Sigma 50 mm f/1.4 EX DG HSM review - Build quality

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Sigma 50 mm f/1.4 EX DG HSM

16 June 2009

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Szymon Starczewski

3. Build quality

The first thing that stick out is the huge front element. Its dimensions can be properly assessed when compared to the competitors’ with filter threads from 49 to 58 mm – Sigma’s filter thread is as much as 77 mm! The picture below shows clearly the difference, comparing the Canon 1.4/50 USM with the tested lens. It is worth notice that both lenses are very similar – the same parameters, full frame in both cases, the same ultrasonic autofocus motor.

Sigma 50 mm f/1.4 EX DG HSM - Build quality

A big front element implies significant overall dimensions. So far, the biggest lens in the 1.4/50 class was Canon. Sigma is bigger and heavier than Canon and the Sony 1.4/50 looks simply like a dwarf next to it.

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Looking at the chart , which compares the 1.4/50 lenses parameters it is clear that Sigma differs from its competitors in other aspects too. It’s design is the most complicated and its aperture has the biggest number of blades.

The tested Sigma belongs to the highest EX class, so we have here a solid, metal barrel, a metal bayonet and a three-year-long warranty which can be extended to five years. On the lens we can find a clear distance scale behind a glass and a quite big, comfortable and precise manual focus ring. The lens ends with a non-rotating filter thread, 77 mm in diameter.

The inner construction consists of 8 elements in 6 groups. The element the closest to the sensor has an aspherical shape. After the third element we find a round 9 diaphragm blades aperture, which can be stopped down to f/16.

As befits the EX series, we get with the lens good quality accessories – in the box we will find both caps, a petal-type lens hood and a stylish, hard case, which can be attached, for example, to a belt.