Sigma 17-50mm f/2.8 EX DC OS HSM Zoom Lens for Nikon DSLRs with APS-C Sensors
The Sigma 17-50mm f/2.8 EX DC OS HSM Zoom Lens is an incredibly versatile, lightweight, and compact lens designed specifically for digital SLR cameras with APS-C size sensors. The lens has a fast f/2.8 maximum aperture throughout the entire zoom range. It features a construction of 17 elements in 13 groups with glass that corrects for flare, ghosting and all types of aberrations. It produces high contrast and sharp images throughout the zoom range even at its maximum aperture.
Sigma's OS (Optical Stabilization) feature allows you to shoot at shutter speeds approximately 4 stops slower than would otherwise be possible. This means your images will look sharper, even when shooting without a tripod in low existing light or at maximum range with a flash. This lens is also equipped with Sigma's Hyper-Sonic Motor (HSM) which provides for fast and quiet autofocusing.
The Sigma 17-50mm f/2.8 is ideal for many photo opportunities particularly landscapes and portraits, but with its wide focal range and a close focusing distance down to 11" (28cm) you can capture images with unique perspectives. It will quickly become one of the most important lenses in your gear bag.
Note! Vignetting will occur if the lens is used with digital cameras with image sensors larger than APS-C size or 35mm SLR cameras.
- This lens is for use with digital cameras with APS-C size sensors only. 1
- The DC designation on the barrel means that this is a special lens designed so that the image circle matches the smaller size (APS-C) of the image sensor of your digital SLR. Its specialized design gives this lens the ideal properties for digital cameras, including a compact size and lightweight construction.
- The 17-50mm f/2.8 offers Sigma's OS System (Optical Stabilization) that allows shooting at shutter speeds approximately 4 stops slower than would be otherwise possible, for sharper handheld photography even in low-light situations.
- Constructed with 17 elements in 13 groups, it features FLD ("F" Low Dispersion) glass which is the highest level low dispersion glass available with extremely high light transmission. This glass has a performance equal to fluorite glass which has a low refractive index and low dispersion compared to current optical glass. FLD glass offers superior optical performance, equal to fluorite, at an affordable price.
- Its HSM (Hyper-Sonic Motor) ensures a quiet & high-speed auto focus.
- Sigma lenses are made in Japan.
Go To
| Performance | |
|---|---|
| Focal Length | 17 - 50 mm |
| Aperture |
Maximum: f/2.8 Minimum: f/22 |
| Camera Mount Type | Nikon F |
| Format Compatibility |
Nikon DX FX in DX Crop Mode |
| Angle of View | 72.4° - 27.9° |
| Minimum Focus Distance | 11" (27.94 cm) |
| Magnification | 0.20x |
| Maximum Reproduction Ratio | 1:5 |
| Groups/Elements | 13/17 |
| Diaphragm Blades | 7 |
| Features | |
|---|---|
| Image Stabilization | Yes |
| Autofocus | Yes |
| Tripod Collar | No |
| Physical | |
|---|---|
| Filter Thread | 77 mm |
| Dimensions (DxL) | Approx. 3.3 x 3.6" (8.38 x 9.14 cm) |
| Weight | 1.24 lb (565 g) |
REVIEW SNAPSHOT®
by PowerReviews(based on 75 reviews)
Ratings Distribution
91%
of respondents would recommend this to a friend.
Pros
- Fast / accurate auto-focus (60)
- Consistent output (42)
- Strong construction (42)
- Nice bokeh (41)
- Durable (38)
Cons
- Heavy (10)
- Blurry focus (7)
Best Uses
- Low light (68)
- Landscape/scenery (55)
- Weddings (55)
- Night photography (36)
- Sports/action (11)
- Reviewer Profile:
- Photo enthusiast (41), Semi-pro photographer (21), Pro photographer (9), Casual photographer (4)
- Was this a gift?:
- No (71)
Most Liked Positive Review
This lens works perfectly!
I did exactly what they tell you not to do: don't buy a new equipment right before going on vacation. I did. I got this lens as an update from my trusty old Tamron...Read complete review
I did exactly what they tell you not to do: don't buy a new equipment right before going on vacation. I did. I got this lens as an update from my trusty old Tamron 17-50mm f/2.8 since I shoot 80% of the time with a polarizer on (which cuts down the amount of light) or in low light so I need a lens with stabilization (tripod is not always an option for me). I first got the new Tamron 17-50mm f/2.8 VC. After some test shots I concluded this lens is not that much better than the old Tamron (in fact, at some points even worse regarding the resolution and image quality) plus the focus and VC are loud. I returned it and decided to get the new Sigma 17-50mm f/2.8 OS.
The excesive shooting during my 3-weeks travel in California was a good field test for this lens. It proved to be working perfectly on my Nikon D90 - the AF is fast, acurate and virtually silent (I sometimes had to refocus to be sure it really focused because you don't hear a thing), the OS worked perfectly as well allowing me to handhold shutter speeds like 1/10s. The lens renders nice colors and is REALLY! sharp (though a little soft in the corners which is quite normal in this class). I was lucky to get a good copy.
A downside for me is its bigger filter thread compared to my other lenses so I had to get a new polarizer. Another little issue I have is the lens hood - it fits loosely so I have to be careful when putting the lens in and out of the camera bag to make sure the hood is clicked-on securely, also when turning the polarizer I have to be careful not to unscrew the hood as well.
But these are just minor things. This Sigma lens is a keeper and a fair successor of my loved old Tamron (now sold).
VS
Most Liked Negative Review
Great if you get a good copy
From reading reviews, you'll get the sense that this is a solid lens. My own impressions were that it's sharp, even wide open, and works well throughout the zoom and aperture range. It's...Read complete review
From reading reviews, you'll get the sense that this is a solid lens. My own impressions were that it's sharp, even wide open, and works well throughout the zoom and aperture range. It's shockingly heavy for such a short zoom but not to the point of annoyance.
The biggest failing is that there seems to be a lot of variation between copies.Mine, though sharp, had more than ten visible liquid spots behind the front element which were obvious when set to a small aperture (I tested on f22). The look kinda like sensor dust spots but immediately disappeared when I switched lenses.
I'm holding my breath on a replacement copy but make sure you test your copy as soon as you receive.
REVIEWS
Reviewed by 75 customers
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Displaying reviews 1-20
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Pros
- Fast / accurate auto-focus
- Lightweight
- Nice Bokeh
Cons
Best Uses
- Indoors/Low Light
- Night Photography
- Weddings/Events
Comments about Sigma 17-50mm F2.8 EX DC OS HSM Zoom Lens for Nikon DSLRs with APS-C Sensors:
Bought this lens as a smaller, lighter choice for weddings and other events when I am the second shooter. The optics are very good but not quite excellent. The lens is more impressive at 50mm at all apertures than at wider settings. OS works as promised. The zoom is "Sigma stiff," but may get smoother with time. I don't think the build is as solid as my Nikkors, but that is the penalty for smaller size and lower cost. For the purpose of low-yeild travel and event photography, I believe it will fit the bill.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Consistent Output
- Durable
- Easily Interchangeable
- Nice Bokeh
- Rugged
- Strong Construction
Cons
- Heavy
Best Uses
- Indoors/Low Light
- Landscape/Scenery
- Night Photography
Comments about Sigma 17-50mm F2.8 EX DC OS HSM Zoom Lens for Nikon DSLRs with APS-C Sensors:
I purchased a Nikon with kit lens and was looking for a lens looking for a lens around the same range (18-55) with more light. My purpose was to have a lens on my camera for daily use than changing lens. Evaluated options between Nikon and Sigma. Tested Sigma by renting it and fallen for it. Lens built is good and the does a very good job on focusing. Lens is bit heavy but the picture quality makes me to forget that. If you can not afford the Nikon lens with same FL, Sigma is the next best option.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
Cons
- Bad colours
- Blurry Focus
Best Uses
Comments about Sigma 17-50mm F2.8 EX DC OS HSM Zoom Lens for Nikon DSLRs with APS-C Sensors:
I own it for 6 months, I guess my copy isn't so great, I don't like the result. Was used to shoot with Tokina 16-50mm 2.8 and Tokina is far better at f5.6 but it's useless at f2.8-5.0
Sigma is a very week lens, bad colours,reds are just ridiculous, not accurate AF at all, in general not a nice lens, bokeh is not nice, artificial looking photos. The build quality is also not good. I use it on D90, and sometimes on D40, on D40 the result is really bad, AF doesn't work 60% of time.
My suggestion - save money for Nikkor 17-55, 2.8
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Consistent Output
- Durable
- Fast / accurate auto-focus
- Nice Bokeh
Cons
- Heavy
Best Uses
- Landscape/Scenery
- Weddings/Events
Comments about Sigma 17-50mm F2.8 EX DC OS HSM Zoom Lens for Nikon DSLRs with APS-C Sensors:
Purchased for use versatile use - family and beach portraits. I have only used for two shoots so far, but has proved worth the buy already. Both outdoor evening beach shots and indoor family birthday party. Great for close ups as well as distance group shots. Wanted a faster lens and I recieved with this!
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Consistent Output
- Durable
- Easily Interchangeable
- Fast / accurate auto-focus
- Strong Construction
Cons
Best Uses
- Indoors/Low Light
- Landscape/Scenery
- Weddings/Events
- Wildlife Photos
Comments about Sigma 17-50mm F2.8 EX DC OS HSM Zoom Lens for Nikon DSLRs with APS-C Sensors:
I use the lens for portraits. The lens is very sharp and the focus speed is fast.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Consistent Output
- Durable
- Fast / accurate auto-focus
- Nice Bokeh
Cons
- Heavy
Best Uses
- Indoors/Low Light
- Weddings/Events
Comments about Sigma 17-50mm F2.8 EX DC OS HSM Zoom Lens for Nikon DSLRs with APS-C Sensors:
incredibly sharp lens and much cheaper than buying a nikon equivalent. I did notice 2 things that were a slight bother, nothing major though. First it is on the heavier side of lenses found my wrist to get a little achey with it mounted on a d7000 with the SB900 and a battery pack but hey i have girly wrists so it's no big deal. The rotation for zoom is also opposite than the nikon lenses. BUT with that being said, this lens performs and I love it. Shot a wedding with it the day after it arrived and I couldn't be more impressed for what we paid.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Consistent Output
- Durable
- Easily Interchangeable
- Fast / accurate auto-focus
- Lightweight
- Nice Bokeh
- Rugged
- Strong Construction
Cons
Best Uses
- Indoors/Low Light
- Landscape/Scenery
- Night Photography
- Weddings/Events
Comments about Sigma 17-50mm F2.8 EX DC OS HSM Zoom Lens for Nikon DSLRs with APS-C Sensors:
The lens is great with my Nikon D300. It is sharp and fast. The OS is great. I love that it has a constant 2.8 aperture. I would recommend this lens to anybody from a casual user to a professional.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Durable
- Easily Interchangeable
- Fast / accurate auto-focus
- Lightweight
Cons
Best Uses
- Indoors/Low Light
- Weddings/Events
Comments about Sigma 17-50mm F2.8 EX DC OS HSM Zoom Lens for Nikon DSLRs with APS-C Sensors:
This lens is very handy, I find myself using it more and more.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Fast / accurate auto-focus
- Lightweight
- Nice Bokeh
Cons
Best Uses
- Indoors/Low Light
- Landscape/Scenery
- Night Photography
- Weddings/Events
Comments about Sigma 17-50mm F2.8 EX DC OS HSM Zoom Lens for Nikon DSLRs with APS-C Sensors:
I needed a lens with a lower f stop and I think this one will work out perfect. I have a lot of indoor photography I'd like to do in the future so this lens will definitely get its use.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Consistent Output
- Durable
- Easily Interchangeable
- Fast / accurate auto-focus
- Nice Bokeh
Cons
Best Uses
- Indoors/Low Light
- Video
- Weddings/Events
Comments about Sigma 17-50mm F2.8 EX DC OS HSM Zoom Lens for Nikon DSLRs with APS-C Sensors:
I really enjoy using this lens for most indoor photos of my family and pets. It has a good accurate focus and the build quaility is excellent. The photos so far are sharp and clear and have had no issues. I really am starting to like Sigma lenses more and more. The EX types are Sigma's top of the line. The f/2.8 is the way to go for low light and good bokeh.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Consistent Output
- Durable
- Easily Interchangeable
- Fast / accurate auto-focus
- Lightweight
- Nice Bokeh
Cons
Best Uses
- Indoors/Low Light
- Landscape/Scenery
- Night Photography
- Weddings/Events
Comments about Sigma 17-50mm F2.8 EX DC OS HSM Zoom Lens for Nikon DSLRs with APS-C Sensors:
Use for many weddings and low light situations where I need fast glass. Very sharp!
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Consistent Output
- Durable
- Easily Interchangeable
- Fast / accurate auto-focus
- Nice Bokeh
- Strong Construction
Cons
- Heavy
Best Uses
- Indoors/Low Light
- Landscape/Scenery
- Night Photography
- Sports/Action
Comments about Sigma 17-50mm F2.8 EX DC OS HSM Zoom Lens for Nikon DSLRs with APS-C Sensors:
I'm very pleased with this len. It's very sharp, the auto focus is very fast. The OS system work awesome, and the best it's very good in low light. You can filled the good material, and the good quality of the product.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Fast / accurate auto-focus
- Rugged
- Strong Construction
- Super fast focus
- SUPER QUIET LENS
Cons
- NOT ONE
Best Uses
- Family Vacations
- Indoors/Low Light
- Landscape/Scenery
- Road Trips
Comments about Sigma 17-50mm F2.8 EX DC OS HSM Zoom Lens for Nikon DSLRs with APS-C Sensors:
This is an amazing lens. Super quality build, quality FLD glass, super fast focus, and super silent. I got this mounted on my Nikon D7000 and it looks great & performs well. Was looking at the Nikon 17-55mm f/2.8, but way to pricey for my budget. I was hesitant at first, but after reading all the reviews and youtube videos on this lens, I figure, hey if I don't like it I can always return within 15 days. Well, after testing this lens during the labor day weekend, it's a definite keeper. If you buy this lens you won't be disappointed, the price is right, wide aperture f2.8, fast on point quite focus, and the optical stabilization is a plus over the NON-OS Nikon. Remember! Read the reviews, they are telling the truth. Check the DXO Mark 2011 review. Hope this review was helpful, have fun shooting.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Consistent Output
- Durable
- Fast / accurate auto-focus
- Nice Bokeh
- Strong Construction
Cons
- Heavy
Best Uses
- Indoors/Low Light
- Landscape/Scenery
- Night Photography
- Weddings/Events
Comments about Sigma 17-50mm F2.8 EX DC OS HSM Zoom Lens for Nikon DSLRs with APS-C Sensors:
I love this lens. It is fast, sharp, and quiet. The OS system works very well and I am able to capture very sharp pictures handheld. It is good in low light and finds the subject quickly. I have had very little focusing issues.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Consistent Output
- Durable
- Fast / accurate auto-focus
- Lightweight
- Nice Bokeh
- Strong Construction
Cons
Best Uses
- Indoors/Low Light
- Weddings/Events
Comments about Sigma 17-50mm F2.8 EX DC OS HSM Zoom Lens for Nikon DSLRs with APS-C Sensors:
I bought this lens for my D7000 as an alternative to the more expensive Nikon 17-55 and am very pleased with it. I am impressed with quality of the lens as I have been in the past with other Sigma lenses for the consumer level market. It is well constructed, has very fast autofocus, and sharp throughout.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Consistent Output
- Durable
- Easily Interchangeable
- Fast / accurate auto-focus
- Nice Bokeh
- Rugged
- Strong Construction
Cons
- Heavy
Best Uses
- Indoors/Low Light
- Landscape/Scenery
- Night Photography
- Weddings/Events
Comments about Sigma 17-50mm F2.8 EX DC OS HSM Zoom Lens for Nikon DSLRs with APS-C Sensors:
Nothing but good things to say about this lens. Great build quality, tough as nails.
I have owned both the Nikon 17-55 AF-S and the Tamron 17-50 (non-VC). This lens is superior to both.
Compared to the Nikon 17-55, the Sigma has far better handling and ergonomics (the Nikon's zoom ring way too close to the camera, uncomfortable), and the Sigma adds stabilization. Otherwise, they has about the same image quality and autofocus speed. The Nikon has a little better build quality, but the Sigma is no slouch.
Compared to the Tamron, the Sigma is superior in virtually every respect. And that is saying something, because the Tamron is a great lens.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Consistent Output
- Durable
- Easily Interchangeable
- Fast / accurate auto-focus
- Nice Bokeh
Cons
- Heavy
Best Uses
- Indoors/Low Light
- Landscape/Scenery
- Night Photography
- Weddings/Events
Comments about Sigma 17-50mm F2.8 EX DC OS HSM Zoom Lens for Nikon DSLRs with APS-C Sensors:
This is a great lens for the price. I purchased it since my wife refused to shoot with anything except my Tokina 11-17 2.8 (another excellent lens btw).
I shoot on a D90 and it works exceptionally well on this camera.
I deducted one star because this lens does flare quite a bit more than expected and it is a heavy lens
This lens is worth every penny and I would buy it again in a heartbeat. BH is the only place I buy anymore.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Consistent Output
- Fast / accurate auto-focus
- Nice Bokeh
Cons
Best Uses
- Indoors/Low Light
- Landscape/Scenery
- Night Photography
- Sports/Action
- Weddings/Events
- Wildlife Photos
Comments about Sigma 17-50mm F2.8 EX DC OS HSM Zoom Lens for Nikon DSLRs with APS-C Sensors:
Very good lens. Sharp and with a nice bokeh. The zoom ring could function a little easy.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Fast / accurate auto-focus
- Lightweight
Cons
Best Uses
- Indoors/Low Light
- Landscape/Scenery
- Night Photography
- Weddings/Events
Comments about Sigma 17-50mm F2.8 EX DC OS HSM Zoom Lens for Nikon DSLRs with APS-C Sensors:
I am very pleased with this lens. It is sharp even wide open; and stopped down to f/4 it matches my Nikkor primes as far as sharpness is concerned. The autofocus is very fast and precise. The OS is so silent that I had to test the lens with the OS on and off to make sure it works. Keep in mind that it takes about a second for the OS to engage once you press the shutter button halfway down. I took me a little while to learn how to use the OS effectively and get the most out of it. Now, having said that –– the first copy of the lens I got turned out to be a lemon. It wouldn't focus at 17mm. I contacted B&H and got a replacement [...]. The second copy works like a champ and I couldn't be happier.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Consistent Output
- Durable
- Easily Interchangeable
- Fast / accurate auto-focus
- Nice Bokeh
- Rugged
- Strong Construction
Cons
Best Uses
- Indoors/Low Light
- Landscape/Scenery
- Macro Photography
- Weddings/Events
Comments about Sigma 17-50mm F2.8 EX DC OS HSM Zoom Lens for Nikon DSLRs with APS-C Sensors:
Been saving for the infamous Nikon 24-70mm 2.4 lens for a long time, but still couldn't justify dropping a small fortune on it. Found many positive reviews on this lens and with the DX crop factor of my Nikon D90 decided to take a chance on it. So glad I did! The build quality is better than I expected and the optic quality is even better than some of my Nikon lenses. And it cost a fraction of the price of the Nikon 24-70mm and 17-55mm F2.8. If you are hesitant to buy this lens in lieu of the Nikon Go for it! you won't be disappointed. Check out the Flickr Group dedicated to this lens and you will see the results first hand.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
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Filters & Filter Kits
- Price: $33.90
- Price: $119.95
Hoods & Covers
- Price: $39.95
What's in the Box
- Lens Hood
- Front and Rear Lens Caps
- Carrying Case
- 1-Year International Warranty plus 3 Additional Years in the USA
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