Nikon AF-S 85mm f/1.8G vs Sigma 85mm f/1.4 DG HSM Art
Nikon AF-S 85mm f/1.8G has more in its favour on paper. The 85mm f/1.4 DG HSM Art gathers more light for low light and background blur; the AF-S 85mm f/1.8G is lighter and cheaper. The Nikon lens is the mount maker's own, while the Sigma is a third-party alternative.
Choose the AF-S 85mm f/1.8G for
- less weight (350g vs 1130g)
- a lower price (about £180 vs £1,099)
Choose the 85mm f/1.4 DG HSM Art for
- a brighter maximum aperture (f/1.4, about 0.7 stops more light)
| AF-S 85mm f/1.8G | 85mm f/1.4 DG HSM Art | |
|---|---|---|
| Brand | Nikon | Sigma |
| Focal length | 85mm | 85mm |
| Maximum aperture | f/1.8 | f/1.4 |
| Weight | 350 g | 1130 g |
| Stabilisation | No | No |
| Weather sealing | No | No |
| Filter size | 67mm | 86mm |
| Made for | Full frame | Full frame |
| New price | £449 | £1,099 |
| Used at MPB (Nikon F) | £154–£214 | None listed |
More lens comparisons
See all Nikon F cameras and lenses.
Frequently asked questions
Is the Nikon AF-S 85mm f/1.8G better than the Sigma 85mm f/1.4 DG HSM Art?
The AF-S 85mm f/1.8G offers less weight (350g vs 1130g), a lower price (about £180 vs £1,099); the 85mm f/1.4 DG HSM Art offers a brighter maximum aperture (f/1.4, about 0.7 stops more light).
Which is better value, the AF-S 85mm f/1.8G or the 85mm f/1.4 DG HSM Art?
On Nikon F, the Nikon AF-S 85mm f/1.8G costs about £180 against about £1,099 for the Sigma 85mm f/1.4 DG HSM Art (MPB used where listed, otherwise new; checked 5 November 2026).
Is f/1.4 worth it over f/1.8?
f/1.4 gathers about 0.7 stops more light, which helps indoors, at night and for background blur. If you mostly shoot in good light, the slower lens is usually lighter and cheaper.
Do both lenses fit the same cameras?
Both are available for Nikon F (and other mounts: Canon EF / EF-S).