Conclusion

The Sigma 17-70mm F2.8-4 DC Macro OS HSM C is a very versatile, well-built standard zoom lens that delivers excellent image quality and offers the bonus of good macro performance too, all at a surprisingly affordable price.

The Sigma 17-70mm F2.8-4 DC Macro OS HSM C is a pleasingly sharp lens across the frame when stopped-down to f/4 at the wide end and f/5.6 at full telelphoto, while the rounded 7-blade aperture produces some lovely bokeh when shooting wide open. Vignetting at wide-open apertures and barrel distortion at 17mm are the only real optical issues of note, with both being easily correctable in post-production.

Build quality is also excellent, with the brass lens mount and sober all-black design adding to the high-quality feel, and Sigma have even generously included a good lens hood. The internal HSM focusing was quick on the Canon EOS 70D that we tested the lens with, and manual focus over-ride at any time is a great feature.

Even the price of the Sigma 17-70mm F2.8-4 DC Macro OS HSM C is attractive, significantly undercutting rival lenses from Canon and Nikon. If you've outgrown the capabilities of your standard kit zoom lens, then the new Sigma 17-70mm F2.8-4 DC Macro OS HSM C is a highly recommended upgrade for APS-C DSLR owners.

Ratings (out of 5)
Design	4.5
Features	4.5
Ease-of-use	4
Image quality	4.5
Value for money	5