Sigma 24-70mm F2.8 EX DG Macro

Canon EF

Review

The Sigma 24-70mm F2.8 EX DG Macro is an impressive standard zoom lens that caters to a variety of shooting situations, making it a popular choice among Canon EF mount users. Known for its versatile focal range and constant f/2.8 aperture, this lens is designed for both amateur and professional photographers looking for quality performance without breaking the bank.

When it comes to build quality, the lens feels solid in hand with a robust construction. It has a matte finish that looks great and reduces the chances of reflections during shoots. The zoom mechanism operates smoothly, and the inclusion of a focus distance scale is a thoughtful touch for those who want to keep track of their focusing distance, especially useful in macro photography. This lens also features a 1:3 macro capability, allowing users to get up close to their subjects.

Optically, the Sigma 24-70mm offers sharp images across the entire aperture range. At f/2.8, the lens produces impressive sharpness, especially at the center, while maintaining decent edge performance. As you stop down to f/4 or f/5.6, sharpness improves further, making it an ideal choice for landscape photography or portraits. However, be prepared to witness some distortion at the wide end, which is typical for zoom lenses in this category. Fortunately, software corrections in post-production can effectively mitigate this issue.

One of the significant advantages of this lens is its versatility. Whether you are shooting portraits, landscapes, or even close-ups, this lens has you covered. The 70mm focal length is particularly favorable for portraits, allowing for nice subject isolation. The fast f/2.8 aperture ensures good performance in low-light situations, making it a go-to option for event photography and indoor shooting.

However, there are some areas where the Sigma 24-70mm might fall short. Some users may find that the autofocus system, while generally reliable, can occasionally be slower in low-light conditions compared to other high-end competitors. Additionally, the lens is on the heavier side, which may be an inconvenience for users who prefer more compact setups.

Pros and Cons

Pros

• Build quality is robust and feels solid
• Constant f/2.8 aperture across the zoom range
• Exceptional sharpness from center to edge, especially at f/4 and beyond
• Macro capability that allows for close focus
• Versatile focal range suitable for various photography styles

Cons

• Some distortion at the wide end
• Autofocus can be slower in low-light conditions
• Heavier than some competitors in the same category

Verdict

Overall, the Sigma 24-70mm F2.8 EX DG Macro lens is a remarkable option for Canon EF mount users seeking a high-quality all-in-one zoom lens. With its excellent build quality, impressive optical performance, and versatility, it stands tall in its category. While there are a few quirks, such as distortion and weight, they are minor compared to the value offered by this lens. If you are in search of a reliable and capable zoom lens for various photography disciplines, the Sigma 24-70mm F2.8 EX DG Macro should definitely be on your radar.