Sigma has released firmware Ver.02 for their 100-400mm F5-6.3 DG DN OS | Contemporary lens for Sony E-mount.
The firmware addresses the two following issues:
・It has improved the phenomenon whereby the lens’s optical stabilizer effect differs depending on the shutter type and drive mode used.
・It has corrected the phenomenon whereby the lens firmware cannot be updated via the camera.
Unfortunately it seems that the firmware cannot be updated from Ver.01 to Ver.02 by the end-user via the camera. Therefore, Sigma will update the lens firmware free of charge. Of course, this unfortunately means that you will nee to send the lens off to them, and will most likely incur a hefty shipping charge when you add the shipping insurance.
Further details are available in this post on Sigma’s website. And details of your local Sigma authorized service station can be found at https://www.sigma-global.com/en/world-network/
I find it quite bizarre that in 2021 a lens needs to be returned to the manufacturer to update the firmware, and I suspect that many existing owners will not want to go to the trouble.
Hey everyone. I’ve just sent mine back for the update. Has anyone noticed an improvement on focus accuracy across the board after the update? IE Is it better even on single shot? I’ve found sometimes it’s slightly out. When it’s in focus this lens is awesome! Also what about stabilisation in general? Thanks.
I just contacted Sigma Thailand about getting the firmware update on my 100-400 E mount lens. Despite a Facebook post saying customers could arrange an appointment to get it done for free, they said it would cost 3,000 Baht + VAT. That is approximately 100 USD! To put things into perspective, that is 10 times the minimum daily wage in Thailand…
I bought the lens second hand, so I knew they would try to avoid incurring any costs for updating their faulty firmware but 100 USD seems insane
Please can anybody who has had the firmware updated on their lens let me know if the improvements are worth paying 100 USD for? I’ve had many photos taken in bright light at high shutter speeds be out of focus and the OIS seems quite jumpy – are these problems significantly improved?
Thanks
That’s very frustrating Gareth and disappointing too! Did you go ahead and get it done? It does appear to address stabilization issues and one of the commenters here (Chris) also said the update has improved his keeper rate.
I just update firmware today with Lumix S5 , I’m not sure about Sony E mount.
Mine should be back with Sigma UK today.
I’ve experienced intermittent focusing issues too, a shame since it’s such a sharp lens when it nails focus.
I have to agree it’s disappointing having to pay postage costs, for an issue that Sigma really should be absorbing. However, worse for me personally, is the stress of sending the lens through the postal system, insurance not withstanding. Again Sigma should be calling this a recall and standing over all the possible hassles involved.
Having said that, if I get my lens back and all is well, I’d probably be more forgiving than right now! lol
Sigma UK Service Dept staffer James Russell, has been great, very quick responses to email and friendly advice throughout. Pity he wasn’t in charge of Royal Mail, I’d feel so much better 😉
I hope your issues are resolved with the update Den. I do have the same lens myself and I’m in the UK, I’ve yet to send it back but I will do so soon as it sounds like it might improve the focussing according to Chris below. Having to pay the postage costs is pretty poor, they should at least provide a voucher if they aren’t prepared to cover the cost. I hope your lens is safely mounted to your camera again sooner rather than later!
Hi Timothy,
Thanks for that, yes from what I’ve gather online, the focusing issues on moving subjects, may be nothing to do with the AF, but connected to a firmware bug with the OS. Apparently, as well as solving having to send back to Sigma for updates, the new firmware is fixing the OS bug, which in turn should improve hit rate.
I love quality of this lens, if the hit rate goes up, it’ll be very pleasing indeed.
Good luck getting your own copy sorted and yes, I do hope Sigma will make a gesture towards costs. It’s not our fault and if left as is, might make many a little more hesitant to buy another brand new 1st gen FE Sigma lens.
It’s unfortunate the lens needs to be sent in for this fix. However I did send the lens in and got back in 5 days. Keep rate on photos is much improved after the firmware update. I think most folks will be attracted to the new longer offerings in the market by Sigma and Tamron but this lens is great if you don’t want to be carrying around something too heavy.
Glad to hear that your keeper rate has improved Chris! I have this lens myself and was hesitating returning it, but I think I will now.
This is show a company should not issue a firmware fix! Sigma will anger their end users and lose customers over this one
Yep, it’s certainly not ideal and I guess many will not return it if they are happy with the performance.