Finally pulled the trigger on a used SL2-S but I am totally broke now lol. I need a solid wide angle for a trip to Zion in two weeks and I cant spend more than $900. I am torn between the Sigma 20mm f1.4 Art and the Panasonic 18mm f1.8 prime. The Sigma looks amazing but it is so heavy for hiking all day and I am worried about the weight. The Panasonic is lighter but will it feel cheap on the Leica body? Or maybe I should just look at the Sigma 24mm f2 instead?
My needs:
- under $900
- mostly landscapes
- fast enough for astro
- lightweight for hiking
Which one should I grab?
Honestly, for hiking around Zion, skip the heavy glass. I have been super satisfied with the Panasonic Lumix S 18mm f1.8 on my SL2-S for a while now. It doesnt feel cheap in the hand even though its light, and the weather sealing works well for all that red dust. The weight savings are a lifesaver when you are climbing up to Angels Landing.
- Very light for all-day trekking
- f1.8 is fast enough for clean astro shots
- Sharp edge-to-edge for those big landscapes If you really want that all-metal Leica-like feel, the Sigma 24mm f2 DG DN Contemporary is a great alternative, but 18mm is much better for the scale of those canyons. I have no complaints with the Panasonic, its a solid workhorse for the price and fits your budget perfectly.
