Nikon vs Sigma

[Brandon Fraley]

While looking for nikon lenses on ebay, a lot of sigmas pop up for often about half the price. What are they and why are they cheaper?

THANKS!

[agaillard]

Sigmas are a cheaper brand of lens that have come out in the last few years. My boss and I both have used them on our DSLR's. They are starting to get higher user rating. My boss uses Canon's and I use Nikons. They aren't bad for the money but I still prefer Nikkor lenses.

[Mike Prevette]

Sigma has actually been around since the 60's. But only in the last few years has there product been remotely decent to use. We used to joke in the film camera (still) days that Sigma meant "SIGnifigant MAlfunction" They were built poorly to say the least. But in the recent years they have gotten their act together with their highend lenses.

[agaillard]

They still don't seem to be as durable as some other brands.

[Jonathan Wheeler]

My wife had one that we sold, just because we weren't using it much, and it was fine. I've heard that their QC is a little hit and miss, but otherwise a decent lens.

[Chris Kenny]

Sigma is decent these days. The catch is it'll probably end up costing you more in the long run, because it tends to have much lower resale value.

[Christopher Barry]

Perhaps look for EX Sigma (http://www.sigmaphoto.com/popup.asp) lenses, may be optically better.

[Finner]

Seems like there are a lot of people here that are keen on this one.

http://www.topicpoint.com/sigma_18-50mm/index.html

[laguun]

Here is a comprehensive database of nikon & sigma:
http://www.reduser.net/forum/showthread.php?t=4952