Sigma 10-20mm F3.5 vs F4.0-5.6

Conclusion: Sigma 10-20 F/4.0-5.6

The Sigma 10-20mm F/4-5.6 EX DC J is the top value lens in the ultra-wide comparative review. The build quality is very good and the zoom action is smooth. The lens hood, if installed inversely over the lens, is bulky and gives it a total diameter of just under 3.5 inches. The lens has distortion at 10mm but once you get past 14mm it drops significantly. The problem with vignetting is relatively minor and the distortion improves once you move towards 20mm. The Sigma lens is also prone to chromatic aberration but improves once you start to move towards 20mm.

Value

The Sigma 10-20mm F/4.0-5.6 lens currently retails for $479.00 at B&H photo, which places the Sigma at the low end of the lenses being reviewed.

Pros

• Very little distortion beyond 14mm
• Very little vignetting beyond 14mm
• Least expensive of lenses reviewed
• Ablility to install front filters

Cons

• No quick-shift focus
• Tied for least number of diaphragm blades of lenses reviewed
• Visible distortion at 10mm
• Slight vignetting at 10mm
• Visible chromatic aberration
• Very prone to lens flare

Rating