Sigma Unveils First F/1.8 Constant Aperture Zoom

2013.04.18

Sigma has gone a long way since it started out producing low-cost lenses. Their new Art series of lenses are extremely well regarded and deliver superb results, meeting and sometimes exceeded the quality of native lenses. Today, Sigma has outdone its rivals by being the first to ever produce a zoom with a constant F/1.8 maximum aperture, beating the F/2 zoom exclusive to Olympus and covering a smaller Four-Thirds sensor rather than APS-C like the new Sigma.

The new Sigma A 18-35mm F/1.8 DC HSM on an APS-C camera provides a wide-to-normal zoom range, while maintaining a constant F/1.8 maximum aperture across its range. It has a completely internal construction with no moving or rotating parts outside of the metal lens barrel. Focusing is powered by Sigma's own Hyper Sonic Motor (HSM) and allows for quick-shift manual focus.

This new lens has been announced for Canon, Nikon and Sigma mounts. In other words, it supports all non-stabilized mounts and no stabilized one. It is a shame since it would be a low-light powerhouse if fitted on a stabilized camera. This may still be possible by adding it to a mirrorless camera with a suitable adapter. At this point though, the field-of-view would be reduced as APS-C mirrorless cameras with a short flange distance are not stabilized.

No price or launch date has been announced yet but one can hope it is soon, and it may well be, considering Sigma's site has a complete set of specifications. We will update you as soon as this information is available.

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