Leica APO-SL 90-280mm vs Sigma 150-600mm f/5-6.3

[jaapv]

Advertisement (gone after registration)

On 1/22/2023 at 3:28 PM, Uli M. said:

I owned both of these lenses but kept only one: the 90-280...

Reason for that was not the image quality of my Sigma 150-600 but the very annoying sounds it produced while zooming from lower to higher values: it is squeaking most of the time, more intense and loud if zooming fast. It did not make a difference if using it under different conditions (temperature, humidity). My dealer took it back (6 weeks after purchase!) and told me, that they hat more cases with this squeaking-issue. But they never had that experience with the DSLR-version (no "DN"). Now thinking about to try the new 60-600 (arriving mid feb. 2023 in Germany) or looking for alternativ solutions for my wildlife photography purposes.  Really taking into consideration getting a Nikon Z9 with several modern high end tele-options from compact and lightweight (Z4,5/400 and 6,3/800) or their different heavier and more exxpensive F2,8 options...

Leica produced exceptional glass for there R-mount (fix 2,8/300 and 400 mm as well as Modul-System 2,8/300 - 2,8/400 - 5,6/800) but regrettably there seems to be no lens coming for the SL-system....

Best, Uli

The squeaking is not typical; mine does not. 

[Advertisement]

The Leica Q3 is available for pre-order at B&H Photo Video and Adorama

[sillbeers15]

Like many of you have posted, I have both lenses. Before the release of the L-Mount on 150-600mm, I have used my 90-280mm extensively for several years since the release of the lens by Leica. While the 90-280mm is a little short on reach for BIF I adore the image quality of the pics produced by the lens. The 150-600mm Sigma was a welcome tool for reach beyond 280mm focal length. Yes the feel and build quality is not comparable to the Leica lens but it is only one quarter the price of the Leica. If I judge by image quality alone, it has higher bang per buck than Leica lens and I have no complaints about the focusing speed considering the longer end of the focal length which I solely used. I hope Sigma can release a 800mm fixed focal length for L- Mount in time for a PDAF SL3 to come.