Sigma 18-35mm f/1.8 DC HSM Art lens announced for APS-C DSLRs

Sigma has announced the 18-35mm f/1.8 DC HSM Art lens, which is aimed at APS-C DSLR cameras.

Sigma has taken the whole world by surprise with the announcement of the first ever zoom lens which provides a constant aperture of f/1.8. The company described it as one of its biggest challenges due to the limitations imposed by the laws of physics.

Sigma 18-35mm F1.8 DC HSM Art lens becomes the world’s first zoom lens with a constant aperture of f/1.8

The Sigma 18-35mm F1.8 DC HSM Art lens is a technological marvel, which demonstrates why fierce competition is a must in the world of digital cameras. This is the first zoom lens capable of maintaining the same fast aperture all the way through the zoom extent.

The Japan-based manufacturer calls it a revolutionary optic for APS-C DSLR cameras with interchangeable lenses. It offers a 35mm equivalent of 27-52.5mm with a stable aperture of f/1.8, which is also quite impressive, since most Canon and Nikon lenses provide an aperture of f/2.8.

Sigma’s technological wonder puts usability ahead of maneuverability

Just like all Sigma lenses, “this technological advancement” will be manufactured only in Japan, said President of Sigma America, Mark Amir-Hamzeh. The company’s experience with wide-angle lenses has helped the engineers develop a Special Low Dispersion glass, which is designed to reduce optical defects, such as chromatic aberration.

In order to achieve such a fast aperture, Sigma has been forced to make some compromises. The 18-35mm F1.8 DC HSM Art optic is pretty heavy and big for its category, as it weighs 1.79 lbs and measures 4.76-inch in length. Its diameter size rests at 3.07-inch, while its filter thread stands at 2.83-inch.

The Sigma 18-35mm F1.8 DC HSM Art lens is made out of 17 elements divided into 12 groups, with five Super Low Dispersion glass elements and four aspherical elements. Additionally, it consists of a 9-blade rounded aperture diaphragm and will support Canon EF, Nikon DX, and Sigma SA mounts.

No image stabilization, but the Hyper Sonic Motor offers better autofocus

The integrated lens barrel is made out of Thermally Stable Composite materials, which are more elastic than plastic.

Sigma’s impressive f/1.8 zoom lens features an AF/MF switch and an improved hypersonic motor, which ensures very quiet and fast autofocus. Moreover, the company claims that the lens can focus from a distance of just 11.02-inches and that its smallest aperture is f/16.

However, there is one downside which may affect some photographers: the lens does not employ any kind of image stabilization technologies.

Release date and price information still waiting to be determined

The Sigma 18-35mm F1.8 DC HSM Art lens release date, price, and availability information remains unknown for the time being. More details will most likely be revealed soon.

The company has confirmed that its USB lens dock will be compatible with this new optic, allowing photographers to update the firmware and customize various settings.