The new SIGMA 24-70mm F2.8 DG DN II | Art is the second iteration of the renowned SIGMA 24-70mm F2.8 DG DN | Art lens. Known for its great range, and a combination of depth, the 24-70 is a favorite amongst photographers and videographers alike. This update enhances the optical performance, autofocus speed, and tactile function. This includes a more compact size when compared to the previous model.
I will cover the physical updates to this lens, and some of the science behind the new engineering packed into this next evolution of the SIGMA 24-70mm F2.8 DG DN II | Art.
Key Features of the SIGMA 24-70mm F2.8 DG DN II:
- Total Optical Length Shortened
- A 10% weight reduction from the original
- Splash and Dust Resistant Structure
- Water and oil-repellent coating on the front element
- Close-focusing distance of 6.7 inches
- Linear and Non-linear response (L-Mount only)
- Click/de-click and lockable aperture ring
- Additional AF-L button
- Sagittal coma flare is heavily corrected
What’s New About the SIGMA 24-70mm F2.8?
Updated Tactile Control
While keeping the zoom lock switch that disengages when the zoom ring is engaged from its predecessor, the SIGMA 24-70mm F2.8 DG DN II offers additional physical control for ease of use. The first is a lockable aperture ring allowing the user to manually set their aperture physically along with in-camera digitally. This aperture ring also has a click/de-click switch. This feature is helpful for videographers who need smooth aperture control when changing from varying light conditions. The final update was the addition of a second AF-L button that allows ease of use from the vertical or horizontal orientation of the lens.
Aberrations Are Highly Corrected
The SIGMA 24-70mm F2.8 DG DN II | Art has 6 FLD glass elements, 2 SLD glass elements, and 5 double-sided aspheric lenses. FLD stands for “F” Low Dispersion, while SLD stands for Special Low Dispersion. Both FLD glass and SLD glass have an equal performance to fluorite glass. Both have a low refractive index and low dispersion but FLD and SLD glass comes at an affordable price while still maintaining the correction for residual chromatic aberration. Aspheric lenses are the glass elements inside a lens that have multi-radiused surfaces that allow light rays to converge onto the sensor. The combination of these elements heavily corrects sagittal coma flare. A type of aberration that makes circular points flare out making them look almost like a comma. These elements work together to give the user the best optical experience.
Faster Autofocus
Using a lightweight focus group that is driven with the high-thrust HLA, the autofocus on this iteration of the lens is increased significantly. Working in conjunction with the camera body’s autofocus system, users will be able to see faster focus across the board. Additionally, those using an L-mount version can switch between a Linear and Non-linear response. Linear focus allows for a specific point on the focus ring to correlate to a specific throw of focus. For example, if the focus ring was turned one rotation fully it would go from the closest distance to infinity. With a Non-linear response, the focus is controlled and set electronically so you can achieve the same focus throw in a quarter turn. All of this gives the user greater control, options, and speed when it comes to focusing.
Compatible with Sony E-mount AD assist function
For Sony camera owners, the SIGMA 24-70mm F2.8 DG DN II | Art lens is compatible with the AF assist function. This function allows an easy switch from autofocus to manual focus with a twist of the focus ring while shooting video. The camera will then keep track of the subjects set by the manual focus even when manual input is halted. This allows for greater control over the autofocus system and quick on-the-fly adjustments that might be needed while filming.
Who should buy this lens?
The SIGMA 24-70mm F2.8 DG DN II | Art is a great combination of range and depth. With the advanced optics engineered with precision in mind paired with an impressive list of physical and digital controls, this lens is perfect for any photographer or videographer looking to add a zoom to their arsenal or upgrade an existing zoom. It produces incredibly sharp imagery that can be useful across any discipline. For videographers who need fine control in scenes with varying light amounts, this lens is a good choice with its click/de-click switch. Both hobby and professional shooters will appreciate the ease of use of this lens.
Comparable SIGMA Lenses
While this lens covers wide to medium focal lengths, a few other lenses in the SIGMA lineup would pair well. The first lens is the 14-24MM F2.8 DG DN | A, a pairing that allows the user to shoot the wide end of the zoom spectrum. To cover subjects further away the 70-200MM F2.8 DG DN OS | S. These three lenses alone would get a massive range out of any camera system. It is always good to have a lens specifically for low light conditions, so any primes in the Art series would be a good pick.
Final Thoughts
The past few days I have spent my time shooting with this lens, I have had an extremely busy production schedule that only allowed me time to offload the photos and video quickly at my studio before heading out again. This was a very interesting way to experience a lens. I was able to get a feel for how it handles before I even got to dive into the results on my monitor fully. So I will similarly structure my thoughts. The lens handles well, it is the lightest and smallest 24-70 F2.8 that I have had a chance to shoot with. The physical controls were very useful, especially the click/de-click aperture ring switch when I was filming.
As I was walking around with the camera strapped to my shoulder I did not have to worry about the barrel extending. I also did not have to fiddle with a switch when I was ready to bring the lens up to my face. Regarding the optical quality, the video looked pretty solid to me. As a high-end cinema glass user, I was blown away by the sharpness of the images. Which is nice to have in a faster and lighter version of its predecessor. I have been using the same kit for years and I wish this lens had been in my hands years ago for some of my favorite projects as I know it would have helped with the final quality. As it stands now I am planning on having this replace my current 24-70.
