Sigma 70-300mm F4-5.6 APO DG Macro

Nikon F (DX/FX)

Review

The Sigma 70-300mm F4-5.6 APO DG Macro is a versatile zoom lens that offers a great range for those looking to explore telephoto photography, particularly for Nikon F (DX) mounts. This lens is designed to cater to both amateur and experienced photographers who seek flexibility and quality without breaking the bank.

Build and Design

The build quality of the Sigma 70-300mm is solid for its price point. The lens has a sturdy feel, although it is predominantly made of plastic, which helps keep the weight down. Weighing around 1.4 lbs, it's relatively lightweight considering its focal length range. This makes it easy to carry around, whether you're at a wildlife reserve or a sports event. The zoom and focus rings are smooth and allow for easy adjustments, providing a tactile experience that most photographers will appreciate.

Optical Performance

When it comes to optical quality, the Sigma 70-300mm does a commendable job, especially in good lighting conditions. The APO (apochromatic) design enhances color correction, delivering vibrant and appealing images. The lens performs best at the mid-range settings—around 200-250mm—where it shows sharpness and detail. However, at 300mm, you may notice a dip in sharpness, especially when shooting wide open at f/5.6. Users may also experience some chromatic aberration and distortion at the extremes, though this can often be corrected in post-processing.

Macro Functionality

One of the standout features of the Sigma 70-300mm is its macro capability. It can focus as close as 1.5m, allowing users to capture subjects with impressive detail. This is particularly handy for nature and product photography. However, it should be noted that while it provides the functionality, the results may not compete with dedicated macro lenses in terms of sharpness and image quality.

Autofocus Performance

The autofocus performance of this lens is generally reliable, with a decent speed that allows for quick adjustments when photographing moving subjects. However, the AF system can struggle a bit in low-light conditions, leading to slower focusing times or occasional hunting. This could be a drawback for those intending to shoot in dimmer environments without additional lighting.

Pros and Cons

Pros

• Versatile zoom range (70-300mm) suitable for various photography types
• Lightweight and reasonably compact design
• APO design enhances color correction
• Macro capability adds versatility for close-up shots
• Generally reliable autofocus performance

Cons

• Image quality dips at 300mm, particularly when wide open
• Some chromatic aberration and distortion may be present
• Autofocus can be slow in low-light conditions
• Predominantly plastic build might feel less premium

Verdict

Overall, the Sigma 70-300mm F4-5.6 APO DG Macro for Nikon F (DX) mounts is a solid entry-level telephoto lens, offering a good balance of versatility, portability, and image quality. While it has its shortcomings—such as slight sharpness issues at the extreme ends of the zoom range and some autofocus challenges in low light—it remains a worthy option for those looking to expand their telephoto capabilities without a hefty investment. For casual photographers, wildlife enthusiasts, or anyone venturing into macro photography, this lens provides a good opportunity to explore different styles without overwhelming complexity.