SSports

150-600mm F5-6.3 DG OS HSM

Design detail

Covering all the essence. Portable, durable and of a high-standard. A Masterpiece of hyper-telephoto zoom lens

Dust and splash-proof, zoom lock at every focus distance, water-repellent coating, compatibility with the new tele converters, new OS system with accelerometer, easily accessible manual over-ride switch, optimized auto focusing, telephoto shooting at 600mm, minimized chromatic aberration for higher optical performance and enhanced enjoyment with beautiful build quality. Since telephoto zoom lenses are often used under very challenging situations, this model has crystalized all the possible qualities and features to achieve the best optical and action-capture performance. While combining high portability and durability, this high-performance hyper-telephoto zoom lens from our Sports line offers outstanding rendering capabilities. Its versatility provides better flexibility for wider shooting scenes, and the high-performance definitely stimulates photographers’ artistic expression.

Achieves the best optical performance that embodies the product concept of our Sports line

By incorporating excellent optical glass elements, it minimizes chromatic aberration and achieves class leading image quality

This lens incorporates 2 FLD (“F” Low Dispersion) glass elements, which have performance equal to fluorite, and 3 SLD (Special Low Dispersion) glass elements, and compensates for color aberration at the utmost. Chromatic aberration in particular, which could be visible especially towards the telephoto-end even when stopped down, is corrected by the optimized design of glass elements including FLD lenses.

High-end model with enhanced durability.
Dust-proof and splash-proof construction

It is Dust and splash-proof, and designed for higher durability. It is able to meet the demands that professional photographers would require in challenging shooting conditions, such as in the rain.

Zoom lock switch can be set at any focal length

The new zoom lock switch enables the zoom ring to be locked at any focal length. It can be fixed at the photographer’s desirable focal length, which allows stable shooting whether the lens is positioned upward or downward. It also helps during long exposure photography.

Water and oil-repellent coating ensures pleasant photography experience

Forefront and rear lenses incorporate a water and oil-repellent coating that allows water to be wiped away easily and prevents oil and fat from sticking to the surface, even in challenging shooting conditions. At the same time, the maintenance of the lens surface becomes easier.

Manual override incorporated to make two full-time manual modes switchable

In addition to AF/MF, MO (Manual Override) is incorporated as one of the options of the focus mode switch. By setting it to the MO position, it switches to manual focus by rotating the focus ring even during continuous AF. With AF position, standard full-time manual focus is available. Using the optional SIGMA USB DOCK, it is possible to adjust the MO position’s sensitivity to switch to manual focus.

Newly designed tripod socket enables desirable fixing

The tripod socket is newly designed since hyper-telephoto zoom lenses like this one which has 600mm telephoto-end often need a monopod or tripod for shooting. While ensuring that the tripod socket is large and stable, it’s possible to click the position at every 90゜to make the change of shooting position from and to vertical and horizontal much easier. By attaching the supplied strap, the lens can be carried safely without putting unnecessary pressure on the mount of the camera.

* Tripod socket cannot be detached from the lens

Offering excellent usability as a straight zoom

This lens is optimized to allow the lens front to expand/contract smoothly in order to immediately adopt without adjusting the holding position, even to a sudden change in angle-of-view. The lens front is designed to ensure easy handling in such situations.

High action-capture performance that enables any photographer with high demands to get the exact shots they want

Accelerometer enables panning photography both in vertical and horizontal position

The OS (Optical Stabilizer) function using an accelerometer has been incorporated to ensure high accuracy. OS Mode 1 is suitable for general photography, and Mode 2 is ideal for panning shooting for motor sports etc. With Mode 2, the accelerometer works effectively to minimize blur while shooting by detecting whether the camera is positioned vertically or horizontally.

* This lens cannot be used on film SLR cameras with the exception of the Nikon F6, Canon EOS-1V.
* Effect of Mode 2 is limited to panning shooting in horizontal direction.

Quiet and Fast AF

The HSM (Hyper Sonic Motor) ensures high speed and quiet AF as well as full-time manual focus override by rotation of the focus ring. With the enhanced AF algorithm, smoother AF is achieved. The full time manual, which offers further adjustment after focusing with AF mode, is possible. By using USB Dock, you can change and adjust the AF speed at your convenience.

Customization and flexible adjustment for convenience or a specific purpose is possible
SIGMA USB DOCK - Customizable to your needs

Customization including firmware updates, focus adjustment, setting of full time manual operations as well as adjustment of the timing to switch to MF when rotating the focus ring is available with the optional SIGMA USB DOCK, by connecting it with the dedicated software “SIGMA Optimization Pro” on a computer. With this lens, custom mode that can be set depending on the photography situation is available by switching it on the lens. Through custom mode, it is possible to set AF speed, focus limiter where desired focus range can be adjusted, and OS where one of the patterns for optical stabilizer can be selected from “Dynamic View Mode”, “Standard” and “Moderate View Mode”.

Compatible with the newly developed tele converters.
AF is effective up to F8

Tele Converters that are newly designed to match the new lens line-ups (optional, planned to be released in 2014) can be attached. The addition of SIGMA’s TELE CONVERTER TC-1401 or TELE CONVERTER TC-2001 produces a MF 210-840mm F7-9 hyper-telephoto zoom lens or a MF 300-1200mm F10-12.6 hyper-telephoto zoom lens respectively. In addition, when SIGMA TELE CONVERTER TC-1401 is attached to cameras that are compatible with AF at F8, it is possible to shoot with AF.* When shooting subjects with low contrast or luminosity value, focus may not be spot on the subject.

New product lines from SGV concepts are setting new benchmarks for image quality

Sophisticated optical performance and expressiveness. High action-capture performance, enabling photographers to get the exact shots they want

SIGMA is organizing all its interchangeable lenses into three product lines; Contemporary, Art, and Sports. While offering sophisticated optical performance and expressiveness, our Sports line lenses deliver high action-capture performance, enabling photographers to get the exact shots they want. With these lenses, fast-moving subjects even at distance can be well captured. This high-performance line also offers a variety of functions to aid the photographer in challenging conditions and scenarios. Besides sports photography, these lenses are also perfect for nature shots featuring birds and wildlife, as well as aero photography, trains, motor sports photography and portraits. Another major feature of our Sports line lenses is their wide range of customization options: using the dedicated software, all sorts of settings can be tailored to the personal preferences of the photographer.

SIGMA Global Vision

SIGMA is working on its full renewal of the products, and the new lens lines share all the following elements.

Evaluation with Sigma's own MTF measuring system “A1”

We used to measure lens performance with an MTF measuring system using conventional sensors. However, we’ve now developed our own proprietary MTF (modulation transfer function) measuring system (A1) using 46-megapixel Foveon direct image sensors. Even previously undetectable high-frequency details are now within the scope of our quality control inspections. The SIGMA 120-300mm F2.8 DG OS HSM will all be checked using this “A1” before they are shipped.

Made in Japan

All Sigma’s manufacturing – right down to the molds and parts – is carried out under an integrated production system, entirely in Japan. We are now one of the very few manufacturers whose products are solely “made in Japan”. We like to think our products are somehow imbued with the essence of our homeland, blessed as it is with clean air and water, and focused, hard-working people. We pride ourselves on the authentic quality of Sigma products, born of a marriage between highly attuned expertise and intelligent, advanced technology. Our sophisticated products have satisfied professionals and lovers of photography all over the world, because our manufacturing is based on genuine craftsmanship, underpinned by the passion and pride of our experts.

Applicable for the Mount Conversion Service that enables lenses to be long term assets

Over the years, Sigma has manufactured an extremely wide variety of interchangeable lenses. Leveraging our unique know-how and resources, we present our new mount conversion service, which is available for the interchangeable lenses from our new product lines. Sigma will convert the current lens mount internal components, allowing you to continue using your favorite Sigma lens with a different camera body. Thanks to this service, you can use a favorite lens for many years to come, unrestricted by your original choice of camera system.

Note: Sigma’s mount conversion service differs from ordinary repairs and product support and is not offered at your local Sigma dealer or camera store. In order to apply for the service, please contact your nearest authorized subsidiary/ distributer of Sigma.

Brass made bayonet mount

This lens incorporates a brass made bayonet mount which has both high accuracy and durability. A special treatment to reinforce its strength is applied to the surface giving it greater strength and making it highly resistant to long-term use.

Incorporating Rounded Diaphragm

The 9 blade-rounded diaphragm creates an attractive blur to the out-of-focus areas of the image.

Designed to minimize flare and ghosting

SIGMA’s Super Multi-Layer Coating reduces flare and ghosting. It provides sharp and high contrast images throughout the entire zoom range.

Which one is you?

Covering all the essence. Portable, durable and of a high-standard. A Masterpiece of hyper-telephoto zoom lens

Lens construction

Specifications

SSport

150-600mm
F5-6.3 DG OS HSM

Lens Construction 24 Elements in 16 Groups
Angle of View (for SD1) 16.4 -4.1 degrees
Number of Diaphragm Blades 9 (rounded diaphragm)
Minimum Aperture F22
Minimum Focusing Distance 260cm / 102.4in.
Maximum Magnification 1:5
Filter Size Diameter 105mm
Dimensions Diameter 121mm x 290.2mm / 4.8in. x 11.4in.
Weight 2,860g / 100.9oz.

Corresponding AF Mounts

Barcode No.

Sigma 00-85126-740566
Canon 00-85126-740542
Nikon 00-85126-740559

Covering all the essence. Portable, durable and of a high-standard. A Masterpiece of hyper-telephoto zoom lens

MTF chart

150mm

600mm

Distortion

150mm

600mm

Vignetting

150mm

600mm

Covering all the essence. Portable, durable and of a high-standard. A Masterpiece of hyper-telephoto zoom lens

In the news

‘Image quality is excellent. It’s a top performer, and great value considering its professional grade build quality.’

‘All aspects of image quality are excellent, throughout the entire zoom range. Autofocus is very fast and the stabiliser works very well in both static and panning modes. It’s a fabulous super-tele zoom with suitably ‘sporty’ performance.’

This is a meaty beast, but on closer inspection the superb build quality really shines through. All high grade stuff, and excellent attention to detail. Sigma’s OS image stabilisation was never more welcome than on this lens and it proved to be very effective indeed, scoring 100% sharp images at three stops below the normal hand-holding threshold, and 70% at four stops. These are among the highest figures ever. Best of all, it’s very sharp, just edging ahead of the Tamron. The MTF graphs above tell the story and they’re exceptionally high by any standard. This Sigma ticks all the boxes.

The Sigma 150-600mm f/5-6.3 DG OS HSM Sports is tack-sharp at both the centre and edges of the frame when stopped down by one-stop at all the focal lengths. Even the price of the Sigma 150-600mm f/5-6.3 DG OS HSM Sports is relatively attractive, undercutting the main rival lenses from Canon and Nikon and offering better image quality than the Tamron SP 150-600mm. We can strongly recommend the new Sigma 150-600mm f/5-6.3 DG OS HSM Sports as a versatile telephoto zoom lens that delivers excellent results on the latest full-frame DSLRs.

The AF, when coupled with a decent DSLR, is fast, confident and very usable for sports. And the optical quality in my tests proved to be very respectable across the entire range. The push-pull zoom option felt, to me, more natural than Canon’s 100-400mm, and allowed me to quickly reframe to suit the action. The build too represented a big step-up from earlier Sigma super-zooms like the 150-500mm. This really feels like a lens that can handle the knocks and operate in rough conditions without complaint – it’s successfully made the ambitious jump from enthusiast to professional. I think this all makes it a practical and compelling lens for the target audience and one I can highly recommend.

Chromatic aberrations are handled exceptionally well, but it’s the sharpness of the lens – noticeably so at the corners of images at both ends of the zoom when the lens is wide open – that impresses most. The hood even features a removable rubber ring at the tip to help cushion and protect it from damage – yet another example of the close attention to detail that’s been paid to this lens. …my experience of using Sigma’s latest telephoto zoom in the sort of conditions it was designed for was extremely positive. The build quality is exemplary for use in the great outdoors by the enthusiasts and pros it’s out to target, while the sharpness of the final result doesn’t disappoint.

The metal construction means it is quite a heavy lens, but the build quality feels and looks superb. Looking at the images in detail on a computer screen, I was very impressed. Sharpness was excellent, as were both colour and contrast. The OS works well and even my Laughing Gull shots taken at 600 mm hand-held while shooting at just 1/320th sec had more sharp ones among them than blurred efforts. The push-pull option on the lens was a bonus when needing to zoom quickly with flying birds.

I was a fan of the push-pull mechanism, the 150-600mm felt better to me, smooth, natural action that could be adjusted quickly in the field if necessary. Autofocus performance is fast, accurate and very quiet. Single shot and continuous servo AF performed well thanks to Sigma’s Hyper Sonic Motor. I was able to acquire focus very quickly and maintain lock even on fast-moving unpredictable subjects coming towards the camera. Overall, the Sigma 150-600mm ƒ5-6.3 DG OS HSM Sport features extraordinary build quality with an extremely versatile zoom range – an all-around impressive lens. Its flexibility, fast AF and good ergonomics help it excel where it counts while delivering fine and well-resolved details right into the corners of a full-frame image, across the range.

Any photographers looking for a far-reaching super-telephoto zoom has to put the Sigma at the top of the list. It delivers top quality in every area and covers a range marques have yet to reach. It’s a big and heavy lump of glass and expensive too, but for versatility and performance, there is nothing else close.

Sigma’s 150-600mm S-class lens is the new champion of reasonably priced super-telephoto zooms. It’s packed with high-end features, has excellent handling characteristics and delivers superb image quality. Sharpness on the S-class lens is excellent even at the longest 600mm focal length, autofocus is fast and highly accurate, and overall performance is simply superb in all aspects of image quality and handling. It’s more expensive than the other two 150-600mm lenses on test, but well worth the extra outlay.

Autofocus is fast, whisper-quiet and highly accurate. Outright sharpness and contrast are very impressive throughout the entire zoom range, even at the widest available apertures. Sharpness is further enhanced by the optical stabilizer, which gave a four-stop benefit in our tests for handheld shooting or when using a monopod.

It’s very solidly built, using metal for the barrel (and hood), and it’s fully weather-resistant. Finish is top class, with all controls smooth, light and easy. It’s hard not to be impressed. Sigma’s OS imaging stabilisation is at its best here, returning 100% sharp images at three stops below the normal hand-holding limit and 70% at four stops. Sharpness is very high indeed, rating Excellent at all times. Overall it’s the sharpest lens in its class.

That high level of performance was maintained at the 600mm setting too and you get impressive sharp, contrasty images. Even better news is that the best quality, centrally and at the edges, comes at the wider apertures with f/8 being only slightly better than f/6.3 and both good enough for critical use.

I then fitted the 1.4x teleconverter and repeated the test… Fitting an optical accessory between lens and camera inevitably impacts on image quality but the good news is that the drop-off in image quality in terms of sharpness and contrast is minimal. At 840mm the effective maximum aperture is f/9 and you have to say that the result is good enough even for critical use.

High-spec telezooms don’t come cheap, but I’d have to say this Sigma is a bit of a bargain – and even more so if you go for the lens/converter bundle. It’s capable of excellent quality images assuming you get everything right – it is demanding on your technique. Nevertheless, if you need a lens for your wildlife or action work then you have got to take a look at this lens and while it is still a significant outlay, it’s nothing like the sort of cash you have to pay for a camera brand lens of similar spec so it is very good value for money.

Covering all the essence. Portable, durable and of a high-standard. A Masterpiece of hyper-telephoto zoom lens

Accessories

Front cap for 150-600mm F5-6.3 DG OS HSM Sport

Front cap for 150-600mm F5-6.3 DG OS HSM Sport

Item No. CS0343

£21.99

Lens Hood for 150-600mm F5-6.3 DG OS HSM Sport

Item No. 7407Z7

£99.99

Padded Case for 150-600mm F5-6.3 DG OS HSM Sport

Item No. CS0341

£31.99

Sigma USB Dock UD-01

SIGMA USB DOCK enables photographers to update the lens firmware and adjust parameters such as focus. It is designed for use with the New Contemporary, Art and Sports product lines. The adjustment is processed with special software (SIGMA Optimization Pro). The AF speed, focus limiter and OS function are also customizable for Sports lenses. Requires …

Item No.

£39.99

Teleconverter TC-1401

The SIGMA TELE CONVERTER is developed exclusively for the new lens lines. By mounting it in between a telephoto lens and a camera, the offered magnification of focal length of TC-1401 is 1.4 times and that of TC-2001 is 2 times respectively. Both models incorporate SLD (Special Low Dispersion) glass elements that offer excellent aberration …

Item No.

£299.99

Teleconverter TC-2001

The SIGMA TELE CONVERTER is developed exclusively for the new lens lines. By mounting it in between a telephoto lens and a camera, the offered magnification of focal length of TC-1401 is 1.4 times and that of TC-2001 is 2 times respectively. Both models incorporate SLD (Special Low Dispersion) glass elements that offer excellent aberration …

Item No.

£379.99

TS-81 Tripod Socket

To be used with the Sigma 150-600mm F5-6.3 DG OS HSM | Sports lens (different to the Tripod supplied with lens).

The lens foot can replace the original lens’s supplied foot, making it possible to directly attach the lens to the Arca Swiss platforms and screw knob clamps.

Compatible products: 60-600mm F4.5-6.3 DG OS HSM|Sports, 70-200mm F2.8 DG OS HSM | Sports, 150-600mm F5-6.3 DG OS HSM | Sports, 500mm F4 DG OS HSM | Sports

Click to read characteristic of Product

Click to read caution statement 

Item No. AT1900

£199.99