Whether you're shooting landscapes, architecture, or vlogs, having the right lens can make all the difference. The Sigma 10-18mm f/2.8 DC DN Contemporary and Canon RF-S 10-18mm f/4.5-6.3 IS STM are two strong contenders for those looking to enhance their Canon APS-C mirrorless setup.
Coming to you from Gordon Laing with Camera Labs, this detailed video compares the Sigma 10-18mm f/2.8 DC DN Contemporary and Canon RF-S 10-18mm f/4.5-6.3 IS STM lenses, offering insights into their strengths and weaknesses. The Sigma 10-18mm f/2.8 is a more premium option, with a constant f/2.8 aperture across the zoom range. This means it performs better in low light and offers more control over depth of field compared to the Canon, which varies between f/4.5 and f/6.3. If you're someone who values the ability to shoot in dimmer conditions, the Sigma stands out.
The Canon RF-S 10-18mm, on the other hand, is half the price and weight of the Sigma, making it more appealing if you're looking for a lightweight, affordable option. However, these advantages come with trade-offs. The Canon lens has a slower, variable aperture, but it does offer built-in optical image stabilization, which could be beneficial for handheld video work, especially on cameras that lack in-body stabilization.
The build quality is another area where the Sigma pulls ahead. It features a metal mount with weather-sealing, making it more durable for outdoor shooting. The Canon lens, by comparison, has a plastic mount and no weather-sealing, positioning it more as a budget option. Despite being larger and heavier, the Sigma is still compact enough to be unobtrusive when mounted on a camera.
Another crucial difference is that the Sigma lens lacks optical image stabilization. This might not be a deal-breaker for photography, especially when paired with a camera that has in-body stabilization, but it could affect handheld video performance. If you're using the Canon RF-S 10-18mm with a body like the EOS R7, which combines in-body and optical stabilization, you'll likely notice smoother footage. However, the Sigma’s larger aperture allows for lower ISO settings and faster shutter speeds, which could compensate for the lack of stabilization in many scenarios. Check out the video above for the full rundown from Laing.
