The type of photography that you are planning to use is an important decision factor. Here we have evaluated the Panasonic S 70-200 F2.8 and the Sigma 70-200mm F2.8 EX DG HSM II for their suitability to various photography scenarios:
Size and Weight Comparison
The size of a lens is an important deciding factor when comparing two lenses. Panasonic S 70-200 F2.8 is the longer of the two lenses at 209mm. The Sigma 70-200mm F2.8 EX DG HSM II with a length of 184mm, is 25mm shorter. Besides being longer, the Panasonic S 70-200 F2.8 also has a larger diameter of 94mm compared to the Sigma 70-200mm F2.8 EX DG HSM II's 87mm diameter.
The weight of a lens is as important as its external dimensions, especially if you are planning to hand hold your camera and lens combination for longer periods. Sigma 70-200mm F2.8 EX DG HSM II weighs 1390g, 11% (180g) lighter than the Panasonic S 70-200 F2.8's weight of 1570g.
Lens Mounts
The Panasonic S 70-200 F2.8 has the Leica L lens mount whereas the Sigma 70-200mm F2.8 EX DG HSM II has the Sigma SA lens mount. Some of the latest released cameras that are compatible with these mounts are Panasonic S5 II, Panasonic S5 II X and Sigma fp L for the Leica L Mount and Sigma Quattro, Sigma Quattro H and Sigma SD1 Merrill for the Sigma SA Mount.
Sigma 70-200mm F2.8 EX DG HSM II is also available in Canon EF , Four Thirds, Pentax KAF3, Sony Alpha and Nikon F (FX) mounts.
Focal Range
Both lenses have the same focal range of 70-200mm and the fastest aperture of F2.8.