Sigma 100-400mm f/5-6.3 DG DN OS Contemporary Lens (Sony E)

The Sigma 100‑400mm f/5‑6.3 DG DN OS Contemporary is an ultra‑telephoto zoom lens in Sigma’s Contemporary line for full‑frame Sony E‑mount (FE) systems. It offers a very long reach in a relatively compact and lightweight package for wildlife, sports, action, and outdoor photography without the bulk and price of professional glass. The lens also works on Sony APS‑C bodies, where it effectively becomes approximately a 150–600mm zoom.

Key features:

Focal Length: 100–400 mm — extensive telephoto range for distant subjects.
Maximum Aperture: f/5 at 100 mm to f/6.3 at 400 mm — common for long telephoto zooms to keep lens size manageable.
Minimum Aperture: f/22–29 (depending on zoom position).

Optical Design: 22 elements in 16 groups with one FLD and four SLD glass elements to reduce chromatic aberrations and color fringing for clearer, better‑contrasted images.
Diaphragm: 9 rounded blades for smooth out‑of‑focus highlights (bokeh).
Minimum Focusing Distance: ~1.1 m (100 mm) to ~1.6 m (400 mm).
Maximum Magnification: Approx. 1:4.1 at 400 mm.
Filter Size: 67 mm.
Dimensions: Approx. 86 mm diameter × 199.2 mm length.
Weight: ~1,140 g with protective cover included.

Optical and Handling Features

Optical Stabilization (OS): Built‑in image stabilization rated for about four stops of shake reduction, helping to keep telephoto shots sharper when shooting handheld.

Autofocus: Uses a stepping motor (STM) for fast, smooth, and relatively quiet autofocus — suitable for stills and video. The lens also supports full‑time manual focus override and includes a focus limiter switch to improve focus speed when working within certain distance ranges.

Build Quality:

• Dust‑ and splash‑resistant mount sealing enhances reliability in varied outdoor conditions.
• Brass bayonet mount for rigidity and accurate alignment.
• Programmable AFL button can be configured to adjust camera controls.
• There’s a zoom lock switch to prevent accidental extension during transport.

Supplied Accessories: Lens hood (LH770‑05), protective cover (PT‑31), front and rear caps.

Performance and Use

Image Quality: The lens delivers good sharpness and contrast across much of its zoom range thanks to the special glass elements and optimized optical design. Chromatic aberration and color fringing are well controlled for a zoom of this reach.

Versatility: This lens covers a wide range of telephoto needs, making it suitable for:

• Wildlife photography (birds, animals at a distance)
• Sports and action photography
• Outdoor events and landscapes where distant detail matters
• Travel photography when you want significant reach without heavy gear