Lens review

Sigma 180 mm f/3.5 EX DG HSM Macro APO

10. Autofocus

We were unpleasantly surprised in this category. Seeing the HSM (High Speed Motor) inscription on the barrel we didn’t expect any problems with the autofocus speed. Unfortunately this particular device proved to be perhaps the slowest ultrasonic motor we’ve dealt with so far; what’s more it was also prone to bumping against the ends of the range and it made the focusing process much longer. We must honestly add, though, that on passing from the FULL mode to the 0.61 meter-infinity range we saw some improvement but it was still not enough. I don’t know whether it will be any consolation if I say that fortunately, the autofocus is practically noiseless.

Unfortunately the accuracy is not a consolation here either. In studio conditions the lens missed in 15% of cases and, what’s more, had a distinct front focus tendency.