofocus due to HSM.
• Versatile focal range and macro capabilities.
• Reasonably priced, offering great value for the performance.

Cons

• Autofocus can struggle in exceptionally low light conditions.
• Some users may find the maximum aperture of F4 at the long end slightly limiting for low-light scenarios.
• Lacks weather sealing, which might be a concern for outdoor photographers.

Verdict

The Sigma 17-70mm F2.8-4 DC Macro OS HSM | Contemporary is an excellent all-around lens for Canon EF mount users, providing a well-balanced mix of performance, build quality, and versatility. While it’s not without its minor drawbacks, its strengths make it an appealing choice for both amateur and intermediate photographers looking for a great standard zoom with added macro capabilities. Whether you're capturing landscapes or detailed close-ups, this lens is certainly one to consider adding to your kit.