News, Tips & Reviews
About Us
The Professional's Source Since 1973
  • Help
  • 800.606.6969
Ask Our Experts800.606.6969
Hello, Log InAccount & Orders
My Cart
Video Chat with a Photography Expert - Live
Home

Sigma 120-300mm f/2.8 DG OS HSM Sports Lens for Sigma SA

BH #SI120300SIQ • MFR #137110
72 reviews
Print
Sigma 120-300mm f/2.8 DG OS HSM Sports Lens for Sigma SA
Key Features
  • SA-Mount Lens/Full-Frame Format
  • Aperture Range: f/2.8 to f/22
  • Two FLD Elements, One SLD Element
  • Super Multi-Layer Coating
Offering versatile reach along with speed, the Sigma SA-mount 120-300mm f/2.8 DG OS HSM from Sigma is a telephoto zoom well-suited for sports and wildlife photography. Characterized by its bright f/2.8 constant maximum aperture, this lens excels in available light conditions and also enables notable control over depth of field throughout the zoom range. The optical design incorporates a series of low dispersion elements, which help to greatly reduce chromatic aberrations and color fringing in order to realize high clarity and color accuracy. A Super Multi-Layer Coating has also been applied to control flare and ghosting for improved contrast.
More Details
No Longer Available
Ask an Expert
800.606.6969

Sigma 120-300mm f/2.8 DG OS HSM Sports Overview

Offering versatile reach along with speed, the Sigma SA-mount 120-300mm f/2.8 DG OS HSM from Sigma is a telephoto zoom well-suited for sports and wildlife photography. Characterized by its bright f/2.8 constant maximum aperture, this lens excels in available light conditions and also enables notable control over depth of field throughout the zoom range. The optical design incorporates a series of low dispersion elements, which help to greatly reduce chromatic aberrations and color fringing in order to realize high clarity and color accuracy. A Super Multi-Layer Coating has also been applied to control flare and ghosting for improved contrast.

Balancing the optics, and making it well-suited for action shooting, is a Hyper Sonic Motor that provides especially fast and quiet autofocus performance. An Optical Stabilizer also works to minimize the appearance of camera shake for sharper handheld shooting. Also, a tripod collar is included, too, to suit using the lens atop a tripod or monopod.

As part of the Sports line within Sigma's Global Vision series, this lens is designed to offer excellent optical performance, speed, and other customizable features that make it an ideal choice for wildlife, sports, action, and other fast-moving subjects.
Telephoto zoom is designed for Sigma SA-mount cameras, and when used with APS-C models, it provides a 180-450mm equivalent focal length.
Two F Low Dispersion (FLD) and one Special Low Dispersion (SLD) element are featured in the optical design and help to reduce color fringing and chromatic aberrations for improved clarity and color accuracy.
A Super Multi-Layer Coating has been applied to lens elements in order to minimize lens flare and ghosting and contribute to producing contrast-rich and color-neutral imagery, even in backlit conditions.
Integrated HSM (Hyper Sonic Motor), along with a rear focus system, realizes quick and quiet autofocus, which is further complemented by an optimized AF algorithm to produce smoother focusing performance. The HSM also permits full-time manual focus control simply by rotating the focus ring at any time.
Optical Stabilizer system minimizes the appearance of camera shake to benefit making sharper imagery when shooting handheld.
Rounded nine-blade diaphragm contributes to a smooth and pleasing bokeh quality.
Constructed using a Thermally Stable Composite (TSC) material for greater precision and use in wide temperature variations. Additionally, a brass bayonet affords improved mounting accuracy and rigidity.
A removable, rotating tripod collar offers well-balanced support for photographing atop a tripod or monopod with either vertical or horizontal shooting orientations.
This lens is compatible with the optional Sigma USB Dock for fine-tuning different lens characteristics and updating its firmware.
Compatible with optional Sigma TC-1401 1.4x and TC-2001 2x teleconverters.

Sigma 120-300mm f/2.8 DG OS HSM Sports Specs

Key Specs
Focal Length
120 to 300mm
Maximum Aperture
f/2.8
Lens Mount
Sigma SA
Lens Format Coverage
Full-Frame
Focus Type
Autofocus
Image Stabilization
Yes
Filter Size
105 mm (Front)
Maximum Aperture
f/2.8
Minimum Aperture
f/22
Lens Mount
Sigma SA
Lens Format Coverage
Full-Frame
Angle of View
20.4° to 8.2°
Minimum Focus Distance
4.92' / 1.5 m
Maximum Magnification
0.12x
Macro Reproduction Ratio
1:8.1
Optical Design
23 Elements in 18 Groups
Diaphragm Blades
9, Rounded
Focus Type
Autofocus
Image Stabilization
Yes
Tripod Collar
Removable and Rotating
Filter Size
105 mm (Front)
Dimensions (ø x L)
4.78 x 11.46" / 121.4 x 291 mm
Weight
7.46 lb / 3390 g

Sigma 120-300mm f/2.8 DG OS HSM Sports Reviews

Insanely Sharp, But There's A Glitch

By Don
Rated 4 out of 5
Date: 2022-06-16

The copy I received is sharper and has more contrast than some of my Nikon lenses. I had to replace my Nikon 200-400 f4 while it was waiting for a focus motor. And Nikon's 120-300 f2.8 wasn't in my budget, so I opted for this Sigma. It came with the dock as a bonus, and only used it to prioritize the AF speed as I specialize in sports action. I used it with the D500, and while shorter in focal length, it sufficed very well for night football and into the ice hockey season. My complaint is the tripod mount. This optic is heavy, and the supplied mount is soft aluminum. Not a good combo. It didn't take long for the mount to get wobbly on my monopod when switching quickly from horizontal to vertical. I applied grease (which helped) and I disassembled it to tighten the nubs that guide the collar. But Sigma increased the price by $600 since I bought mine, and apparently has not addressed this problem. I went on eBay and purchased a replacement collar from Japan. Haven't employed it yet, but I'm sure that at some time in the future it will become necessary because the slop will become more than an annoyance.

Sharp images, great reach

By Sue
Rated 5 out of 5
Date: 2021-10-19

I got the 120-300 f/2.8 to give me a good low light lens with enough reach to shoot across the field at soccer. On my D500, I can actually go across and lenghwise. On the D5, across is no issue, but obviously don't get same distance lengthwise since it's full frame. The clarity in the images is terrific. I didn't tell the team inhad the new lens - but they immediately raves about the "wonderful night pictures". I have the 70-200 f/2.8, but find I'm only shooting with the 300 now even though I'm armed with both at the game.

Sigma 120-300

By Larry
Rated 5 out of 5
Date: 2021-09-30

Great lense! Super sports pics in low light. Somewhat heavy without monopod!

Flexible lens

By Catherine
Rated 5 out of 5
Date: 2021-09-13

I shoot high school sports. Love the flexibility of the zoom instead of a fixed lens. As the action towards me, I can zoom out. Well built and a bit heavy. I need a monopod to use it. Can't imagine hand held the entire game. Images are sharp even with the poor lighting of high school stadiums. So far so good. Cost was one of factor in my decision to purchase this lens along with capturing the moments.

Impressive

By Kelvin
Rated 5 out of 5
Date: 2021-09-11

It is a little heavy and you will need a monopod. I have no problem with the zoom ring . The lens hood is the most secure design I have used. Pictures are sharp although focus is sometimes a little slow , but that could be the operator. Do you really need to pay twice as much for a competitor?

Exactly What I Hoped It Would Be

By Brent
Rated 5 out of 5
Date: 2021-08-19

Had been using a Tamron 70-200 f/2.8 and Canon 300mm f/2.8 for field sports with nothing in between. Had some interest in this lens wanting more flexibility in those situations - 200 was often not enough and the 300, although a superior lens in nearly every way to the 120-300 , was missing shots where it would have been helpful to be able to zoom out. This lens cannot quite hold up against the Canon 300 in terms of sharpness and focus speed nor would I expect it to. But have found it produces exactly what I hoped in little league and minor league baseball and kite surfing sessions so far. But I'm finding the ability to produce as many keepers and a wider variety of shots because of the zoom. And this is straight out of the box without using the USB dock for customization. It is heavy. Something like 13lbs coupled to a 1DX Mkiii, not a big fan of the factory case it ships with and the hood is a little wonky to get on and off at times. I have not found any issues with the zoom adjustment ring as others have noted. For the price point I'm very happy with early returns on this lens.

Sharp, fast, perfect

By Christopher
Rated 5 out of 5
Date: 2022-05-28

I was questioning whether or not I should purchase this lens or a Canon 300mm f2.8. Versatility of having an f2.8 zoom with more reach than my 70-200mm is essential for the work I'm doing. After searching and learning about this lens, I'm pleased to say this was definitely the right way to go. I've paired the lens with Canon 1DX mark iii and couldn't be happier. Fast autofocus and sharp images make this lens a keeper. If you're going to shoot this lens for any length of time, a monopod or tripod would be a good investment. Can you shoot without a monopod, yes, but remember this lens is heavy and when paired with a camera body it would be challenging to do a long shoot. My set up is just under 14 pounds. Zoom and focus rings are smooth with just enough resistance to not to overshoot on either. One thing also like is the tripod collar which has three different mounting locations to better help balance the lens on a support. Overall I'm completely satisfied with this lens!

I haven't had it very long but....

By Amy
Rated 4 out of 5
Date: 2022-03-15

I've only had this lens a couple of weeks and I've been able to use it once a night soccer game under the lights. Everyone loved the pics. What I noticed when comparing pics from my 70-200 to this lens under the same conditions is that there seemed to be less noise. The pics were sharp. It'll take some getting to used to a heavier lens (I used a monopod). I just wish it was a 400 for a longer reach but I went with this one because of the price!

See any errors on this page? Let us know

Will this lens work on Nikon D4S?

Will this lens work on Nikon D4S?
Asked by: Charles
Yes.
Answered by: Rob
Date published: 2020-09-14

How close does it focus?

How close does it focus?
Asked by: Don
1.5 meters (4’ 11”) is minimum focus distance
Answered by: Anonymous
Date published: 2020-02-10

Is the tripod mount Arca Swiss compatible?

Is the tripod mount Arca Swiss compatible?
Asked by: Fred
While the tripod foot on the Sigma 120-300mm f/2.8 DG OS HSM Sports Lens is not equipped for an Arca Swiss mount, you can add the Wimberley P40 Quick Release Plate, BH # WIQRPP40 to allow this. https://bhpho.to/3wubiQR
Answered by: Kirk
Date published: 2022-07-04

Does anyone use this lens with the Sigma MC-11 ...

Does anyone use this lens with the Sigma MC-11 adapter on the Sony A7RIV? Does it have enough resolving power for a 61MP camera?
Asked by: Richard
As far as resolving power, yes, its plenty sharp on the A7RIV. Maybe not quite as sharp as my EF 300 2.8 IS, but is much better as far as focusing is concerned. It AFs fast and accurately (most of the time), but struggles a bit sometimes when tracking moving subjects. Its better on the A9 but still not perfect. If youre focused on the subject before it moves and you need to track it, then it generally does fine but acquiring focus on an already moving subject is hit or miss. If for some reason it loses focus during a burst, it seems to struggle to regain focus without releasing the button and pressing again quickly to start AF over again. I shot a bunch of softball tournament games over the weekend using mainly the A9+MC11, and got some great shots so its capable, but is certainly a noticeable step down from native performance for AF tracking.
Answered by: Joshua
Date published: 2022-04-26

question

How good is the low light performance with the D500?
Asked by: DERBY M.
Nikon DSLR cameras are superb performers in low light, including the D500. This lens, by virtue of it's fast (for a zoom f/2.8) is an excellent accessory if low light shooting is your desire.
Answered by: Dennis A L.
Date published: 2018-08-28

question

What's the difference between this product and the other one at a lower price ?
Asked by: Anonymous
According to some reports, which most agree, this lens share the same optical formula with the previous version. So the current version only have electronic and big body upgrade.
Answered by: VIC L.
Date published: 2018-08-28

I shoot high school sports and wildlife mostly ...

I shoot high school sports and wildlife mostly with my Canon 1DXmII. This lens is almost 10 years old. Has anyone heard of an upgrade for EF or RF versions?
Asked by: Bob
Yes I realize that, but that is not what I asked about. Thanks anyway
Answered by: Bob
Date published: 2021-07-31

Can it reach maximum 12fps burst with mechanical ...

Can it reach maximum 12fps burst with mechanical shutter on R5?
Asked by: Yincheng
Unfortunately, Sigma has not yet specified if the Sigma 120-300mm f/2.8 DG OS HSM Sports Lens for Canon EF can reach the maximum 12 frames per second burst speed when using the mechanical shutter on the Canon EOS R5 Mirrorless Digital Camera. As such, your results may vary.
Answered by: Manzell
Date published: 2022-04-14
  • y_2022, m_12, d_10, h_21CST
  • bvseo_bulk, prod_bvqa, vn_bulk_3.0.34
  • cp_1, bvpage1
  • co_hasquestionsanswers, tq_33
  • loc_en_US, sid_909810, prod, sort_[SortEntry(order=HAS_STAFF_ANSWERS, direction=DESCENDING)]
  • clientName_bhphotovideo