Sony FE 24-70mm f/2.8 GM II: A Comprehensive Review of the New Standard Zoom
The Sony FE 24-70mm f/2.8 GM II lens has arrived, promising to redefine the standard zoom lens category. As the successor to the acclaimed Sony FE 24-70mm f/2.8 GM, the Mark II version aims to deliver even sharper images, faster autofocus, and a more compact and lightweight design. This review will delve into the lens’s key features, performance, and overall value, providing a detailed analysis for photographers considering this premium optic.
Introduction to the Sony FE 24-70mm f/2.8 GM II
The original Sony FE 24-70mm f/2.8 GM was a popular choice among professional and enthusiast photographers, known for its excellent image quality and versatile focal range. However, it wasn’t without its drawbacks, primarily its size and weight. The Sony FE 24-70mm f/2.8 GM II addresses these concerns while simultaneously enhancing performance in other crucial areas. Sony has clearly listened to user feedback and meticulously refined almost every aspect of this 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 (circular)
- Minimum Focus Distance: 0.21m (wide), 0.30m (tele)
- Maximum Magnification: 0.32x
- Filter Thread: 82mm
- Dimensions: 87.8 x 119.9 mm (3.5 x 4.7 inches)
- Weight: 695g (24.5 oz)
- Optical SteadyShot: No
- Dust and Moisture Resistance: Yes
Build Quality and Handling
The Sony FE 24-70mm f/2.8 GM II boasts a robust and weather-sealed construction, designed to withstand the rigors of professional use. The lens feels solid in hand, and the zoom and focus rings operate smoothly with just the right amount of resistance. A welcome addition is the aperture ring with a click switch, allowing photographers to choose between smooth, silent aperture adjustments for video or tactile clicks for precise control when shooting stills. The reduced weight compared to its predecessor is immediately noticeable and makes a significant difference during extended shooting sessions. This makes the Sony FE 24-70mm f/2.8 GM II a more comfortable and practical choice for photographers on the go.
Image Quality: Sharpness, Aberrations, and Bokeh
Image quality is where the Sony FE 24-70mm f/2.8 GM II truly shines. Sharpness is exceptional across the entire zoom range, even at the widest aperture of f/2.8. Corner-to-corner sharpness is significantly improved compared to the original GM lens. Chromatic aberration is well-controlled, thanks to the use of advanced lens elements. Distortion is also minimal, and any remaining distortion can be easily corrected in post-processing. The 11-blade circular aperture contributes to a beautifully smooth and creamy bokeh, making the lens ideal for portraits and shallow depth-of-field photography. The Sony FE 24-70mm f/2.8 GM II delivers images with exceptional clarity, detail, and pleasing aesthetics.
Autofocus Performance
The Sony FE 24-70mm f/2.8 GM II utilizes four XD (extreme dynamic) Linear Motors for autofocus, resulting in significantly faster and more accurate autofocus performance compared to the previous model. The lens locks onto subjects quickly and reliably, even in challenging lighting conditions. Tracking performance is also excellent, making it well-suited for capturing fast-moving subjects. The silent operation of the autofocus system is a bonus for video recording, ensuring clean audio without distracting motor noise. The improved autofocus system in the Sony FE 24-70mm f/2.8 GM II is a major upgrade that enhances the overall shooting experience.
Real-World Performance and Use Cases
The Sony FE 24-70mm f/2.8 GM II is a versatile lens that excels in a wide range of photographic applications. Its 24-70mm focal range makes it suitable for everything from landscape and architectural photography to portraiture and event coverage. The fast f/2.8 aperture allows for shallow depth-of-field effects and excellent low-light performance. The lens’s compact size and lightweight design make it a comfortable companion for travel and everyday shooting. Whether you’re a professional photographer shooting weddings or a hobbyist capturing family memories, the Sony FE 24-70mm f/2.8 GM II is a reliable and high-performing tool.
Compared to the Competition
The Sony FE 24-70mm f/2.8 GM II faces competition from other high-end standard zoom lenses, including the Sigma 24-70mm f/2.8 DG DN Art and the Tamron 28-75mm f/2.8 Di III VXD G2. While these lenses offer excellent performance at a lower price point, the Sony FE 24-70mm f/2.8 GM II stands out with its superior sharpness, faster autofocus, and more refined build quality. The Sigma offers a similar focal range and aperture, but is slightly larger and heavier. The Tamron is lighter and more compact, but its 28-75mm focal range might not be ideal for all users. Ultimately, the choice depends on individual priorities and budget, but the Sony FE 24-70mm f/2.8 GM II represents the pinnacle of standard zoom lens technology for Sony E-mount cameras.
Pros and Cons of the Sony FE 24-70mm f/2.8 GM II
Pros:
- Exceptional sharpness across the frame
- Fast and accurate autofocus
- Compact and lightweight design
- Robust build quality with weather sealing
- Beautifully smooth bokeh
- Aperture ring with click switch
Cons:
- Relatively high price
- No Optical SteadyShot (relies on in-body stabilization)
Who is the Sony FE 24-70mm f/2.8 GM II For?
The Sony FE 24-70mm f/2.8 GM II is ideal for professional photographers and serious enthusiasts who demand the best possible image quality and performance. It’s a versatile lens that can handle a wide range of shooting situations, making it a valuable addition to any Sony E-mount kit. While the price may be a barrier for some, the lens’s exceptional performance and build quality justify the investment for those who prioritize image quality and reliability. If you’re looking for the ultimate standard zoom lens for your Sony camera, the Sony FE 24-70mm f/2.8 GM II is an excellent choice.
Alternatives to the Sony FE 24-70mm f/2.8 GM II
While the Sony FE 24-70mm f/2.8 GM II is a top performer, several alternatives exist, each with its own strengths and weaknesses:
- Sigma 24-70mm f/2.8 DG DN Art: A more affordable option with excellent image quality, but slightly larger and heavier.
- Tamron 28-75mm f/2.8 Di III VXD G2: A lightweight and compact choice, but with a slightly narrower focal range.
- Sony FE 24-105mm f/4 G OSS: A versatile zoom lens with a longer reach and built-in image stabilization, but with a slower aperture.
- Sony FE 24-70mm f/2.8 GM (Original): Still a capable lens, available at a lower price point than the Mark II version.
Conclusion: Is the Sony FE 24-70mm f/2.8 GM II Worth It?
The Sony FE 24-70mm f/2.8 GM II is a significant upgrade over its predecessor, offering exceptional image quality, faster autofocus, and a more compact and lightweight design. While the price is undoubtedly high, the lens’s performance and versatility make it a worthwhile investment for professional photographers and serious enthusiasts. If you’re looking for the best standard zoom lens for your Sony E-mount camera and are willing to pay the premium, the Sony FE 24-70mm f/2.8 GM II is an outstanding choice. It sets a new benchmark for standard zoom lenses, delivering unmatched performance and reliability. The improvements in sharpness, autofocus, and handling make the Sony FE 24-70mm f/2.8 GM II a clear winner in its class. The Sony FE 24-70mm f/2.8 GM II is a testament to Sony’s commitment to innovation and excellence in lens design.
[See also: Sony Alpha 7 IV Review]
[See also: Best Sony Lenses for Portrait Photography]
[See also: Understanding Lens Aberrations]
