Nikon AF-S DX Nikkor 35mm F1.8G vs Sigma 60mm f/2.8 DN

Focus is available to 11.8 inches, measured from the image sensor. It doesn't put the lens into macro territory, but with the ability to magnify subjects at 1:6 life-size at its closest focus distance, you can still capture small details—just not as small as you would with a 1:2 or 1:1 macro lens.

8($348.00 at Amazon)(Opens in a new window) resolves 2,055 lines at its maximum aperture, is capable of capturing more than twice the light as the Sigma, and is optically stabilized.

As for the Sigma: It is quite a bit sharper, has less purple fringing, significantly less bokeh fringing (long. CAs). It is heavier and more expensive, but it is a significantly better lens as well.

It's an impressive performer, delivering 2,342 lines per picture height at f/2.8 and virually no distortion. Edges are nearly as sharp as the center, and sharpness is even from f/2.8 through f/5

This lens doesn't have image stabilization. So, even if you could focus it in the dark -- which autofocus mechanisms have trouble doing -- guess what? The image may come out blurry, anyway. I did learn a trick as time went on, though: the kayaks have glow sticks at each end (green on the stern, red on the bow). Focus on one of those, and hold down the AF lock

Two reasons why I didn't give it 5 stars: 1) the internal AF motor moves around and makes the lens feels like something is broken internally (it's just the design). 2) I'm not a fan of the "focus by wire" but it seems to work well. I also don't like the smooth focus ring. Having said all this, I really can't complain because it's super sharp and only $200

Other thoughts: I read the reviews regarding this lens on a few reputable sites, and the lens performs and works nicely for an entry level type kit lens. If you are a beginner or amateur, this would be a nice zoom lens to purchase. Most people that hobby in photography don't need a top shelf $2000 zoom lens.

I am used to using a DSLR with a 75mm lens but with this lens at 120mm I am farther away from my subject than I would like to be. However, I can accept this since the sharpness is so good. For the price paid, this lens is very hard to beat.

8 is _significant_, let alone going from f3.5 to f1.8. Every now and then I'll find that the light is so low that the VR on my old lens would help, but in the vast majority of cases the ability to open up the aperture more than makes up for not having it

I already knew from other reviews about the clunking sound when it's not powered up, but there's another annoying noise it makes when it is powered up. The stepper for the aperture diaphragm chatters loudly as it opens and closes rapidly whenever light is entering the lens until you hold down the shutter button. The lens focuses quickly and accurately, but manual focus seems a little less responsive than my Olympus lenses. All in all, it's still a great value in a prime lens of that focal length, and I can put up with a few quirks as long as the picture quality is good

The lens came packaged very well, arrived exactly on time and in perfect condition. The images I have attached compare the older 50mm 1.8D alongside this lens, as well as the test shots. The shots are to show how much can fit in the frame using the 50mm lens (on a cropped sensor camera) in comparison to this 35mm 1

That this lens is truly a value-based purchase cannot be overstated. 3. Size: I entered micro four thirds photography because of bilateral hand surgeries, increasing age, and the thought of lugging a full sized dSLR with attendant accessories coming in at 20# or more had little appeal. I was expecting a larger lens, then, for the equivalency of 120mm