Sigma's earlier fast fifty — the pre-Art 50mm f/1.4 EX DG HSM for Nikon F mount.
The Sigma 50mm f/1.4 EX DG HSM was released in 2008 as Sigma's premium fast fifty, predating the Art line. It was one of the first third-party 50mm lenses to genuinely challenge Canon and Nikon's own f/1.4 offerings. The EX designation indicates Sigma's professional tier, with HSM providing fast, quiet autofocus.
Optical performance is good with distinctive rendering. Sharpness is respectable from f/1.4 with a pleasant, slightly soft wide-open character. By f/2, sharpness improves significantly. Bokeh is smooth and appealing. The lens earned a reputation for pleasant rendering that many photographers preferred over the clinically sharper Sigma 50mm f/1.4 Art that replaced it.
Nikon F mount. Filter thread is 77mm — large for a 50mm. Weight is approximately 505 grams — heavier than Canon and Nikon 50mm f/1.4 options. Build quality is solid with EX professional construction. HSM motor is fast and quiet. No weather sealing. The large size and weight reflect the complex optical design aimed at maximising wide-open quality.
Available on the used market at very low prices — the Art version has driven demand down dramatically. Check AF accuracy — focus calibration was a known issue. The pleasant rendering character has a loyal following. The Sigma 50mm f/1.4 Art is the clear upgrade for absolute sharpness, but some photographers prefer this lens's gentler rendering.