Sigma 35mm f/2 DG DN Contemporary
Announced December 1, 2020
PixelMeter The PixelMeter is our 1–100 aggregate of reviewer scores from trusted publications and creators. Weighted by source tier — not a raw average, and not PetaPixel’s own review.
Reviewer Consensus
Strong
The Sigma 35mm f/2 DG DN Contemporary is a compact, metal-bodied prime that delivers sharp imagery and a premium feel for full-frame mirrorless users. Although it faces stiff competition and exhibits some optical issues like vignetting and fringing, its solid handling and portability make it a compelling, well-priced choice for daily photography.
Weighted from 25 reviewer scores
Pros
- Fast, quiet, and accurate autofocus performance
- Robust, premium-feeling all-metal construction
- Strong optical performance with sharp rendering
- Compact and lightweight design for portability
- Convenient features like a physical aperture ring and close focusing distance
Cons
- Noticeable vignetting and barrel distortion
- Strong color fringing in high-contrast scenes
- Significant focus breathing during video use
- Aperture ring lacks a de-click switch for video
- Limited weather sealing and lack of custom buttons
- Launch price $639 (USD)
- Focal length & aperture 35mm f/2
- Mount & coverage Sony E, L-Mount Full-Frame
- Stabilization None
- Close focus 27 cm (0.18x)
- Filter thread 58mm
- Autofocus motor Stepper motor
- Weight & size 325g (11.5 oz) · 70 x 67.4 mm (2.76 x 2.65 in)
What the Reviewers Say
All 25 expert reviews, weighted into the PixelMeter score.
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- DPReview 87/100
The Sigma 35mm F2 DG DN is a great medium-wideangle prime lens for all types of photographers.
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Sigma’s 35 f2 DG DN is a fairly unique and welcome addition to the ever-growing family of 35s and comes Highly Recommended.
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After several weeks with the Sigma, I can say that it provides solid sharpness, excellent color, and decent blur through most of the aperture cycle.
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Are you looking for a small, light, well-built, affordable lens that has a wide aperture, performs well, and covers the 35mm focal length? The Sigma 35mm f/2 DG DN Contemporary Lens has your name on it.
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That’s a question only you can answer, but if you were looking for a premium lens that is stylish, compact, and optically excellent, then the Sigma i35 may just be the lens you’ve been waiting for.
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The Sigma 35mm f/2 DG DN Contemporary is a somewhat expensive 35 lens, but its high quality just about justifies the price tag, just about, so it does have to come recommended.
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[T]he producers have to compromise in order to maintain an appropriate balance between weight, physical dimensions, price, and optical properties.
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The Sigma 35mm f/2 DG DN Contemporary gives a superb performance with a few minor handling issues.
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There are now well over a dozen different 35mm prime lenses available for the Sony Alpha full-frame system, so how can the new Sigma 35mm F2 DG DN stand out from the literal crowd? Well, its main unique selling point is undoubtedly its superlative build quality and vintage feel.
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This Sigma Contemporary lens is nicely designed, impeccably built and beautifully finished.
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The Sigma 35mm F2 DG DN Contemporary lens sets itself apart from others with aluminum construction, an aperture ring, and a light, slim build.
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So with that, who is this lens for? If you love clinical APO style lenses with super sharp rendering, you're going to love this lens.
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Again, I don't think you can go wrong with this lens. I can highly recommend it.
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It's a very, very impressive lens for the price.
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If you’re in the market for a fast and compact 35mm prime, there are many options, however I feel this Sigma offers the best bang for your buck. At f/2, you’re covered for low light photography and portraiture.
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It's a beautifully crafted lens, and it would be an awesome choice for anyone looking to travel light, but who is also willing to spend a little bit more to gain better build quality and image quality compared to some other cheaper plastic lenses on the market.
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Quite frankly, I was surprised at how much I fell for the 35mm f2 DG DN Contemporary lens. [...] However, this lens certainly has its charms.
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Despite my gripes that the Sigma 35 mm f/2 DG DN may not fully live up to the f/1.4 version when it comes to sheer image quality, it delivers on many other fronts, portability and build quality being the main assets.
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The Sigma Contemporary lenses are simply a steal.
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[A]t 640 bucks, I don't think that you can go wrong buying this lens. [...] [I]f you are looking for one that has probably better build quality than the rest of the competition, an aperture ring, and just a saucy lens with an f/2 maximum aperture, yo, this ain't a bad option.
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[T]his is a great little package, ideal size for any mirrorless camera, making it a really portable solution for mid-range prime shooting. Definitely one to consider for when you need to carry it with you for longer periods of time because it's size and weight.
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To wrap it - I think this is a pretty cool lens aimed for those who care about the quality and want to take advantage of a compact setup. If you are not someone who must have an f1.2 prime then I think this Sigma 35mm f2 lens could be a really good option.
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So for me, no doubt this is completely recommendable.
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[T]he Sigma 35mm F2 DG DN Contemporary is a great all-rounder lens that will pair well with any full frame L-mount or E-mount camera.
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I'm quite happy with this lens. I think it is a good value for money. It is a beautiful object; you have a beautiful lens that can take nice photos in all sorts.
