Sony FE 24-70mm f/2.8 GM II: A Comprehensive Review

The Sony FE 24-70mm f/2.8 GM II lens has been highly anticipated by professional photographers and enthusiasts alike. As the successor to the acclaimed 24-70mm f/2.8 GM, this new iteration promises improvements in almost every aspect, from image quality to handling. This review delves into the specifics of the Sony FE 24-70mm f/2.8 GM II, exploring its features, performance, and overall value in the competitive market of standard zoom lenses.

Overview of the Sony FE 24-70mm f/2.8 GM II

The Sony FE 24-70mm f/2.8 GM II is designed for full-frame Sony E-mount cameras. It aims to be the quintessential workhorse lens for a wide range of photographic applications, including portraiture, landscape, event photography, and even video. Sony has focused on making it smaller, lighter, and sharper than its predecessor, addressing common concerns raised by users of the original GM lens.

Key Features and Specifications

• Focal Length: 24-70mm
• Maximum Aperture: f/2.8
• Minimum Aperture: f/22
• Lens Construction: 20 elements in 15 groups
• Aperture Blades: 11, rounded
• Minimum Focus Distance: 0.21m (wide), 0.30m (tele)
• Maximum Magnification Ratio: 0.32x
• Filter Thread: 82mm
• Weight: 695g (24.5 oz)
• Dimensions: 87.8mm x 119.9mm (3.5 in x 4.7 in)

Build Quality and Handling

One of the most significant improvements in the Sony FE 24-70mm f/2.8 GM II is its size and weight. Compared to the original GM lens, the Mark II is noticeably smaller and lighter, making it much more comfortable to carry and use for extended periods. The lens feels robust and well-constructed, with a metal lens barrel and weather sealing to protect against dust and moisture. The zoom and focus rings are smooth and precise, offering excellent tactile feedback.

Ergonomics and Controls

The lens features a customizable focus hold button, an aperture ring with a click switch (which can be de-clicked for video use), and a zoom smoothness switch. The zoom smoothness switch allows users to adjust the zoom ring tension, offering either a smoother or tighter zoom experience depending on their preference. The aperture ring is a welcome addition, providing direct control over the aperture setting and enhancing the overall shooting experience.

Image Quality

Image quality is paramount in a lens of this caliber, and the Sony FE 24-70mm f/2.8 GM II delivers exceptional results. Sharpness is outstanding across the entire zoom range and aperture settings, with minimal drop-off in the corners. The lens utilizes advanced optical elements, including two ED (Extra-low Dispersion) elements, two Super ED elements, and three aspherical elements, to minimize chromatic aberration, distortion, and other optical imperfections.

Sharpness and Resolution

The sharpness of the Sony FE 24-70mm f/2.8 GM II is truly impressive. Center sharpness is excellent even at f/2.8, and corner sharpness is significantly improved compared to the original GM lens. Stopping down to f/5.6 or f/8 further enhances sharpness and detail, making it ideal for landscape and architectural photography.

Bokeh and Depth of Field

The 11-blade circular aperture contributes to smooth and pleasing bokeh, rendering out-of-focus areas beautifully. The f/2.8 aperture allows for shallow depth of field, making it suitable for portraiture and isolating subjects from the background. The bokeh is generally smooth and creamy, without harsh edges or distracting artifacts.

Distortion and Vignetting

Like most zoom lenses, the Sony FE 24-70mm f/2.8 GM II exhibits some distortion and vignetting, particularly at the wide end of the zoom range. However, these issues are well-controlled and can be easily corrected in post-processing using lens profiles. The in-camera corrections available in Sony cameras also help to minimize these imperfections.

Chromatic Aberration and Flare

Chromatic aberration is very well controlled, thanks to the advanced optical design of the lens. There is minimal fringing or color distortion, even in high-contrast situations. Flare resistance is also excellent, with minimal ghosting or flare artifacts when shooting into strong light sources. Sony’s Nano AR Coating II further reduces reflections and improves contrast.

Autofocus Performance

The Sony FE 24-70mm f/2.8 GM II features Sony’s XD (Extreme Dynamic) Linear Motors, which provide fast, accurate, and silent autofocus performance. The autofocus system is highly responsive and locks onto subjects quickly, even in challenging lighting conditions. It also supports advanced autofocus features such as Real-time Tracking and Eye AF, making it ideal for shooting moving subjects.

Autofocus Speed and Accuracy

The autofocus speed of the Sony FE 24-70mm f/2.8 GM II is noticeably faster than its predecessor. It locks onto subjects almost instantly, and the tracking performance is excellent. The lens is also very quiet during autofocus operation, making it suitable for video recording.

Manual Focus

The manual focus ring is smooth and precise, allowing for fine-tuning of focus. The lens also supports Linear Response MF, which provides a more natural and intuitive manual focus experience. The focus ring has a comfortable amount of resistance, making it easy to achieve accurate focus.

Video Performance

The Sony FE 24-70mm f/2.8 GM II is an excellent choice for video recording. Its fast aperture, sharp optics, and silent autofocus make it well-suited for a variety of video applications. The aperture ring can be de-clicked for smooth aperture adjustments during recording, and the zoom smoothness switch allows users to customize the zoom ring tension to their liking.

Breathing and Stabilization

Focus breathing is minimal, which is essential for maintaining a consistent field of view during focus adjustments. While the lens does not have built-in image stabilization, it works seamlessly with the in-body image stabilization (IBIS) systems found in many Sony cameras, providing stable and smooth footage.

Alternatives to the Sony FE 24-70mm f/2.8 GM II

While the Sony FE 24-70mm f/2.8 GM II is an outstanding lens, there are several alternatives to consider, depending on your budget and specific needs.

• Sony FE 24-70mm f/2.8 GM: The original GM lens is still a capable performer and can be found at a lower price point.
• Sigma 24-70mm f/2.8 DG DN Art: A popular third-party option that offers excellent image quality and build quality at a more affordable price.
• Tamron 28-75mm f/2.8 Di III VXD G2: Another excellent third-party option that is lightweight and compact, offering great value for the price. [See also: Tamron 28-75mm G2 Review]

Pros and Cons

Pros

• Exceptional sharpness and resolution
• Fast and accurate autofocus
• Compact and lightweight design
• Excellent build quality and weather sealing
• Smooth and pleasing bokeh

Cons

• Relatively expensive
• Some distortion and vignetting at the wide end (easily corrected)

Conclusion

The Sony FE 24-70mm f/2.8 GM II is a top-tier standard zoom lens that delivers exceptional image quality, fast autofocus, and a refined user experience. Its smaller and lighter design, combined with its outstanding optical performance, make it an excellent choice for professional photographers and enthusiasts who demand the best. While it comes at a premium price, the Sony FE 24-70mm f/2.8 GM II is a worthwhile investment for those seeking a versatile and high-performing lens for their Sony E-mount camera.

Whether you’re shooting portraits, landscapes, or events, the Sony FE 24-70mm f/2.8 GM II is a reliable and capable tool that will help you capture stunning images. Its combination of sharpness, bokeh, and autofocus performance make it a standout lens in its class.