* Item pictured for illustrative purposes only, actual item not pictured. See ‘Notes’ next to grade for included items.
Sigma 17-70mm F/2.8-4.5 DC Macro HSM AF Lens for Nikon APS-C DSLR {72}
-
$93.00
Sigma's proven APS-C standard zoom with macro capability and f/2.8 wide-end reach
The 17-70mm f/2.8-4.5 DC Macro HSM covers the focal range that APS-C shooters actually use daily, from wide environmental shots at 17mm to an useful short telephoto at 70mm. The f/2.8 maximum aperture at the wide end gives you real light-gathering ability when the scene gets dark, and the DC designation means the optical formula is built specifically for APS-C sensors than adapted from a full-frame design. Macro capability rounds out the spec sheet for a lens at this price point, letting you move in close on subjects without swapping glass.
The HSM autofocus motor drives focus quietly and keeps full-time manual override in play, useful for wedding or event work where you need to fine-tune focus without flipping a switch. The 72mm filter thread accepts standard polarizers and ND filters that many photographers already own. This is a workhorse lens for Nikon F mount APS-C bodies, and its established track record makes it a dependable choice when you want a single lens to cover most daylight and low-light scenarios.
Who It's For
Travel photographers who want one lens on an APS-C body will find the 17-70mm range covers wide interiors through portrait-length compression without a bag change. Documentary and event shooters benefit from the f/2.8 wide-end aperture in mixed or dim light. Close-up and product photographers gain macro capability without carrying a dedicated macro lens. Street photographers working on Nikon F mount APS-C bodies get a focal range that handles tight alleys and moderate reach in a single mount.
Key Features
- 17-70mm focal range with f/2.8 maximum aperture at wide end
- DC optical formula optimized for APS-C sensors
- HSM autofocus motor with full-time manual override
- Macro capability for close-focusing work
- 72mm filter thread for standard accessories
- Nikon F AF mount compatibility
FAQ
- What's the actual focal length range on an APS-C Nikon body?
- 17-70mm. On Nikon's 1.5× crop factor, that translates to roughly 25.5-105mm equivalent.
- Why does this lens have two aperture numbers in the spec?
- f/2.8-4.5 means f/2.8 at 17mm, and the aperture closes to f/4.5 by the time you reach 70mm. This is typical for standard zooms at this price point.
- Does the HSM motor let you manually focus while autofocus is active?
- Yes. Full-time manual override means you can twist the focus ring to fine-tune focus without switching to a manual-focus mode.
- What filter size does this lens use?
- 72mm. That's a common size, so most polarizers and ND filters photographers already own will thread directly on.
- Is this lens designed for full-frame or APS-C only?
- APS-C only. The DC optical formula is built specifically for Nikon's DX crop sensor bodies, not adapted from a full-frame design.
- How close can you focus for macro work?
- The verified specs don't detail the minimum focus distance, but Sigma brands this as macro-capable for its class, suitable for close subjects without a separate macro lens.
- When was this lens released?
- 2009. It's a well-established design with a solid track record on Nikon F mount APS-C bodies.
| Specification | Value |
|---|---|
| Focal Length | 17-70mm |
| Max Aperture | f/2.8-4.5 |
| Mount | Nikon F AF |
This description was generated using AI based on KEH's internal product standards, product expertise, and knowing what customers care about most. While we strive for accuracy, details may vary by individual item.
| Brand Name | Sigma |
|---|---|
| Filter Size | 72mm |
| Focus Type | Autofocus (lens motor) |
| Lens Mount | Nikon F Mount G Type |
| Lens Type | Wide-Angle, Standard / Normal |
| Max Focal Length | 70mm |
| Min Focal Length | 17mm |