Sigma Contemporary 16mm f/1.4 DC DN 16mm
Retropia M43 Mount Compatible 32mm
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
Retropia M43 Mount Compatible 32mm
This lens is a fun, low-cost toy for creating vintage-looking photos, but it has serious quality and compatibility issues. Many users praise its unique color effects and lightweight build, but a significant number report it simply doesn't work or fails to meet advertised expectations. The lack of autofocus, problematic purple vignetting, and missing parts for the Oreo-style design are common complaints. It's best suited for casual experimentation with realistic expectations.
Pros
- Unique vintage color effects
- Lightweight and portable
- Fun for casual photography
- Low price point
- Good build quality for toy lens
Cons
- Incompatibility with some camera modes
- Purple vignetting can be overwhelming
- Missing advertised parts (Oreo design)
- No autofocus or manual focus
- Some units non-functional (completely opaque)
Scores
Specifications
| Sigma Contemporary 16mm f/1.4 DC DN 16mm | Retropia M43 Mount Compatible 32mm | |
|---|---|---|
| Optics | ||
| Type | prime | prime |
| Focal Length Min | 16 mm | 32 mm |
| Focal Length Max | 16 mm | 32 mm |
| Elements | 16 | — |
| Groups | 13 | — |
| Aspherical Elements | 2★ | — |
| ED Elements | 5★ | — |
| Coating | Super Multi-Layer Coating | — |
| Aperture | ||
| Max Aperture | f/16 | f/11 |
| Min Aperture | f/1.4 | f/11 |
| Constant | ✓ | ✓ |
| Diaphragm Blades | 9★ | — |
| Build | ||
| Mount | Sony E | Canon RF |
| Format | APS-C★ | micro-four-thirds |
| Weather Sealed | ✓★ | — |
| Weight | 0.41 kg | 0.05 kg★ |
| Filter Thread | 67 mm | — |
| AF & Stabilization | ||
| AF Type | stepping motor★ | manual focus only |
| Stabilization | ✗ | ✓★ |
| Focus | ||
| Min Focus Distance | 250 mm★ | 1.50 m |
| Max Magnification | 1:10★ | — |
Pros & Cons
Sigma Contemporary 16mm f/1.4 DC DN 16mm
- Strong optical (95th percentile)95th %ile
- Strong social proof (94th percentile)94th %ile
- Strong af (85th percentile)85th %ile
- Strong build (78th percentile)
- Below average versatility (34th percentile)
Retropia M43 Mount Compatible 32mm
- Strong build (100th percentile)100th %ile
- Strong stabilization (81st percentile)81st %ile
- Below average user sentiment (2nd percentile)2nd %ile
- Below average af (15th percentile)15th %ile
- Below average optical (19th percentile)19th %ile
- Below average versatility (34th percentile)
Verdict
Scores 75 overall, wins 9 of 9 usage categories and 8 of 21 specs.