Sigma is one of the best third-party lens manufacturers and has a similar range of lenses to top contender Tamron. It has a good choice of wide-angle lenses too. In this guide, we look at six of the best Sigma wide-angle lenses under $500.
In this list, we have included a selection of prime lenses, wide-angle zooms, and multi-purpose zoom lenses that incorporate wide-angle focal distances. This gives you a good overview of the different types of Sigma lenses available.
When choosing a Sigma lens, always look out for the native features. These include a Hyper Sonic Motor (HSM) for autofocusing, Optical Stabilization (OS) for handheld shots, and DC or DN, with DC meaning the lens is compatible with APS-C sensor cameras, and DN meaning it is compatible with full-frame cameras.
1. Sigma 16mm f/1.4 DC DN Contemporary (Overall Winner)
Our overall winner is the Sigma 16mm f/1.4 DC DN Contemporary lens. This super-wide-angle lens is a top choice and has a versatile set of features for wide-angle photography.
It is compatible with Sony E-Mount and Canon EOS M cameras and offers an APS-C cropped factor of 24mm. It is a lightweight lens great for mirrorless cameras due to its portability and compact size.
The downside with this lens is that it does not have any image stabilization. Also, it does not have Sigma’s HSM motor technology. However, it does have a superb quality lens element for superior image quality.
The nine-bladed rounded diaphragm provides a rounded aperture and attractive bokeh for the out-of-focus areas making this a great wide-angle lenses and a top prime lens within our budget.
2. Sigma 10-20mm f/3.5 EX DC HSM
The Sigma 10-20mm f/3.5 EX DC HSM is a simple but effective lens available for Sony, Nikon, Canon, and Pentax DSLR cameras. It has a good range of features including the HSM motor for accurate autofocusing. It also has a specially designed lens coating with multiple layers to eliminate ghosting and flares and improve image quality and consistency.
The quality of the lens element means that the image quality remains consistent throughout the focal distances. The large f/3.5 aperture gives greater control and allows this budget lens to excel at low-light photography.
3. Sigma 18-200mm f/3.5-6.3 DC Macro OS HSM Contemporary
If you want a multi-purpose zoom lens that includes wide-angle capabilities, the Sigma 18-200mm f/3.5-6.3 DC Macro OS HSM Contemporary is a good choice. This affordable lens covers a vast focal distance but also has a solid design and features to provide consistent image quality.
It is a macro lens and has a minimum focusing distance of 39cm and a close-up magnification ratio of 1:3. When combined with the Optical Stabilization and HSM autofocusing motor, you have a competent wide-angle macro lens.
This device also has a multi-layered lens with various coatings. These not only help reduce ghosting and other distortions but also improve the image quality and consistency.
4. Sigma 18-300mm f/3.5-6.3 DC Macro OS HSM Contemporary
Another great multi-purpose lens with wide-angle options is the Sigma 18-300mm f/3.5-6.3 DC Macro OS HSM Contemporary. This affordable lens under $500 is available for Canon, Nikon, Pentax, Sigma, and Sony cameras.
The 18-300mm has both optical stabilization and a Hyper Sonic Motor which make the lens easy to use. You can comfortably use this lens handheld as the OS enables handheld shooting up to four shutter speeds slower than usual. Also, its autofocusing system is quiet but fast and accurate.
For wide-angle macro photography, this lens has a closes focusing distance of 39cm and a 1:3 magnification ratio meaning you can photograph subjects with exceptional detail.
The lens has eight elements including four FLD, one SLD, and three aspherical. These combine to provide consistent image quality and minimal distortions.
5. Sigma 30mm f/1.4 DC HSM Art
One of the best Sigma wide-angle lenses under $500 is the Sigma 30mm f/1.4 DC HSM Art. This is part of the Sigma Art series which is known for its superior build quality and image performance. It has a great maximum aperture of f/1.4 which makes it ideal for low-light situations.
This lens doesn’t have Optical Stabilization, but it does have the HSM focusing motor as well as Sigma’s Super Multi-Layer Coating system which eliminates distortion and greatly improves image quality and contrast.
The mount of this lens is durable and made from metal. It has a great external design with a rubber textured grip which makes it comfortable and secure to hold. This lens is available for Nikon, Canon, Sony A-Mount, Pentax, and Sigma cameras.
6. Sigma 30mm f/1.4 DC DN Contemporary (Budget Winner)
Our budget choice is the Sigma 30mm f/1.4 DC DN Contemporary. If you don’t want to pay the extra price for the Art version, this is the cheaper option but still provides good image quality and functionality.
It has a lens element that is both waterproof and dustproof which makes it great for outdoor usage, as well as a superior lens element that reduces distortions and provides sharp images with minimal softness at the outer edges.
As a basic Sigma lens, it does lack some of the advanced features, but it still provides great quality wide-angle photography.
Sigma Wide-Angle Lenses Under $500 Offer a Viable Third-Party Alternative
Whilst some people think that the only good lenses are the ones from the official manufacturers, Sigma offers a great alternative. These lenses are generally compatible with multiple DSLR cameras and have image quality and features that are usually on par with the official lenses.
There is no reason to stick solely to manufacturers’ lenses. The Sigma wide-angle lenses under $500 we have listed are great options and can be used for professional or hobbyist purposes.
Why not give Sigma a try and step out of your comfort zone? You will be pleased with the quality and performance that these budget lenses provide.
