nthbeach's reviews

  • Sigma 10-20mm f/3.5 EX DC HSM

    2 out of 10 points and not recommended
    Build quality is good
    VERY SOFT!! This lens is a total lemon!

    This would have to be the WORST lens i have ever used!

    Sigma has done it again by making a lens that promises a lot, but only delivers disappointment!
    Its a pity, because i really wanted to like this Lens.

    I tested this lens against a much older Sigma 10-20 f4/5.6
    And at all focal lens the new Sigma failed dismally!
    It performs badly up until f8, and then it is barely usable.
    It even performed badly against my compact camera.

    It makes me wonder why would Sigma create a constant f3.5 aperture lens if it is unusable at anything under f8?

    Perhaps i just purchased a bad copy.
    But this is typical of Sigmas quality control.
    Its like buying a lottery ticket as to whether or not you get a "decent" lens, let alone one that is usable!

    Save yourself the time, Money and disappointment!
    Stick with a reliably brand and stay well away from all SIGMA!

    This has happened to me on several occasions, and through my own stupidity, it has taken me while to learn the lesson, NEVER buy a SIGMA lens!!

    reviewed September 20th, 2009 (purchased for $800)

  • Nikon 10-24mm f/3.5-4.5G ED DX AF-S Nikkor

    4 out of 10 points and not recommended
    Decent Zoom range
    Very inconsistant focusing

    I found this lens to be extremely frustrating to use.
    Auto focus was definitely a case of hit and miss, so i found myself often using manual focus.
    The corners were very soft at f3.5.
    This was especially noticeable whilst taking indoor shots.

    I Tried the old Sigma f4-5.6 and to my surprise, found it to be far sharper and consistent in every way.

    I really wanted to like this lens. It has a great range, but it was just too unreliable.
    For the premium price, you would expect far better quality! Very disappointed!!

    reviewed June 3rd, 2011

  • Sigma 8-16mm f/4.5-5.6 DC HSM

    9 out of 10 points and recommended
    Sharp, sharp, sharp!
    Lens cap can be a pain

    I was apprehensive about buying this lens as i have had bad experiences with Sigma lenses in the past.

    However this lens is different!
    Its sharp across the board at all focal lengths
    Even wide open, this lens is sharp, so the relative slowness is almost a non issue.
    I wish all lenses where this good!!!

    I used to own a Nikon 10-24mm, but the Sigma leaves it in the dust!
    The Sigma is better in almost every way!
    Its half the price, has a better build, is more reliable and much sharper!

    The only problem/ annoyance was the lens cap.
    Its bulky and awkward to use.
    However i replaced it with a hoodie.

    I have no hesitation in recommending this lens!

    reviewed February 22nd, 2012 (purchased for $699)