BENOISON vs Sigma

Overview of the Products

The 85mm f1.8 Portrait Lens - F Lens for Nikon is priced at $96.22, making it significantly cheaper than the Sigma 30mm F1.4 Contemporary DC DN Lens for Sony E, which costs $419.00. This price difference of about 77% highlights the varying market segments these lenses target, catering to different users' needs and budgets.

The 85mm lens is designed for manual focus and is compatible with various Nikon DSLR models, while the Sigma lens is engineered for Sony E-mount and Micro Four Thirds cameras. Each lens brings unique features tailored to specific photographic styles, making them appealing to different types of photographers.

Target Audience

The 85mm f1.8 Portrait Lens is aimed primarily at photographers who enjoy manual control and shooting portraits, while the Sigma 30mm F1.4 Contemporary caters to a more modern audience that appreciates autofocus capabilities and versatility. This distinction is essential for users to consider when choosing between the two.

Manual focus allows for precise control over the composition and depth of field, which is crucial for portraiture. In contrast, the Sigma lens offers a stepping motor for fast and accurate autofocus, making it ideal for dynamic shooting situations. The target audience for each lens reflects these functional differences.

Build Quality and Design

The build quality of the Sigma 30mm F1.4 is highlighted by its compact design and the inclusion of nine rounded aperture blades, enhancing bokeh quality in images. This lens is also hand-crafted in Japan, ensuring a high level of craftsmanship and attention to detail.

On the other hand, the 85mm f1.8 Portrait Lens is designed for durability and functionality but lacks the same level of refinement in terms of autofocus technology. Its manual focus design may appeal to traditionalists but may not be as user-friendly for those accustomed to autofocus systems. The design choices of each lens reflect their intended use cases.

Image Quality

When it comes to image quality, both lenses have their strengths. The 85mm f1.8 Portrait Lens offers a large F1.8 aperture that excels in creating stunning background bokeh, ideal for portrait and street photography. This lens is specifically designed for half-body and full-body portraits, emphasizing its suitability for capturing subjects in a flattering light.

Conversely, the Sigma 30mm F1.4 boasts a large F1.4 aperture that provides exceptional low-light performance and depth of field control. It is designed for versatility, making it suitable for various types of photography, including landscapes and street scenes. The differences in aperture sizes will influence the creative choices available to photographers using each lens.

Compatibility

Compatibility plays a crucial role in the usability of each lens. The 85mm f1.8 Portrait Lens is compatible with a wide range of Nikon DSLR models, including D3500, D850, and D7500, among others. However, it is important to note that it is not compatible with Nikon's Z-series mirrorless cameras.

In contrast, the Sigma 30mm F1.4 is tailored for Sony E-mount cameras, making it an excellent choice for users of this system. The compatibility of each lens will significantly influence a photographer's purchasing decision, depending on their existing camera gear.

Autofocus vs. Manual Focus

One of the most significant differences between these two lenses lies in their focusing systems. The Sigma 30mm F1.4 features a stepping motor that provides fast and reliable autofocus, making it easier for photographers to capture moving subjects or quickly changing scenes. This feature is especially beneficial for video work, where precise focus adjustments are crucial.

In contrast, the 85mm f1.8 Portrait Lens is a manual focus lens, requiring photographers to adjust focus manually. While this allows for greater creative control, it can be challenging for those who are accustomed to the convenience of autofocus. Each focusing system has its benefits and drawbacks, appealing to different user preferences.

Price Comparison

The price difference between the two lenses is substantial, with the Sigma 30mm F1.4 costing $419.00, compared to the 85mm f1.8 Portrait Lens's price of $96.22. This represents a staggering 77% increase in price for the Sigma lens. For budget-conscious photographers, the 85mm lens offers a more accessible entry point into quality portrait photography.

However, the higher price of the Sigma lens may be justified for those who require advanced features like autofocus and superior low-light performance. This price comparison illustrates the importance of aligning budget with specific photographic needs when making a purchasing decision.

Which should you buy?

Choosing between the 85mm f1.8 Portrait Lens and the Sigma 30mm F1.4 Contemporary ultimately hinges on your photographic style and needs. If you prefer manual control and are focused on portrait photography, the 85mm lens is a cost-effective choice at $96.22. However, if you value autofocus capabilities and versatility for various photographic situations, the Sigma lens, despite its higher price of $419.00, may be worth the investment. Each lens offers unique advantages tailored to different users, making your specific requirements the deciding factor.