Sigma Imaging (UK) Ltd

	Amateur Photographer ‘Generally the 10-20mm f/3.5 Sigma zoom lens lives up to the expectations for an optic of this specification and price range. In terms of resolving power/contrast, results showed the usual improvement as focal length increased and the viewing angle narrowed.’ ‘There are four aspheric elements rather than three, and the diaphragm is seven bladed rather than six. This will improve shapes in out-of-focus areas, giving better bokeh.’

	Digital Camera ‘Compared with the original, Sigma’s new edition of its 10-20mm lens offers a step up in quality and is still cheaper than any manufacturer’s own-brand ultra-wide zoom. Considering the Sigma is one of the cheapest lenses in the group, it’s very well built, with a high-quality feel, impeccable finish and some neat touches. As usual, Sigma doesn’t skimp on accessories either, and the lens is supplied with a push, padded soft case, along with a quality petal-shaped hood. The Sigma is a standout winner for optics and value for money.’

	PhotoPlus ‘There’s certainly a lot to like about this lens, including a maximum aperture of f/3.5 that remains constant throughout the zoom range. Build quality feels pretty good and appealing extras include HSM autofocus with full-time manual override. As the second-cheapest lens in the group, the Sigma 10-20mm has a lot going for it.’

	What Digital Camera ‘About a year ago, when Sigma’s variable aperture (f/4-5.6) 10-20mm zoom was tested, a doubt was expressed about whether the then-forthcoming f/3.5 lens would be much better optically. The answer is a definite yes: the latest version has stunning resolution and performs brilliantly in real-world use. In short, this is an absolute gem that deserves a place on every photographers wish-list.’

	Digital SLR Photography ‘The Hyper Sonic Motor (HSM) on my Nikon-fit lens delivers fast and quiet autofocus and the matte black EX finish ensures that this is an attractive looking lens with a quality feel about it. Chromatic aberration is also well controlled. Sharpness is also good, particularly around the centre of the frame. Overall, the lens performs very well. If you are looking to buy your first ultra wide-angle lens, this is a genuine contender. Build quality is excellent and the results are impressive.’

	Photoworld ‘The geometry of the lens is very good across the full range from 10 to 20mm. The HSM focusing is wonderful and seems to give much finer settings with wide-angles lenses than screw focus. The lens itself is superbly built, it’s not as prone to flare as the older design, it deserves the EX label.’

	British Journal Of Photography ‘It’s more resistant to into-the-light flare, and offers better drawing for architectural interiors. Central sharpness is excellent even wide open. For reportage-style shots in clubs, carnivals and similar crowded low-light events the centre of the frame may be all that matters and f/3.5 will make a difference.’

	Outdoor Photography ‘So where’s the attraction? Simple: it’s faster. Offering a consistent f/3.5 aperture throughout the entire zoom range, this lens is a dream for lovers of low light photography. Unsurprisingly, the built-in Hyper Sonic Motor (HSM) delivered fast and quiet autofocus. The minimum focusing distance of 24cm was impressive, helping to accentuate foreground interest and encourage the exaggerated perspectives loved by wide angle aficionados.’

	Master Photography ‘The Sigma is a very sharp indeed centrally, even wide open. It has slightly lower distortion than the Nikon at 10mm. It comes in at around £100-150 cheaper than the Nikon, but nowhere near the low cost of the older Sigma. It is without doubt one of the best handling and looking of all these lenses. …if you are a Canon system user, you don’t have access to the Nikon, and the Sigma is so much more solidly built and faster at the long end than the 2004 EF-S USM Canon 10-22mm alternative.’

	Digital Photo ‘There are no nasty surprises when it comes to the overall performance of the lens; AF is strong, locking on with ease and focusing quietly and, as before the manual focus ring is a decent size, allowing a great level of control and precision in operation.’

	Digital SLR User ‘The zoom ring turns with a smooth motion throughout its short, approximately 60-degree range. There is a dedicated switch to select manual or auto focus. Zoomed out to 10mm and wide open at f/3.5 the Sigma is considerably better than the Tamron.’

	Digital Camera Essentials ‘The Sigma 10-20mm is a lot cheaper and has a slight advantage in specifications too, woth an f/3.5 maximum aperture across the zoom range. It’s well made too, with firm but smooth zoom and focus rings and a durable finish.’