Sigma has announced the Sigma AF Cine 28-105mm T3 FF, the second lens in its autofocus-compatible cinema series. The lens is scheduled for release on April 16, 2026, and will be offered in L-Mount and Sony E-mount. Sigma states that the lens is derived from the optical design of its still photography counterpart, the Sigma 28-105mm f/2.8 DG DN | Art, while incorporating cinema-oriented mechanics and control features.
The AF Cine 28-105mm T3 FF is positioned as a hybrid tool aimed at filmmakers and content creators who want cinema lens handling without giving up autofocus. Sigma emphasizes use cases such as handheld shooting, documentary production, solo operation, and gimbal work, where reliable autofocus and smooth manual control both play important roles.
Physically and functionally, the lens follows established cinema conventions. It features a limited-rotation focus ring designed for repeatable manual focus pulls, along with industry-standard 0.8 module gearing for compatibility with follow focus systems. The aperture ring operates with clickless movement, allowing exposure adjustments during recording without visible stepping. External markings are provided on each ring to support manual operation in production environments.
Autofocus performance is driven by Sigma’s High-response Linear Actuator (HLA) motor. Sigma describes the system as near-silent and optimized for tracking moving subjects, as well as for rapid focus transitions often encountered in stabilized or mobile shooting setups. This places the lens squarely in the growing category of cinema-style optics designed to integrate into modern autofocus workflows.
This release follows the earlier introduction of the Sigma AF Cine 28-45mm T2 FF, indicating Sigma’s continued expansion of the AF Cine Line. With a wider zoom range and a T3 transmission rating, the 28-105mm model covers a versatile set of focal lengths suitable for general-purpose production, interviews, run-and-gun shooting, and narrative work.
Key Specifications and Features
- Focal length: 28-105mm
- Maximum transmission: T3
- Format coverage: Full frame
- Focus drive: High-response Linear Actuator (HLA) motor
- Autofocus characteristics: Near-silent operation, tracking optimized
- Focus ring: Limited rotation design
- Gear standard: 0.8 module pitch gears
- Aperture ring: Clickless, smooth operation
- External markings: Yes
- Available mounts: L-Mount, Sony E-mount
- Release date: April 16, 2026
- Retail price: $3,399
For photographers and hybrid shooters moving deeper into video, lenses like the AF Cine 28-105mm T3 FF reflect a broader shift in the industry. Autofocus, once considered secondary in cinema applications, is increasingly central to solo production, gimbal work, and fast-paced commercial environments. At the same time, traditional cinema ergonomics—geared rings, repeatable focus behavior, and de-clicked aperture control—remain critical for controlled shooting. This lens attempts to bridge those priorities rather than forcing creators to choose between them.
Sigma’s approach also highlights an emerging design philosophy: adapting proven still lens optical formulas into cinema-oriented housings. For many users, this can offer a balance of image quality, familiarity, and mechanical usability without entering the cost bracket of high-end dedicated cinema glass.
With its midrange zoom coverage and cinema-focused controls, the Sigma 28-105mm f/2.8 DG DN | Art is likely to appeal to creators who want a single-lens solution for a wide variety of production scenarios. Its success will ultimately depend on real-world autofocus reliability and mechanical feel, but on paper, it targets a segment of the market that continues to grow rapidly.
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