Sigma 12-24mm F4 DG HSM Art Overview
Test data available for this lens:
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I own it | I want it | I had it |
Manufacturer description: Boasting the renowned Global Vision image quality from center to edge, the new Sigma 12-24mm F4 features the largest aspherical glass mold in the industry, offering photographers an ultra-wide angle zoom with virtually no distortion, flare or ghosting. Encompassing the long history of Sigma wide angle lens development expertise, the new 12-24mm F4 performance highlights include constant F4 brightness and the brand new Sigma AF system with 1.3X torque boost. The 12-24mm F4 features lens elements made with FLD (“F” Low Dispersion) glass, which is equivalent to calcium fluorite in performance. Combined with an optimized power distribution, the result is outstanding image quality from center to edges. With a minimum focus distance of 9.4 inches at 24mm, photographers can compose incredible close-up shots with expansive backgrounds.
Lens type | Zoom lens |
---|---|
Focal length | 12–24 mm |
Image stab. | No |
Lens mount | Canon EF, Nikon F (FX), Sigma SA Bayonet |
Max aperture | F4 |
Min aperture | F22 |
Min focus | 0.24 m (9.45″) |
Max magnification | 0.2× |
Weight | 1150 g (2.54 lb) |
Length | 132 mm (5.2″) |
The Sigma 12-24mm F4 offers impressive optical performance at the short end of its focal range, with excellent AF performance. Unfortunately, central sharpness at all focal lengths, and overall sharpness at the tele end suffers relative to its best peers. Severe focus shift at longer focal lengths require you to focus the lens at the shooting aperture, which can be cumbersome, and will also come at a cost to corner sharpness. Other optical properties, like CA, vignetting, and distortion are extremely well-controlled if not class-leading. If you're looking for a wide-angle zoom with very nice performance from 12mm-16mm then this lens is an exceptional value.
Good for: Landscape photographers looking for a wide-angle zoom lens with exceptional sharpness and performance from 12mm-16mm.
Not so good for: Photographers looking for excellent performance across the entire focal range and photographers who prefer to shoot with a lighter kit.