FA 31mm or the new Sigma 35mm

Phii Mii · 02-17-2013, 12:48 AM

Originally posted by nirVaan

well over here the FA cost only 2000 yen more. thats like only US$20.

In that case I'll have to agree with all others that it's worth the money. Choosing the Sigma instead of 31mm ltd just to save USD20 would nearly be criminal. By the way, how much does the 31mm ltd cost in Japan?

Digitalis three great photos but I really love the first, getting some LBA.

nirVaan · 02-17-2013, 08:28 PM

Quote:

By the way, how much does the 31mm ltd cost in Japan

Cost around yen 91,000 that is about $981 odd.

ruoyun.huang · 02-17-2013, 10:22 PM

FA31 for sure

Sideway · 02-18-2013, 12:38 AM

FA31 is my favourite lens.

snake · 02-18-2013, 12:49 AM

"There is nothing like the FA31"

Except the cheaper FA35.

The direct comparisons are out there and the difference between them is essentially zero. The thread here that compares them gets made fun of throughout the other cam forums because it wasn't done blind and it's obvious that no one can tell the difference- that's how minimally better the 31 is, but they kept just saying 31, making stuff up along the way, because the pictures were marked 31.

I had a choice to get one, but I needed something slightly above 50, not slightly below. The pricing in Germany of the FA31 is fairly horrific, so I just went FA35 (which is also horrifically expensive in Europe).

**ivanvernon** · 02-18-2013, 01:45 AM

Originally posted by Phii Mii

I don't own any of these two lenses but I have tried both of them and I'd recommend Sigma 35mm f1.4. The FA 31mm Ltd is a very good lens but it's overpriced and not worth the cost.

I saw Sigma 35 1.4 variously priced from $899 to $999, and I saw Pentax 31 Ltd priced at $999.00 for a new silver version. If these prices are typical, then pricing is not a significant difference for these two excellent lenses.

Here is the final word from DPReview:

"Every now and then we come across a camera or lens that hits a sweet spot of image quality, usability and price that makes it an easy recommendation. The Sigma 35mm F1.4 DG HSM is just such a beast - it manages the impressive trick of being substantially cheaper than the camera manufacturers' equivalents while matching or beating them optically. If you're after a top quality fast prime at this focal length it should be right at the top of your short list, and it easily earns our top award."

To read their review: http://www.dpreview.com/lensreviews/sigma-35mm-f1-4-dg-hsm

snake · 02-18-2013, 02:00 AM

Originally posted by ivanvernon

I saw Sigma 35 1.4 priced at $900, and I saw Pentax 31 Ltd priced at $999.00 for a new silver version. If these prices are typical, then pricing is not a significant difference for these two excellent lenses.

In Europe, the FA31 is anywhere from 1,500 EUR new and up. Of course, different levels, with refurbs costing less, but it's horrifically expensive here. Even the FA35 is 700-almost 1,000 Euros, as I posted a link for in a previous thread. THe price bump in the US did us no favors, as the pricing went up here, too, as the gougers decided there would be no place to escape.

The Pentax pricing schemes make it much easier for people to choose Canon and Nikon in the Euro markets, but that is another thread. The FA31, even more so here, is not worth the price, especially when the Sigma 35 is going to be maybe 60% of the FA31 price, with the only advantage of the latter being the size and aperture ring in exchange for larger aperture and sharper performance from wide open.

Last edited by snake; 02-18-2013 at 02:08 AM.

**ivanvernon** · 02-18-2013, 02:05 AM

Originally posted by Phii Mii

mikeSF looking at your photos could turn anyone to think that it's worth the cost.

Beautiful, wonderful photograph!

Bestzoom · 02-18-2013, 04:10 AM

Originally posted by snake

The FA31, even more so here, is not worth the price, especially when the Sigma 35 is going to be maybe 60% of the FA31 price, with the only advantage of the latter being the size and aperture ring in exchange for larger aperture and sharper performance from wide open.

If the typical colour and look of Pentax is important to you, then get the FA31. I believe the difference is worth every penny of it.
The smaller size is definitely a bonus comparing to the Sigma.

snake · 02-18-2013, 04:59 AM

Originally posted by Bestzoom

If the typical colour and look of Pentax is important to you, then get the FA31. I believe the difference is worth every penny of it.
The smaller size is definitely a bonus comparing to the Sigma.

You're saying the FA35 doesn't have the "typical color"? The colors, aside from a below-negligible amount of contrast difference, were the one thing most people agreed on in those flawed comparisons between the FA35 and 31.

vodanh1982 · 02-18-2013, 10:23 AM

35 1.4 test report
Sigma AF 35mm f/1.4 DG HSM (Nikon FX) - Review / Test Report - Analysis

Allison · 02-18-2013, 10:55 AM

Originally posted by snake

You're saying the FA35 doesn't have the "typical color"? The colors, aside from a below-negligible amount of contrast difference, were the one thing most people agreed on in those flawed comparisons between the FA35 and 31.

The OP isn't in Europe, so the price difference you are talking about does not apply. Also, the OP isn't considering the FA35 - they are between a new FA31 and Sigma 35, so people in this thread just aren't considering the FA35.

I do not have experience with the FA35, but I do have the DA35 ltd...I like my 35...it has macro capabilities and is nice and compact. It also produces great photographs, but there is something special about the 31. Other threads refer to this as pixie dust. I didn't buy into this thinking until I got the fa limiteds, but I am hooked now...so much so that insipte of having a 35 and a 28 that I also have the 31.

snake · 02-18-2013, 11:23 AM

Originally posted by Allison

The OP isn't in Europe, so the price difference you are talking about does not apply. Also, the OP isn't not considering the FA35 - they are between a new FA31 and Sigma 35, so people in this thread just aren't considering the FA35.

I have not experience with the FA35, but I do have the DA35 ltd...I like my 35...it has macro capabilities and is nice and compact. It also produces great photographs, but there is something special about the 31. Other threads refer to this as pixie dust. I didn't buy into this thinking until I got the fa limiteds, but I am hooked now...so much so that insipte of having a 35 and a 28 that I also have the 31.

The OP didn't write this thread about the DA35.

I also don't know what "isn't not" is.

Allison · 02-18-2013, 12:11 PM

Originally posted by snake

The OP didn't write this thread about the DA35.

I also don't know what "isn't not" is.

I corrected the typo, sorry it happens when I am on an iPad.

I only threw in my experience with the da35 as a reply to you, that part wasn't for the OP. I get that you are happy with your FA35 and that is great.

Zav · 02-18-2013, 01:30 PM

Originally posted by Phii Mii

Well, I don't think I said that Sigma is a 31 killer

but I claim that it's not worth the price. Where I live the 31 cost USD 2055 and Sigma USD 1265. But it may not be the same in other places? But if I didn't have to care about the cost at all I'd go for the 31. Or why not both

As I said I don't own any of them and I don't have any plans of bying them. I have my DA*55 which I'll keep as 55mm fits me better than both 31 and 35mm.

No you didn't say so but I would be interested to see a fair and honest comparison (without price consideration) to know if the 35 is a better piece of equipment.

02-18-2013, 01:45 AM	#21
ivanvernon Loyal Site Supporter Join Date: Oct 2012 Location: Medina, OH Photos: Albums Posts: 7,224	Originally posted by Phii Mii I don't own any of these two lenses but I have tried both of them and I'd recommend Sigma 35mm f1.4. The FA 31mm Ltd is a very good lens but it's overpriced and not worth the cost. I saw Sigma 35 1.4 variously priced from $899 to $999, and I saw Pentax 31 Ltd priced at $999.00 for a new silver version. If these prices are typical, then pricing is not a significant difference for these two excellent lenses. Here is the final word from DPReview: "Every now and then we come across a camera or lens that hits a sweet spot of image quality, usability and price that makes it an easy recommendation. The Sigma 35mm F1.4 DG HSM is just such a beast - it manages the impressive trick of being substantially cheaper than the camera manufacturers' equivalents while matching or beating them optically. If you're after a top quality fast prime at this focal length it should be right at the top of your short list, and it easily earns our top award." To read their review: http://www.dpreview.com/lensreviews/sigma-35mm-f1-4-dg-hsm Last edited by ivanvernon; 02-18-2013 at 02:02 AM. Reason: Add new information

02-18-2013, 10:55 AM	#27
Allison Veteran Member Join Date: Apr 2008 Location: Pittsburgh, PA Photos: Gallery \| Albums Posts: 667	Originally posted by snake You're saying the FA35 doesn't have the "typical color"? The colors, aside from a below-negligible amount of contrast difference, were the one thing most people agreed on in those flawed comparisons between the FA35 and 31. The OP isn't in Europe, so the price difference you are talking about does not apply. Also, the OP isn't considering the FA35 - they are between a new FA31 and Sigma 35, so people in this thread just aren't considering the FA35. I do not have experience with the FA35, but I do have the DA35 ltd...I like my 35...it has macro capabilities and is nice and compact. It also produces great photographs, but there is something special about the 31. Other threads refer to this as pixie dust. I didn't buy into this thinking until I got the fa limiteds, but I am hooked now...so much so that insipte of having a 35 and a 28 that I also have the 31. Last edited by Allison; 02-18-2013 at 12:08 PM.

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02-17-2013, 12:48 AM	#16
Phii Mii Junior Member Join Date: Oct 2012 Posts: 27	Originally posted by nirVaan well over here the FA cost only 2000 yen more. thats like only US$20. In that case I'll have to agree with all others that it's worth the money. Choosing the Sigma instead of 31mm ltd just to save USD20 would nearly be criminal. By the way, how much does the 31mm ltd cost in Japan? Digitalis three great photos but I really love the first, getting some LBA.

02-17-2013, 08:28 PM	#17
nirVaan Senior Member Join Date: Jul 2011 Location: Tokyo Posts: 115 Original Poster	Quote: By the way, how much does the 31mm ltd cost in Japan Cost around yen 91,000 that is about $981 odd.

02-17-2013, 10:22 PM	#18
ruoyun.huang Forum Member Join Date: Dec 2008 Location: Seattle, WA Posts: 64	FA31 for sure

02-18-2013, 12:38 AM	#19
Sideway Senior Member Join Date: Dec 2006 Location: Taiwan Posts: 102	FA31 is my favourite lens.

02-18-2013, 12:49 AM	#20
snake Banned Join Date: Jun 2012 Location: NY/Germany Posts: 1,183	"There is nothing like the FA31" Except the cheaper FA35. The direct comparisons are out there and the difference between them is essentially zero. The thread here that compares them gets made fun of throughout the other cam forums because it wasn't done blind and it's obvious that no one can tell the difference- that's how minimally better the 31 is, but they kept just saying 31, making stuff up along the way, because the pictures were marked 31. I had a choice to get one, but I needed something slightly above 50, not slightly below. The pricing in Germany of the FA31 is fairly horrific, so I just went FA35 (which is also horrifically expensive in Europe).

02-18-2013, 02:00 AM	#22
snake Banned Join Date: Jun 2012 Location: NY/Germany Posts: 1,183	Originally posted by ivanvernon I saw Sigma 35 1.4 priced at $900, and I saw Pentax 31 Ltd priced at $999.00 for a new silver version. If these prices are typical, then pricing is not a significant difference for these two excellent lenses. In Europe, the FA31 is anywhere from 1,500 EUR new and up. Of course, different levels, with refurbs costing less, but it's horrifically expensive here. Even the FA35 is 700-almost 1,000 Euros, as I posted a link for in a previous thread. THe price bump in the US did us no favors, as the pricing went up here, too, as the gougers decided there would be no place to escape. The Pentax pricing schemes make it much easier for people to choose Canon and Nikon in the Euro markets, but that is another thread. The FA31, even more so here, is not worth the price, especially when the Sigma 35 is going to be maybe 60% of the FA31 price, with the only advantage of the latter being the size and aperture ring in exchange for larger aperture and sharper performance from wide open. Last edited by snake; 02-18-2013 at 02:08 AM.

02-18-2013, 02:05 AM	#23
ivanvernon Loyal Site Supporter Join Date: Oct 2012 Location: Medina, OH Photos: Albums Posts: 7,224	Originally posted by Phii Mii mikeSF looking at your photos could turn anyone to think that it's worth the cost. Beautiful, wonderful photograph!

02-18-2013, 04:10 AM	#24
Bestzoom Senior Member Join Date: Aug 2011 Location: Sydney Photos: Albums Posts: 232	Originally posted by snake The FA31, even more so here, is not worth the price, especially when the Sigma 35 is going to be maybe 60% of the FA31 price, with the only advantage of the latter being the size and aperture ring in exchange for larger aperture and sharper performance from wide open. If the typical colour and look of Pentax is important to you, then get the FA31. I believe the difference is worth every penny of it. The smaller size is definitely a bonus comparing to the Sigma.

02-18-2013, 04:59 AM	#25
snake Banned Join Date: Jun 2012 Location: NY/Germany Posts: 1,183	Originally posted by Bestzoom If the typical colour and look of Pentax is important to you, then get the FA31. I believe the difference is worth every penny of it. The smaller size is definitely a bonus comparing to the Sigma. You're saying the FA35 doesn't have the "typical color"? The colors, aside from a below-negligible amount of contrast difference, were the one thing most people agreed on in those flawed comparisons between the FA35 and 31.

02-18-2013, 10:23 AM	#26
vodanh1982 Senior Member Join Date: Aug 2011 Posts: 126	35 1.4 test report Sigma AF 35mm f/1.4 DG HSM (Nikon FX) - Review / Test Report - Analysis

02-18-2013, 11:23 AM	#28
snake Banned Join Date: Jun 2012 Location: NY/Germany Posts: 1,183	Originally posted by Allison The OP isn't in Europe, so the price difference you are talking about does not apply. Also, the OP isn't not considering the FA35 - they are between a new FA31 and Sigma 35, so people in this thread just aren't considering the FA35. I have not experience with the FA35, but I do have the DA35 ltd...I like my 35...it has macro capabilities and is nice and compact. It also produces great photographs, but there is something special about the 31. Other threads refer to this as pixie dust. I didn't buy into this thinking until I got the fa limiteds, but I am hooked now...so much so that insipte of having a 35 and a 28 that I also have the 31. The OP didn't write this thread about the DA35. I also don't know what "isn't not" is.

02-18-2013, 12:11 PM	#29
Allison Veteran Member Join Date: Apr 2008 Location: Pittsburgh, PA Photos: Gallery \| Albums Posts: 667	Originally posted by snake The OP didn't write this thread about the DA35. I also don't know what "isn't not" is. I corrected the typo, sorry it happens when I am on an iPad. I only threw in my experience with the da35 as a reply to you, that part wasn't for the OP. I get that you are happy with your FA35 and that is great.

02-18-2013, 01:30 PM	#30
Zav Pentaxian Join Date: Feb 2009 Photos: Gallery Posts: 1,371	Originally posted by Phii Mii Well, I don't think I said that Sigma is a 31 killer but I claim that it's not worth the price. Where I live the 31 cost USD 2055 and Sigma USD 1265. But it may not be the same in other places? But if I didn't have to care about the cost at all I'd go for the 31. Or why not both As I said I don't own any of them and I don't have any plans of bying them. I have my DA*55 which I'll keep as 55mm fits me better than both 31 and 35mm. No you didn't say so but I would be interested to see a fair and honest comparison (without price consideration) to know if the 35 is a better piece of equipment.