Sigma 24mm F3.5 DG DN

Sony E

Review

The Sigma 24mm F3.5 DG DN for Sony E is a compact and lightweight lens that has quickly become a favorite among photographers who prioritize portability without sacrificing image quality. It is part of Sigma's Contemporary line, which is designed to deliver a balance of performance and versatility, ideal for both amateurs and professionals.

One of the most appealing aspects of this lens is its compact design. Weighing in at just 225 grams (approximately 0.5 pounds) and measuring just 70mm in length, it is perfect for street photography, travel, and everyday use. Its small and discreet form factor allows you to capture images without drawing too much attention, making it a great tool for capturing candid moments.

Image quality is another highlight. The Sigma 24mm F3.5 DG DN features a multi-layer coating to reduce flare and ghosting, ensuring that your images are sharp and vibrant. The lens is designed with a number of special elements, including aspherical and high-refractive index pieces, which contribute to its high-resolution capabilities even at wider apertures. Photographers should find that images maintain impressive detail and color rendition across the frame.

The lens also boasts a fast and quiet autofocus system thanks to its stepping motor (STM) technology, making it suitable for both photography and video recording. The autofocus mechanism is smooth, which can be particularly beneficial when capturing moving subjects or working in dynamic environments.

However, there are some drawbacks to consider. The F3.5 maximum aperture, while adequate for many situations, may be limiting in low-light environments compared to faster lenses with F2.8 or F1.4 maximum apertures. Astigmatism can be slightly noticeable at the edges of the frame when shooting wide open, especially in challenging lighting conditions. This isn’t a dealbreaker for many, but it’s worth noting for those who often shoot at large apertures.

The lens is equipped with a 52mm filter thread, which is relatively common, allowing for easy integration with filters, but the limited size means that other accessories may not work as effectively as they would on larger lenses.

Pros and Cons

Pros

• Compact and lightweight design, making it extremely portable.
• Excellent image quality with sharpness and color accuracy.
• Fast and quiet autofocus suitable for both photography and videography.
• High-quality construction with metal mount for durability.

Cons

• Maximum aperture of F3.5 may limit performance in low light.
• Slight astigmatism noticeable at the edges when shooting wide open.
• Limited versatility in terms of maximum aperture compared to faster alternatives.

Verdict

The Sigma 24mm F3.5 DG DN for Sony E is an excellent lens for those looking for a high-quality, lightweight, and compact option for their photography kit. With outstanding image quality and an effective autofocus system, it excels in everyday shooting, especially for street and travel photography. While its maximum aperture may not satisfy every low-light scenario, the overall performance and ease of use make it a compelling choice for photographers who prioritize portability and versatility.