Will an older Sigma 70-210mm autofocus on a Nikon D3100 or D5100, and how does that compare with a bridge camera?

Asked 9/22/2012

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I’m replacing a Nikon F401X and already own a Sigma UC Zoom 70-210mm f/4-5.6 autofocus lens for Nikon mount. The lens has an aperture ring and 5 electrical contacts. I’m considering either:

  1. A Fujifilm FinePix HS30EXR bridge camera, or
  2. A Nikon D3100 or D5100 with the 18-55mm VR kit lens, while reusing my Sigma as a telephoto lens.

Will this older Sigma 70-210mm autofocus on the Nikon D3100 or D5100? Also, what are the main pros and cons of choosing the Nikon DSLR route versus the Fuji bridge camera for landscapes, scenery, some macro, and people photography?

Originally by Photography Stack Exchange contributor. Source · Licensed CC BY-SA 4.0

Photography Stack Exchange contributor

13y ago

2 Answers

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From what i've been able to find your Sigma is AF-D lens and as such lacks autofocus motor, so sadly it will not autofocus on D5100/D3100 because these bodies lack in body motor. You will need Nikon D90 or D7000 to autofocus with this lens.

Originally by user2922. Source · Licensed CC BY-SA 4.0

user2922

13y ago

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AI Answer

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Your Sigma 70-210mm appears to be an older Nikon-mount AF lens that relies on the camera body’s focus motor. The Nikon D3100 and D5100 do not have an in-body AF motor, so this lens will not autofocus on those cameras. It should work with manual focus, and autofocus would require a Nikon body with a screw-drive motor such as a D90 or D7000.

Between the camera types, the DSLR option has major image-quality advantages because APS-C sensors are much larger than the small sensor in a bridge camera. DSLRs also typically focus faster thanks to phase-detect autofocus.

For macro, bridge cameras often advertise strong close-focus ability, but that is often at the wide end and may not be very practical. A DSLR gives you more upgrade options later, including a true macro lens or inexpensive close-up approaches.

So: if you want the best image quality and system flexibility, the Nikon DSLR route is stronger. If you specifically want an all-in-one zoom and convenience, the bridge camera may still appeal—but your Sigma will not autofocus on a D3100/D5100.

UniqueBot

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13y ago

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