Sigma 150-600mm f/5-6.3 DG OS HSM Sports Review

Sigma 150-600mm f/5-6.3 DG OS HSM S Handling and Features

Weighing just under 3kg, this lens is a hefty beast, and some kind of support is recommended if using the lens for long periods of time. Luckily there is a hefty tripod collar included. The high-quality matt finished plastics and metals used for much of the construction add to the overall robust feel of the lens. The lens balances well on the Canon EOS 5D MkIII used for testing and is even hand-holdable for short periods of time, but may feel a little lens heavy in combination with some of the more compact SLR bodies available today. The lens is resistant to dust and moisture, which will suit those looking for a lens that can be used in a variety of conditions.

A silent HSM focusing motor powers the focusing mechanism, resulting in quick focusing in a wide range of conditions. Focusing is performed internally, so the 105mm filter thread does not rotate, making this lens ideal for use with polarising and graduated filters, if you can afford them in that size, of course.

Full-time manual focus adjustments are supported by simply adjusting the focus ring at any time. Manual focusing is a pleasure as the focus ring is well damped, and very smooth to operate. The close focusing distance of 2.6m is quite close for a 600mm lens. The zoom ring is smooth to operate too, although it does have a tendency to creep forward when pointed downwards. A switch to lock the zoom at the desired position is provided. This is very useful, as the lens barrel tends to creep forward of its own accord when pointed downwards without the lock engaged.

With care, it is possible to take sharp images handheld using the image stabiliser at shutter speeds as low as 1/80sec at 600mm, around half the time. This is roughly three stops slower than the usual rule of thumb for shooting handheld will allow. The image stabiliser also holds the viewfinder image fairly steady, which can help with focusing and composition.

Add your message