Comparison

Sony 85mm f/1.4 GM vs Sigma 85mm f/1.4 Art: Portrait Lens Showdown

Sony 85mm GM vs Sigma 85mm Art comparison. We test sharpness, bokeh, and value to find the best portrait lens for Sony shooters.

Portrait taken with 85mm lens
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Two excellent 85mm f/1.4 lenses for Sony: the Sony GM and Sigma Art. Which deserves your money?

Specifications

SpecSony GMSigma Art
Aperturef/1.4f/1.4
Elements11 in 8 groups15 in 11 groups
Weight820g625g
Filter77mm77mm
Price$1,798$1,099

Sharpness

Both lenses are exceptionally sharp:

  • Sony: Slightly sharper corners wide open
  • Sigma: Excellent center and corners

Practical difference is minimal in portrait work.

Bokeh

  • Sony GM: Renowned for smooth, creamy bokeh
  • Sigma Art: Beautiful bokeh, very close to Sony

The Sony has a slight edge for critical viewers.

Autofocus

  • Sony GM: Fastest, most reliable
  • Sigma Art: Fast and accurate, slightly slower

Both track excellently with modern Sony bodies.

Value Winner: Sigma

The Sigma 85mm Art at $1,099 is $700 less than the Sony while delivering 95% of the performance.

Premium Choice: Sony GM

The Sony 85mm GM offers the absolute best bokeh and AF, justifying the premium for professionals.

Recommendation

Choose Sigma for exceptional quality at great value. Choose Sony if budget allows and you demand perfection.

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