Review of the Sigma 18-200mm f/3.5-6.3 DC OS HSM

The OS suffix on this lens stands for Optical Stabilisation, which features a pair of sensors that compensate for camera shake and automatic detection of camera movement when panning. It features one SLD and three aspherical elements, as well as a super multi-layer coating to reduce internal reflections and flare. The lens grouping consists of an impressive 18 elements in 13 groups, all of which substantially contribute to the overall weight of the objective. Its outstanding characteristic is the Hyper Sonic Motor (HSM), which performs marginally faster and quieter than the more expensive Nikon. It’s a well-built optic with a solid feel and robust grips.

Image Quality
Where the non-OS lens is disappointing, this stabilised version with the most elements of the group is a stunner. The lens offers the highest resolution of any here, and while the 18mm curve is very convex, it’s still a high resolution. Similarly at 200mm, the lens shows it’s possible to get decent resolution from a superzoom. Fringing lets it down, though, with an average performance across the range. Still, this is the most consistent performer of the group.

Price (ESP): £400
www.sigma-imaging-uk.com

What We Like:
Excellent resolution for this type of lens, OS, price

What We Don't Like:
Too much chromatic aberration

Features: 18
Design: 18
Performance: 18
Image quality: 17
Value: 18
Score %: 89