Sigma 24-70mm f/2.8 DG DN II Art Lens Review

This new Sigma lens is pitched as a smaller, lighter and faster operating optic, with improved optical performance throughout. There is little doubt that a 24-70mm f/2.8 zoom is an excellent general purpose and travel lens, combining versatility with a fast enough aperture to cover most low light situations. We expect such zooms to be a cut above the average kit lens, so let’s look closely at the handling and performance as we head off South to the Cotswolds for a week, using the full frame 42MP Sony A7R III body.

Sigma 24-70mm f/2.8 DG DN II Handling and Features

Starting our tour of the lens, there is a supplied petal lens hood that bayonets cleanly and securely into place, with a locking catch for added security. The catch is well recessed and is unlikely to be accidentally pressed. Within the bayonet fit for the hood is a standard 82mm filter thread.

First up is the electronic focusing ring, and as expected this is totally smooth in operation. The usual Sony focusing features are supported, including DMF (Direct Manual Focus). Just behind the focusing ring we have two AFL buttons, and these can be programmed on some bodies. The AF/MF switch is also found at this point, as is a lock for the zoom ring. This latter switch locks the zoom at 24mm to stop the lens extending while being carried.

Focusing is down to 17cm at 24mm, for a maximum magnification of 1:2.7 and down to 34cm at 70mm for a maximum magnification of 1:4. This of course is a major advantage of many zoom lenses, that they focus so closely compared to primes. AF is driven by an improved High Response Linear Actuator and is certainly fast and accurate, whilst being virtually silent in operation. This silence is particularly useful for videographers, as is the suppression of focus breathing.

Next up is the zoom ring, and the lens does physically extend as we zoom towards 70mm. There are clear and accurate markings at 24mm, 35mm, 50mm and 70mm. The action is smooth and firm, and there is no sign of zoom creep.

New to this Version II, there is now a very nicely designed aperture ring, with clearly marked one third of a stop clicks. There is a de-click switch for those who prefer it, especially useful when shooting video. There is also a lock switch. The ring can be locked into the A setting so it cannot be dislodged when using the camera to set the aperture. It can also be locked out of the A setting for situations where the aperture ring is being used, preventing A being accidentally engaged.

Optical construction is 19 elements in 15 groups, including 6 FLD (Fluorite-like low dispersion), 2 SLD (Super Low Dispersion) and 5 slim Aspherical. The diaphragm comprises 11 blades, giving a rounded aperture for enhanced bokeh. FLD glass mimics closely the properties of fluorite, but the lower cost enables its wider use.

Finally, we have Sigma’s usual beautifully engineered brass mount, available in Sony E fit and L mount. The L mount version is compatible with the USB Dock UD-11.

For Image Stabilisation, we look to the camera body as there is none built into the lens itself, and this works well, enhancing the possibilities for low light photography. Generally, the lens is a slick performer that is a pleasure to use.

Sigma 24-70mm f/2.8 DG DN II Performance

CA (Chromatic Aberration) is very well controlled throughout, both centre and edge, but especially at the centre. It is unlikely that further correction will be needed.

Distortion is minimal throughout and gives us an approaching rectlinear zoom. At 24mm there is -0.64% barrel distortion, and from there onwards it is pincushion all the way, measuring +0.01% at 35mm, +0.32% at 50mm and +0.28% at 70mm. These are very low figures, especially for a zoom lens.

Bokeh is gorgeously smooth with soft, even gradation of those out of focus areas.

Sigma 24-70mm f/2.8 DG DN II Chromatic Aberration Charts

Flare is very well controlled, even with very severe backlighting. It is very difficult to generate any artefacts, even with harsh lighting at the edge of the frame.

Vignetting is very well tamed and returns results in a zoom that could be the envy of many fine prime lenses.

Sigma 24-70mm f/2.8 DG DN II Sample Photos

Sigma 24-70mm f/2.8 DG DN II Aperture range

You can view additional images in the Equipment Database, where you can add your own reviews, photos and product ratings.

[HOOK]position_1[/HOOK]

Value For Money

The [AMUK]Sigma AF 24-70mm f/2.8 DG DN II|Sigma AF 24-70mm f/2.8 DG DN II[/AMUK] Art lens is priced at £1179.00

Alternatives might be:

• [AMUK]Samyang AF 24-70mm f/2.8|Samyang AF 24-70mm f/2.8[/AMUK], £828
• [AMUK]Sigma 24-70mm f/2.8 DG DN Mk I|Sigma 24-70mm f/2.8 DG DN Mk I[/AMUK], £1049
• [AMUK]Sony FE 24-70mm f/2.8 GM II|Sony FE 24-70mm f/2.8 GM II[/AMUK], £1999

The Mk I version might still be available at a slightly lower price, but the improvements in the new version easily make the increase justifiable.

The VFM equation looks solid.

Sigma 24-70mm f/2.8 DG DN II Verdict