Sigma has launched a new lens that will captivate filmmakers: the Sigma 28-45mm f/1.8 DG DN. This is the first full-frame zoom lens for mirrorless cameras with a constant f/1.8 aperture throughout its zoom range.
While it may seem to have a modest zoom range, this lens is expected to attract significant interest. This anticipation is due to the popularity of the Sigma 18-35mm f/1.8 DC HSM. The Super 35 lens was revolutionary, offering a constant f/1.8 aperture across its zoom range and supporting various video scenarios.
Every indie filmmaker I’ve collaborated with has used Sigma’s 18-35mm at some point. They even adapted the Super 35 lens to full-frame cameras. This adaptation is no longer necessary with the new 28-45mm f/1.8 lens.
The lens will be available from June 20 in Sony E-mount and L-Mount versions. The L-Mount is compatible with Panasonic, Leica, and Sigma’s cameras. The price is $1,299 / £1,299 (approximately AU$1,950).
Sigma claims its new lens provides prime lens quality throughout its range. This lens is distinct from its 11-year-old predecessor, which launched in April 2013. The new model boasts an improved design and superior optical quality.
The two lenses are very different. The older lens was adopted by filmmakers, not specifically designed for them. In contrast, the new 28-45mm f/1.8 suits today’s market, where most customers shoot both photos and videos.
Key features include an aperture ring with clickable or smooth operation options. It also offers focus breathing suppression, a linear motor for fast autofocus, and a bi-wire drive focus ring for precise manual focus.
This lens is dust and splash-resistant. It provides a 30cm minimum focus distance throughout the zoom range and a maximum 1:4 magnification ratio at its telephoto setting, enabling decent close focusing.
Optically, high performance is expected. The lens construction includes 18 elements in 15 groups and an 11-blade rounded diaphragm for smooth bokeh.
Overall, this lens is more advanced than its predecessor. It is pricier and heavier at 950g, but this comparison is not entirely fair. Against 2024’s rival lenses, the Sigma 28-45mm f/1.8 DG DN offers good value, even though it has not yet been tested.
A potential drawback is that the 28mm setting might not be wide enough for some filmmakers. For those users, Sigma’s 24-35mm f/2 DG HSM might be more suitable.
Nonetheless, the 28-45mm f/1.8 is expected to provide excellent handling, versatile features, and superb image quality. This makes it a strong contender for the best Sony lenses or a perfect match for a camera like the Panasonic Lumix S5 II. Sigma deserves praise for creating such an innovative lens.