Sigma 18-250mm F3.5-6.3 DC Macro OS HSM

Nikon F (DX/FX)

Review

The Sigma 18-250mm F3.5-6.3 DC Macro OS HSM is a versatile all-in-one zoom lens designed for Nikon F (DX) mount cameras. This lens covers a broad focal range from wide-angle to telephoto, making it an excellent choice for travel and everyday photography.

One of the standout features of this lens is its macro capability, which allows you to get as close as 1:3.7 magnification, providing a great option for capturing detailed close-ups of flowers, insects, and other small subjects. The lens also employs Optical Stabilization (OS), which helps to counteract camera shake, especially beneficial at the longer focal lengths where even minor movements can lead to blurred images.

In terms of image quality, the lens performs admirably in good lighting conditions, delivering sharp images across most of the zoom range. However, as is common with zoom lenses, sharpness tends to diminish at the extreme ends of the focal range, particularly at 250mm. Chromatic aberration is also noticeable, especially at wider apertures, which may require some post-processing correction.

The construction of the Sigma 18-250mm is quite robust, featuring a solid build quality that feels durable in hand. The autofocus is powered by a Hyper Sonic Motor (HSM), offering quick and quiet focusing, which is a great advantage for capturing candid moments or shooting video without distracting noise. Nevertheless, the lens can be a bit on the heavier side compared to other similar focal range lenses, making it less ideal for extended handheld shooting.

On the ergonomics front, the zoom ring is smooth and easy to operate, while the focus ring could be a bit more refined for finer control. A petal-shaped lens hood is included, which is a nice touch for reducing flare when shooting in challenging lighting.

Pros and Cons

Pros

• Versatile focal length range (18-250mm) for various types of photography.
• Macro capability for detailed close-up shots.
• Optical Stabilization (OS) for improved low-light performance.
• Quick and quiet autofocus due to HSM.
• Robust build quality.

Cons

• Some loss of sharpness at extreme ends of the zoom range.
• Noticeable chromatic aberration at wider apertures.
• Heavier than some competitors in the same category.
• Focus ring could use more refinement for precise control.

Verdict

The Sigma 18-250mm F3.5-6.3 DC Macro OS HSM lens is a fantastic option for photographers looking for an all-in-one solution with added macro capabilities. While it has some drawbacks in terms of sharpness and weight, its versatility, solid construction, and good performance in multiple scenarios make it a valuable addition to any Nikon F (DX) mount user's kit. Whether you're traveling, shooting family events, or exploring the world of macro photography, this lens holds its own as a reliable companion.