Back in 2019 I reviewed the Sigma 16mm f/1.4 DC DN. My main complaints about it were the size, weight and chromatic aberration. It seems I wasn’t the only one complaining about it since the Japanese company announced a replacement: the Sigma 15mm f/1.4 DC.
The specs
So how does the new kid on the block fare? It’s about half the weight* (220g vs 405g) and a third the length* (64mm vs 93mm). The diameter was also reduced from 67mm on the old lens to 58mm. This should address the issue I had with the previous model feeling too front heavy.
Chromatic aberration is a thing Sigma still needs to work on, as the new 15mm f/1.4 DC still displays green and purple hues on contrasting edges. The upside is this shouldn’t be an issue if you’re into editing.
For those enjoying the tactile feel of a lens, the 15mm f/1.4 DC has an aperture ring. I’m very happy Sigma has decided to add this to its APS-C lenses and I expect the same when the 30mm f/1.4 DC DN and the 56mm f/1.4 DC DN get their updates.
Oh, it’s also dust and splash proof.
The Samples
Rather than putting some photos without any context, I encourage you to check out Sigma’s three articles that showcase the lens’ capabilities.
The price
Sigma says the new 15mm f/1.4 DC will be available a little over two weeks from now (March 12th), for $579. That’s actually not bad, considering the old 16mm f/1.4 DC DN is just $40 cheaper.
The competition
I’m in the Sony ecosystem, so I’ll talk about the E-Mount (Sigma also offers the 15mm f/1.4 DC in Canon RF Mount and Fujifilm X Mount flavors).
The main competitor is the Sony’s 15mm f/1.4 G, which is just a hair lighter (219g) and a bit taller (69.5mm). At $848, it’s also more expensive, and it’s up to you to decide whether better chromatic aberration performance, an AF/MF switch and a customizable button are worth an extra $269.
If you’re on a budget, you can check out the Viltrox AF 15mm f/1.7 Air. It’s a simpler lens, with no aperture ring, no buttons, and no weather sealing. Shedding features, weight and brightness means you can get this lens for just $239.
Closing thoughts
I believe Sigma has a winner in its hands. The 15mm f/1.4 DC is more than enough (I haven’t mentioned the font which I absolutely love) to sway buyers from the Sony 15mm and to convince 16mm owners to trade-in their lens for something that’s better, at least on paper. And according to Christopher Frosts video:
*Sony E-Mount specs
