Sigma C 18-200 mm f/3.5-6.3 DC Macro OS HSM
11. Summary
- compact dimensions for such a wide focal range,
- very good image quality in the frame centre across the whole focal range,
- decent image quality on the edge of the frame,
- very good correction of the longitudinal chromatic aberration,
- sensible correction of lateral chromatic aberration,
- proper correction of spherical aberration,
- above-average distortion correction, when compared to the performance of the rivals,
- moderate coma,
- not very bothersome astigmatism,
- efficient image stabilization,
- sensibly efficient work of autofocus,
- universal range of focal lengths.
Cons:
- a bit too many reflections near 100 mm focal length,
- noticeable vignetting at both ends of focal range,
- image quality on the edge of the frame at 18 and 100 mm and at the maximum relative aperture a bit under the decency level.
The launch of the Sigma C 18–200 mm f/3.5–6.3 DC Macro OS HSM was for me a surprise. After introducing a new company policy there seem to be so many lenses to be replaced, so many new constructions to be created; launching an amateur 18-200 mm model less than 2.5 years after its quite successful predecessor seemed to me a case of squandering the working output of both engineers and the factory.
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Still the Sigma headquarters know better than me what can be sold; perhaps the market demand for megazooms is still high enough to justify such a move. Putting aside my private musings whether or not arranging another launch in that segment was a good idea, now it’s time to assess objectively the lens we got for our tests. I admit the new device is interesting indeed. Firstly it’s better than its predecessor almost in every aspect, with just slightly smaller weight and dimensions. The differences are perhaps not huge but a size reduction usually entails the worsening of optical properties. Here the optical properties are actually better which is worth emphasizing. What’s more you get a noticeably more efficient image stabilization system and better macro properties.
The new Sigma looks good not only when stacked up against its predecessor but also when compared to its direct rivals. A very even performance, a good maximum focal length, the best distortion correction in this class of equipment, no slip-ups on the edge of the frame – all of these are really impressive features. If you need an 18-200 mm lens the new Sigma should definitely fall within the scope of your interest.
