Sigma 10-20mm f/3.5 EX DC HSM

Sigma is the surprise winner of the ultra-wide contest this time around

Along with raising its game with several highly attractive lens launches over the last year, Sigma has surprised us with the quality of its older 10-20mm f/3.5. We’ve tested this lens in the past and been generally impressed with it, but the newer review sample supplied to us on this occasion outclassed all other competitors in terms of sharpness. Couple this with the fact that the price has dropped considerably over the last year – at least, it has in the UK – and it’s an outright winner.

Its sibling Sigma 10-20mm f/4-5.6 is the least expensive lens in the group and continues to be great value. Completing its hat-trick, Sigma also makes the widestangle rectilinear lens for DX-format cameras, which is another very tempting buy.

Of the Nikon lenses, the 10-20mm is the one to go for but it’s pricy compared with the Sigmas and, in our most recent tests, was beaten by the constant-aperture Sigma 1020mm for outright image quality.

What’s good: Constant-aperture design, outstanding sharpness, fast ultrasonic autofocus.

What’s bad: The 82mm filter thread is uncommonly large for a DX-format ultra-wide lens.

Our verdict: It’s a superb lens that’s also exceptional value for money in the UK.