Sigma Cine AF Zooms Review: Autofocus and Manual Focus Breakthrough

Sigma's new Cine AF zoom lenses, the 28-45mm T2 and 28-105mm T3, offer a breakthrough in autofocus cinema lenses by providing a manual focus experience that feels mechanically coupled despite being focus-by-wire. Designed for mirrorless E-Mount and L-Mount, they share optical formulas with Sigma's Art series but feature geared rings, a 95mm front diameter, and an AF/MF switch. Autofocus performance is indistinguishable from Sigma and Panasonic lenses, while manual focusing is responsive and precise, rivaling mechanical Sigma Aizu Primes. Optical performance is largely identical to the photo versions, with excellent resolution for 8K and pleasing bokeh, though flare is more pronounced and breathing remains an issue—the 28-45mm shows noticeable breathing, the 28-105mm fares better. The lenses are not parfocal; the 28-105mm drifts significantly when zooming. Priced higher than photo versions, they are still affordable for cinema zooms and offer no compromises for video work. Fujifilm has released competing autofocus GF Mount cinema zooms, but Sigma's lenses stand out in E- and L-Mount. The review was conducted with editorial independence despite Sigma's partnership with PetaPixel.