This low-cost all-in-one lens is well-made and allows me to get great photos at a wide range of magnifications. While not as sharp as prime lenses, this lens is, in my opinion, acceptably sharp and easily corrected in DxO Optics Pro or similar programs to get great output.

low cost

You can't expect the same performance from a superzoom lens like the Sigma 18-300mm F3.5-6.3 DC Macro OS HSM Contemporary ($579) as you can from a prime lens or a shorter high-quality zoom like Sigma's own 17-70mm F2.8-4 DC Macro OS HSM .

16.7x zoom range; 1:3 macro reproduction; Image stabilization; Available for multiple APS-C systems; Compact

Inconsistent sharpness; Noticeable image distortion; Dim corners

Sigma are continuing to gradually update their lenses to fit into their 'Art', 'Sport' and 'Contemporary' lens lines. This new lens sports a 16.7x zoom range, silent focusing and optical stabilisation.

It seems that in the world of photography today the demand for lighter, and more versatile, gear is at an all time high. The average photographer (if there is such a thing) wants to be able to cover a huge variety of subjects, and carry as few lenses as possible. Shooting quick and light has …

Sigma are continuing to gradually update their lenses to fit into their 'Art', 'Sport' and 'Contemporary' lens lines. This new lens sports a 16.7x zoom range, silent focusing and optical stabilisation.

Good optical performance for a super zoom lens; Well built; Lightweight; Compact; Optical stabiliser; Compatible with Sigma USB dock; Good value

Loose manual focusing action with no full-time manual override

Good price compared to Nikon equivalent

None

I like that this lens works in small rooms and outdoors without having to swap lenses. This replaced my two kit lenses. Only issue is the zoom is a little stiff so no fast adjustments or smoove zoom but it doesn't creep when using which is good .

The Sigma 18-300mm 3.5-6.3 DC HSM OS Macro is another impressive addition to the Sigma Global Vision Contemporary line. With a 16.6x zoom ratio covering focal lengths from wide to telephoto, this lens also offers a 1:3 macro ratio.

is one that is making us take a close look at the category again. Designed for cameras with APS-C sensors, it isn't the engineering feat that the is. This is part of Sigma's Contemporary series, but instead feels like an Art lens in many ways.

You can't expect the same performance from a superzoom lens like the Sigma 18-300mm F3.5-6.3 DC Macro OS HSM Contemporary ($579) as you can from a prime lens or a shorter high-quality zoom like Sigma's own 17-70mm F2.8-4 DC Macro OS HSM. But the convenience of an all-in-one zoom is not to be discounted, and the 18-300mm is a solid choice for photographers who desire wide angle coverage, telephoto reach, and close focus capability without having to swap lenses. But it's on the pricey side for a lens that isn't going to deliver top-quality images, and for that reason we rate the Sigma's less expensive, less ambitious 18-200mm F3.5-6.3 DC Macro OS HSM Contemporary slightly higher. DesignDespite its long zoom range, the 18-300mm is fairly compact. It measures 4 by 3.1 inches (HD), weighs 1.3 pounds, and supports 72mm front filters. Because the lens is designed to match the image sensor found in consumer SLRs, it's much smaller than similar superzooms for full-frame bodies, including ...

Sigma's 18-300mm F3.5-6.3 DC Macro OS HSM Contemporary lens covers an incredible zoom range, but makes compromises to do so.

16.7x zoom range; 1:3 macro reproduction; Image stabilization; Available for multiple APS-C systems; Compact

Inconsistent sharpness; Noticeable image distortion; Dim corners