Lens Comparison: Sigma 24-70 f/2.8 ART vs. Canon 24-70 f/2.8 L II

On this video, our colleague photographer Matthew Gore (from lightandmatter) returns and takes a look at two popular zoom lenses – the new(ish) Sigma 24-70 f/2.8 ART and the Canon 24-70 f/2.8 L II.

Just like the previous comparison by Gore (Canon vs. Tamron 24-70mm) is especially interesting since the 24-70mm zoom lenses are amongst the most popular lenses among professional photographers and the price difference between the Canon and the Sigma isn’t small (about $400 at the moment).

Well, we have to say that this test surprised us. While both lenses are well built the Sigma is heavier and although they are both sharp in the center, there seems to be a huge difference in sharpness in the corners in favor of the Canon (this is especially significant at f/2.8/f4). This doesn’t mean that you can’t enjoy it for day-to-day work is is perfectly fine.

The Sigma has somewhat cooler colors and it has an advantage of having a built-in stabilizer. However, when it comes to AF things starting to look less optimal for the Sigma (O.K. focus on stationary targets but not that good for moving targets – especially in low light situations and while zooming in). It is worth mentioning that Gore was using the 5D MK III so it is possible that the 5D IV or some other model will produce better results with the Sigma lens.

At the end of the day, it seems that the Canon is still the better purchase and if you do want to save some $, the Tamron 24-70mm G2 is probably a better option.

Talking about pricing, the Canon is more expensive at $1600 compared to the Tamron currently selling for $1200 while the Sigma sells for $1300.

You can check out more of videos from our photography gear guides section here on LensVid. We also encourage you to take a look at Matthew Gore’s other videos and we are waiting eagerly for his next one which we hope will come soon.

Iddo Genuth
Iddo Genuth is the founder and chief editor of LensVid.com. He has been a technology reporter working for international publications since the late 1990's and covering photography since 2009. Iddo is also a co-founder of a production company specializing in commercial food and product visual content.

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