Sigma 20-60mm f/2.8-4 DG Contemporary Lens Review
Sigma's new 20-60mm f/2.8-4 DG Contemporary lens offers an ultra-wide zoom range in a compact, affordable package for full-frame mirrorless cameras
Sigma has launched the 20-60mm f/2.8-4 DG Contemporary lens, a compact full-frame zoom offering an ultra-wide 20mm starting point. According to a review by Digital Camera World, the lens is designed as a lightweight, affordable option for photographers who prioritize wide-angle coverage over telephoto reach.
Design and Handling
The lens belongs to Sigma's Contemporary line, emphasizing modern, compact, and user-friendly design. The Sony E-mount version measures 72x88mm and weighs 375g. The L-mount variant is slightly shorter but heavier. The reviewer noted it felt well-balanced on a compact Panasonic Lumix S9 body.
An extending inner barrel increases the lens's physical length when zooming from 20mm to 60mm. The lens lacks an AF/MF switch or an aperture control ring, maintaining a simple interface. Autofocus uses an HLA (High-response Linear Actuator) system for speed and quiet operation, which is beneficial for video. The front element does not rotate, which is advantageous for using filters like polarizers.
Key specifications include a variable aperture of f/2.8-4 and a minimum focus distance that ranges from 0.2m at 20mm to 0.25m at 60mm. The lens achieves a maximum magnification of 0.43x at 35mm. It comes with a petal-shaped hood and a drawstring pouch. The mount is metal with weather-sealing.
Performance and Optical Construction
The review states the lens delivers nice and sharp image quality. It incorporates three aspherical elements and three SLD (Special Low Dispersion) elements to enhance clarity and reduce chromatic aberrations. The optical design is also optimized for video to minimize focus breathing.
Despite its wide-angle design, the reviewer points out a common optical challenge: "It sometimes seems to be a rule of thumb that increasingly ultra-wide-angle lenses suffer from decreasing levels of sharpness towards the extreme edges and corners of the frame." The source also notes the lens has "heavy uncorrected distortion."
Price and Market Comparison
The Sigma 20-60mm f/2.8-4 DG Contemporary is positioned as a competitively priced alternative to similar zooms. The review provides a direct price and specification comparison with two key rivals.
| Lens Model | Price (USD) | Price (GBP) | Price (AUD) | Aperture Range | Mount Options |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sigma 20-60mm f/2.8-4 DG Contemporary | $849 | £749 | AU$1,179 | f/2.8-4 | Sony E, L-mount |
| Panasonic Lumix S 20-60mm f/3.5-5.6 | $598 | £619 | AU$1,149 | f/3.5-5.6 | L-mount |
| Sony FE 20-70mm f/4 G | $1,099 | £1,233 | AU$1,999 | f/4 | Sony E |
The Sigma is faster than the Panasonic lens but more expensive. It is significantly cheaper than the Sony alternative, though the Sony offers a longer 70mm telephoto reach. The reviewer concludes the Sigma is "very fairly priced."
Intended Uses
Digital Camera World suggests the lens is versatile. Its ultra-wide angle makes it suitable for landscapes, cityscapes, and vlogging where including background context is desired. The combination of 20mm and f/2.8 aperture also gives it potential as a budget astrophotography lens. The compact size makes it a candidate for walkabout and travel photography.
The lens is available for Sony E-mount and L-mount systems, but not for other mounts. The reviewer tested it primarily on L-mount cameras but suggested it could also be a compelling option for Sony APS-C shooters, where it provides an effective 35-90mm range.
A supplied petal hood helps reduce flare and protects the front element. The front cap uses a pinch-style mechanism, allowing it to be fitted or removed even with the hood attached.
