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  Reviews by: ntotrr  
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Sigma 18-250mm F3.5-6.3 DC OS HSM

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Review Date: Nov 30, 2010 Recommend? yes | Price paid: $459.00 | Rating: 8 

 
Pros: Although not up to the standards of an EX lens' build quality, this lens is well-made. AF is fast due to HSM which is a feature the 18-200mm DC OS does ot have. Zoom ring is well damped. Great range to use as a vacation lens or on a day out when I don't want to carry a bag of lenses.
Cons:
Understanding that these superzooms are a compromise due to the zoom range, there are no real negative aspects when this is considered.

I use a Sigma SD14 and purchased the 18-200mm DC OS lens for that camera to use on vacations for snapshots or when I don't want to lug a bag around for a day of shooting. After getting a Canon 7D, I wanted the same "solution" even though I have a good collection of lenses for it. My choices were down to the Sigma 18-250mm DC OS HSM or the Tamron 18-270mm Di II VC. Since that Sigma has HSM which the Tamron lacks, and I've had nothing but good experiences with Sigma lenses, I opted for the Sigma. I have not regretted my decision. This lens has met and even exceeded my expectations. Build quality is good, the lens is solid but not too heavy which is how a DC lens should be. The AF is fast, the HSM works well. The zoom is well-damped and the focus ring is also.

If anyone expects stellar performance from a superzoom like this, they'll be disappointed but no one should have that expectation. This is a good lens that produces good shots, some are quite sharp and color rendition is spot-on. Any lens with this zoom range is going to be a compromise. Knowing that, my epxectations have been met or exceeded by this lens. For anyone looking for a all-in-one solution when the circumstances merit, this is a fine choice.