Lens Summary
Brand: Sigma
Also Known As: Sigma 120-300mm f/2.8
Lens Type: Zoom Lens
Format: Full Frame / FX
Focus: Autofocus
Lens Mount: Canon EF, Nikon F, Sigma SA
Release Date: 2012-09-17
MSRP Price: $3599
Made in: Japan
Infrared Rating: Good
Production Status: In Production
Lens Description: The Sigma 120-300mm F2.8 EX DG OS APO HSM is a unique lens in the photo industry. Its design is based around high speed superior optical performance. Created for Full Frame sensors, it may also be used with APS-C sized sensors as well. It has an array of technology to guarantee the highest level of image quality. This technology includes a Hyper Sonic Motor (HSM), an Optical Stabilizer, Inner Focusing and Zooming System, SLD and FLD Glass Elements (FLD has a performance equal to fluorite). The HSM ensures quiet, high speed, accurate autofocusing while the OS allows for use of shutter speeds approximately 4 stops slower than would otherwise be possible. Super Multi-Layer coating reduces flare and ghosting working together with the SLD and FLD glass elements for maximum correction of chromatic aberrations. An inner focusing and zooming system produces sharper images throughout the entire zoom range. With a large fixed aperture of F2.8 the 120-300 is capable of handling any lighting scenario.
Photography Life Review Summary: Overall, for anyone looking at potentially purchasing the Sigma 120-300mm f/2.8 DG OS HSM, I would recommend to take a serious look at its predecessor instead. It shares exactly the same optics and optical stabilization technology, weighs a pound lighter and at its current price of $2,499, it is a great bargain. Read the full Sigma 120-300mm f/2.8 DG OS HSM Sport Review by Photography Life.
Sigma 120-300mm f/2.8 DG OS HSM Sport Specifications
| Lens Specifications | |
|---|---|
| Lens Type | Zoom Lens |
| Focal Length | 120-300mm |
| Mount Type | Canon EF, Nikon F, Sigma SA |
| Format | Full Frame / FX |
| Compatible Format(s) | 35mm Film / Full-Frame Digital Sensor DSLR (APS-C Sensor) |
| Compatible with Teleconverters | Yes |
| Zoom Ratio | 2.5x |
| Maximum Reproduction Ratio | 1:8.1 |
| Optical Stabilization (Image Stabilization) | Yes |
| Aperture Information | |
| Aperture Ring | No |
| Maximim Aperture | f/2.8 |
| Minimum Aperture | f/22 |
| Maximum Angle of View (Full frame or larger format) | 20.4° - 8.2° |
| Optical Information | |
| Lens Elements | 23 |
| Lens Groups | 18 |
| Diaphragm Blades | 9 |
| Low Dispersion Glass Elements | 1 |
| "F" Low Dispersion Glass Elemenets | 2 |
| Super Multi-Layer Coating | Yes |
| Focus Information | |
| Focus | Autofocus |
| Built-in Focus Motor | Yes |
| Hyper Sonic Motor (HSM) | Yes |
| Internal Focusing | Yes |
| Minimum Focus Distance | 1.50m |
| Distance Information | Yes |
| Filter Information | |
| Filter Size | 105mm |
| Accepts Filter Type | Screw-on |
| Physical Characteristics | |
| Weather / Dust Sealing | Yes |
| Mount Material | Metal |
| Tripod Collar | Yes |
| Dimensions | 114.4 x 289.2mm |
| Weight | 3.39 kg |
| Other Information | |
| Available in Colors | Black |
Lens Construction
The Sigma 120-300mm f/2.8 DG OS HSM shares identical optical design as its predecessor, the Sigma 120-300mm f/2.8 EX DG OS APO HSM:
MTF Chart
Image Samples
Graphs and MTF charts are one thing. The real pictures tell different story.
120-300 can’t be compared to 200-500 simply as those cover very different focal lengths.
I’ve used 120-300 and even with 2xAPO TC from Sigma it is extraordinary.
Many ‘Nikonians’ have dropped their 300mm fixed lenses and got the Sigma.
I have that lens almost for a month now. My previous lens was Nikon 300 mm F2.8 G VRII. What can I say… May be not as sharp as my predecessor and as fast but taking the fact that this is such versatile glass with such high standard of a build quality and zoom capability made me very happy. It works well with converters and as is on it’s own. It has focus management capability which I haven’t had a chance to use yet. I would buy this lens again. Great glass, great travel companion, saves a lot on buying other lenses and it’s a such pleasure to hold it in your hands.
Thanks Sigma.