Sigma 50mm f/1.4 EX DG HSM

The Sigma 50mm f/1.4 EX DG HSM raises some eyebrows in the price department – at £350, it’s more than its Canon and Nikon equivalents, so is the extra outlay justified?

You certainly get a lot of glass for your money with the Sigma 50mm f/1.4 EX DG HSM; it has a huge front element (the filter size is 77mm), making it very large and heavy. This weight won't feel out of place on an EOS 50D, though it may make smaller D-SLRs feel a bit unbalanced. The construction matches its size – it’s very solid with a metal lens mount so should take some serious use. 
The focus ring is excellent, providing a sure grip and a firm action throughout, though it could be a little too stiff for some. There’s also a Manual/AF button switch, a window for hyper-focal distancing and internal focusing so the front element doesn’t extend. Focusing is accurate and quiet thanks to the HSM motor, but not the quickest.


Specifications:
Street price (body only): £355
Construction: 8 elements in 6 groups
Max aperture: f/1.4
Min aperture: f/22
Aperture blades: 9
Aperture ring: Yes
AF/Manual focus switch: Yes
Autofocus monitor: Yes
Minimum focus distance: 45mm
Distance window: Yes
Filter size: 77mm
Dimensions (length x width): 85x68mm
Weight: 520g
Lens mount construction: Metal
Lens mount: Canon EF, Nikon F, Sigma (Sony & Pentax to follow)
Website: www.sigma-imaging-uk.com