Sigma Sigma 105mm f/2.8 EX DG Medium Telephoto Macro Review

Looking for a dedicated macro lens for your Nikon DSLR? The Sigma 105mm f/2.8 EX DG is a classic medium telephoto option that's been around for a while. It gives you a 1:1 magnification ratio for true macro work, and its 105mm focal length is a sweet spot for keeping your distance from skittish bugs. It's also surprisingly compact and light for a macro lens at just 451g, which is a nice bonus if you're carrying it around all day. People often ask, 'is this lens good for portraits?' The 105mm focal length and f/2.8 aperture are actually pretty solid for that, giving you nice subject separation. Just don't expect it to be a speed demon for fast-moving subjects.

Let's talk about what those percentile scores really mean. The stabilization is its standout feature, sitting in the 89th percentile. That means you can handhold shots at slower shutter speeds, which is a huge help for macro where you need all the light you can get. The autofocus, however, lands in the 47th percentile. It's not slow, but it hunts a bit, especially when you're trying to lock onto tiny, detailed subjects. That's why Sigma includes a focus limiter switch to help speed things up. The optical quality score is in the 34th percentile, which tells you it's decent but not class-leading. You'll get sharp images, especially stopped down a bit from f/2.8, but there are sharper modern lenses out there.

At around $495, this lens sits in an interesting spot. It's not the cheapest macro option, but it's far from the most expensive. You're paying for that effective stabilization system and the proven 105mm f/2.8 formula. If your main goal is to get into 1:1 macro without breaking the bank and you value handheld shooting, it's a reasonable buy. Just know that for a similar or slightly higher price, you might find newer lenses with faster autofocus or better optics, but they might lack stabilization.

The competitor list provided seems off—it's full of fast prime lenses like the Viltrox 35mm f/1.7, not direct macro rivals. For a real comparison, you should look at the Nikon AF-S VR Micro-Nikkor 105mm f/2.8G IF-ED. The Nikon is sharper, has better build quality, and often has faster AF, but it's also heavier and usually more expensive. Another option is the Tokina 100mm f/2.8 Macro, which is often a bit cheaper and very sharp, but it lacks image stabilization. The Sigma's key advantage is that it packs stabilization into a relatively light and affordable package. If you don't need stabilization, the Tokina might be a better value. If ultimate sharpness and build are your priorities, save up for the Nikon.

So, should you buy the Sigma 105mm f/2.8? It's a bit of a mixed bag. If you're a Nikon DSLR shooter who wants a dedicated, stabilized macro lens and you find it for a good price, it's a competent tool. The stabilization is genuinely great, and the lens is easy to carry. But the autofocus performance and middling optical scores hold it back from being a top recommendation. For most people, I'd say look at the used market for this lens or consider the Tokina 100mm if you use a tripod. Only buy this Sigma new if that vibration reduction is a must-have feature for your handheld macro work and you're on a strict budget.