Versatile Telephoto Lens Delivers Clarity, Sharpness, and Dynamic Range

Review by Dave Williams

Available for Canon EF, Nikon F, or Sigma SA mounts, this 10x optical zoom lens is fantastic for wildlife or sports shooting. This review is based on the Nikon F-mount version, but all versions are identical, apart from the connection. The Sigma 60–600mm f/4.5–6.3 DG OS HSM lens has a couple of awards for best telephoto zoom lens, which is a great way to start a product review. 

Let’s quickly break down the letters in the name of this lens: DG OS HSM | S. The S is for Sports, because this lens is in the Sigma Sports line. The HSM is for their Hypersonic Motor, which drives the autofocus system so that the lens focuses very fast and quietly. On that note, the barrel extension is also smooth and quiet. The OS is Optical Stabilizer that gives you up to four stops of image stabilization. The DG means this is a full-frame lens. 

The Sigma 60–600mm lens weighs in at 95.2 oz (2.7 kg), which is light enough to hold up for quick shots here and there, but if you intend to keep the lens up, I’d recommend a monopod or tripod. The tripod socket mounts via a durable collar, and the removable foot gives excellent balance, which removes stress on the lens and camera. 

The maximum aperture is f/4.5 at the wide end and f/6.3 at the narrow end. Regarding the amount of light available at times, however, I’m far happier and more confident shooting at much higher ISO levels, following recent advances in sensor technology and retouching ability. There’s by no means the amount of bokeh thrown behind the subject as there would be for lenses with a fixed aperture, but the price difference reflects that, too. The bokeh we get with this lens looks good with the nine rounded aperture diaphragm blades. 

Telephoto zoom lenses have a reputation for being quite unsharp at specific lengths; however, this lens is very sharp even when shooting wide open. Looking inside the lens at the build quality, the Sigma 60–600mm lens is weather-sealed with a dust- and splash-proof construction. The glass has a water- and oil-repellent coating that makes it easy to wipe away accidental spills. 

Overall, the Sigma 60–600mm lens is a fantastic choice. Its versatility and exceptional performance make it an ideal choice for wildlife and sports photography enthusiasts. Its fast autofocus, impressive four stops of image stabilization, and remarkable telephoto reach ensure that you never miss a critical moment. Whether you’re capturing the grace of a soaring eagle or the intensity of a fast-paced sports game, the Sigma 60–600mm f/4.5–6.3 DG OS HSM | S lens delivers unparalleled clarity, sharpness, and dynamic range. With its advanced features tailored to the demands of these genres, it stands as a powerful tool that empowers photographers to freeze the action and capture the raw energy of nature and sports with astonishing precision.