Tokina ATX-i 100mm
Score: 82/100
Sigma 18-50mm F2.8
Score: 82/100Rankings
The Tokina ATX-i 100mm f/2.8 macro delivers true 1:1 reproduction, a fast aperture and a 55 mm filter thread in a compact package. It lacks an internal focus motor, causing autofocus limitations on some Nikon bodies. Perfect for macro photographers needing high sharpness and decent working distance.
The Sigma 18-50mm F2.8 DC DN Contemporary is a compact, constant-aperture standard zoom for APS-C mirrorless cameras, offering sharp optics and close-focus capability. Its lack of image stabilization and reduced corner performance on very high-resolution sensors are notable trade-offs. Ideal for travel and street photographers who value portability.
| Attribute | | |
|---|---|---|
100 mmbest | — | |
2.8best | 2.8best | |
| ↓ lower better | 0.3 m | 0.121 mbest |
| ↓ lower better | 525 g | 290 gbest |
— | 2.8best | |
9best | 7 | |
1best | 0.4 | |
9 | 13best |
Click an attribute name to sort · Green = best, red = worst (relative to this comparison)
| Attribute | | |
|---|---|---|
Compatibility(2) | ||
Lens Mount | Nikon F | Sony E |
Mount Compatibility | Full-frame | L-Mount, Sony E, Fujifilm X, Canon RF |
Features(2) | ||
Autofocus Type | External focus | Autofocus |
Focus Type | One-Touch Focus Clutch | Autofocus |
Optics(6) | ||
Focal Length (mm) | 100 mm | 18-50 mm |
Minimum Focus Distance (m) | 0.3 m | 0.121 m |
Macro Ratio | 1 | 0.36 |
Number of Optical Elements | 9 | 13 |
Number of Optical Groups | 8 | 10 |
Diaphragm Blades | 9 | 7 |
Build & Design(2) | ||
Weight (g) | 525 g | 290 g |
Length (mm) | 98 mm | 74.5 mm |
Products in the top-left offer the best value (high score, low price).
Professional reviewers commend the Tokina ATX-i 100mm f/2.8 for its exceptional sharpness, especially at f/5.6, and its flat-field design that yields edge-to-edge clarity.
Everyday users praise the lens for its striking sharpness, soft bokeh, compactness, and fast aperture that handles low-light situations well. Recurring criticisms focus on the limited autofocus performance on certain Nikon bodies and the need for extra lighting when stopping down to very small apertures.
Professional reviewers commend the Sigma 18-50mm F2.8 DC DN for its revolutionary compactness, sharp optics and bright constant aperture, calling it an "ultimate workhorse" that delivers excellent image quality in a tiny package. They also note its strong close-focus capability, but point out the lack of image stabilization, corner softness on very high-resolution sensors, and a slightly limited 18 mm wide-end compared with competing lenses.
Everyday users love the lens's pocketable size, sharpness for street and travel shooting, and the value it provides as a daily driver. Common praise centers on its lightweight feel, macro-style close-ups, and affordable price, while recurring themes of criticism include edge distortion, autofocus noise in video, and the missing stabilization feature.
“fantastic”
“soft beautiful bokeh”
“magnificently soft”
