The Sigma 70-200mm f/2.8 EX APO DG Macro HSM II is a fast telephoto zoom for Canon EF mount, offering a constant f/2.8 aperture across the full 70β200mm range, a 9-blade rounded diaphragm, a remarkably close minimum focus distance of just 0.1m, and a 77mm filter thread β all in a 1370g build designed for demanding shooting conditions.
Key Specifications
- Focal length: 70β200mm (zoom)
- Maximum aperture: f/2.8 constant (wide and tele)
- Minimum aperture: f/22
- Aperture blades: 9 (rounded)
- Minimum focus distance: 0.1m β macro-capable
- Filter thread: 77mm
- Autofocus: Yes, HSM (Hyper Sonic Motor)
- Image stabilisation: None
- Weight: 1370g
- Lens mount: Canon EF
Who is the Sigma 70-200mm f/2.8 EX APO DG Macro HSM II for?
This lens is a solid all-rounder for anyone shooting with Canon EF cameras who needs reach, speed, and versatility in a single barrel. At f/2.8 throughout the zoom range, it lets in plenty of light for indoor sports, wedding receptions, and stage events where you can't control the lighting. The 9-blade aperture produces smooth, rounded bokeh that works beautifully for portrait photography β subject isolation at 200mm f/2.8 is genuinely pleasing. What sets this version apart from many telephoto zooms is that 0.1m minimum focus distance: you can get strikingly close to a subject for detail shots that most 70-200mm lenses simply can't achieve. Wildlife and nature photographers will appreciate the reach and the close-focus capability together. If you shoot with a mix of portraits, events, wildlife, and occasional macro work, this is the kind of lens that lives on your camera body. No image stabilisation means you'll want decent shutter speeds in low light or a body with IBIS, but the fast f/2.8 aperture compensates significantly. Check out what else Sigma has in the telephoto range if you're building out a kit.
Buying a used Sigma 70-200mm f/2.8 EX APO DG Macro HSM II
Picking up this lens second-hand is a smart move for Canon shooters who want a fast telephoto without the price tag of the Canon EF 70-200mm f/2.8L series. The Sigma 70-200mm f/2.8 EX APO DG Macro HSM II is a known quantity among DSLR photographers β it's been widely reviewed, and sample images are easy to find online, so you know exactly what you're getting. Every pre-owned copy on Camera-tweedehands.nl is individually photographed and professionally inspected, and comes with a minimum of 12 months warranty. When buying used, check the HSM autofocus motor for smooth, quiet operation, and inspect the front element for coating wear β the 77mm filter thread is standard, so a good UV filter was likely in use on most copies.