Sigma Contemporary 16mm f/1.4 DC DN 16mm
Nikon NIKKOR 2178 16-85mm
What Buyers Say
Sigma Contemporary 16mm f/1.4 DC DN 16mm
The Sigma 16mm f/1.4 DC DN Contemporary lens is widely praised for its exceptional sharpness, fast f/1.4 aperture, and solid build quality, making it a favorite among APS-C users for low-light, astrophotography, and video work. Many reviewers highlight its excellent value for money compared to brand-name alternatives. However, common criticisms include its relatively large size and weight for a prime lens, the lack of image stabilization, and some concerns about compatibility with full-frame cameras and occasional quality control issues with packaging.
Pros
- Exceptional sharpness
- Fast f/1.4 aperture for low light
- Excellent value for money
- Solid build quality
- Quick and accurate autofocus
Cons
- Relatively large and heavy
- No image stabilization
- No aperture ring
- Compatibility issues with full-frame cameras
- Occasional quality control issues with packaging
Nikon NIKKOR 2178 16-85mm
The Nikon 16-85mm VR is widely praised as an excellent all-around zoom for DX cameras, delivering sharp images across the focal range with effective VR. Users note it outperforms kit lenses like the 18-105mm and even rivals the pricier 17-55mm in sharpness, though it is heavy and somewhat slow (f/3.5-5.6). Build quality is solid with a metal barrel, and the 16mm wide end is a key advantage for landscapes. Some caution about vignetting with thick filters and barrel distortion at 16mm, but overall it is considered a worthy investment for enthusiasts.
Pros
- Excellent sharpness across focal range
- Effective VR II image stabilization
- Solid build with metal barrel
- Useful 16-85mm zoom range
- Great for landscapes and travel
Cons
- Heavy weight (3.1 lb with D90)
- Slow aperture (f/3.5-5.6)
- Expensive for an f/3.5-5.6 lens
- Barrel distortion at 16mm
- Vignetting with thick filters at 16mm
Scores
Specifications
| Sigma Contemporary 16mm f/1.4 DC DN 16mm | Nikon NIKKOR 2178 16-85mm | |
|---|---|---|
| Optics | ||
| Type | prime | zoom |
| Focal Length Min | 16 mm | 16 mm |
| Focal Length Max | 16 mm | 85 mm |
| Elements | 16 | — |
| Groups | 13 | — |
| Aspherical Elements | 2 | 3★ |
| ED Elements | 5★ | 2 |
| Coating | Super Multi-Layer Coating | Super Integrated Coating |
| Aperture | ||
| Max Aperture | f/16 | f/3.5 |
| Min Aperture | f/1.4 | 3.5-5.6 |
| Constant | ✓★ | ✗ |
| Diaphragm Blades | 9★ | 7 |
| Build | ||
| Mount | Sony E | Nikon F |
| Format | APS-C | APS-C |
| Weather Sealed | ✓★ | — |
| Weight | 0.41 kg★ | 0.48 kg |
| Filter Thread | 67 mm | 67 mm |
| AF & Stabilization | ||
| AF Type | stepping motor★ | AF-S |
| Stabilization | ✗ | ✓★ |
| Stabilization Stops | — | 4 stops★ |
| Focus | ||
| Min Focus Distance | 250 mm★ | 380 mm |
| Max Magnification | 1:10★ | — |
Pros & Cons
Sigma Contemporary 16mm f/1.4 DC DN 16mm
- Strong optical (95th percentile)95th %ile
- Strong social proof (93rd percentile)93rd %ile
- Strong af (85th percentile)85th %ile
- Strong build (78th percentile)
- Below average versatility (34th percentile)
Nikon NIKKOR 2178 16-85mm
- Strong versatility (94th percentile)94th %ile
- Strong stabilization (93rd percentile)93rd %ile
- Strong social proof (90th percentile)90th %ile
- Strong user sentiment (81st percentile)81st %ile
Verdict
Scores 88 overall, wins 4 of 9 usage categories and 3 of 22 specs.