Sigma 50mm f/1.4 EX DG HSM

Photo answers review

Photo answers rating

Performance & handling

Prime lenses are about as simple as can be in terms of handling. You have just two controls – the focus ring and (depending on your lens mount) the AF/MF switch. This lens offers full-time manual override, which means you can turn the focus ring at any time to alter the focus, even while the camera’s in autofocus mode.
The lens is a fair amount larger than most other 50mm f/1.4 lenses on the market, which means the lens looks great on pro-sized camera bodies – but it’s a bit ‘overkill’ on smaller D-SLRs. It’s worth remembering that this lens has a built-in Hypersonic Motor (HSM), so while the AF is fast and quiet, the motor does take up more space.
It’s also important to remember that this new lens doesn’t replace Sigma’s older 50mm f/2.8 EX DG macro lens, as it doesn’t focus as close. Even so, the minimum focusing distance of 45cm on this new lens does allow you to fill the frame with your subject’s head and shoulders when shooting with a camera that has a full-frame sensor.
Performance-wise the lens could easily find its way into a professional kit bag and wouldn’t be out of place, thanks to Sigma’s fast and quiet HSM (Hyper Sonic Motor). The large aperture of f/1.4 means that you get a clear and bright viewfinder image, making it a good choice for dim interiors and other lowlight photography.

Verdict & value

Overall image quality is excellent. There’s only the slightest hint of softness around the edges at f/1.4, but from then on, the lens is pin-sharp across the frame. There’s virtually no visible chromatic aberration.
While Sigma lenses are traditionally much cheaper than manufacturers’ own-brand lenses, this new 50mm is something of a rarity in that it’s more expensive than all of its direct competition. What it does have, though, is HSM to back it up.
Only the Canon 50mm f/1.4 USM offers a similar autofocus performance, while the f/1.4 offerings from Nikon, Pentax and Sony will provide you with slower AF and more noise. So in these cases, spending a little extra cash on this Sigma lens makes a lot of sense as a sound investment.

Product specification

Weight 505g   
Length 68mm   
Diameter 85mm   
Maximum aperture f/1.4   
Filter thread 77mm   
Mounts available Canon, Nikon, Sigma, Sony, Pentax