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Nikon vs Sigma 105 2.8 Macro lens
Jun 9, 2015 18:10:43   #
mikedent Loc: Florida
 
Any feedback on image quality, focus, speed, etc between these 2 lenses, both with OS/VR? Using Nikon D7100, mostly for close-ups, rarely full 1:1. Currently new Sigma with rebate is about same price as used Nikon. Thanks!

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Jun 9, 2015 18:50:17   #
MtnMan Loc: ID
 
See if DXOMark has tested them both on your camera.

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Jun 9, 2015 19:25:23   #
tinusbum Loc: east texas
 
i have a sigma 105 and its very sharp.dont know about comparable focus speeds since i always manual focus and turn the OS off.my main lens is a sigma 150 old one no os but really sharp and good working distance,i always go 1-1 =2-1 with tubes

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Jun 9, 2015 20:26:55   #
Nikonian72 Loc: Chico CA
 
A few successful photographers on this macro forum use the Sigma 105-mm lens. According to their feedback and the images they post, this lens has a sterling reputation.

I do not own one, but have used one. A distinct advantage is the selection slide that restricts lens focusing distance between 6-inches to 12-inches.

Switches on the Sigma 105mm F2.8 EX DG OS HSM Macro Lens
Switches on the Sigma 105mm F2.8 EX DG OS HSM Macr...

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Jun 10, 2015 06:56:37   #
Brucej67 Loc: Cary, NC
 
I had both at one time and sold the Sigma 105. I found the Sig was a tad slower to focus than the Nikon 105, also the Sig 105 optical stabilization unit floats and at times was noisy (especially when shaken) and this would scare some small creatures. As far as IQ, I couldn't tell the difference between the Sigma and the Nikon. I do have the Sigma 180mm macro which is heavy but I like it and use it with the Nikon R1C1 unit.

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Jun 10, 2015 08:58:42   #
mikedent Loc: Florida
 
Thanks- hard decision, may comedown to price since both seem almost equally matched.

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Jun 10, 2015 09:47:26   #
A-PeeR Loc: Houston, Texas
 
I shoot Canon but can vouch IQ of Sigma 105mm. Like you, I debated a used high end Canon 100mm L (on par with the Nikon 105) versus a brand new Sigma 105mm. IQ wise, the Sigma is excellent very sharp lens. Like Tom, I use it on 68mm of tubes and easily get just over 2:1. On FF it vignettes ever so slightly but it's a very easy fix in post. I've actually gotten used to the vignetting and will often frame with it in mind. Only thing that lens lacks is weather sealing... Other issue with the lens is resell value is going to favor Nikon. If you plan on keeping the lens this is a non factor.

What I've seen from accomplished Nikon Macro shooters both lens are excellent

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Jun 11, 2015 03:08:17   #
Macronaut Loc: Redondo Beach,Ca.
 
A used Nikon or New Sigma for about the same price? The Sigma should come with a five year warrantee. I played with the Nikon in the store on a D810 and it seemed to focus a tad faster than the Sigma. The Sigma has 2 types of stabilization, 2 position focus limiter and a nice case. Also, I have noticed that used Sigma lenses (newer generation) are holding their resale value extremely well so, I don't believe that's as much of a factor as it used to be.

The limiter and stabilization aren't really a factor in macro shooting but, if you want to use it for other types of photography, those features likely will come in handy.

I don't know if the Nikon has full time manual focusing or not but, that's something I really like about the Sigma.
If I could choose a new Nikon or new Sigma for the same price, I would take the Sigma, personally.

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Jun 11, 2015 07:20:30   #
Brucej67 Loc: Cary, NC
 
Flyextreme wrote:
I don't know if the Nikon has full time manual focusing or not but, that's something I really like about the Sigma..
The Nikon 105mm does have full time manual focusing if you want.

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Jun 11, 2015 09:34:38   #
MtnMan Loc: ID
 
Brucej67 wrote:
The Nikon 105mm does have full time manual focusing if you want.
And my new Sigma 17-50 does not. If you manually focus it without turning the switch to manual you break it. A stupid design in IMHO.
I don't know about the Sigma 105 but I suggest checking before you twist the manual focus with auto engaged.

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Jun 11, 2015 12:58:54   #
Macronaut Loc: Redondo Beach,Ca.
 
MtnMan wrote:
I don't know about the Sigma 105 but I suggest checking before you twist the manual focus with auto engaged.
My Sigma 105, 150, and 24-105 all have manual override in AF mode. :wink:

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