Sigma 100-400mm F5-6.3 DG DN OS

Sony E

Review

The Sigma 100-400mm F5-6.3 DG DN OS is a versatile telephoto zoom lens designed specifically for Sony E-mount cameras. This lens caters to wildlife, sports, and landscape photographers who require a long reach without the bulk and weight of traditional super telephotos. Here’s a deep dive into the features, performance, and overall impressions of this lens.

Build and Design

Sigma has put a lot of thought into the build quality of this lens, and it shows. The lens features a compact and lightweight design, making it appealing for those who want to travel or undertake long shooting sessions without feeling fatigued. Despite its lightweight construction, it still feels robust and durable, thanks to a mix of high-quality plastics with a metal mount. The lens is also dust and splash resistant, which brings added confidence when shooting in challenging weather conditions.

Optical Performance

Optically, the Sigma 100-400mm delivers impressive results throughout its zoom range. The use of high-quality glass elements, including low dispersion and aspherical elements, minimizes chromatic aberration and distortions effectively. Images are sharp, with good color rendition and contrast. The f/5-6.3 aperture range allows for reasonable depth of field control, though it's worth noting that it may not provide the same level of background blur as faster telephotos. This lens performs admirably in bright conditions, but the maximum aperture may limit your options in low-light situations.

Autofocus and Image Stabilization

The lens features a fast and reliable autofocus system powered by a stepping motor, which makes it suitable for tracking moving subjects. It works well for both stills and video, though a slightly louder focusing noise can be noted in video mode unless in the silent AF mode on selected cameras. The Optical Stabilization (OS) feature is quite effective, allowing for sharp images at slower shutter speeds, which is particularly useful when shooting handheld at longer focal lengths.

Usability

Apart from its solid optical and autofocus performance, the 100-400mm F5-6.3 DG DN OS also incorporates a customizable lens control switch and a zoom lock feature at 100mm that helps prevent unwanted movement while carrying the lens. The smooth zoom action enhances usability, making it easy to adjust your framing quickly. However, some photographers might miss a tripod collar, a typical feature in heavier telephoto lenses, for better balance when shooting with a tripod.

Pros and Cons

Pros

• Lightweight and compact design
• High-quality optical performance with minimal aberrations
• Fast and accurate autofocus system
• Effective image stabilization
• Good versatility for various photography styles

Cons

• Maximum aperture could be limiting in low light
• Autofocus can be slightly noisy in video mode
• Lack of a tripod collar might affect balance for some photographers

Verdict

The Sigma 100-400mm F5-6.3 DG DN OS is an excellent option for Sony E-mount users seeking an affordable yet high-performing telephoto zoom lens. It strikes a balanced compromise between portability, optical performance, and price. While it may not be the best choice for low-light scenarios due to its slower aperture, its versatility and ease of use make it a worthy addition to any photographer's kit, particularly for those focusing on wildlife or sports photography. Overall, it's a lens that punches well above its weight and should not be overlooked.