Sigma 20mm F1.4 DG HSM Review

November 19, 2015 | Mark Goldstein | Rating star Rating star Rating star Rating star Half rating star

Conclusion

The Sigma 20mm F1.4 DG HSM is a very fast, tack-sharp prime lens in Sigma's excellent Art series, and also a unique lens to boot, as it's the only 20mm lens in the World to offer an f/1.4 aperture. It does exhibit some chromatic aberrations at the edges of the frame, but surprisingly little barrel distortion, whilst being able to usefully focus as close as 27cm. Vignetting at wide-open apertures is the only real optical issue of note, being very apparent when shooting wide-open, but stopping down to f/4 solves the problem altogether.

Build quality is excellent, with the brass lens mount and sober all-black design adding to the high-quality feel, and Sigma have even generously included a good fixed lens hood and padded case. Focusing was quick on the Canon EOS 5DS R that we tested the lens with, and manual focus over-ride at any time is a great feature. The only notable downsides to the design of the Sigma 20mm F1.4 DG HSM are the inability to fit circular filters thanks to its large, bulbous front element, which may be a show-stopper for some landscape photographers, the lack of any weatherproofing, and the sheer size and weight of the lens as a result of Sigma's no-compromise approach.

Once again the price of the Sigma 20mm F1.4 DG HSM is very attractive, significantly undercutting alternative lenses from Canon and Nikon. If you can live with the lack of filter support, we can strongly recommend the new Sigma 20mm F1.4 DG HSM as a very fast, well-built ultra-wide-angle prime lens that delivers excellent image quality.

4.5 stars

Ratings (out of 5)
Design 4
Features 4.5
Ease-of-use 4
Image quality 4.5
Value for money 4.5