Sigma recently released what might be the most significant APS-C lens in years with their new 17-40mm f/1.8 DC Art. This lens updates the legendary 18-35mm f/1.8 that photographers and filmmakers have loved since 2013, promising the same cinematic look in a more refined package.
Coming to you from Curtis Padley, this detailed video puts the Sigma 17-40mm f/1.8 DC Art through real-world testing in London to see if it lives up to its predecessor's reputation. Padley immediately notes the premium build quality that surpasses any previous Sigma APS-C mirrorless lens, featuring an internal zoom mechanism that maintains consistent length. This design choice matters if you shoot video on gimbals since you won't need to rebalance when zooming. The lens extends the focal range compared to the original while reducing weight by 30% and shrinking the overall size.
Key Specs
- Focal Length: 17-40mm (25.5-60mm full-frame equivalent)
- Maximum Aperture: f/1.8 constant
- Optical Design: 17 elements in 11 groups with 11 rounded aperture blades
- Weight: 19.8 ounces
- Minimum Focus Distance: 11 inches
- Filter Size: 67mm
- Available Mounts: Sony E, Canon RF, Fujifilm X, and Leica L
- Build Features: Dust- and splash-resistance, aperture ring with declicking option, two custom buttons, AF/MF switch
Padley's sharpness testing reveals remarkable results that challenge typical zoom lens compromises. He directly compares the 17-40mm against Sigma's own 16mm f/1.4 and 23mm f/1.4 primes, finding the zoom lens matches or exceeds their performance across the frame. The autofocus uses a HLA motor for silent, lightning-fast operation with minimal focus breathing for video work. However, the lens isn't perfect, as Padley documents noticeable barrel distortion at the wide end and chromatic aberration wide open that improves significantly by f/2.8. Check out the video above for the full rundown from Padley.
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