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 A and the Sigma 85mm 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 85mm F1.4 DG HSM A is the longer of the two lenses at 126mm. The Sigma 85mm F1.4 EX DG HSM with a length of 88mm, is 38mm shorter. Besides being longer, the Sigma 85mm F1.4 DG HSM A also has a larger diameter of 95mm compared to the Sigma 85mm F1.4 EX DG HSM's 86mm 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 EX DG HSM weighs 725g, 35% (405g) lighter than the Sigma 85mm F1.4 DG HSM A's weight of 1130g.
Filter Threads
The Sigma 85mm F1.4 DG HSM A has a filter size of 86mm whereas the Sigma 85mm 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 86mm filters that we recommend you to consider for the Sigma 85mm F1.4 DG HSM A:
And these are the 77mm filters that we recommend for the Sigma 85mm F1.4 EX DG HSM:
Lens Mounts
The Sigma 85mm F1.4 DG HSM A has the Leica L lens mount whereas the Sigma 85mm F1.4 EX DG HSM has the Canon EF lens mount. Some of the latest released cameras that are compatible with these mounts are Leica SL3, Panasonic S5 II and Panasonic S5 II X for the Leica L Mount and Canon 1D X III, Canon 6D MII and Canon 5D MIV for the Canon EF Mount.
Sigma 85mm F1.4 EX DG HSM is also available in Nikon F (FX) , Pentax KAF3, Sony Alpha and Sigma SA mounts.
Focal Range
Both lenses have the same focal range of
85mm and the fastest aperture of
F1.4.