18-200mm f3.5-6.3 DC OS HSM updated 8/23/08 The built-in motor is capable of auto focusing with all Nikon DSLR cameras. Compact and lightweight construction of 70mm (2.8") in diameter, 75.6mm (3.0") in length and weighing just 395g (13.9oz). SLD lens and Aspherical glass elements provides high image quality through entire zoom range. Sigma’s super multi-layer coating reduces flare and ghosting.

11.1x high zoom ratio lens with a built-in AF motor allowing autofocus with all Nikon APS-C DSLR cameras. 18-200 F3.5-6.3 DC lens for Nikon

This high zoom ratio lens, designed exclusively for digital SLR cameras, covers wide angle to telephoto focal lengths. The built-in motor is capable of auto focusing with all Nikon DSLR cameras. Two SLD (Special Low Dispersion) lenses and two Aspherical glass elements provide excellent correction for all types of aberration. Sigma’s super multi-layer coating reduces flare and ghosting and provides high image quality throughout the zoom range. The compact and lightweight construction of 70mm (2.8”) in diameter, 75.6mm (3.0”) in length and 395g (13.9oz) makes it ideal for field work. This lens has a minimum focusing distance of 45cm (17.7”) and a maximum magnification of 1:4.4. An inner focusing system also eliminates front lens rotation, making this lens particularly suitable for using the petal lens hood and circular polarizing filters. A zoom lock switch mechanism is provided to prevent the lens from creeping due to its own weight.

Pluses: This is really a fantastic lens. No lens creep like the Nikon. So why spend the hundreds of dollars more for a lens that has the lens creep. I prefer the Sigma over the Nikon for 1) price, 2) the distance scale on the focusing ring which Nikon eliminates on many newer lenses, and 3) the metal lens mount instead of the plastic used on many Nikon lenses.

Minuses: May be a little heavy for some users. Makes more noise than the Nikon image stabilized lenses.    The focusing ring takes a little time to get used to. It is not like the Nikon with internal focusing ring. I had to learn to not accidently turn the focusing ring when it is engaged. The focusing and zooming grip are not as distinct as the Nikon grip pattern.
 

Overall:

If you are looking for a great walk around lens that will eliminate the need to continually change the lens on your camera, and are satisfied with very good pictures (rather than spectacular!), then this is the lens for you! A wonderful all purpose lens that allows shooting in low light conditions because of the Optical Stabilization feature. The f/6.3 is not an issue as long as you're not shooting sports where a quick shutter speed is necessary. If you shoot a lot of sport shots, the Nikon 70-200 f/2.8 would be a better choice.

Photos shot with the Sigma 18-200mm f3.5-6.3 DC OS HSM Lens. Click a Photo for larger Image

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