Prime lenses have a fixed focal distance as opposed to the variable focal distance of zoom lenses. This makes them less flexible, but they usually have superior quality for that fixed focal distance. In this guide, we look at the best Sigma prime lenses under $1000.
Having a few affordable prime lenses in your kit provides greater creativity and specialization. Whilst a zoom lens allows you to shoot multiple types of photography, you can use a prime lens to specialize in one type of photography.
Prime lenses usually offer better quality at their fixed focal length as there is only one lens element group specialized for that focal distance. In zoom lenses, there is a myriad of elements to filter through the different focal distances, and thus the quality is often diluted.
1. Sigma 50mm f/1.4 DG HSM Art (Overall Winner)
Our top choice for best Sigma prime lenses under $1000 is the Sigma 50mm f/1.4 DG HSM Art. This affordable lens under $1000 is versatile and can be used for various purposes.
The 50mm focal distance sits somewhere in the middle. It can achieve decent wide-angle shots but also excels at portrait and street photography. With a maximum aperture of f/1.4, you have excellent control over depth of field and can create artistic background effects.
As part of the Art range, this budget lens has various lens coatings to reduce distortion and protect from smears and smudges. It also has Sigma’s Hyper Sonic Motor (HSM) which provides an effective and quiet autofocusing system.
The only drawback is that this lens does not have Sigma’s OS image stabilization technology. Regardless, it is still one of the best Sigma prime lenses under $1000.
2. Sigma 45mm f/2.8 DG DN Contemporary
This budget lens is available for L-mount cameras including a variety of Leica, Panasonic, and Sigma devices. The Sigma 45mm f/2.8 DG DN C allows you to produce sharp images with great control over the depth of field via the maximum aperture of f/2.8.
This is a Contemporary series lens which means it has improved design features compared to standard Sigma lenses. The focal distance of 45mm is similar to the 50mm and gives flexibility for a myriad of photography types.
The lens is relatively lightweight and compact, weighing just 7.58 ounces with an overall length of 2.52 inches. This means it is easy to carry and can make a good budget travel lens.
3. Sigma 35mm f/1.4 DG HSM Art
Sigma has an excellent range of wide-angle prime lenses under $1000 and the Sigma 35mm f/1.4 DG HSM Art is another good choice. This is one of the best Sigma prime lenses under $1000 due to its build quality and features.
The 35mm focal distance errs towards wide-angle, and you can use the lens for landscape shots, travel photography, or even street photography.
This is complemented by the high maximum aperture of f/1.4. As an Art-series lens, the 35mm has SLD glass which helps eliminate chromatic aberration. It also has the Hyper Sonic Motor for quick autofocusing.
This lens is compact and ideal for mobile usage as it weighs just 1.47lbs and has a maximum length of 3.70 inches. This is a great high-end lens available for an affordable price.
4. Sigma 105mm f/2.8 EX DG OS HSM Macro
If you want a good macro lens under $1000, the Sigma 105mm f/2.8 EX DG OS HSM Macro is a solid choice. This highly affordable lens has some great features and allows you to create high-quality, detailed macro photography. It is available for both Nikon and Canon cameras.
This budget macro lens has a minimum focusing distance of just 12.3 inches and a 1:1 magnification ratio at that closest working distance. This means you can capture excellent detail of your macro subjects.
When using this macro lens you can benefit from built-in Optical Stabilization. Also, it has the HSM silent autofocusing motor which means you can quickly focus on your macro subjects.
Finally, the low dispersion lens elements ensure colors and detail are sharp, and that there is no chromatic aberration. This is certainly one of the best Sigma prime lenses under $1000.
5. Sigma 85mm f/1.4 DG HSM Art (Budget Winner)
The Sigma 85mm f/1.4 DG HSM Art is our budget option for best Sigma prime lenses under $1000. With a focal distance of 85mm, this lens is ideal for sharp portrait shots with excellent bokeh backgrounds.
This lens has Sigma’s Hyper Sonic Motor (HSM) for quick and accurate autofocusing, so it’s easy to use. It is available for Canon, and Nikon cameras, but also for Sony E-mount cameras using the MC-11 mount converter.
This 85mm lens is part of the Sigma Art range and as a result, it has a superior lens element made from low dispersion glass which reduces distortions whilst maintaining color and contrast. It is a great budget option and a high-end choice for portrait photography.
Use the Best Sigma Prime Lenses Under $1000 to Specialize Your Photography
Any of these affordable Sigma prime lenses will make a great addition to your kit. When purchasing a budget prime lens, always consider the purpose.
What type of photography do you wish to create? If you want wide-angle shots, the prime lens should have a focal distance of 35mm or less. Alternatively, if you want portraits, the focal distance should ideally be above 50mm. Consider your purpose, and choose one of the best Sigma prime lenses under $1000 to suit.
