The type of photography that you are planning to use is an important decision factor. Here we have evaluated the Canon 50mm f1.4 USM and the Sigma 50mm F1.4 EX DG HSM for their suitability to various photography scenarios:
Size and Weight Comparison
The size of a lens is a crucial factor to consider when comparing two lenses. Sigma 50mm F1.4 EX DG HSM is the longer of the two lenses at 68mm. The Canon 50mm f1.4 USM with a length of 51mm, is 17mm shorter. Besides being longer, the Sigma 50mm F1.4 EX DG HSM also has a larger diameter of 85mm compared to the Canon 50mm f1.4 USM's 74mm diameter.
The weight of a lens is equally significant as its external dimensions, particularly if you intend to handhold your camera and lens combination for extended periods. Canon 50mm f1.4 USM weighs 290g, which means it is 215g (42%) lighter than the Sigma 50mm F1.4 EX DG HSM which has a weight of 505g.
Below you can find the dimension and weight table of the Standard Prime Lenses in Canon EF Mount for size comparison purposes.
Standard Lenses in Canon EF Mount for Size Comparison
Filter Threads
The Canon 50mm f1.4 USM has a filter size of 58mm whereas the Sigma 50mm F1.4 EX DG HSM has a 77mm diameter. Larger filters are generally more expensive than the smaller ones given all the other features are equal.
Below are links to the 58mm filters that we recommend you to consider for the Canon 50mm f1.4 USM:
And these are the 77mm filters that we recommend for the Sigma 50mm F1.4 EX DG HSM:
Lens Mounts
Both the Canon 50mm f1.4 USM and the Sigma 50mm F1.4 EX DG HSM has the same Canon EF lens mount. Some of the latest released cameras that are compatible with the Canon EF lenses are Canon 1D X III, Canon 6D MII and Canon 5D MIV.
Sigma 50mm F1.4 EX DG HSM is also available in Pentax KAF3 , Sony Alpha, Sigma SA, Nikon F (FX) and Four Thirds mounts.
Focal Range
Both lenses have the same focal range of
50mm and the fastest aperture of
F1.4.