Sigma 20mm F2.0 DG DN | Contemporary

Sony E

Review

The Sigma 20mm F2.0 DG DN | Contemporary lens is a versatile wide-angle prime lens designed specifically for mirrorless cameras, with a firm focus on the Sony E mount. This lens caters to both landscape and astrophotography enthusiasts, providing a combination of wide views and low-light capabilities in a compact design.

Build Quality and Design

The lens exhibits high-quality construction, typical of Sigma's Contemporary line. It features a metal housing that feels robust and durable, while the compact size makes it easy to handle. Weighing just about 405 grams, it is lightweight enough for long photo sessions without causing fatigue. Additionally, the 67mm filter thread accommodates a range of filters, enhancing its versatility.

Optical Performance

The optical performance of the Sigma 20mm F2.0 is impressive. It showcases minimal chromatic aberration and very little distortion, making it well-suited for architecture and landscape photography. The lens generates sharp images across the frame at all apertures, though sharpness is at its best around f/4 to f/5.6. The f/2.0 aperture allows for excellent low-light performance, ideal for nighttime shooting or indoor environments.

The rounded 9-blade diaphragm aids in producing smooth bokeh, which adds aesthetic appeal to out-of-focus backgrounds. This feature is beneficial for isolating subjects in portrait situations, although the wide angle typically lends itself to expansive scenes.

Autofocus Performance

Equipped with a fast and quiet autofocus system, the Sigma 20mm F2.0 is responsive and accurate, making it a good choice for both still photography and video work. Its compatibility with Sony's Real-Time Eye AF feature enhances portrait photography, ensuring that your subject remains in focus even with wide apertures.

Compatibility

Designed with mirrorless systems in mind, this lens is tailored for the Sony E mount, meaning it can fully utilize the benefits of Sony's advanced autofocus systems and in-camera corrections. It also supports MOD (Minimum Object Distance) of just 0.19 meters, allowing for impressive close-up shots without stepping back too much.

Pros and Cons

Pros

• Excellent optical performance with sharp images.
• Compact and lightweight design is great for travel and on-the-go photography.
• Fast f/2.0 aperture for low-light conditions.
• Quiet and fast autofocus suitable for both stills and video work.
• Minimal distortion and chromatic aberration.

Cons

• Limited maximum aperture compared to some competitors (like f/1.4 options).
• Not weather-sealed, which may limit usage in harsh conditions.
• The simple design lacks advanced features like a focus hold button.

Verdict

Overall, the Sigma 20mm F2.0 DG DN | Contemporary lens is a strong contender for those looking for an affordable, high-performance wide-angle lens for Sony E-mount cameras. Its build quality, optical performance, and versatility make it a fantastic option for landscape, astrophotography, and even street photography. While it has some limitations in maximum aperture and weather sealing, the advantages far outweigh the drawbacks, making it an excellent addition to any photographer's toolkit.