Sigma 500mm f/4 DG OS HSM Lens
The Sigma 500mm f/4 is a 500mm f/4 lens designed for Canon EF, Nikon F, Sigma SA mount cameras. Used copies start from $3,100 on GearFocus, with buyer protection on every purchase.
Sigma 500mm f/4 DG OS HSM Lens
Used Sigma 500mm f/4 Listings on GearFocus
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Sigma 500mm f/4 DG OS HSM Sports Lens for Canon EFExcellent
$5,200.00$2100 price drop
$3,100.00
Lens Overview — Sigma 500mm f/4
Key Features — Sigma 500mm f/4
500mm f/4 Prime: A fixed 500mm focal length with a maximum f/4 aperture delivers strong light-gathering capability for a super telephoto lens, keeping subjects well-exposed in challenging light.
Optical Image Stabilization: Built-in OS (Optical Stabilizer) compensates for camera shake, enabling sharper results when shooting handheld or from less stable positions at this focal length.
HSM Autofocus: Sigma's Hyper Sonic Motor delivers fast, near-silent autofocus well suited to tracking fast-moving subjects in sports and wildlife photography.
Full-Frame Coverage: Designed to cover a full-frame image circle, making it compatible with both full-frame and APS-C DSLR bodies on supported mounts.
Three Mount Options: Available in Canon EF, Nikon F, and Sigma SA mounts, covering a wide range of professional DSLR systems.
Drop-In Filter System: The 46mm filter thread refers to a drop-in filter slot, allowing the use of ND and polarizing filters without requiring oversized front filters.
Lens Specifications — Sigma 500mm f/4
| Spec | Detail |
|---|---|
| Use Cases | Wildlife, Sports, Birding, Astrophotography |
| Lens Type | Super Telephoto |
| Format | Full Frame |
| Zoom/Prime | Prime |
| Focal Length | 500mm |
| Maximum Aperture | f/4 |
| Camera System | DSLR |
| Lens Mount | Canon EF, Nikon F, Sigma SA |
| Autofocus | Yes |
| Focus Type | Auto, Manual |
| Image Stabilization | Optical |
| Filter Thread | 46mm |
Description — Sigma 500mm f/4
The Sigma 500mm f/4 DG OS HSM is a prime super telephoto lens designed for DSLR camera systems, covering a full-frame image circle. It is available in Canon EF, Nikon F, and Sigma SA mounts, giving photographers a solid range of system options. The fixed 500mm focal length and f/4 maximum aperture make it a strong choice for applications requiring significant reach and good light transmission at this focal length.
Built-in optical image stabilization helps manage camera shake, and the lens supports both autofocus and manual focus operation. A 46mm filter thread is provided. Weighing 3,310g, this is a serious telephoto prime that demands proper support equipment for comfortable, stable shooting.
Its full-frame coverage ensures it can be used on both full-frame and APS-C DSLR bodies within the compatible mount systems, making it a versatile option for photographers already invested in these ecosystems.
Pros — Sigma 500mm f/4
- ✓Fixed 500mm focal length with a fast f/4 maximum aperture delivers strong light-gathering performance for a super telephoto prime
- ✓Optical image stabilization included, helping to compensate for camera movement during use
- ✓Full-frame lens format ensures compatibility with both full-frame and crop-sensor DSLR bodies across supported mounts
Cons — Sigma 500mm f/4
- ✗At 3,310g, this lens is very heavy and will require robust support such as a tripod or monopod for extended use
- ✗Prime design at 500mm offers no zoom flexibility, requiring the photographer to reposition to reframe shots
- ✗Single maximum focal length of 500mm may not suit photographers who need a range of telephoto reach
Videos — Sigma 500mm f/4
Sigma 500mm f/5.6 DG DN Sport Review: This Might Be The PERFECT Telephoto! — PetaPixel
Frequently Asked Questions — Sigma 500mm f/4
Which camera mounts is this lens compatible with?+
The Sigma 500mm f/4 DG OS HSM is available in Canon EF, Nikon F, and Sigma SA mounts. It is designed for DSLR camera systems and covers a full-frame image circle, making it compatible with both full-frame and APS-C bodies using those mounts.
Does this lens have image stabilization?+
Yes, the lens includes optical image stabilization. This helps reduce the effect of camera shake, which is particularly useful when shooting handheld or from an unstable platform with a 500mm focal length.
What is the filter thread size for this lens?+
The filter thread size is 46mm. On a lens of this size and focal length, this typically indicates a drop-in filter system rather than a conventional front-mounted filter arrangement.
How heavy is this lens?+
The lens weighs 3,310 grams, making it a substantial piece of equipment. Buyers should plan for appropriate support gear such as a tripod or monopod, as well as a capable camera bag for transport.
Is this lens a zoom or a prime?+
This is a prime lens with a fixed focal length of 500mm. There is no zoom capability, so framing adjustments require physically moving closer to or further from the subject.
Does this lens support autofocus?+
Yes, the lens supports both autofocus and manual focus. Autofocus is confirmed in the specifications, giving photographers the option to switch between focusing modes depending on the situation.