Sigma 28mm F1.8 EX DG Aspherical Macro

Nikon F (DX/FX)

Review

The Sigma 28mm F1.8 EX DG Aspherical Macro is a versatile lens designed for Nikon F (DX) mounts, offering a unique blend of features that cater to both general photography and macro enthusiasts. This lens stands out with its relatively fast f/1.8 aperture, making it an excellent choice for low-light situations and providing beautiful bokeh for portraiture.

Optical Performance

The optical construction of the Sigma 28mm F1.8 incorporates aspherical elements that effectively reduce spherical aberrations and distortions, ensuring sharp images from center to edge. At wide open apertures, it delivers impressive sharpness while maintaining good contrast. As you stop down, the performance only improves, making this lens suitable for landscape and architectural photography as well.

The macro capabilities of the lens allow for impressive close-up photography with a 1:3.9 magnification ratio, providing options for capturing intricate details of flowers, insects, and other subjects. The minimum focusing distance of 0.2m adds a significant advantage for macro shooters, enabling them to get close and personal with their subjects.

Build Quality

Build quality is robust, with Sigma's EX series reputation for durability and reliability. The lens barrel feels solid, and the ergonomics are commendable, making it comfortable to handle during extended shooting sessions. However, the lens lacks weather-sealing, which might pose an issue for shooting in harsh conditions.

Autofocus and Manual Control

The autofocus system is relatively quick and reliable for general photography, although it might struggle a bit in very low light or on more challenging subjects. The manual focus ring is smooth, offering precise control, and is helpful for macro photography, where focus adjustments may need to be finely tuned.

Pros and Cons

Pros

• Fast f/1.8 maximum aperture for low-light and depth-of-field control.
• Excellent sharpness and contrast, especially when stopped down.
• Good macro capabilities with a minimum focusing distance of 0.2m.
• Solid build quality with a comfortable grip.

Cons

• Autofocus can struggle in low-light situations.
• Lack of weather-sealing limits its usability in challenging environments.
• The weight might be slightly on the heavier side for some users.

Verdict

The Sigma 28mm F1.8 EX DG Aspherical Macro for Nikon F (DX) mounts is a strong contender for photographers looking for both a reliable standard lens and a capable macro option. While it has a few drawbacks such as the absence of weather-sealing and occasional autofocus challenges, its optical quality, build, and versatility make it a worthwhile investment. Whether you're venturing into macro photography or need a dependable lens for general use, the Sigma 28mm stands out as an exceptional choice.