Sigma AF 50-500mm F4.5-6.3 DG OS APO HSM Lens
The Sigma 50-500mm f/4.5-6.3 is a 50–500mm f/4.5 lens designed for Canon EF, Nikon F, Sony A, Pentax K, Sigma SA mount cameras. Check GearFocus for current availability, with buyer protection on every purchase.
Sigma AF 50-500mm F4.5-6.3 DG OS APO HSM Lens
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Lens Overview — Sigma 50-500mm f/4.5-6.3
Key Features — Sigma 50-500mm f/4.5-6.3
50–500mm Focal Range: Covers standard to super telephoto in a single lens, eliminating the need to swap glass across a wide range of shooting distances.
Full-Frame DG Coverage: Designed for full-frame DSLR sensors, and works equally well on APS-C bodies where the crop factor extends effective reach further.
Optical Image Stabilization: Built-in OS system helps counteract camera shake at longer focal lengths where even minor movement is significantly amplified.
HSM Autofocus Motor: Hyper Sonic Motor delivers fast, quiet autofocus suitable for tracking moving subjects across the full zoom range.
APO Optical Design: Apochromatic construction uses special glass elements to minimize chromatic aberration and color fringing across the zoom range.
f/4.5–6.3 Variable Aperture: Maximum aperture opens to f/4.5 at 50mm and narrows to f/6.3 at 500mm, a typical trade-off for a lens of this zoom reach.
Lens Specifications — Sigma 50-500mm f/4.5-6.3
| Spec | Detail |
|---|---|
| Use Cases | Wildlife, Sports, Travel, Birding |
| Lens Type | Zoom |
| Format | Full Frame |
| Zoom/Prime | Zoom |
| Focal Length | 50–500mm |
| Maximum Aperture | f/4.5 |
| Camera System | DSLR |
| Lens Mount | Canon EF, Nikon F, Sony A, Pentax K, Sigma SA |
| Autofocus | Yes |
| Focus Type | Auto, Manual |
| Image Stabilization | Optical |
| Filter Thread | 95mm |
Description — Sigma 50-500mm f/4.5-6.3
The Sigma AF 50-500mm F4.5-6.3 DG OS APO HSM is a super telephoto zoom lens built for full-frame DSLR systems, covering a focal length range from 50mm to 500mm. That single-lens versatility is hard to match, making it a practical choice for photographers who regularly shoot across wildly different distances. The maximum aperture varies from f/4.5 at the wide end to f/6.3 at 500mm.
Optical image stabilization is included to assist with camera shake, while both auto and manual focus modes are supported. The filter thread measures 95mm, which is worth planning around when budgeting for accessories. Tipping the scales at 1,970g, this is a substantial lens that rewards use with a solid support setup.
It is available in Canon EF, Nikon F, Sony A, Pentax K, and Sigma SA mounts, providing compatibility across the major DSLR platforms. The DG designation confirms full-frame sensor coverage across the entire zoom range.
Pros — Sigma 50-500mm f/4.5-6.3
- ✓Exceptionally wide 50–500mm focal length range covers standard to super telephoto in a single lens
- ✓Optical image stabilization included to reduce camera shake, particularly useful at longer focal lengths
- ✓Autofocus supported across the zoom range for tracking moving subjects
Cons — Sigma 50-500mm f/4.5-6.3
- ✗At 1,970g, the lens is very heavy and may require a tripod collar or dedicated support for extended use
- ✗Maximum aperture of f/6.3 at 500mm limits light intake in the telephoto range, which can challenge autofocus and exposure in low light
- ✗The 95mm filter thread is unusually large, making compatible filters and accessories expensive and less common
Videos — Sigma 50-500mm f/4.5-6.3
Sigma 50-500mm f/4.5-6.3 OS HSM lens review with samples (APS-C and full-frame) — Christopher Frost
Frequently Asked Questions — Sigma 50-500mm f/4.5-6.3
What camera mounts is this lens available in?+
The lens is offered in Canon EF, Nikon F, Sony A, Pentax K, and Sigma SA mounts. This makes it compatible with a wide range of DSLR systems from multiple manufacturers.
Does this lens work on full-frame cameras?+
Yes. The lens is designated DG, which indicates it is designed for full-frame sensors. It will also function on APS-C DSLR bodies using the same compatible mounts.
What filter size does this lens use?+
The filter thread is 95mm. This is a large diameter, so compatible filters and lens caps may be harder to source and more expensive than standard sizes.
Does the lens have image stabilization?+
Yes, optical image stabilization is built into the lens. This is particularly beneficial at longer focal lengths where handholding becomes more difficult.
How heavy is this lens, and do I need a tripod?+
The lens weighs 1,970g. Given this weight and the 500mm maximum focal length, using a tripod or monopod is strongly recommended for comfortable and stable shooting, especially at the longer end of the zoom range.
Can I use autofocus with this lens?+
Yes, the lens supports autofocus in addition to manual focus. Both focus modes are available, allowing you to switch based on your shooting situation.