Sigma 30mm f/2.8 DN lens review: Updated prime a powerhouse for Sony E-mount and Micro Four Thirds shooters—and a steal at $199

 

 

The Sigma 30mm ƒ/2.8 DN "A" lens is an updated version of the company's well-regarded 30mm ƒ/2.8 prime lens for mirrorless interchangeable lens cameras. This new version gets the Global Vision treatment with an "Art" Series designation and new metal exterior with improved build quality. Optically, though, this new version is practically identical to its predecessor with the same lens element configuration, ƒ/2.8 aperture, minimum focusing distance and maximum magnification. Available for both Sony E-mount (NEX) and Micro Four Thirds cameras, the Sigma 30mm ƒ/2.8 DN "A" is considered a "standard" lens with a 45mm (35mm equivalent focal length) angle of view on E-mount (NEX) cameras and a 60mm angle of view (35mm equivalent focal length) on Micro Four Thirds cameras.

The new Sigma 30mm mirrorless prime lens is a very compact and lightweight lens, which balances nicely with the smaller, lighter mirrorless cameras. The previous model was only available in a black color, but now Sigma offers it in both silver and black. The new silver model should match up nicely with silver Sony NEX cameras like the new Sony NEX-5T or the new two-toned Panasonic GX7.

Surprisingly, despite the seemingly identical optical construction, the new Sigma 30mm ƒ/2.8 DN "A" lens did show some improvements over its predecessor -- primarily in terms of distortion and chromatic aberration. Offered at the same shockingly low price of $199, this new Art-series version looks to be a powerhouse lens for mirrorless shooters. Jump on over to SLRgear for our full  Sigma 30mm f/2.8 lens review with all of our standard test results to see for yourself!

In meantime, check out some sample photos below taken by Rob, our lens technician, with the Sony NEX-7. View more sample photos, plus download the full-resolution file, over at our Flickr page.

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