Sigma 35mm f1.2 vs Tamron 20mm: Sony E Prime Guide
By Camix | Published: 2026-10-27
Category: Comparisons
Compare the Sigma 35mm f1.2 Art and Tamron 20mm f2.8 primes for Sony E mount. We cover low light, travel, and portrait use to help you pick the right lens.
Quick Answer
Choose the Sigma 35mm f1.2 Art when you shoot portraits or low light and want the softest backgrounds. Choose the Tamron 20mm f2.8 when you travel light and need a wide, affordable prime for everyday scenes.
What Each Lens Does Best
The Sigma 35mm f1.2 Art is built around a very wide aperture. That extra light lets you shoot handheld in dim conditions and creates the kind of background separation that flatters people in portraits. Its 35mm field of view is a classic length for environmental portraits and street scenes.
The Tamron 20mm f2.8 is much wider and noticeably lighter on paper. It suits tight interiors, landscapes, and travel shots where you want to fit more into the frame. Because it is a compact prime, it also keeps your kit simple when you do not want to carry a zoom.
The Trade-Off: Aperture vs Size
The biggest difference is the f1.2 maximum aperture on the Sigma versus the f2.8 on the Tamron. The Sigma lets in roughly two and a third stops more light, which directly helps in low light and gives you far more control over depth of field. The cost is a larger, heavier lens that takes up more space in your bag.
The Tamron trades that speed for a much smaller footprint and a lower price. At f2.8, it is still a practical low-light lens for street and travel, but you will need to raise ISO or slow your shutter more often indoors.
Budget and Bag Space
Price is a practical factor. The Sigma 35mm f1.2 Art sits at a higher price point, while the Tamron 20mm f2.8 is a more budget-friendly option. If you are starting out or want a travel prime that will not dominate your kit, the Tamron is the easier choice.
If you already own a zoom and want a dedicated low-light or portrait lens, the Sigma is the one that changes your images most noticeably.
How to Decide: Sigma 35mm f1.2 vs Tamron 20mm
- Low Light and Portraits: The Sigma 35mm f1.2 Art is the better choice because its f1.2 aperture captures more light and creates softer backgrounds for people shots. If you mainly shoot indoors or after dark, prioritize the Sigma.
- Travel and Wide Scenes: The Tamron 20mm f2.8 is the better travel prime because it is wider, lighter, and cheaper, making it easier to pack and less risky on the move. If you want one compact lens for landscapes and city walks, the Tamron fits better.
- Budget and Kit Balance: If you already have a zoom and need a specialist prime, the Sigma adds the most image quality. If you want an affordable second lens, the Tamron gives you a new wide angle without a big spend. Match the lens to the gap in your current kit.
Product Facts
- Sigma 35mm F1.2 DG II Art Lens For Sony E: Sigma 35mm F1.2 DG II Art Lens For Sony E is brand new stock with a 1 year warranty and free UK delivery. You get a fully warrantied, new lens with a very wide f1.2 aperture that is ideal for low light portraits.
Sigma 35mm F1.2 DG II Art Lens For Sony E - Tamron 20mm F/2.8 Di III OSD For Sony E: Tamron 20mm F/2.8 Di III OSD For Sony E is brand new stock with a 1 year warranty and free UK delivery. You get a compact, affordable wide prime that is easy to carry for travel and everyday shooting.
Tamron 20mm F/2.8 Di III OSD For Sony E
Which Lens Fits You?
Best for
- Portrait shooters who want soft backgrounds and strong low-light performance
- Photographers who accept a larger lens for the f1.2 aperture
Not for
- Travelers who want a compact, lightweight prime for wide scenes
- Budget-focused shooters who need an affordable wide-angle lens
