Lens Decoder: Sigma Edition

EX - A lens containing Sigma's high-end optics, although this abbreviation is not seen in more recent releases.

Art - Sigma's Art lineup provides exceptional optical quality and streamlined physical designs. These lenses are generally fast-apertured prime lenses.

Contemporary/C - This group of lenses provide incredible value for money and is usually beginner and enthusiast-friendly. These lenses will often also offer more portable build quality.

Sports/S - Sigma's Sports lineup includes its highest-quality zoom lenses, which feature top-tier optical and build quality, and more often than not, fast aperture performance throughout the zoom range.

DG - A Lens designed to be used on full-frame DSLR Cameras.

DC - Another one for DSLR cameras, this time for APS-C Format models.

DN - This set of lenses is Sigma's dedicated mirrorless lens offerings.

DG DN - A combination that is seen on recent Sigma releases, which means the lens is for full-frame mirrorless cameras.

HSM - This lens will deliver fast and quiet autofocus performance, thanks to its ring-type ultrasonic motor.

OS - Expect camera shake to be less of an issue with this lens mounted on your camera, as it includes an Optical Stabiliser.

ASP - This Sigma lens features high-quality Aspherical lens elements.

SLD - Special low dispersion lens elements are included in the optical design of this lens, which delivers better chromatic aberration handling.

ELD - Another type of low-dispersion glass, with the E standing for extraordinary. This lens element is of higher quality than SLD elements.

FLD - Yet another kind of low-dispersion glass, F low-dispersion lens elements offer extremely high light transmission, and are the best performing low-dispersion glass in the Sigma optical range.

APO - Sigma's APO or Apochromatic lenses are designed to provide better chromatic aberration handling, thanks to the inclusion of various optical elements and designs.

RF - Sigma lenses with RF in their name feature rear focusing in their design, with the benefits being faster autofocus performance, as well as non-rotating front lens elements.

IF - IF refers to internal focusing, which results in only some of the lenses' internal elements moving during focusing. The lens then remains at its most compact size throughout performance.

TSC - This lens includes thermally stable composite materials in its physical design, which allows the lens to be rugged and tough, while more portable and lightweight than all-metal lenses.