Nikon AF-S 50mm f/1.8G vs Sigma 50mm f/1.4 DG HSM Art
Nikon AF-S 50mm f/1.8G has more in its favour on paper. The 50mm f/1.4 DG HSM Art gathers more light for low light and background blur; the AF-S 50mm f/1.8G is lighter and cheaper. The Nikon lens is the mount maker's own, while the Sigma is a third-party alternative.
Choose the AF-S 50mm f/1.8G for
- less weight (185g vs 815g)
- a lower price (about £100 vs £200)
Choose the 50mm f/1.4 DG HSM Art for
- a brighter maximum aperture (f/1.4, about 0.7 stops more light)
| AF-S 50mm f/1.8G | 50mm f/1.4 DG HSM Art | |
|---|---|---|
| Brand | Nikon | Sigma |
| Focal length | 50mm | 50mm |
| Maximum aperture | f/1.8 | f/1.4 |
| Weight | 185 g | 815 g |
| Stabilisation | No | No |
| Weather sealing | No | No |
| Filter size | 58mm | 77mm |
| Made for | Full frame | Full frame |
| New price | £199 | £749 |
| Used at MPB (Nikon F) | £72–£123 | £184–£214 |
More lens comparisons
See all Nikon F cameras and lenses.
Frequently asked questions
Is the Nikon AF-S 50mm f/1.8G better than the Sigma 50mm f/1.4 DG HSM Art?
The AF-S 50mm f/1.8G offers less weight (185g vs 815g), a lower price (about £100 vs £200); the 50mm f/1.4 DG HSM Art offers a brighter maximum aperture (f/1.4, about 0.7 stops more light).
Which is better value, the AF-S 50mm f/1.8G or the 50mm f/1.4 DG HSM Art?
On Nikon F, the Nikon AF-S 50mm f/1.8G costs about £100 against about £200 for the Sigma 50mm f/1.4 DG HSM Art (MPB used where listed, otherwise new; checked 5 November 2026).
Is f/1.4 worth it over f/1.8?
f/1.4 gathers about 0.7 stops more light, which helps indoors, at night and for background blur. If you mostly shoot in good light, the slower lens is usually lighter and cheaper.
Do both lenses fit the same cameras?
Both are available for Nikon F (and other mounts: Canon EF / EF-S).