Sigma's stellar full-frame portrait prime for mirrorless, rivalling lenses costing twice as much.
The Sigma 85mm f/1.4 DG DN Art is Sigma's purpose-built mirrorless portrait prime, launched in 2020. Unlike the older DG HSM version which was adapted from a DSLR design, the DG DN was designed from scratch for the shorter flange distance of mirrorless mounts. It delivers exceptional optical quality at a price well below first-party equivalents.
Optical quality is outstanding with razor sharpness from wide open and beautiful creamy bokeh from eleven rounded aperture blades. Chromatic aberration is minimal. Autofocus via a dual stepping motor system is fast, accurate, and near-silent. Build is high quality with a metal barrel, weather sealing, and a customisable AFL button. At 625g it is significantly lighter than the DG HSM version.
Available in Sony E and L-Mount versions. Filter thread is 77mm. This competes directly with the Sony FE 85mm f/1.4 GM at a significant price advantage and arguably matches its optical quality. The Sigma is widely considered one of the best 85mm portrait lenses ever made.
Excellent value used. Check the AF motor, customisable button, and aperture blades. The lens holds value well due to high demand and strong reviews. Test wide open for consistent sharpness across copies. One of the best portrait lenses available in any mount system at any price.