Sigma 105mm F2.8
Score: 77/100
Canon RF50mm F1.8 STM
Score: 76/100Rankings
The Sigma 105mm f/2.8 EX DG OS HSM Macro is a full-frame medium-telephoto macro lens offering true 1:1 reproduction and optical stabilization. Its plasticky construction and diffraction at small apertures limit its premium appeal. Ideal for macro shooters seeking value and handheld capability.
The Canon RF 50mm f/1.8 STM is a compact prime lens offering a fast f/1.8 aperture and quiet STM autofocus, making it ideal for everyday shooting and video. Its trade-offs include lack of weather sealing, no image stabilization, and a plastic build that may feel less premium. Best suited for beginners, travel photographers, and vloggers seeking a lightweight "nifty fifty."
| Attribute | | |
|---|---|---|
105 mmbest | 50 mm | |
2.8best | 1.8 | |
| ↓ lower better | 0.312 m | 0.3 mbest |
| ↓ lower better | 725 g | 160 gbest |
1best | — | |
9best | 7 | |
1best | 0.3 | |
16best | 6 |
Click an attribute name to sort · Green = best, red = worst (relative to this comparison)
| Attribute | | |
|---|---|---|
Compatibility(2) | ||
Lens Mount | Nikon F | Canon RF |
Mount Compatibility | Nikon DSLR | EOS R Series Mirrorless Cameras |
Features(3) | ||
Image Stabilization | true | false |
Autofocus Type | HSM | STM |
Focus Type | Auto | autofocus |
Optics(8) | ||
Focal Length (mm) | 105 mm | 50 mm |
Maximum Aperture (f‑stop) | 2.8 | 1.8 |
Minimum Focus Distance (m) | 0.312 m | 0.3 m |
Macro Ratio | 1 | 0.25 |
Number of Optical Elements | 16 | 6 |
Number of Optical Groups | 11 | 5 |
Diaphragm Blades | 9 | 7 |
Coating | SLD | Super Spectra Coating |
Build & Design(6) | ||
Weather Sealing | true | false |
Filter Thread Size (mm) | 62 mm | 43 mm |
Weight (g) | 725 g | 160 g |
Length (mm) | 127 mm | 40.5 mm |
Maximum Diameter (mm) | 78.3 mm | 69.2 mm |
Construction Material | Metal mount, plastic | plastic |
Products in the top-left offer the best value (high score, low price).
Professional reviewers commend the Sigma 105mm f/2.8 macro for its excellent sharpness from wide open to f/11, effective optical stabilization, and true 1:1 reproduction, positioning it as a strong value proposition. However, they note its plasticky construction, diffraction-limited performance past f/8, and occasional low contrast or chromatic aberration when stopped down, which keep it a step behind premium Nikon and Canon counterparts in build quality and extreme stopped-down performance.
Everyday users overwhelmingly appreciate the lens's sharpness, reliable stabilization for handheld macro, quiet autofocus, and attractive bokeh, seeing it as a cost-effective macro solution. Common frustrations revolve around the plasticky feel, occasional focus hunting, and softness when stopping down beyond f/8, though most find these issues acceptable for the price.
Professional reviewers commend the RF 50mm f/1.8 STM for its ultra-compact design, fast f/1.8 aperture, quiet STM AF and the added control ring, positioning it as a versatile walk-around lens. However, they criticize the lack of weather sealing and optical stabilization, and note the plastic construction feels less premium than higher-end Canon optics.
Everyday users consistently praise the lens's lightweight, pocketable form factor, impressive bokeh, low-light performance and silent autofocus, calling it a great value for casual shooting and video. Recurring complaints focus on the absence of weather sealing, no built-in IS, a plastic feel that some deem 'toy-like', and occasional edge softness or flare when shooting wide open.
“easy carry-along companion”
“toy-like”
