Review on 📷 Sigma 18-200mm f/3.5-6.3 DC Auto Focus OS Zoom Lens with Optical Stabilizer for Canon DSLR Cameras by Michael Ghosh

We've been using this Sigma AF 18-200 lens for a few months now. We recently compared the Sigma to a Canon 28-135mm lens with Canon 30D image stabilization. We took photos alongside 28mm and 135mm lenses, set ISO 100 and the camera in program mode. Our lenses were set to autofocus with image stabilization turned on. The good news, which I really wasn't expecting, was that both lenses produced nearly identical images - I was confident that the Canon optics would far outperform the Sigma optics. Color saturation, incidence of light through the lens and details were indistinguishable. Autofocus worked equally well on both. Both weighed about the same and were about the same size. The Sigma has a 72mm aperture which I liked (as did the Canon). Of course, Sigma has the 18-200, and Canon currently has no competing option in the same class of DSLR lenses with image stabilization. The only aspect of the Sigma that differed significantly from the Canon lens was the noise of the Sigma's autofocus motor. . The Sigma makes a noticeable engine noise, although not overly loud. However, if you are filming in a location where silence is crucial, such as at a ceremony, this might pose a problem, but most likely not. In comparison, Canon's autofocus motor is always quiet and fast. Sigma places a locking mechanism on the lens mount to eliminate any possibility of lens movement (the lens extends when facing down). In any case, I doubt this will be a problem for Sigma. The zoom ring is a little tight, but not too tight. The manual focus ring is designed for use with autofocus disabled to avoid tampering with the focus motor. Image stabilization works well, allowing you to take photos in low light without using a tripod. I was very pleased with the latest development from Sigma. I would say the Sigma is a great choice for amateur photographers like us looking for a single lens option for Canon DSLRs. The only limiting factor may be motor noise if you're hoping to match Canon's quiet motor system. Until Canon launches a lens in the same class at a competitive price, Sigma will seed this round in 2007. We've just noticed that for the first time, the Sigma lens is starting to creep (pop out when pointed down). So it's clear that while the zoom mechanism is initially stiff enough to hold the lens in place, over time it loosens up enough for gravity to move on its own. I still like the lens.