Sigma 16mm f.4
Score: 82/100
Tamron 150-500mm
Score: 86/100Rankings
The Tamron 150-500mm f/5-6.7 Di III VC VXD offers superb sharpness and effective 3-mode vibration compensation in a relatively portable super-telephoto package. Its drawbacks include a variable aperture that hampers low-light AF and a heavy build that benefits from tripod use. Best suited for wildlife and sports photographers who need long reach without the bulk of native lenses.
The Sigma 16mm f/1.4 DC DN Contemporary offers a fast 16 mm focal length with excellent low-light capability and quiet stepping AF. Corner softness at the widest aperture and its relatively large size are trade-offs. Perfect for Sony APS-C shooters needing a bright wide-angle prime for street and video work.
| Attribute | | |
|---|---|---|
16 mmbest | — | |
1.4best | — | |
| ↓ lower better | 0.25 mbest | 0.6 m |
| ↓ lower better | 405 gbest | 1,879 g |
— | 3.3best | |
9best | 9best | |
0.1best | — | |
16best | — |
Click an attribute name to sort · Green = best, red = worst (relative to this comparison)
| Attribute | | |
|---|---|---|
Compatibility(2) | ||
Lens Mount | Sony E | Sony E-mount |
Mount Compatibility | Sony E | Sony E-mount |
Features(2) | ||
Image Stabilization | false | true |
Autofocus Type | Stepping | VXD |
Optics(3) | ||
Focal Length (mm) | 16 mm | 150-500 mm |
Maximum Aperture (f‑stop) | 1.4 | 5-6.7 |
Minimum Focus Distance (m) | 0.25 m | 0.6 m |
Build & Design(4) | ||
Filter Thread Size (mm) | 67 mm | 82 mm |
Weight (g) | 405 g | 1879 g |
Length (mm) | 92.3 mm | 211 mm |
Maximum Diameter (mm) | 72.2 mm | 94 mm |
Products in the top-left offer the best value (high score, low price).
Professional reviewers commend the Sigma 16mm f/1.4 for its impressive center sharpness, bright aperture and quiet stepping AF, calling it a high-value option for Sony APS-C shooters. They note that while the lens excels in low-light and offers smooth bokeh, its corner performance at f/1.4 and occasional AF hunting in dim conditions are drawbacks, though in-camera distortion correction mitigates barrel distortion.
Everyday users generally praise the lens for its sharp images, pleasing bokeh, compact build and reliable AF in good light, appreciating the weather-sealed design for outdoor use. Recurring complaints focus on soft corners when wide open, AF inconsistency in low-light or close-up scenarios, and the lens being a bit bulkier than ultra-compact alternatives.
Professional reviewers consistently praise the Tamron 150-500mm for its excellent sharpness throughout the zoom range, especially when stopped down, and for its 2-3 stop VC system that makes handheld shooting at 500mm viable. The VXD autofocus is lauded for speed, quietness and reliable bird-tracking, while the weather-sealed build and Arca-Swiss tripod collar add rugged appeal. Critics note the extending barrel's exposure to elements, the slower variable aperture that hampers low-light AF, and the reduced 15 fps burst on Sony A1 compared with native lenses.
Everyday users echo the pros highlighted by experts, valuing the lens's sharp handheld wildlife results, close-focus flexibility and strong price-to-performance ratio. Recurring complaints focus on the lens's weight during extended handheld use, occasional low-light autofocus hesitation, and concerns about the extending barrel in dusty or rainy environments.
“excellent throughout focal range”
“very capable super-tele zoom”
“brilliant AF/VC for f/5-6.7 and image quality”
