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A fast Sigma lens for wide-angle fans

The company adds a 24mm f1.4 to its excellent lens portfolio.

Lori Grunin Senior Editor / Advice
I've been reviewing hardware and software, devising testing methodology and handed out buying advice for what seems like forever; I'm currently absorbed by computers and gaming hardware, but previously spent many years concentrating on cameras. I've also volunteered with a cat rescue for over 15 years doing adoptions, designing marketing materials, managing volunteers and, of course, photographing cats.
Expertise Photography | PCs and laptops | Gaming and gaming accessories
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Lori Grunin

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Sigma

We bid an enthusiastic welcome to the latest member of Sigma's excellent line of fast prime lenses, the 24mm f1.4 DG HSM. Designed for full-frame cameras -- Canon, Nikon and Sigma mounts, at least to start -- and with an effective focal length of about 38mm on APS-C bodies, this lens looks like it might just be a must-have for the wide-angle lover in you.

Shop for Sigma 24mm F1.4 DG HSM Art (Nikon)

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Of course, price significantly impacts the appeal of a lens; Sigma plans to charge $850 when it ships next month for Canon and Sigma mounts, followed by Nikon in April. That's pretty reasonable. Not only is Canon's 24mm f1.4L $1,650 and Nikon's $2,200 -- those are both weather-sealed, though -- but it's right in line with the 35mm f1.4 at $900 and the 50mm f1.4 at $950.

The lens shares the same build quality as the other Art series models, including a 9-rounded-blade aperture. It will be able to focus as close as 9.8 in/24.9 cm. It has 15 elements in 11 groups, with rear aspherical elements, and two types of low-dispersion glass. Bottom line: Sigma claims excellent wide-open performance and little distortion, aberration and flare.

Editors' note, February 11, 2051: Updated with US pricing and availability. Both are still unknown for the UK and Australia.