Sigma Macro 105mm f/2.8 EX DG OS HS M £360/$570 Big on features, small in price

This FX format Sigma lens goes head-to-head with Nikon’s top-notch 105mm for specifications and features, but is much less expensive to buy.

The list of attractions includes ring-type ultrasonic autofocus, optical stabilization with switchable static and panning modes, a focus distance scale under a viewing panel, and a three-position autofocus limiter switch that can lock out both the short and long sections of the full range.

Supplied accessories include a hood with an additional converter, for improved effectiveness with DX format cameras, plus a smart padded soft case. Build quality and handling are excellent. The optical path boasts two SLD (Special Low Dispersion) and Sigma’s Multi-Layer Coatings.

Performance

The Sigma matches the Nikon 105mm lens for centresharpness, although it’s not quite as sharp towards the extreme corners of the frame. That said, corner-sharpness is practically identical when using either lens on a DX format body. Autofocus is nippy and highly accurate, while manual focusing is smooth and refined. All in all, the Sigma is a great performer.