f/1.8 or f/1.4 Mirrorless Lens? Compared by Specs
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When you compare an f/1.8 mirrorless lens against an f/1.4 mirrorless lens, you are looking at two distinct approaches to low-light performance and size. This f18 vs f14 mirrorless lens analysis highlights how aperture choices impact your shooting experience. Both options offer compact designs suitable for everyday carry. The main difference lies in the maximum aperture speed and the specific camera mount systems they support. You need to decide if the extra light gathering of f/1.4 justifies the potential trade-offs in other features.
Key differences
| Aspect | Canon RF 35mm F1.8 Macro STM Lens | Sigma 30mm F1.4 DC DN Lens |
|---|---|---|
| Maximum Aperture | f/1.8 | f/1.4 |
| Lens Mount | Canon RF | Sony E |
| Focal Length | 35mm | 30mm |
| Image Stabilization | Yes, 5 stops | Not listed |
| Weight | 10.8 ounces | 9.35 ounces |
Which one should you choose?
Choose Canon RF 35mm F1.8 Macro STM Lens if
- You shoot with Canon EOS R series cameras and need Optical Image Stabilization for handheld shots.
- You prefer a 35mm focal length that offers a slightly wider field of view.
- You want a lens with a dedicated control ring for quick setting adjustments.
Choose Sigma 30mm F1.4 DC DN Lens if
- You use Sony E-mount cameras and want the fastest aperture for better low-light performance.
- You prioritize a lighter lens that weighs less than 9.5 ounces.
- You prefer a 30mm focal length on a crop sensor for a versatile everyday perspective.
Verdict: Choose the Canon RF 35mm F1.8 if you value built-in image stabilization and the convenience of a control ring on your Canon system. Pick the Sigma 30mm F1.4 if you need the fastest possible aperture for dim environments and are using a Sony E-mount camera. Your final choice depends entirely on your camera brand and whether you prioritize stabilization or maximum light gathering.
f/1.8 vs f/1.4 Lens Specs
Maximum Aperture
The Sigma 30mm F1.4 DC DN Lens offers a wider maximum aperture of f/1.4 compared to the Canon RF 35mm F1.8 Macro STM Lens, which tops out at f/1.8. A lower f-number means the lens can gather more light in dim conditions. This allows you to use faster shutter speeds or lower ISO settings when shooting indoors or at night. The f/1.4 aperture also typically creates a shallower depth of field, helping you isolate subjects from busy backgrounds. If low-light capability and background blur are your top priorities, the Sigma has the technical advantage here.
Lens Mount Compatibility
These lenses are designed for different camera systems, so compatibility depends on your body. The Canon RF 35mm F1.8 Macro STM Lens uses the Canon RF mount, making it suitable only for Canon EOS R series cameras. The Sigma 30mm F1.4 DC DN Lens uses the Sony E-mount, which fits various Sony Alpha models. You cannot use these lenses interchangeably without an adapter, and even then, functionality may vary. You must choose the lens that matches your existing camera brand. This is a critical decision point for buyers who already own a camera body.
Focal Length
The focal length determines your field of view and perspective. The Canon RF 35mm F1.8 Macro STM Lens has a 35mm focal length, which is a classic wide-angle view. This is versatile for street photography, environmental portraits, and group shots. The Sigma 30mm F1.4 DC DN Lens has a 30mm focal length. On Sony APS-C cameras, this acts as a 45mm equivalent, which is closer to a standard human perspective. The 35mm Canon lens offers a slightly wider view, which can be better for tight indoor spaces or capturing more of a scene.
Macro Capability
Macro photography allows you to get very close to small subjects for detailed shots. The Canon RF 35mm F1.8 Macro STM Lens is explicitly described as a macro lens with a 0.5x magnification ratio. It can focus as close as 0.56 feet or 0.17 meters. This makes it a strong choice for capturing insects, flowers, or product details. The Sigma 30mm F1.4 DC DN Lens is not listed as a macro lens in the provided data. It lacks specified macro magnification or minimum focusing distance details. If you need close-up capabilities, the Canon is the clear specialist.
Image Stabilization
Image stabilization helps reduce blur from camera shake, especially in low light or at slower shutter speeds. The Canon RF 35mm F1.8 Macro STM Lens includes Optical Image Stabilization that corrects shake by up to 5 stops. This allows you to handhold the camera in darker environments with greater confidence. The Sigma 30mm F1.4 DC DN Lens does not list image stabilization in its features or key specs. You will need to rely on your Sony camera body’s stabilization or use faster shutter speeds. For handheld shooting without a tripod, the Canon has a significant practical advantage.
Weight and Portability
Weight affects how comfortable a lens is to carry all day. The Canon RF 35mm F1.8 Macro STM Lens weighs 10.8 ounces. The Sigma 30mm F1.4 DC DN Lens weighs 9.35 ounces. The Sigma is slightly lighter, which might be preferable for long walks or travel. However, the Canon is still considered compact for its class. The difference is small, roughly 1.5 ounces. Both lenses are designed to be portable and fit well on mirrorless bodies. You likely will not notice the weight difference in daily use, making this a very close call.
Which lens fits your camera system best
Sony E-mount users wanting wide aperture
You need a lens for your Sony E-mount system. This Sigma 30mm f/1.4 DC DN Lens provides a wider maximum aperture of f/1.4. This allows more light in for better low-light performance. It features nine rounded aperture blades for smooth background blur. The compact design fits well on APS-C bodies. It is a practical choice for portrait and street photography where depth of field matters.
Canon RF users needing macro capabilities
You shoot with Canon RF cameras and want close-up detail. This Canon RF 35mm f/1.8 Macro STM Lens offers 0.5x magnification. It focuses as close as 0.56 feet for detailed shots. Optical image stabilization corrects shake up to five stops. This helps in handheld shooting. The control ring lets you adjust settings quickly. It is ideal for those who prioritize versatility and stabilization in a compact package.
Photographers prioritizing compact size and weight
You value portability above all else. The Sigma 30mm f/1.4 lens weighs 9.35 ounces. It measures 2.55 inches in height and width. This makes it lighter than many competitors. The compact form factor fits easily into small bags. You get a fast f/1.4 aperture without carrying heavy glass. This lens is perfect for travel or everyday carry where minimizing bulk is essential for your workflow.
Quick picks
| # | Product | Best for | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Canon RF 35mm F1.8 Macro STM Lens | Canon EOS R users needing compact macro performance | Check price of Canon RF 35mm F1.8 Macro STM Lens on Amazon |
| 2 | Sigma 30mm F1.4 DC DN Lens | Low light APS-C photography | Check price of Sigma 30mm F1.4 DC DN Lens on Amazon |
The products compared
Canon RF 35mm F1.8 Macro STM Lens
Best for: Canon EOS R users needing compact macro performance
- Aperture
- f/1.8 (what this guide is about)
- Lens Mount
- Canon RF
- Focal Length
- 35mm
- Maximum Aperture
- F1.8
- Focus Type
- STM
- Image Stabilization
- Optical Image Stabilization
View on Amazon: Canon RF 35mm F1.8 Macro STM Lens Affiliate link
The Canon RF35mm F1.8 is a compact macro lens for Canon RF mount cameras. It offers a maximum aperture of f/1.8 and optical image stabilization up to 5 stops. With a 0.5x magnification ratio and a minimum focusing distance of 0.17 meters, it handles close-ups well. The control ring allows direct setting changes. It weighs 10.8 ounces and fits in your bag easily.
Pros
- f/1.8 maximum aperture for low light
- Optical image stabilization up to 5 stops
- 0.5x macro magnification ratio
- Control ring for direct setting changes
Cons
- f/1.8 aperture is slower than f/1.4 options
- No weather sealing listed in specifications
- Maximum magnification is 0.5x, not true 1:1 macro
Good fit if
- You want a lightweight prime lens for Canon EOS R
- You need macro capabilities for close-up shots
- You value image stabilization for handheld shooting
Skip if
- You require true 1:1 macro magnification
- You need an f/1.4 aperture for extreme bokeh
- You shoot in harsh weather without protection
Verdict: The Canon RF35mm F1.8 Macro STM Lens is a practical choice for Canon EOS R users who prioritize portability and macro features over the fastest possible aperture. It delivers solid stabilization and close-focusing ability in a small package.
Sigma 30mm F1.4 DC DN Lens
Best for: Low light APS-C photography
- Aperture
- f/1.4 (what this guide is about)
- Lens Mount
- Sony E
- Focal Length
- 30mm
- Maximum Aperture
- F1.4
- Color
- Black
- Dimensions
- 2.55 × 2.89 × 2.89 inches
View on Amazon: Sigma 30mm F1.4 DC DN Lens Affiliate link
This Sigma lens pairs a 30mm focal length with an f/1.4 maximum aperture for Sony E-mount cameras. It features nine rounded aperture blades and a stepping ring motor for smooth operation. The compact design weighs 9.35 ounces and measures 2.89 inches long. It suits photographers who need fast glass for low light or shallow depth of field on APS-C sensors.
Pros
- f/1.4 maximum aperture for low light
- Nine rounded aperture blades for smooth bokeh
- Stepping ring motor for quiet autofocus
- Compact 9.35 ounce weight
Cons
- APS-C crop sensor compatibility only
- No weather sealing mentioned in specs
- Fixed focal length limits versatility
Good fit if
- You shoot in low light conditions
- You want shallow depth of field
- You use Sony E-mount APS-C bodies
Skip if
- You need full frame coverage
- You require zoom flexibility
- You need weather sealed construction
Verdict: Sigma 30mm f/1.4 Sony E delivers fast aperture performance in a lightweight package. It fits APS-C users who prioritize image quality and low light capability over zoom range.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | Canon RF 35mm F1.8 Macro STM Lens | Sigma 30mm F1.4 DC DN Lens |
|---|---|---|
| Lens Mount | Canon RF | Sony E |
| Focal Length | 35mm | 30mm |
| Maximum Aperture | F1.8 | F1.4 |
| Focus Type | STM | not stated |
| Image Stabilization | Optical Image Stabilization | not stated |
| Minimum Focusing Distance | 0.56 ft. ; 0.17M | not stated |
| Color | Black | Black |
| Aperture | f/1.8 | f/1.4 |
| Lens Type | Macro | not stated |
| Dimensions | 2.9 × 2.9 × 2.5 inches | 2.55 × 2.89 × 2.89 inches |
| Weight | 10.8 ounces | 9.35 ounces |
| Size | 35mm | 30mm F1.4 Lens |
| Model | 2973C002 | 302965 |
Frequently asked questions
Is f/1.8 or f/1.4 better for low light?
f/1.4 is better for low light because it gathers more light than f/1.8. The Sigma 30mm F1.4 DC DN Lens offers this wider aperture for APS-C systems. This allows you to shoot in dimmer environments without raising ISO as much. The Canon RF 35mm F1.8 Macro STM Lens stops at f/1.8, which is still fast but slightly less light-gathering.
Does f/1.4 create more background blur than f/1.8?
Yes, f/1.4 typically creates more background blur due to its wider maximum aperture. The Sigma 30mm F1.4 DC DN Lens utilizes this wider opening to isolate subjects. While the Canon RF 35mm F1.8 Macro STM Lens also produces bokeh, its f/1.8 limit provides slightly less separation. You choose based on how much blur you need for your composition.
Which lens is lighter, f/1.8 or f/1.4?
The Sigma 30mm F1.4 DC DN Lens weighs 9.35 ounces. The Canon RF 35mm F1.8 Macro STM Lens weighs 10.8 ounces. The Sigma is lighter despite having a faster f/1.4 aperture. The Canon is slightly heavier, likely due to its macro construction and stabilization features. You save weight with the Sigma option.
Can I use an f/1.8 lens for macro photography?
Yes, the Canon RF 35mm F1.8 Macro STM Lens is designed for macro work. It offers close-focusing ability in a compact package. This makes it practical for Canon EOS R users who need detail at close range. The Sigma 30mm F1.4 DC DN Lens is not listed as a macro lens, so it focuses on general low-light performance instead.
What mount does the Sigma f/1.4 lens use?
The Sigma 30mm F1.4 DC DN Lens uses the Sony E-Mount. It is designed for APS-C camera systems. If you have a Sony E-mount body, this lens fits directly. The Canon RF 35mm F1.8 Macro STM Lens uses the Canon RF mount for EOS R series cameras. You must match the mount to your camera body.
Is the Canon f/1.8 lens good for portability?
Yes, the Canon RF 35mm F1.8 Macro STM Lens is built for portability. It measures 2.9 inches in width and length, with a height of 2.5 inches. This small form factor suits users prioritizing compact gear. The Sigma 30mm F1.4 is also compact at 2.89 inches long, but the Canon is specifically noted for its small package design.
Which lens is better for APS-C cameras?
The Sigma 30mm F1.4 DC DN Lens is tailored for APS-C cameras. It is listed as best for low-light APS-C photography. The Canon RF 35mm F1.8 Macro STM Lens is for Canon EOS R users, which often use full-frame sensors. If you shoot with an APS-C body, the Sigma is the compatible and optimized choice.
Does a faster aperture mean more expensive?
This guide does not list prices or cost comparisons. We only compare specifications like aperture and weight. You should check current listings for pricing details. The Sigma 30mm F1.4 and Canon RF 35mm F1.8 differ in features and mounts, which may influence market value. Always verify costs on the retailer page before purchasing.