The type of photography that you are planning to use is an important decision factor. Here we have evaluated the Sigma 85mm F1.4 DG HSM and the Zeiss Otus 85mm F1.4 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. Zeiss Otus 85mm F1.4 is the longer of the two lenses at 138mm. The Sigma 85mm F1.4 DG HSM with a length of 126mm, is 12mm shorter. Besides being longer, the Zeiss Otus 85mm F1.4 also has a larger diameter of 101mm compared to the Sigma 85mm F1.4 DG HSM's 95mm 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 85mm F1.4 DG HSM weighs 1130g, which means it is 70g (5%) lighter than the Zeiss Otus 85mm F1.4 which has a weight of 1200g.
Below you can find the dimension and weight table of the Telephoto Prime Lenses in Canon EF Mount for size comparison purposes.
Telephoto Lenses in Canon EF Mount for Size Comparison
Filter Threads
Both the Sigma 85mm F1.4 DG HSM and the Zeiss Otus 85mm F1.4 have the same Filter thread size of 86mm.
Below are links to the 86mm filters that we recommend you to consider for these lenses:
Lens Mounts
Both the Sigma 85mm F1.4 DG HSM and the Zeiss Otus 85mm F1.4 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 85mm F1.4 DG HSM is also available in Sigma SA and Nikon F (FX) mounts.
Zeiss Otus 85mm F1.4 is also available in Nikon F (FX) mount.
Focal Range
Both lenses have the same focal range of
85mm and the fastest aperture of
F1.4.