Sony is updating its mirrorless lens ecosystem with two new launches: the Sony FE 16mm f1.8 G and the Sony FE 400-800 f6.3-8 G. The 400-800mm marks the longest focal range lens in Sony’s arsenal, right after the 600mm f4 GM, which the 16mm is a new addition in the wide-angle prime segment. Sony is known for its striking optical quality and build, so what will the new lenses offer photographers? Here is a quick look at the specs and price.
Sony 400-800mm Zoom
This is one of the highly anticipated lenses, especially considering how several manufacturers are focused on launching an 800mm lens. Both Nikon and Canon have their respective 800mm lenses, with Tamron and Sigma hoping to launch a new iteration. That only leaves Sony, but they have seemed to catch up to the demands. Here’s a look at the telephoto lens’ specs:
- 27 elements in 19 groups, 6 extra-low dispersion elements
- 11 round bladed diaphragm
- Minimum focusing distance 1.7m at 400mm
- Maximum magnification of 0.23x
- Internal focusing, 2 XD motors for fast autofocus and precise autofocus, and focus range limiter at 8m
- Dust and moisture resistant
- 105mm filter thread
- 119.8mm x 346mm
- 2475g
- Compatible with 1.4x and 2.0x teleconverters, making the focal length extend to 1,600mm
The 600mm f4 was one of the most expensive lenses by Sony, costing $13,000. In that regard, the 400-800mm has a possibility of becoming a go-to lens for sports and wildlife photographers if it manages to be priced under $5,000. This could be possible as the device is the G version and not GM, the latter being far more costly due to the optical finesse. Other cost-effective alternatives are the 300mm f2.8 GM, priced at $5,999, but again, it limits anyone looking for range.
As for the performance, we all know that Sony lenses are pretty great. What matters is how a great lens is priced, considering not many are able to purchase optics worth $5,000 or more. But if Sony is managing to achieve the best of both worlds with this release, then we certainly are on the right track.
Sony 16mm Prime
According to the press release, this 16mm f1.8 is actually designed to meet the demands of content creators, such as vloggers, as well as photographers who shoot landscapes, star trails, and architecture. The reason why the Sony lens caters to the former group is its light weight, compactness, and cinematic image quality. Here is a look at its specs:
- 15 elements in 12 groups, 2 advanced aspherical elements, 3 extra-low dispersion elements, and fluorine coating
- 11 round bladed diaphragm
- 2 XD motors for fast autofocus and precise autofocus
- Minimum focusing distance of 0.13m in manual mode and 0.15m in autofocus mode
- A magnification ratio of 0.25x in autofocus mode and 0.30x in manual mode
- Dust and moisture resistant
- Filter size of 67mm
- 73.8mm x 75mm
- 304g
Sony has primes such as 14mm, 20mm, 24mm, 35mm, and 40mm, but not a 16mm edition. The only full frame 16mm they have are the 16-35mm and a 12-24mm, if you are looking at a similar range. In that regard, a prime is a great addition for those who have compact lenses that they won’t often need to change from their camera bodies.
As for the performance aspect, we tested the 14mm f1.8 G in 2021, and it fared absolutely well in terms of its image quality, distortion control, as well as colors and build quality. However, the lens sat at $1,600, which is too expensive for some photographers. If the 16mm f1.8G is less than $1,000, then it may entice many photographers. While still expensive, we do believe that some would be ready to pay the price, especially hybrid shooters who need better focus breathing and fast AF speed.
To see the reviews of the 16mm and the 400-800mm, head to our website.