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The Sigma 18-35mm F1.8 DC HSM Art is a discontinued APS-C DSLR zoom with a constant F1.8 maximum aperture. Whether it is worth buying now depends on the exact mount, your camera’s compatibility, and the price and condition of the copy you find; Sigma’s specifications alone do not establish its current value or independently prove its optical performance.
What is the Sigma 18-35mm F1.8 Art?
Its full designation is Sigma 18-35mm F1.8 DC HSM, Art line, edition A013. The 18–35mm zoom range and F1.8 maximum aperture stay constant throughout the zoom. Sigma’s 2022 catalogue described it as the first interchangeable DSLR zoom to achieve F1.8 across its range, based on Sigma research as of April 2013; that is a historical manufacturer claim, not an independently verified current ranking. Sigma’s product specifications identify the lens as discontinued.
For APS-C cameras, Sigma’s 2022 catalogue gives a 27–52.5mm equivalent focal range in 35mm format. That provides a standard-zoom perspective range rather than a long telephoto reach. The equivalence describes field of view, not a change to the lens’s actual focal length or F1.8 aperture.
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What are its specifications?
| Specification | Sigma-published value |
|---|---|
| Focal length | 18–35mm |
| Maximum aperture | F1.8 throughout the zoom range |
| Optical construction | 17 elements in 12 groups |
| Angle of view | 76.5°–44.2° |
| Diaphragm | 9 rounded blades; minimum aperture F16 |
| Minimum focusing distance | 28cm |
| Maximum magnification | 1:4.3 |
| Filter thread | 72mm |
| Dimensions and weight | For Sigma SA mount: 78 × 121mm and 810g; dimensions and weight vary by mount |
These are manufacturer specifications, not independent test results. The sources cited here do not establish optical test scores or measured performance in particular shooting conditions.
#1 Best Overall
- 18-35mm focal length, 27-52.5mm equivalent focal length on APS-C cameras
- F1.8 maximum aperture; F16 minimum
- Ring-type ultrasonic-type AF motor with full-time manual focusing, 72mm filter size
- Minimum Focusing Distance 28 cm/ 11.0 in.USB Dock Compatible, MC-11 Compatible.
Will it work on your camera?
Mount and sensor format are the key checks. Sigma lists versions for Sigma SA, Canon EF, Nikon F, Pentax, and Sony A mounts. The lens is designed for APS-C DSLR cameras; Sigma warns that vignetting occurs on sensors larger than APS-C, including 35mm and APS film SLR cameras. Do not assume that a copy for one mount will fit or function on another system.
- Identify the exact mount in the listing and compare it with your camera body’s mount.
- Check your body and lens combination in Sigma’s camera compatibility resource. Sigma notes that some combinations have functional or performance restrictions.
- If firmware support matters, review the entry for the specific mount on Sigma’s firmware page for this lens. The page documents MC-11 compatibility updates for Sigma SA and Canon EF versions; that does not establish identical support for every mount or body.
Is it worth buying today?
There is no single current value verdict from the published specifications: Sigma marks the lens discontinued, and the sources here do not establish present-day prices, condition, or availability. Assess the specific listing rather than relying on its original positioning or a broad claim that it is a bargain.
Rank #2
- 18-35mm focal length, 27-52.5mm equivalent focal length on APS-C cameras
- F1.8 maximum aperture; F16 minimum
- Ring-type ultrasonic-type AF motor with full-time manual focusing, 72mm filter size
- Minimum Focusing Distance 28 cm/ 11.0 in.USB Dock Compatible, MC-11 Compatible.
- Available in Canon EF (EF-S), Sony Alpha (DT), Nikon F (DX) mounts
- Confirm the mount and compatibility before comparing prices.
- Compare the asking price with the condition and completeness of the particular copy; the available evidence does not provide a market benchmark.
- Consider whether you need the constant F1.8 aperture across this standard-zoom range and whether an APS-C DSLR lens suits your camera.
What if you need a longer focal range?
The Sigma 50-100mm F1.8 DC HSM is a related APS-C DSLR Art zoom with longer focal coverage. Sigma lists Sigma SA, Canon EF, and Nikon F mounts for it. It is a different range, not a direct substitute for 18–35mm; check its current availability and body compatibility separately using Sigma’s 50-100mm product information.
Quick Recap
Best Value
- Designed specifically for APS-C sized sensors
- Internal focusing and zooming allows for more usability and functionality
- The 18-35mm is ideal for landscapes, portraits, still life, snap shots, casual, and close-ups
- Angle of view (SD1):76.5�-44.2�
Rank #4
- This Certified Refurbished product is manufacturer refurbished it shows limited or no wear
- Includes all original accessories plus a full manufacturer warranty
- 17 elements in 12 groups. F16.72mm Minimum aperture. 72mm Filter Size. 76.5 - 44.2 Angle of view (SD1). 28cm/11.0in Minimum focusing distance. 9 diaphragm blades (Rounded diaphragm). 1:4.3 Max magnification ratio. Dimensions 78mm x 121.0mm/3.1in. x 4in.
- The Sigma 18-35mm f/1.8 DC HSM Art Lens for Nikon is a wide-angle to normal-length zoom lens that features a fast, bright constant f/1.8 maximum aperture. It is specifically designed for use with APS-C-sized sensors and provides a 35mm-equivalent focal length range of 27-52.5mm.
- An internal focusing and zooming mechanism helps to maintain a consistent overall lens length and a non-rotating front ring facilitates more efficient use of circular polarizers
Rank #3
- Designed specifically for APS-C sized sensors
- Internal focusing and zooming allows for more usability and functionality
- The 18-35mm is ideal for landscapes, portraits, still life, snap shots, casual, and close-ups
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
