Sigma 35mm F1.4 DG II Art

The Sigma 35mm F1.4 DG II Art is a full-frame 35mm prime for Sony E and Leica L-Mount. It follows Sigma's 35mm F1.4 Art line, and Sigma says it was completely redesigned, with a 15-element, 12-group construction. It suits documentary, street, portrait and video work where a bright 35mm in a compact body is wanted.

Optical design

Sigma lists 15 elements in 12 groups with 2 SLD and 4 aspherical elements, plus new glass materials that were previously hard to process. According to Sigma, axial chromatic aberration is suppressed in particular, which also reduces color fringing in out-of-focus areas. The lens carries Sigma's newly developed AAC (Advanced Amorphous Coating), meant to reduce ghosting and flare. The diaphragm has 11 rounded blades, the smallest aperture is F16, the closest focus distance is 28cm and the maximum magnification is 1:5.4.

Autofocus and handling

A dual HLA (High-response Linear Actuator) system drives the large focus group. Sigma says focus breathing is minimized for video. There are two AFL buttons that can be assigned functions on selected cameras, an aperture ring, an aperture ring lock switch and a click switch. The lens has no optical stabilizer. A petal-type hood with a locking mechanism is supplied.

Build and size

Sigma quotes 525g and 96mm for Sony E and 530g and 94mm for L-Mount, with a 73mm diameter and a 67mm filter thread. According to Sigma, the lens is about 14% shorter and 20% lighter than the previous model. The body uses aluminum and TSC polycarbonate, is dust and splash resistant and has a water and oil repellent front coating.

Where it fits

The Sigma 35mm F1.4 DG DN Art is the predecessor. The Sigma 35mm F1.2 DG II Art offers an extra stop of light at a larger size, while the Sigma 35mm F2 DG DN Contemporary is the more compact option with less light. For Sony E, the Sony Distagon T* FE 35mm F1.4 ZA is another F1.4 alternative.

Pros and cons

Pros

• F1.4 aperture at 35mm in a compact body
• Per Sigma, about 14% shorter and 20% lighter than the previous model
• Dual HLA autofocus
• Dust and splash resistant, aperture ring with lock and click switch
• Smaller 67mm filter thread

Cons

• No built-in stabilization
• One stop less light than the F1.2 Art
• 525 to 530g is not light for a 35mm prime

Verdict

The Sigma 35mm F1.4 DG II Art is a good fit for photographers who want an F1.4 35mm with modern autofocus and a body that is smaller than its predecessor. It sits between the compact F2 lenses and the larger F1.2 Art.