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Sigma SD Quattro H Shutter Count:
Check It Free in Your Browser

Drop an .X3F file from your Sigma SD Quattro H and get the exact shutter actuation count instantly — processed entirely in your browser, never uploaded anywhere. X3F is fully supported in shuttercount.app — no extra tools needed.

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Sigma SD Quattro H — Shutter Rating

The Sigma SD Quattro H (2016/2017) is the larger-sensor sibling of the SD Quattro, using an APS-H format Foveon X3 Quattro sensor (26.6×17.9 mm) that sits between APS-C and full-frame in size. This larger sensor delivers approximately 51 MP effective resolution compared to 29 MP on the APS-C SD Quattro, while retaining the same unique three-layer colour capture technology that gives Foveon images their characteristic sharpness and colour accuracy at low ISO. The SD Quattro H uses Sigma’s SA-mount (with SA→EF adapter support), shoots X3F RAW files, and requires Sigma Photo Pro for full-quality RAW conversion. Sigma does not publish an official shutter rating; the estimated lifespan is approximately 150,000 actuations.

ModelSensor SizeEffective MPEst. Shutter LifeRAW Format
Sigma SD Quattro HAPS-H (26.6×17.9 mm)51 MP~150,000X3F
Sigma SD Quattro (APS-C sibling)APS-C (23.5×15.7 mm)29 MP~150,000X3F
Sigma fp L (L-mount successor)Full-frame61 MP (Bayer)no mechanicalDNG
X3F supported in browser: The Sigma SD Quattro H’s X3F format stores the shutter count in EXIF data. Drop an X3F file into shuttercount.app and the count appears immediately — no Sigma Photo Pro required for shutter count checking.

How to Check Shutter Count on the Sigma SD Quattro H

  1. Take a still photo with your Sigma SD Quattro H. Locate the resulting .X3F file on your SD card.
  2. Open shuttercount.app in any modern browser.
  3. Drag the X3F file onto the drop zone, or click to open a file picker.
  4. The shutter count appears instantly from the X3F EXIF data.
Sigma Photo Pro for RAW processing: For full-quality RAW conversion of X3F files, use Sigma Photo Pro (free, Mac/Windows). Third-party editors provide limited or degraded Foveon support. For shutter count checking only, shuttercount.app reads the EXIF directly without decoding the Foveon data.

What Is a Good Shutter Count for a Used Sigma SD Quattro H?

Actuation Count% of Est. LifeAssessment
0 – 5,0000 – 3 %Near new — very low use
5,000 – 40,0003 – 27 %Light to moderate use
40,000 – 100,00027 – 67 %Moderate to heavy use
100,000 – 130,00067 – 87 %High use — negotiate price
130,000 +87 %+Near or past estimated life
Used SD Quattro H inspection: Test image quality at ISO 100–400 where the Foveon advantage is strongest. The SD Quattro H requires an external EVF accessory (VF-21) for eye-level shooting — verify it is included. Check SA-mount contacts for wear. The larger APS-H sensor means the SD Quattro H produces slightly different equivalent focal lengths than APS-C bodies; check that any included SA→EF adapters are functioning.

Sigma SD Quattro H — FAQ

What is the difference between the SD Quattro H and the SD Quattro?

The SD Quattro H uses a larger APS-H Foveon X3 Quattro sensor (26.6×17.9 mm, 51 MP effective) versus the SD Quattro’s APS-C sensor (23.5×15.7 mm, 29 MP effective). In practice, the H produces slightly larger files, slightly better detail at base ISO, and a 1.3× crop factor (vs 1.5× on the APS-C model) with SA-mount lenses. Both bodies are otherwise identical in build, controls, and workflow.

Is the Sigma SD Quattro H good for high ISO?

No. Like all Foveon sensors, high ISO is the SD Quattro H’s primary weakness. Noise becomes significant above ISO 400–800. The camera is best suited to controlled lighting, landscape, and studio work where ISO 100–400 is achievable. For high-ISO or low-light work, the Sigma fp L (Bayer CMOS) is far superior.

Can the Sigma SD Quattro H shutter count be reset?

Only a Sigma authorised service centre can reset the hardware shutter counter, typically only after a physical shutter replacement. Always verify from an original X3F file.

Does the SD Quattro H work with Canon EF lenses?

Yes, via the SA→EF mount adapter. Autofocus and aperture control work with compatible Canon EF lenses (not all EF lens features are supported). This significantly expands the available optics beyond native SA-mount lenses.

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