Canon’s EF camera system, which comprises the full-frame DSLRs, has two 35mm compatible lenses that are very good. One, however, is priced at nearly 2000 dollars, and the other is less than 800 dollars. Both are 35mm primes and have a maximum aperture of f/1.4. Considering the huge price difference, which one should you go for and why? This discussion pits these two lenses together and determines which makes better sense.

In many, the Sigma 35mm f/1.4 DG HSM Art has been a game changer. Photographers felt that third-party lenses could never take over the performance and quality of OEM lenses, and this is the lens that, in many ways, changed that perspective.

Under 800 dollars, Sigma has produced a beast of a lens that offers the same f/1.4 aperture. This is a Sigma Art series lens and promises exceptional build quality. There is no image stabilization on the lens, but that’s never a problem for a wide-angle lens with a fast wide aperture. In any case, the Canon version, too, does not have image stabilization.

The Sigma version II is a fantastic lens with exceptional sharpness and contrast. The overall image quality is excellent.

In terms of lens sharpness, Sigma loses out to the Canon version II lens. When the Sigma version first came about, it had a slight advantage over the original version of the Canon lens. However, it’s fair to say that the Canon version II is better than the Sigma.

However, with the Sigma, this lens comes with the all-important Sigma USB dock that allows the lens’ firmware to be upgraded. This is a critical benefit of buying the Sigma lens.

However, on the flip side, Canon seems to nail focus consistently compared to Sigma. In critical situations, especially when you’re shooting in low light, nailing focus accurately and consistency is a major motivating factor. You can’t have a lens that consistently misses focus. Specially, if you’re a professional and your work depends on such a lens. it’s sorry to note that the Sigma isn’t as consistent as the Canon when it comes to focusing.

Both the Canon and the Sigma are weather proof lenses. However, while the Canon comes rated as weather sealed the Sigma is only weather resistant and that could be deciding factor. Especially if you shoot outdoors and in inclement weather.

Another major deciding factor is the price of the lens. the price of the Canon is more than double that of the Sigma. If you’re an amateur and or is on a budget this is a great lens to have considering the difference in price. You can easily get another prime or even a good zoom lens with the amount of money that you will save.

Overall if you’re on a budget go for the Sigma. If you’re looking for consistency and money isn’t a factor then go for the Canon.

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