Sigma 90mm F2.8 DG | Contemporary

Reviewers found it sharp in the centre from f/2.8 and very good across the frame by f/4. Longitudinal CA is low, and backgrounds render smoothly for the aperture. AF is fast, quiet and accurate with eye detection. The build and the tactile aperture ring are the main reasons to choose it over cheaper plastic primes.

The trade-offs are an f/2.8 aperture that gives less subject separation than f/1.8 alternatives, a 0.5m minimum focus distance (1:5), and uncorrected distortion and vignetting that depend on profiles. Some testers point out that Sony's FE 85mm F1.8 costs about the same and gathers more light.

Owners like it as a compact walkaround tele on small bodies such as the A7C series. The metal build, the aperture ring and the magnetic cap get frequent praise, along with the image quality for the size.

Common complaints are that the aperture ring has no de-click option, that the metal barrel gets cold in winter, and that f/2.8 limits indoor and low-light use. A few users say the magnetic cap comes off too easily in a bag.