Well, that was… unexpected? In a highly unconventional move, Sigma has announced not one, but two versions of their 150-600mm lens: one being given the ‘Sports’ designation and one the ‘Contemporary.’ Both lenses offer the same exact 150-600mm reach and same exact F/5-6.3 aperture range.

Sigma 150-600mm F/5-6.3 Contemporary
Sigma 150-600mm F/5-6.3 Contemporary

The difference is in the build of the two lenses. The Sports version of the lens will feature a more enhanced optical design, with professional grade optics, and a better build quality aimed at handling the wear and tear of a professional shooter’s needs. The Contemporary version is a smaller – and likely quite a bit cheaper – version of the Sports lens in a more -albeit slightly- compact and portable design.

As you can see in the images, the Sports version features a nice big focus ring as well as zoom ring, while the contemporary version features what appears to be a larger zoom ring and small focus ring. Beyond that, from what I can make out in the images, they don’t appear to be that different looking (besides the obvious tripod collar difference).

Sigma 150-600mm F/5-6.3 Contemporary Sports (With Hood)
Sigma 150-600mm F/5-6.3 Sports (With Hood)

The original rumors about this lens make sense, as originally, it was thought to be Contemporary and then they changed it to Sport. The rumors were right – in both cases. Sigma just pulled a fast one on us and did something unexpected.

At this point, no pricing or availability is known for either version of the lens. But I think it is safe to say the Contemporary version will likely compete on price with the Tamron 150-600 in that $1,000 range or a little more. While the Sports version may come in around $1800-1900 and compete more closely with Canon’s 100-400mm in terms of price and durability/build quality.

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Sigma 150-600mm F/5-6.3 Sports Specs

  • Canon EF/Nikon F/Sigma Mounts (Contemporary will also come in Sony mount)
  • Aperture Range: f/5-6.3 to 22
  • Two FLD and Three SLD Elements (Contemporary Only has 1 FLD Element)
  • Hyper Sonic Motor AF System
  • Optical Stabilizer with Accelerometer
  • Zoom Lock & Manual Override Switches
  • Minimum Focus Distance: 102.4″
  • Splash and Dust Proof Mount
  • Lens Hood & Rotatable Tripod Collar (Contemporary Collar Not Rotatable)
  • Compatible with Sigma USB Dock

Still, even though no price or availability is known yet, you can get on the notification list over on B&H via the following pre-order links (Contemporary, Sports).

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What are your thoughts on these two announcements from Sigma? Do you like the strategy of making a lower priced version for amateurs/hobbyists and a more premium version for pros? Leave a comment below!