Sigma’s 18-35mm F1.8, released a decade ago, became incredibly popular, especially among video creators. Even photographers using full-frame cameras adopted it for its ability to minimize crop factors, thanks to its zoom flexibility and fast aperture. Last year, Sigma introduced the 28-45mm F1.8 DG DN | ART lens, which I reviewed positively for its unique qualities. However, this full-frame lens was larger, heavier, and pricier than what APS-C shooters typically need. Now, Sigma has answered that with the 17-40mm F1.8 DC | ART, a true successor to the beloved 16-35mm. This is the first APS-C lens in the new mirrorless series to carry the ART label (barring a few early primes that weren’t quite up to standard back in 2012 and 2013 when mirrorless was new). Has Sigma managed to recapture the essence that made the 18-35mm F1.8 so adored? Is its price of $829 USD ($1249 CDN) justified? We will delve into these questions in both my video and written reviews. Enjoy the photos below!
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Thanks to Sigma Canada (Gentec) for providing a review sample of this lens. As always, this review is completely independent. All tests and most images shared during the review process were taken using the APS-C mode of my Sony a7RV.
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Some standout features of the 17-40 ART include:
- Optical excellence akin to prime lenses
- Comprehensive video capabilities
- Custom function (Fn) button
- Aperture ring with de-click and iris lock options
- Internally zooming structure
- Extensive weather sealing
This lens slightly modifies the original zoom range, offering a wider angle (17mm vs 18mm) and a longer telephoto end (40mm vs 35mm).
The APS-C crop factor for regular Sony E, Fuji X, or L-mount systems is 1.5x (this review is tested on Sony, but the lens is expected to be compatible across these platforms and possibly Canon RF). Therefore, the 17mm effectively translates to a full-frame equivalent of 25.5mm, as shown below:
On the other hand, the 40mm focal length equates to a full-frame equivalent of 60mm, illustrated as follows:
*Canon’s RF-S has a crop factor of 1.6x, making the effective focal range adjust to 27.2-64mm.
The benefit of an APS-C specific lens is that Sigma has crafted a broader zoom range (25.5-60mm) than the 28-45mm full-frame lens from last year, which can serve various purposes.
The 28-45mm was quite large—over 153mm long and weighing 950g—which underscores another significant advantage of developing for the smaller sensor: the 17-40 ART, while still sizeable, is notably more compact and lighter than its full-frame counterpart, and even the DSLR era lens it succeeds.
The concept behind this lens is to provide a “bag of primes” with various focal lengths and optical quality while maintaining a maximum aperture comparable to many prime lenses. You get the equivalent of 24mm (roughly), 35mm, 50mm, and a slightly more telephoto 60mm. That versatility is invaluable. Additionally, as we’ve come to expect from Sigma, the 17-40 ART excels optically, whether shooting from afar or up close.
This lens isn’t flawless—it shows some fringing and isn’t parfocal—but it truly shines in many respects.
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GEAR USED:
Purchase the Sigma 17-40mm F1.8 ART @ B&H Photo | Adorama | Amazon | Camera Canada | Amazon Canada | Amazon UK | Amazon Germany
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Purchase the Sony Alpha 1 @ Camera Canada | B&H Photo | Adorama | Amazon | Sony Canada | Amazon Canada | Amazon UK | Amazon Germany | Ebay
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