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I thought that I'd write a quick review of this lens, seeing as it's quite a popular choice amoungst those looking to upgrade their kit lens.
Firstly, focal length - I think 17-70 is the perfect 'do it all' range on a crop body (don't forget this will not work with full frame sensors) as it produces an acceptable enough wide angle, with a decent mid telephoto useful for grabbing shots of people or objects without needing to be in their face.
Sharpness across the range is excellent (although at its best at around 60mm) and this is a country mile better than the Canon 18-55 'kit' lens. I have found it to be sharper than the 17-85IS lens too, especially at 17mm.
Focus speed. Good enough for me! It's not as fast as the USM equipped Canons, but it's reliable in all but very low light and not too noisy.
Weight / size. Those of us used to the quality and weight of 'L' series lenses may feel wary of such a light (in comparison) lens, but it's much more substantial than the kit lens offerings from the big two (or four!) and feels excellent to the touch, you certainly can't distinguish this from Sigma's flagship 'EX' series glass. It's the perfect weight and size to remain on the camera when in most camera bags and doesn't attract too much attention when hanging from the neck at events.
Build. Excellent quality with a solid feel that inspires confidence.
Overall image quality. EXCELLENT - Great sharpness, contrast and 'feel', even in 'Macro' mode which whilst not quite in the dedicated macro lens league is certainly good enough for many.
Overall Rating: HIGHLY RECOMMENDED. The perfect upgrade for someone looking for a quality replacement for their kit lens, or a backup for their professional grade glass. Sigma have created a real gem in this lens.
Firstly, focal length - I think 17-70 is the perfect 'do it all' range on a crop body (don't forget this will not work with full frame sensors) as it produces an acceptable enough wide angle, with a decent mid telephoto useful for grabbing shots of people or objects without needing to be in their face.
Sharpness across the range is excellent (although at its best at around 60mm) and this is a country mile better than the Canon 18-55 'kit' lens. I have found it to be sharper than the 17-85IS lens too, especially at 17mm.
Focus speed. Good enough for me! It's not as fast as the USM equipped Canons, but it's reliable in all but very low light and not too noisy.
Weight / size. Those of us used to the quality and weight of 'L' series lenses may feel wary of such a light (in comparison) lens, but it's much more substantial than the kit lens offerings from the big two (or four!) and feels excellent to the touch, you certainly can't distinguish this from Sigma's flagship 'EX' series glass. It's the perfect weight and size to remain on the camera when in most camera bags and doesn't attract too much attention when hanging from the neck at events.
Build. Excellent quality with a solid feel that inspires confidence.
Overall image quality. EXCELLENT - Great sharpness, contrast and 'feel', even in 'Macro' mode which whilst not quite in the dedicated macro lens league is certainly good enough for many.
Overall Rating: HIGHLY RECOMMENDED. The perfect upgrade for someone looking for a quality replacement for their kit lens, or a backup for their professional grade glass. Sigma have created a real gem in this lens.