Sigma 105mm f/2.8 vs Canon 60mm f/2.8

The prices are very similar, I just need to narrow down which is better relative to optics, sharpness, contrast, and anything else that makes a lens superior to another lens (setting working distance aside).

Thanks for the votes!

the sigma looks too funny when it focuses.

unless , you are really interested in shooting bugs , you better get the Canon.

Its working distance vs internal focus personally.

If your shooting insects the 105 will give you a better working distance but I'm not a big fan of the external focus. (I think the 60 is internal? someone correct me if I'm wrong).

Both will give stellar results.

I've had both and both are stunning lenses. Neither auto-focusses very well but that is OK with Macro as one tends to MF anyway. The Sigma hunts a tad more but the Canon does it as well. Both are very sharp and make great images. I would get the Canon again I think because the Sigma has an extending barrel which I don't tend to like unless no alternative. Great lens tho'. Another option is the new 70mm Sigma which is described as Sigma's sharpest lens and 'faultless' in the review here Dunno if the barrel extends on that one as never seen it.

I prefer a longer lens for macro - so if that is your main need then I'd suggest the sigma 105 over the 60mm lens - or even another option - the Tamron 90mm also gets excellent reviews. Internal focussing is great, but to get that you need the Canon 100mm

On a crop camera, if you also want the lens to double as a portrait lens, then the 60 is probabl;y better value - or the sigma 70mm macro, which also has the advantage of full-frame compatibility.

Old thread coming back.......

I wish to see more vote from this poll b/c I am wondering if the 60mm is a better choice than 105mm since I want dual purposes of Macro and Portrait on a 1.6 crop body.
Currently, I have the 105mm and love it for Macro but it is a bit long for portrait and big object shooting Macro from top view. Beside, I am thinking of instead of adding the 50mm F1.4 for Portrait then why not just replace the 105mm with 60mm to do both Portrait and Macro.
Please help me clearing my head. Thanks in advance.
Kevin

The Sigma 105 doesnt have any correction elements to it does tend to have pretty bad CA sometimes.

The Canon is going to be sharp and more contrastier.

I would HIGHY recommend either the Canon 60mm or the Sigma 70mm. They are both excellent macros. Thought im sure the Canon is going to focus faster.

The Canon can also do portraits. =)

Tiger, didnt see you post there!
I would have to say if you dont mind loosing the working distance the Canon will do you just fine!
As i said above, you could also give the Siggy 70mm a look as well.

Canon 60mm has way to much love from many Users which make me thinking give it a try. Thanks Ryan. Faster focus is a + for sure.

My personal recommendation for macro at <$500 would be a used Sigma EX 150mm f/2.8. I absolutely loved mine to death and only sold after I upgraded to the 100L. It has almost as long a working distance as you can get with macro, is super sharp with good colors, built well, internal focus. I got one for $525 with a 72mm hoya UV Pro1 filter. I bet if you put a WTB ad up and hold firm at $500 max with a little patience you could score one.

Dr Yeti is quite right. In terms of IQ the Sigma 150mm macro is a much better competitor for the Canon 60mm macro. However, AOV is another matter completely, so for APS-C bodies I'd go with the Canon.