Every year or two, it is necessary for lens manufacturers to refresh their popular lineup to meet the resolution and speed criteria of the cameras. Sometimes, the update also helps to make a popular lens more compact, while improving its image quality. Other times, the update fixes major issues with design or glass elements. It now appears that Sigma is achieving the same with the introduction of a successor to its popular lens. Reports and an image say this one will be very handy.
According to Sony Alpha Rumors (SAR), Sigma is preparing to launch a second version of its well-known 35mm f1.2 DG DN Art. The lens was originally launched in 2019, which weighs 1kg (2.4lbs) with a length of 136mm (5.4-inch). However, per the report, the new lens will make moving changes to the form of the lens, making it a bit smaller and lighter for users.
The leaked image, for instance, showcases how the company has shaved off a little length, and the filter size, too, has also been reduced. However, there is no word about the weight of the new Sigma lens, but we can expect minimal changes there as well. This also means the hood will be a bit smaller as well.
A smaller design is a must for Sigma, considering their lenses look quite huge on mirrorless cameras. Plus they are heavy, making it a task for many who are looking for portability. A 35mm is ideal for travel and street photographers, which means the new lens could be enticing to those who like Sigma’s quality and price range.
The original 35mm lens offered great image quality, excellent bokeh, aperture ring, weather sealing, and sharpness, things that we loved in our review. But the downfall here was the design, and the slow autofocus. As we said in our review, “With durability usually comes a price though, and the weight perhaps adds to the already pricey lens. On Sony cameras, it is a bit heavy. On Panasonic cameras, it makes me feel as if I’m shooting with an old Canon 5D Mk II.”
In that regard, the new lens has the chance to fix the past’s mistake. There is also Viltrox, which is competing with Sigma with its own 35mm f1.2 FE Lab. This lens not only has a digital distance scale but also weighs less at 910g and measures 89.2×121.8mm. In our review, we said, “I never thought that a brand would make a 35mm f1.2 lens that I’d want to bring around all day. But this is lightweight enough, small enough, and performs so well. I’m so shocked that this lens exists and I’d gladly take it with me on a vacation as the only lens that I bring with me.”
Since we aren’t sure what the new Sigma lens will feature inside it, it is quite hard for us to say whether it will even be worth it. For that, you have to keep an eye out for our review. As for now, Sigma’s lens has to outperform itself, but also compete with Viltrox, which is available for $1000. With tariffs in place, the new Sigma lens could cost more than the original, which was priced at $1500 during its launch.
Sigma is trying to change itself, which is truly important. As we had mentioned before, the company’s reasoning to make big lenses was to cater to devices that have a larger than 35mm sensor. However, with most people’s preference for smaller full frames, Sigma has no other option but to help their users get smaller gear. Until then, keep an eye out for more information.