Sigma 18-200mm f/3.5-6.3 OS Macro 'C' lens review (with samples)

This is Sigma's latest 18-200mm superzoom lens, in their new 'Contemporary' lineup. I don't normally love superzoom lenses, but this one has received some attention on the internet for being supposedly a little sharper than the competition. How does it measure up?
Find it here (Check you're getting the right version for your camera) (Amazon affiliate link):
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All pictures and footage shot by me on a Canon 70D.
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Music:
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Licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 3.0
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[@CFProductionX]

You are by far one of the best reviewers on KZbin! I love they amount of information you put into your videos and the way you present it is very nice. Please keep on the good work :)

[@theatreman3771]

Good review, but when showing the lens noise with internal mics maybe mute the music? I just had a difficult time hearing it. Otherwise very helpful! Thanks!

[@margotandthewildtypes]

Thanks for all the reviews! I have trouble deciding on a superzoom that doesn't suck. I have the Canon 80D and I mostly use primes, 135mm f/2 L being my favorite, but I need a travel lens with image stabilization, preferably 18 to 200mm. I had the Canon 18-135mm, but I found it to be too short sometimes when traveling... Other than that it seems to be the best one there is. Life is hard after shooting with actually good lenses and then trying to not hate the cheaper ones :D

[@nismokid]

Got this lens in 2024 to have one lens to carry around when traveling. Negotiated the price to make it worthwhile. I am hoping comment on darker aperture on zoom can be compensated with shutter and iso.

[@eelcovvliet]

dxo mark did an extensive test of all super zooms and this is the sharpest of them all. Better than the Canon 18-200 and Tamron 18-270.

[@dzsemx]

and it's surpisingly tiny, very close to the size of the kit lens.

[@lllucky13]

The nikon 18-200 is far better than sigma. thats a fact. Sharper and no chromatic abberation which sigma always has failed on

[@yashwinning]

Yeah dxo mark are just a bunch of amateurs let's rather believe this random dude on the internet who apparently knows better

[@RichardJamesMendoza]

I got to use this lens by someone lending me his cameras and lenses. Sharpness was decent throughout, and preferred it to the Canon 55-250mm.

[@sprocolli]

Best review in the world ever! Nobody can beat chris.i was looking for your review at sigma 18-250mm macro.but i cant find one.ive been thinking if this 18-200 sigma is much better than 18-250 sigma.any suggestions? Anyway your background music is relaxing,and your voice is soft like 200mm zoom range.

[@mohammedjasaam]

Thank You.I really like your reviews

[@heli0s2003]

I was thinking about buying this lens. I probably won't now, haha. Great review thanks.

[@Michael-op5hk]

What do you mean " I don't recommend" !? I just bought this!

[@Heisenberg_Aka_itsme]

😀

[@NoOne-c3z]

It's been 4 years, is it worth it to buy it?

[@somethingalive]

@@NoOne-c3zjust ordered it, when it arrives i’ll update you if i don’t forget

[@cagmito76]

wow learned a lot from that vid , very thorough . barreling pin cushioning chrome abs all explained !!

[@alanc6416]

I wonder if sigma will release something like this for newer mirrorless bodies. I mean they have the 10-18, 18-50 zooms already. With current in-body correction technologies, I hope they will release an F4 18-200 around 400g, with some weather sealing. That would be awesome travel zoom lens

[@tom_n_jerry2256]

Hi Chris....thnx for ur nice review which enhances our knowledge on camera lens...i have got 2 sigma lenses but i dont feel much difficulties with the pic quality..its really v good..but ur analysis is v sharp..sharper than the lens... :) thnx Chris...

[@JDM_000]

Great reviews!

[@julianrobertson3303]

Thank you for your review . I think that you perhaps may have reviewed a faulty Sigma lens , I have this model lens and the images are pin sharp , there's no defects on any of the images , it produces better images then my Nikon 18-200mm .

[@gathowcoree]

Hello! I could say I'm your fan! I broke my kit lens so I've spent like 50+ hours over the past 3 months reading and watching reviews about some lenses and I've found yours always to be the best ones! So I hope you could help me in this one! I'm a student from Mexico, the minimum salary is about almost 4 dolars per day, so you can imagine how expensive is to buy for us even the cheapest lens. I'm can't decide between the Tamron 16-300 or this one, the Sigma 18-200 C. Here, the Tamron is exactly twice the price of the Sigma, so thats a big advantage for the 18-200 so far, but I find the fact that the Tamron gives me 16mm extremely helpful! Also the 300mm instead of just 200mm is better. But, it seems that Sigma offers much better quality, so if you were in my situation, which one would you choose? Thank you so much for your amazing helpful reviews!

[@AyabaraGaming]

how are you supposed to hear the clicking when you play piano music over it ? smooth

[@duttaguptasuman16]

Is it for videography or photography? Which is better?

[@makmunwhai1851]

Thanks Chris for proving my right feel on this lens. Changed my mind to get the Sigma 17-70mm C lens instead of this 18-200mm. Always enjoy your review, pls keep them coming !

[@iPatrAum]

You great Chis, Thanks bro.

[@moviewatcher1024]

As always fantastic review, thanks Chris

[@AbangInfo]

Good review.. Which better sigma or tamron for 18-200 series?

[@GNAMFMAN]

You wrote 19-200 instead of 18 in the description. But the video is great, as always!

[@christopherfrost]

Ooops! Thanks, hehe

[@TigranMadoyan]

Christopher Frost Photography In the description it's still 19-200 :)

[@zipp4everyone263]

Must say i LOVE your reviews! I usually look for your vids before anyone elses out there when looking for lens reviews. However, would it be possible to provide raw files from a select few scenes when trying lenses?

[@bobchristensen4897]

I'd like to see this tested with your test chart.

[@zero2x]

Nice video as always. Thanks Chris.

[@janusvds681]

Great video. What lens would you recommend instead of this one? I actually did buy this lens but I'm not happy with it, at all.

[@christopherfrost]

If you want a superzoom lens then the Canon 18-135mm STM isn't bad

[@janusvds681]

Thanks for getting back.I'm not a very experienced photographer but I want to get serious about it. I already have a kit lens, so I'm looking for a good 1st upgrade. Do you think I should stick with this lens or look at the canon EF-S 55-250mm IS STM, or the Tamron 16-300mm F/3.5-6.3 Di II VC PZD Macro?

[@christopherfrost]

Janus van der Sandt I'd probably get the 55-250

[@vivekdandare]

Hi Chris, This was asked by someone previously below but went unanswered. Hows Sigma 18-250 mm f3.5-6.3 DC OS MACRO HSM compared to this lense ? Appreciate your efforts in making videos and answering questions. Thanks.

[@christopherfrost]

I haven't actually tried the 18-250 - I presume this newer 18-200 lens is a lot better, though

[@blarkdexture8899]

Thanks Chris

[@Michael-op5hk]

I just bought this lenses! October 2019! :)

[@dabj9546]

But why?

[@terenas1986]

Could you possibly do a review of the "brother" lens, the Sigma 18-200mm f/3.5-6.3 DC OS HSM II? I have that lens but it does not perform as ugly this one, as far as I see it...

[@eliassalvatierra8829]

Do you not particularly recommend this Sigma lens? This video was watched because you recommended this lens instead of the Tamron 18*200mm aaaa.. By the way... Using the same pictures for both videos.

[@GVCreationStudio]

Hi thanks for your review. I found vignette corners on my pictures taken from this lense. Can u help me to guide on the lense settings.. The camera 6d is OK with my other 50mm lense.

[@elyore123]

Hello Chris.. what's Sigma's best Telephoto lens for APS-c today?? i dont like using 70-200 f2.8 for crop sensor.. ill be shooting moving subject from a distance.. i missed Sigma's 50-150 f 2.8 i wonder why they discontinued it :( Thanks

[@tomasmelichercik7161]

thanks for you videos i want to buy some 18-200 for traveling at First i want buy tamron but for watching this video i know that i want buy sigma 18-200 thank you .

[@evangelineecada]

Have u done any new reviews on the Sigma 18-250 mm lens & how does it compare to its Canon or Tamron competitors? I'm just a new user & only have a Canon T3i DSLR.

[@princeicio]

The kit lens is probably better in terms of sharpness

[@tarequlhasan1992]

can i use this lens or any sigma lens to canon any body ??

[@SIG442]

Tells me all I want to know, not a likely candidate for me then. Currently looking for a replacement for my Nikon 18-55mm kit lens with something that is sharp yet does have at least some zoom range. I do have the Sigma 50mm F1.4, which I pretty much love to use. I also have a Tamron 70-300mm lens which is great for low budget and still getting pretty good images. I am looking for something along the lines of 18 or 24mm up to 70 or 105 mm (or 200mm) yet still great value for your money. Really do need one asap because I have a trip to Thailand where I need to act as wedding photographer. So I really can use a better lens for that. If you have some suggestions, please do give them. Kinda lost in the forest of lenses not knowing what would be the best for me.

[@christopherfrost]

I don't know much about Nikon gear but I think the do a 16-85mm lens that might be useful for you

[@GuhneeHan]

+SIG442 Nikon's 18-105, 18-135, 18-140 lenses are some value for money, although they are 'kit' lenses. By the 18-55 I think you are DX, I recommend the Sigma or Tamron 17-50 f2.8 lenses. They are sharp. Or the Sigma 24-105 f4(Super sharp lens!).

[@Pastronomer69]

Christopher, would you recommend this or the 18-300? Is that extra 100 a sacrifice to image quality? I've watched your two videos back to back numerous times but cannot decide!

[@christopherfrost]

This 18-200 is a little sharper, and the 18-300, of course, brings you a little more range.

[@didotirma8395]

Hay.... what do you think... tamron 18-270 vc pzd or sigma 18-200 c macro.....

[@allanisip6302]

How about sigma 18mm-250mm macro?

[@mouzaalzaabi1384]

Hello there! I really like your reviews here's my little story, I purchased the 7D canon and clumsy me dropped it and broke the kit lens that came with it which was the Canon EF-S 18-135mm f/3.5-5.6 IS STM I believe, I am still ashamed of my clumsiness. I used the camera withe the ever useful nifty fifty that I have 50 mm 1.8F for around 5 months now, and that has been useful, but the fixed too zoomed in setting of the lens is rather inconvenient in many situations.. anyway I would like you to recommend a good carry around lens as a substitute for my broken kit lens, ofc with a reasonable price and decent image quality, I'd be ever thankful

[@christopherfrost]

At least the camera was alright :-) check out my kit lens upgrade video, that should really help you out.

[@chrishalle1982]

What is the maximum f stop of this lens?

[@yongmengchyun6705]

is it compatible with nikon 1 J5 with FT-1?

[@bloubear2557]

Ft1 turns your J5 into a dslr lens compatibility level

[@tgmedias]

Hi, Is this a full frame lens ?

[@christopherfrost]

As I mentioned in the review, no

[@lobe1999]

Thanks for the review. Can you recommend a good superzoom lens for nikon if this one isn't all that fantastic? thx

[@christopherfrost]

+Orchard Caravan club Sorry, I don't know much about Nikon gear

[@khalidalhashimi9821]

Hi chris.I think you should do the canon 18-200 vs sigma 18-200 and see which one is better ^_^ .......im one of your biggest fans

[@christopherfrost]

No plans to make a video, but I can tell you, the Sigma is sharper and smaller, but the Canon lens makes nicer pictures and is a bit nicer overall - I'd rather have the old Canon lens

[@bdbrady]

I have my kit 18-55mm and a 50mm/f1.8. I’m debating another lens and going between canon 55-250 and this lens. Which do you recommend? Any other lens in the 200-400ish range I should consider?

[@christopherfrost]

Considering you have the 18-55, you should go for the 55-250 STM. Merry Christmas and a happy new year!

[@FullOfMalarky]

How's the glass? Sigma or Tamaron?

[@noworries12]

very critical review...but to me the photos look great...

[@IAMDIMITRI]

I have a quick question. If this lens is for APS-C sensor then it would be equal to 28-320mm focal length on a full frame?

[@christopherfrost]

Yup

[@lollipol27]

Hey Chris, i have a Nikon D3300 and i wanna buy a super zoom. Which one do you recommend for me?

[@christopherfrost]

lollipol27 I don't know about Nikon's lenses. Check out my review of the Tamron 16-300, that's another option

[@tonizuz]

Hi again ! I have a Canon EOS 550d, will this lens fit ?? Will it be good for fireworks photography ?? Thank you very much.

[@christopherfrost]

Any lens since 1987 designed for Canon EOS cameras will work on your 550D. It will be okay for fireworks

[@rdxjhlak4304]

tamron 18-200mm or Sigma 18-200mm?

[@deyzer7379]

Tamron

[@missunicorn3716]

I want a pretty cheap (max 500 USD) lens that has a zoom range of about 50-200 (doesn't have to be exact that range) and is a bit faster than 6.3 at 200mm. is that something which exists? I know that 70-200 lenses exist and I like them but they are both expensive and huge lenses which makes it exhausting to carry them around for a long time.

[@christopherfrost]

Go for the Canon 55-250 STM (if you own a Canon APS-C camera)

[@bing0bongo]

I wish I could actually judge the loudness of the autofocus motor, but it's completely drowned out by the piano music :(

[@paoloperreca9629]

Can I use it with canon M 50 ?

[@hatschmolo2923]

Yes, but with an EF to EF-M adapter

[@tenseigan3087]

Hi, what are your thoughts on the Sigma 18-250 OS HSM? Much appreciate it if you would make a review of this lens... Thanks as always...

[@christopherfrost]

+tenseigan Haven't tried it I'm afraid

[@joycayona9194]

Is it good on landscape photography thanks? or the 17-70

[@christopherfrost]

+Joy Cayona Any lens in the 18-70mm zone will be good for landscape work

[@mrterry1756]

How does it compare to the 18-300mm?

[@christopherfrost]

I've just made a video about the 18-300, check it out

[@celesteviedma1850]

Hi! Can you compare this one with the Sigma 18-250 Macro Lens?

[@christopherfrost]

I haven't tried that one

[@rabbyhasan4507]

Does this lense in better for landscape photography?

[@christopherfrost]

It's not a bad option

[@mitchglass8356]

would this work on a canon t6 rebel?

[@Arshyo]

Why would you recommend a Sigma in the Tamron 18-200mm review video? That’s why I came here but looking at both the videos. I felt the Tamron was a better performer in every sphere be it, auto-focus, Image Stabilisation, comparatively less chromatic aberration, vignetting & darkening. Even the picture quality and bokeh is rubbish with this lens but its overpriced, Tamron is way lot cheaper and provides better functionality.

[@christopherfrost]

If you're looking for the image quality, get the Sigma. If you're focussed on build quality then this Tamron might be better for you

[@rizkyp]

Is this the same as the 18-200mm dc macro os hsm?

[@christopherfrost]

I think so

[@kevinmartin1679]

will it work with d5100 and is it very grainy

[@christopherfrost]

If you get the Nikon version it should work. I have no idea what you mean about "very grainy"!! 'Grainy' images normally come from using a high ISO level on your camera

[@MrLennitheking7]

how long can u use the aperture 4.5? until 50mm, 70mm :O pls answer me :D

[@hans1066]

At what ISO is that done?

[@christopherfrost]

The test pictures? On a tripod at ISO 100 (at least I think they were - it was a long time ago now)

[@mogret7451]

3:25 I hear jazz backround music. 🤣

[@Nirmadify]

Oh no! I just got this lense with my new canon 70d..

[@taynerickson7260]

You might be able to get an adapter Oh wait your comment is from 4 years ago

[@ellisfmorton4086]

Could you review the sigma 105mm 2.8 please :)

[@christopherfrost]

I'm thinking about it - maybe in a few month's time

[@Assssaert]

I am using a Nikon D3200 DX. Is the lens work in autofocus in that camera, because it does not have a internal focus motor as the expensive model of nikon (D90,D7100,D7000)??????????????

[@njegossofijanic5423]

I need that information to

[@SayHeIsOne]

Cardiff!!!!!!!!!

[@DanielProducti0n]

Sigma 50mm f/1.4 DG HSM Art review please

[@christopherfrost]

I plan to, in a few months, when I can finally get hold of a copy...

[@DanielProducti0n]

Christopher Frost Photography that would be really great! Your reviwes are the best,and i don't want to buy it before i heard your thoughts

[@lllucky13]

sigma and tamron keep trying to get close to nikon but never will.. only decent sigma lense out there is the 10-20mm F3.5.. if your looking for zoom then stick with the main contenders. nikon or canon.. simple

[@dzsemx]

I own 2 and I tried several Sigma lenses, they are fantastic. At the same price you find nothing from canikon. If you have unlimited budget, even then some sigma and tamron lenses are worth to consider.

[@MEASURETWICE]

i make youtube videos and i have the canon 600d and 50mm 1.8 lens. its quite zoomed in though and isnt good for some shots i want. i make fashion and beauty videos and want a lens that i can film my outfits and the camera doesnt have to be super far away to get my whole body in. i would like the backround to be a bit blurry and the biggest thing is it would have to be under £100 (i know it would have to be second hand for that price which is fine) if someone could help that would be great:)

[@christopherfrost]

Sorry, not a chance for under £100! You could try the Tamron 17-50 f/2.8, you might find it for about £150 on eBay. It won't be a whole lot different that your 18-55mm kit lens, but it will be a little bit better at giving you a blurry background

[@MEASURETWICE]

Christopher Frost Photography is the first or second version of the kit lens better?

[@shiko1984]

Is (Sigma 18-200mm Contemporary) lens working fine with (Nikon D5300 )? I need to know for Auto-focus , is it working fine with this lens on Nikon D5300?

[@christopherfrost]

Sherif It should be fine - I don't know much about Nikon, really

[@rubentiagoQcoisa]

does this work on sony alpha6300?

[@ignaciogutierrezohlsson6076]

Hi Chris, i have a canon t3i and i wanna buy a super zoom, wich one do you recommend for me? Thanks.

[@christopherfrost]

Ignacio Gutiérrez Ohlsson There are lots of options - I don't mind the Canon 18-135mm STM

[@ignaciogutierrezohlsson6076]

Thanks.

[@TheMattp666]

does it work on a canon 5d mk4

[@howaaidak9009]

it work on 6D?

[@christopherfrost]

Watch the review - I talk about whether it works on full-frame or APS-C

[@freddyacosta2358]

6.3 is not the aperture wide open. Wide open would be 3.5.

[@christopherfrost]

+Freddy Acosta f/6.3 is the wide open aperture when you're zoomed in to 200mm

[@chrisy6439]

+Christopher Frost Photography spark him out thinks he knows best

[@freddyacosta2358]

The lower the number, the wider it is, therefore more light goes in. Spark this!

[@christopherfrost]

+Freddy Acosta You're still wrong about the aperture only being f/3.5 for the whole zoom range

[@thothheartmaat2833]

@@freddyacosta2358 when a lens is labeled like this one 3.5-6.3 it refers to the widest opening at different zoom levels. It's an adjustable minimum. When it's all the way zoomed out it's 3.5.. when it's all the way zoomed in it can only get 6.3..

[@s.rooneyphotography7944]

My local cash generator has this lens for £35 worth a little play with ?

[@christopherfrost]

There must be something wrong with it

[@sprocolli]

Hey you can make money from youtube.so you can buy more lenses.

[@khalidalhashimi9821]

Hi chris.I think you should do the canon 18-200 vs sigma 18-200 and see which one is better ^_^ .......im one of your biggest fans