Sigma 23mm F1.4 DC DN | C

Canon RF

Review

The Sigma 23mm F1.4 DC DN | C is a remarkable addition to the Canon RF lineup, offering photographers a versatile option that balances compactness with high-quality optics. This lens is particularly appealing for those who enjoy street photography, portraits, and low-light situations due to its fast maximum aperture and focal length.

Build and Design

The build quality of the Sigma 23mm F1.4 is excellent. It feels solid in hand, with a blend of durable plastic and metal elements that provide a premium feel without adding excessive weight. At approximately 335 grams (about 11.8 oz), it is reasonably lightweight and compact, making it a great companion for mirrorless photography. The design is sleek, and the focus ring is smooth and well-damped, allowing for precise manual adjustments if required.

Optical Performance

Optically, this lens is a standout performer. The fast F1.4 aperture enables stunning subject isolation along with beautiful bokeh, making it ideal for portraits. The lens produces sharp images even at wider apertures, with central sharpness being exceptional and only slightly softer corners at F1.4. Stopping down improves corner performance considerably, making it versatile for landscapes and other applications requiring depth of field.

Autofocus

The autofocus system is fast, quiet, and accurate, thanks to the stepping motor that powers it. This is particularly beneficial for video shooters who need to capture smooth focus transitions. While it works well in most situations, low-light performance can sometimes lag slightly, but it's a minor issue considering the general versatility of the lens.

Versatility

With a focal length equivalent to approximately 36mm in full-frame terms, the Sigma 23mm F1.4 is a fantastically versatile lens. This angle of view is suitable for various shooting situations, from street photography to landscapes and environmental portraits. The fast aperture further enhances its usability in low-light environments or when you want to achieve a shallow depth of field.

Pros and Cons

Pros

• Excellent build quality with a premium feel.
• Fast F1.4 maximum aperture for great low-light performance and bokeh.
• Sharp images across a range of apertures.
• Compact and lightweight design, ideal for travel.
• Fast and quiet autofocus suitable for both photography and video.

Cons

• Slightly softer corners at wide apertures.
• Autofocus can struggle in very low light conditions.

Verdict

The Sigma 23mm F1.4 DC DN | C is an impressive lens for Canon RF users looking to expand their kit with a high-quality, versatile prime lens. Its exceptional optical performance, well-built design, and sharp imaging capabilities make it a worthy investment for both enthusiast and professional photographers alike. While there are minor drawbacks, the overall performance and usability of this lens more than compensate for them, ensuring that it will meet the needs of many different photographic styles and scenarios.