SIGMA Unveils the 17-40mm f/1.8 DC Art Lens for APS-C Cameras

SIGMA Corporation has announced the launch of its new 17-40mm f/1.8 DC Art lens, specifically designed for APS-C mirrorless cameras. This innovative constant aperture zoom lens covers a focal length equivalent of approximately 25.5-60mm, with a notable feature of maintaining a wide f/1.8 aperture throughout its zoom range. Scheduled for release on July 10, 2025, this lens follows SIGMA's trend of producing high-performance optics tailored for both photography and videography.

The 17-40mm f/1.8 DC Art lens utilizes a complex optical design composed of 17 elements arranged in 11 groups, which includes four aspherical elements and four Special Low Dispersion (SLD) elements. This arrangement is engineered to effectively minimize chromatic aberrations while significantly reducing flare and ghosting. Dr. Michael Chen, an optical engineer at SIGMA, stated, "Our goal with this lens is to provide photographers and videographers with exceptional optical performance that rivals our acclaimed 18-35mm f/1.8 DC HSM Art lens."

A significant advancement in this new lens is its design tailored for video applications. It features internal zoom mechanics that keep the lens length consistent during operation, making it particularly suitable for use with gimbals. Furthermore, the lens incorporates focus breathing suppression technology, which minimizes changes in focal length during focus pulls, a crucial feature for filmmakers.

In terms of autofocus, the lens employs a High-speed Linear Actuator (HLA) for precise and quiet operation, enhancing its usability in silent shooting environments. This is particularly advantageous for documentary filmmakers and event videographers who require stealthy operation without compromising on performance.

The physical characteristics of the lens have also been optimized; it weighs 535 grams, which is over 30% lighter than its predecessor, the 18-35mm f/1.8 DC HSM Art lens. The new lens features a 67mm filter thread, a shift from the previous model's larger size, and its compact dimensions of 72.9mm × 115.9mm enhance portability for users.

Weather resistance has not been overlooked in the design of the 17-40mm f/1.8 DC Art lens. The construction includes dust and splash resistance with effective weather sealing, and the front element is treated with a water and oil-repellent coating, ensuring reliable performance even in challenging conditions.

SIGMA's commitment to versatility is further highlighted by the inclusion of customizable Auto Focus Lock (AFL) buttons, allowing users to easily adjust settings according to their shooting style. Additionally, the lens features an aperture control mechanism that allows users to switch between click and de-click modes, facilitating smooth aperture transitions during video recording.

The lens will be available for various mounts, including L-mount, Sony E-mount, and FUJIFILM X-mount in July 2025, while the Canon RF mount version is expected to follow in August 2025. Priced at $919, the SIGMA 17-40mm f/1.8 DC Art lens aims to cater to both photography enthusiasts and professional videographers, promising to deliver high-quality results across diverse shooting scenarios.

In conclusion, the SIGMA 17-40mm f/1.8 DC Art lens stands as a testament to SIGMA's dedication to innovation and quality in the optics industry. As the demand for high-performance lenses continues to grow, particularly among content creators, this new offering is poised to make a significant impact in the market, providing users with the tools they need to capture stunning images and videos.