The Sigma 100-400mm F5-6.3 DG OS HSM Contemporary ($799) is a unique lens. Most light, narrow aperture telezoom lenses use 70-300mm designs, but Sigma eschews some wide coverage to extend telephoto reach here. The result is an affordable lens that matches pricier options like the Canon EF 100-400mm f/4.5-5.6L IS II USM in field of view. Sure, Sigma's lens doesn't capture as much light or offer the same impeccable optics as Canon's, but when you consider the price difference it's an acceptable compromise. Design The 100-400mm looks like other recent lenses in Sigma's Global Vision series. Its barrel is black polycarbonate with white lettering, a rubberized zoom ring, and a textured, but bare, manual focus ring. It measures 7.2 by 3.4 inches (HD), weighs 2.6 pounds, and supports 67mm front filters. Compare that with the Canon 100-400mm, which is 7.6 by 3.7 inches and 3.6 pounds, with a larger front element that requires 77mm filters. Sigma includes front and rear caps, as well as a ...
The Sigma 100-400mm F5-6.3 DG OS HSM Contemporary is a solid option for anyone in the market for an affordable, lightweight telephoto lens.
Strong image quality; Optical stabilization; Full-frame coverage; Available for multiple systems; Compact and lightweight; Inexpensive
Weak edge performance at 100mm; Vignette at maximum aperture; Some distortion; No tripod collar option