Sigma 23mm F1.4 DC DN | C vs Viltrox AF 27mm F1.2 Pro
Sony E-Mount
Two fast APS-C primes for Sony E that differ in focal length and size. The Sigma 23mm f/1.4 DC DN Contemporary (April 2023) corresponds to about 35 mm in 35mm terms, is compact (330 g, 52 mm filter) and, according to Sigma, has a seal on the mount against dust and splashes. The Viltrox AF 27mm f/1.2 Pro from Viltrox's Pro series has a wider aperture and an angle of view of about 40 mm. In return it weighs 565 g, more than 230 g extra, and takes 67 mm filters.
The gap between f/1.2 and f/1.4 is only about half a stop, so focal length and weight usually matter more for the choice.
Which one suits whom?
- Sigma 23: You want a compact 35 mm equivalent for reportage and everyday use.
- Viltrox 27: You want the widest aperture on APS-C and a slightly tighter view, and accept the weight.
Key differences
- Focal length: 23 mm on the Sigma 23mm F1.4 DC DN | C, 27 mm on the Viltrox AF 27mm F1.2 Pro.
- The Viltrox AF 27mm F1.2 Pro is faster: f/1.2 instead of f/1.4, about 0.3 stops more light.
- The Sigma 23mm F1.4 DC DN | C is 235 g lighter (330 g vs 565 g).
- The Sigma 23mm F1.4 DC DN | C is 13 mm shorter.
- The Sigma 23mm F1.4 DC DN | C focuses closer: from 25 cm instead of 28 cm.
- Filter thread: 52 mm on the Sigma 23mm F1.4 DC DN | C, 67 mm on the Viltrox AF 27mm F1.2 Pro.
Specs side by side
The key specs of both lenses side by side.
| Lens | Sigma 23mm F1.4 DC DN | C | Viltrox AF 27mm F1.2 Pro |
|---|---|---|
| Focal length | 23 mm | 27 mm |
| Max. aperture | f/1.4 | f/1.2 |
| Weight | 330 g | 565 g |
| Filter diameter | 52 mm | 67 mm |
| Min. focus distance | 25 cm | 28 cm |
| Length | 78.9 mm | 92 mm |
| Autofocus | yes | yes |
| Image stabilization | no | no |
Size comparison
- Sigma 23mm F1.4 DC DN | C: 78.9 × 66 mm
- Viltrox AF 27mm F1.2 Pro: 92 × 82 mm
Side view to the same scale, length × diameter (without lens hood).