Sigma 16mm f/1.4 DC DN
Score: 83/100
Canon RF 50mm f/1.8
Score: 73/100Rankings
The Sigma 16mm f/1.4 Contemporary delivers outstanding sharpness and a very fast aperture in a weather-sealed, compact package, making it a strong choice for APS-C shooters. Its lack of stabilization and some barrel distortion are the primary compromises.
The Canon RF 50mm F1.8 STM is a pocket-sized, affordable standard prime delivering sharp central performance and a bright aperture for low-light work. While it lacks weather sealing and shows some corner softness and vignetting, its quiet STM motor and control ring make it ideal for beginners and vloggers.
| Attribute | | |
|---|---|---|
| ↓ lower better | 16 mmbest | 50 mm |
16 mm | 50 mmbest | |
| ↓ lower better | 1.4 fbest | 1.8 f |
| ↓ lower better | 405 g | 159 gbest |
| ↓ lower better | 91.44 mm | 40.5 mmbest |
| ↓ lower better | 25 cmbest | 30 cm |
0.101 x | 0.25 xbest | |
48 monthsbest | 12 months |
Click an attribute name to sort · Green = best, red = worst (relative to this comparison)
| Attribute | | |
|---|---|---|
Mount & Compatibility(2) | ||
Mount Type | Sony E-mount | Canon RF |
Autofocus Motor Type | Stepping motor | STM |
Optical(6) | ||
Focal Length (Min) (mm) | 16 mm | 50 mm |
Focal Length (Max) (mm) | 16 mm | 50 mm |
Maximum Aperture (f-number) (f) | 1.4 f | 1.8 f |
Minimum Focus Distance (cm) | 25 cm | 30 cm |
Maximum Magnification Ratio (x) | 0.101 x | 0.25 x |
Coating Type | Sigma Super Multi-Layer Coating | Super Spectra Coating |
Build & Durability(2) | ||
Weather Sealing | true | false |
Warranty Period (months) | 48 months | 12 months |
Physical(3) | ||
Weight (g) | 405 g | 159 g |
Length (mm) | 91.44 mm | 40.5 mm |
Filter Thread Diameter (mm) | 67 mm | 43 mm |
Products in the top-left offer the best value (high score, low price).
Professional reviewers rate the Sigma 16mm f/1.4 highly, giving it 9/10 from PC Magazine and 8/10 from Photography Blog. They commend its tack-sharp resolution at the maximum aperture, robust weather-sealed build, and fast, quiet AF, while noting barrel distortion and the absence of stabilization as the main compromises.
Everyday users consistently praise the lens for its sharpness, low-light capability, silent autofocus, and solid build quality. Common complaints revolve around front-heavy balance on small bodies, barrel distortion that needs correction, and the deep hood casting shadows.
Professional reviewers agree the RF 50mm F1.8 STM fills a critical gap in Canon's mirrorless lineup, offering a bargain-priced, sharp, and compact standard prime, though it suffers from corner softness, vignetting, and modest bokeh.
Everyday users rate the lens highly, praising its sharpness, low-light capability, tiny size and quiet AF, while noting AF noise, soft corners at wide apertures, and a plasticky feel.
“tack sharp photos, even when shot at f/1.4.”
“delivers a classic 24 mm equivalent on APS-C, making it ideal for street and documentary work.”
“Super sharp and fast lens”
