Is Sigma’s Superzoom the Only Lens You’ll Ever Need?

The Sigma 16-300mm f/3.5-6.7 DC OS Contemporary lens promises to be an all-in-one solution for crop-sensor camera users. With its exceptionally broad zoom range, it aims to appeal to users looking for convenience over outright quality.

Coming to you from Jared Polin, this practical video evaluates the Sigma 16-300mm f/3.5-6.7 DC OS Contemporary lens across a wide variety of shooting conditions, from golf tournaments to soccer games. Polin puts the lens through its paces on the Sony a6700, a camera chosen specifically to leverage its autofocus capabilities. He highlights the impressive versatility of the lens, pointing out that the 16-300mm focal length (a 25.6-480mm equivalent in full-frame terms) covers almost every scenario you’d encounter—from sweeping wide angle stadium shots to close-up sports action. Despite the lens' practical appeal, Polin emphasizes that such extensive zoom range inevitably introduces optical compromises like chromatic aberration and image softness at extreme focal lengths. He makes it clear this lens isn't built for professional-quality image-making, but rather for casual users who want better results than a smartphone without juggling multiple lenses.

Polin further demonstrates real-world use by photographing golfers at a Pro-Am event in Florida and a Philadelphia Union soccer match. In these scenarios, the Sigma lens performs adequately, handling autofocus tasks effectively, particularly with moving subjects. He specifically points out the decent sharpness at moderate zoom lengths but notes considerable background detail when zoomed in fully, due to the smaller aperture at maximum zoom (f/6.7). This means the lens won't create dramatic background blur unless the subject is very close, limiting creative possibilities for portrait or sports photography. Yet, Polin argues this is acceptable considering the lens's primary target users—those simply wanting convenient shooting without specialized equipment.

Key Specs

• Focal Length: 16-300mm (25.6-480mm full frame equivalent)

• Aperture Range: f/3.5-6.7 maximum; f/22-45 minimum

• Lens Mount Options: Canon RF, Sony E, Fujifilm X, Leica L

• Minimum Focus Distance: 6.7" (wide) to 41.3" (telephoto)

• Macro Capability: 1:2 reproduction ratio, 0.5x magnification

• Image Stabilization: Yes

• Optical Design: 20 elements in 14 groups

• Filter Size: 67 mm

• Dimensions: 2.9" x 4.8" (73.8 x 121.4 mm)

• Weight: 22 oz (625 g)

Polin also discusses build quality, mentioning the lens' compact size and weight, making it practical for everyday carry. However, he critiques the tight zoom ring that requires considerable effort to twist, making smooth zooming challenging during fast-paced action. Additionally, the lens exhibits zoom creep, leading Sigma to incorporate a locking mechanism to prevent unwanted extension when carrying.

For photographers seeking a single, versatile lens for casual use, this Sigma might fit the bill. However, Polin cautions those who prioritize top-tier image quality or specialize in challenging photography conditions, advising them to manage their expectations carefully. Check out the video above for the full rundown from Polin.