Sigma's EX-series 105mm macro — a well-regarded 1:1 macro at a budget price across multiple mounts.
The Sigma 105mm f/2.8 EX DG Macro is Sigma's dedicated macro lens in the popular 105mm focal length. The EX designation indicates Sigma's professional tier, and DG confirms digital optimisation. It provides true 1:1 magnification with the working distance advantage of a medium telephoto focal length. Available in multiple mounts, it has been a strong value proposition for macro shooters.
Optical performance is very good for macro work. Sharpness is excellent at close distances and good at portrait range. The f/2.8 aperture provides pleasant bokeh when used for non-macro photography. HSM motor versions offer fast, quiet autofocus with full-time manual override. Chromatic aberration is well-controlled by the EX-class optical design.
Available in Canon EF, Nikon F, Sony A, and Pentax K mounts. Filter thread is 58mm. Weight is approximately 451 grams — moderate. Build quality is solid with the EX designation. No image stabilisation — the OS version adds optical stabilisation for a significant improvement. Several versions exist across the production history.
Common and affordable on the used market. Check AF operation and smooth focus ring. The OS version is worth seeking out for the stabilisation advantage. A solid budget macro lens that also doubles as a portrait prime. The Sigma 105mm f/2.8 DG DN Art for mirrorless is the modern successor with dramatically improved optics.