@Reply #1 - good point! Tbh i would be a bit more careful before jumping on the Sigma hype train though. I remember taking a similar setup to a track event last year and being super frustrated because i missed the peak action right at the finish line. Sony has those weird internal restrictions on burst rates for third-party glass. Even if the lens is sharp, if it cant hit the 20 or 30fps on the higher end bodies, youre basically leaving performance on the table. It really sucks when you realize your gear is bottlenecking your sensor speed.

• make sure to check if you really need those high burst rates
• be careful with future-proofing since firmware might change things
• consider the consistency of the tracking in low light Personally? I would suggest sticking with Sony. Go with Sony, you cant go wrong if you want that seamless autofocus performance. There is just something about their native glass that feels more reliable when things get moving fast... honestly, it saved my bacon more than once and i dont think i can go back to third-party for telephotos now.

Based on my experience, the Sigma 70-200mm f/2.8 DG DN OS Sports lens appears to be an excellent choice for photographers looking for a high-performance telephoto zoom lens at a more affordable price point compared to first-party options like the Sony G Master.

The Sigma offers an impressive feature set, including robust weather sealing, an aperture ring, and an advanced Optical Stabilization (OS) system providing up to 7.5 stops of stabilization at the wide end. The dual HLA focus motors deliver fast and accurate autofocus, making it suitable for sports photography. Optically, the lens performs exceptionally well, with low distortion, well-controlled CA, great sharpness across the zoom range, and pleasing bokeh.

However, there are a couple of drawbacks to consider. Firstly, the Sigma is heavier than its competitors, which may be a concern for some users. Secondly, when used on Sony's top sports cameras, the lens may not allow the highest burst rates compared to native Sony lenses. Additionally, the Sigma does not support teleconverters on Sony bodies.

An alternative to consider is the Tamron 70-180mm F2.8 G2, which is lighter, smaller, and cheaper while delivering similar optical performance. However, the Sigma offers better build quality, more features, and a slightly longer focal length.

Overall, the Sigma 70-200mm f/2.8 DG DN OS Sports lens offers excellent value for money, providing top-tier performance and features at a more accessible price point. It is a compelling choice for photographers who prioritize these aspects and can work with the lens's weight and limitations on certain Sony camera bodies.