The type of photography that you are planning to use is an important decision factor. Here we have evaluated the Sigma 500mm f5.6 DG DN and the Nikon AF-S 500mm F5.6E PF ED VR 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. Nikon AF-S 500mm F5.6E PF ED VR is the longer of the two lenses at 237mm. The Sigma 500mm f5.6 DG DN with a length of 234mm, is 3mm shorter. On the other hand, the Sigma 500mm f5.6 DG DN has a larger diameter of 108mm compared to the Nikon AF-S 500mm F5.6E PF ED VR's 106mm 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. Sigma 500mm f5.6 DG DN weighs 1370g, which means it is 90g (6%) lighter than the Nikon AF-S 500mm F5.6E PF ED VR which has a weight of 1460g.
Filter Threads
Both the Sigma 500mm f5.6 DG DN and the Nikon AF-S 500mm F5.6E PF ED VR have the same Filter thread size of 95mm.
Below are links to the 95mm filters that we recommend you to consider for these lenses:
Lens Mounts
The Sigma 500mm f5.6 DG DN has the Leica L lens mount whereas the Nikon AF-S 500mm F5.6E PF ED VR has the Nikon F (FX) lens mount. Some of the latest released cameras that are compatible with these mounts are Leica SL3-P, Panasonic S1 II and Panasonic S1 IIE for the Leica L Mount and Nikon D6, Nikon D780 and Nikon D3500 for the Nikon F (FX) Mount.
Sigma 500mm f5.6 DG DN is also available in the Sony E mount.
Focal Range
Both lenses have the same focal range of
500mm and the fastest aperture of
F5.6.
