Sony FE 24-70mm F2.8 GM II Lens
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AI Verdict
This 1.5-pound, F2.8 constant aperture 24-70mm lens is for Sony Alpha shooters who need top-tier resolution and 4K video capabilities.
This lens is a strong fit for professional Sony Alpha users who demand uncompromised image quality, fast autofocus, and advanced video features in a compact, 1.5-pound package. Its F2.8 constant aperture and advanced optical design ensure sharp results across the zoom range, making it suitable for a wide array of demanding scenarios.
If you need even lighter weight or a wider aperture for extreme low light, consider a prime lens with an F1.4 or F1.8 aperture.
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Pros
- Lightest F2.8 24-70mm zoom in its class, weighing 1.5 pounds (695 g), over 20% lighter and 16mm shorter than the previous model.
- Maintains superb resolution and contrast even at F2.8 across the zoom range, due to two XA, two ED, and two Super ED glass elements.
- Fast, precise, and quiet autofocus with four XD Linear Motors, supporting up to 30 frames per second stills and 4K 120p video.
- Advanced lens design reduces focus breathing, focus shift, and axial shift for smooth movie imagery.
- Features a de-clickable aperture ring with an iris lock switch and a zoom smoothness switch for tactile control.
Cons
- Does not include optical image stabilization (OSS), relying on camera body IBIS.
- The premium price point is a common concern for many users.
- The 82mm filter thread requires purchasing larger, more expensive filters.
- Bokeh, while generally well-regarded, may not match the ultimate quality of top-end prime lenses.
Dimension Scores
Excellent contrast at high spatial frequencies means superb resolution even at F2.8, with two XA, two ED, and two Super ED glass elements controlling aberration, delivering fine details and high contrast across the frame.
Four XD Linear Motors and a floating focus mechanism achieve fast, precise, and quiet AF, supporting up to 30 frames per second stills and 4K 120p video with approximately 2x better tracking performance.
Advanced lens design reduces focus breathing, focus shift, and axial shift, with XD Linear Motors contributing to quiet, low-vibration operation for smooth movie imagery, and a de-clickable aperture ring.
Weighing 1.5 pounds (695 g), it's the lightest F2.8 24-70mm zoom in its class, over 20% lighter and 16mm shorter than the previous model.
Best For
- Professional photographers needing a lightweight, high-resolution standard zoom for full-frame Sony Alpha cameras.
- Videographers requiring minimal focus breathing, quiet AF, and de-clickable aperture for 4K 120p recording.
- Event and wedding photographers working in varied lighting conditions due to its constant F2.8 aperture.
Not Recommended For
- Budget-conscious photographers seeking an F2.8 standard zoom.
- Users prioritizing extreme low-light performance or specific artistic bokeh that only faster prime lenses (e.g., F1.2, F1.4) can provide.
- Photographers who require built-in optical image stabilization in the lens itself.
Watch Out For
- The 82mm filter thread means purchasing larger, more expensive filters for protection or creative effects.
- Lack of optical image stabilization (OSS) in the lens means reliance on a camera body with IBIS for shake reduction.
- Some users find that while sharp, it may not deliver the same ultimate image quality and bokeh as top-tier prime lenses.
- For extreme low-light scenarios like certain wedding receptions, the F2.8 aperture might not be sufficient for some videographers, leading them to consider faster prime lenses.
Full Specifications
| ASIN | B09YYY6P98 |
| Brand | Sony |
| Lens Type | Standard |
| Item Weight | 1.5 pounds |
| Manufacturer | Sony |
| Item model number | SEL2470GM2 |
| Product Dimensions | 8.39 x 5 x 5.51 inches |
| Compatible Mountings | Sony E |
| Camera Lens Description | Sony 24-70mm gm2 lens (Black) |
| Focal Length Description | 24-70mm |
What Buyers Say
Many users are blown away by the significant improvements over the previous model, particularly its reduced weight and size, making it far more comfortable for long shoots. The lens consistently delivers sharp images with beautiful bokeh, even wide open at F2.8, and its autofocus is praised for being fast and reliable for both stills and video. While the premium price is a frequent mention, most feel the performance justifies the cost.
“Dude, this lens is seriously a game-changer, I was worried about the price but it's so light and the pictures are just insane, like, I don't even miss my primes for most stuff now.”
Common Praise
- Noticeably lighter and more compact than its predecessor, making it comfortable for extended use.
- Exceptional sharpness and contrast across the entire zoom range, even at F2.8.
- Fast, accurate, and quiet autofocus, performing well with moving subjects and high frame rates.
- Beautiful, smooth bokeh, especially at wider apertures, due to the 11-blade diaphragm.
- De-clickable aperture ring and zoom smoothness switch offer enhanced control for both photo and video.
Common Complaints
- The high price point is a barrier for many potential buyers.
- Lack of optical image stabilization (OSS) means relying solely on camera body IBIS.
- Some users feel that while excellent, it doesn't quite match the ultimate low-light performance or bokeh of faster prime lenses.
- The 82mm filter size necessitates more expensive filters.
Ownership Tips
- The zoom smoothness switch is a surprisingly useful feature, allowing adjustment for different shooting styles.
- The de-clickable aperture ring is a huge plus for videographers, enabling silent aperture adjustments during recording.
- Despite being a zoom, many users find its image quality rivals some prime lenses, reducing the need to swap lenses frequently.
- The improved weather sealing provides confidence when shooting in challenging outdoor conditions.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this lens weather-sealed?
Yes, the Sony FE 24-70mm F2.8 GM II features a robust dust- and moisture-resistant design with rubber gaskets and a fluorine coating on the front element.
What is the filter thread size?
The filter thread size for this lens is 82mm.
How much lighter is it than the previous model?
It weighs 1.5 pounds (695 g), which is over 20% less and 16mm shorter than the previous model.
Does it have image stabilization?
No, this lens does not have built-in optical image stabilization (OSS); it relies on the in-body image stabilization (IBIS) of compatible Sony Alpha cameras.
Does it have an aperture ring?
Yes, it features a manual aperture ring with a click/de-click switch and an iris lock for flexible exposure control.
Is it good for video?
Yes, its advanced design minimizes focus breathing, focus shift, and axial shift, while XD Linear Motors provide quiet, low-vibration operation, making it highly suitable for smooth movie imagery.
Buying Guide
When looking at a standard zoom like this, you're balancing convenience with optical performance. A constant F2.8 aperture means consistent light gathering and depth of field control across the entire zoom range, which is crucial for low-light situations and subject separation. Pay attention to weight and size, as a lighter lens makes a huge difference during long shooting days or travel.
F2.8 Constant Aperture
This means the lens lets in the same amount of light at 24mm as it does at 70mm. It's like having a consistent 'window size' for light, which is important for shooting in dim conditions and getting that blurry background effect.
XD Linear Motors
These are the tiny engines inside the lens that move the focus elements. 'Extreme Dynamic' means they're designed for speed and precision, translating to super-fast and quiet autofocus that can keep up with fast-moving subjects.
XA (Extreme Aspherical) Elements
These are specially shaped glass elements that correct optical imperfections, making your images sharper from edge to edge and improving the quality of the background blur (bokeh).
Focus Breathing Reduction
This refers to the slight change in focal length that can occur when you adjust focus. For video, minimizing this means your shot won't appear to 'zoom in' or 'zoom out' subtly as you pull focus, keeping the framing consistent.
Alternatives
If this lens is outside your budget, look for F2.8 standard zooms from third-party manufacturers, or consider F4 constant aperture zooms if you can compromise on low-light performance and bokeh. If you prioritize ultimate low-light capability and shallow depth of field, explore faster prime lenses at specific focal lengths.
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