The type of photography that you are planning to use is an important decision factor. Here we have evaluated the Sigma 70-200mm F2.8 EX DG HSM II and the Nikon 70-200mm f2.8G ED VR 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. Nikon 70-200mm f2.8G ED VR is the longer of the two lenses at 215mm. The Sigma 70-200mm F2.8 EX DG HSM II with a length of 184mm, is 31mm shorter. On the other hand, there is no difference between the max diameters of these lenses, both coming at 87mm.
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, which means it is 80g (5%) lighter than the Nikon 70-200mm f2.8G ED VR which has a weight of 1470g.
Lens Mounts
The Sigma 70-200mm F2.8 EX DG HSM II has the Sigma SA lens mount whereas the Nikon 70-200mm f2.8G ED VR has the Nikon F (FX) lens mount. Some of the latest released cameras that are compatible with these mounts are Sigma Quattro, Sigma Quattro H and Sigma SD1 Merrill for the Sigma SA Mount and Nikon D6, Nikon D780 and Nikon D3500 for the Nikon F (FX) 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.