15 Best Sony Full-Frame (FE) Lenses in 2023

Welcome to my guide to the best FE lenses for Sony’s full-frame E-mount mirrorless cameras in 2023.

Sony currently has over 40 native full-frame E-mount lenses on the market and there are many more from third parties like Tamron and Sigma.

To save you the trouble I’ve picked 15 of the best Sony E-mount lenses available today and summarised them in this article.

If you’d like to view all of the E-mount lenses available then please visit my Complete List of Sony E-mount Lenses where I also list the latest firmware update for each lens.

Full-Frame (FE) Lenses Compatibility

Just to be clear, Sony full-frame lenses which are abbreviated FE are compatible with Sony’s full-frame and APS-C mirrorless cameras that utilize Sony’s E-mount system.

Native E-mount lenses from Sony typically offer the best autofocus performance, although Tamron are not far behind and Sigma’s offerings are also pretty impressive. But if AF performance is important to you then it’s best to stick with native glass.

15 Best FE Lenses

With over one hundred E-mount lenses to choose from including E-mount lenses from third-parties, buying a lens for your Alpha camera can be a little overwhelming.

To help you out I’ve narrowed down 15 of the best lenses available today, including some third-party lenses that should definitely not be overlooked.

Please visit my Complete Sony E-Mount Lenses List if you’d like to see every E-mount lens available.

1. Sony FE 16-35mm F2.8 GM

On August 29th, 2023 Sony released a Mark II version of this lens. See my Sony FE 16-35 F2.8 GM vs GM II for further details.

The Sony FE 16-35mm f/2.8 GM is one of the best wide-angle zoom lenses that you could attach to your Sony Alpha camera.

This lens is a great choice for landscape, astro, real estate, architectural, and many other forms of photography where a wider perspective is required.

The lens is constructed of 16 elements in 13 groups and the build quality is excellent, it’s also weather sealed against dust and moisture. It is fairly heavy though and tips the scales at 24 oz. / 680 g.

The 11 circular aperture blades delivers ultra-smooth bokeh and beautiful sunstars, focusing is fast and silent, and the sharpness is excellent across the frame.

I used to own this lens myself but with a growing family I have very little time for landscape photography so I sold it to help towards purchasing the Sony a1.

Key Specs

Model Name:	SEL1635GM
Format:	35 mm full frame
Focal Length (mm):	16-35 mm
Angle of View (35 mm):	107°–63°
Maximum Aperture:	F2.8
Minimum Aperture:	F22
Lens Groups / Elements:	13–16
Aperture Blades:	11 circular
Minimum Focusing Distance:	0.92 ft (0.28 m)
Maximum Magnification Ratio:	0.19x
Lens Image Stabilization:	No
Filter Diameter:	82 mm
Diameter:	3-1/2″ / 88.5 mm
Length:	4-7/8″ / 121.6 mm
Weight:	24 oz. / 680 g

Pros

• Excellent sharpness across the frame
• Beautiful sunstars
• Very little coma and distortion
• Well controlled chromatic aberration

Cons

• Weight
• Price

What’s in the Box

• Sony FE 16-35mm F2.8 GM lens
• Hood (model): ALC-SH149
• Lens front cap: ALC-F82S
• Lens rear cap: ALC-R1EM
• Case

Review

To learn more about this lens you can read our review from Nick Hanson or alternatively watch this review from Christopher Frost:

2. Sony FE 24mm F1.4 GM

With the creation of the Sony FE 24mm F1.4 GM lens Sony really knocked the ball out of the park and proved that an exceptionally high quality lens needn’t be the size of a bus or the weight of an elephant.

This lens is constructed of 13 elements in 10 groups and is extremely well built, as it should be for a G Master (GM) lens. It’s also weather sealed against dust and moisture and weighs in at only 15.7 oz (445 g).

On the lens itself you will find a focus hold button that can be customized, an AF on/off switch, an aperture selection ring and a click on/off switch for the aperture ring.

This lens is extremely sharp across the frame even when wide open at its maximum aperture of f/1.4. Distortion is well controlled as is the coma making this a great lens for astro photography.

The bokeh is silky smooth and possibly the best of all the current 24mm f/1.4 lenses available. Autofocus is fast, quiet and super accurate.

24mm is an excellent focal length for many subjects including: architecture, wedding and event photography, street photography, astrophotography and even environmental portraits.

I also own this lens myself and it would be one of the last lenses that I’d sell if I ever needed the money.

Key Specs

Model Name:	SEL24F14GM
Format:	35 mm full frame
Focal Length (mm):	24 mm
Angle of View (35 mm):	84°
Maximum Aperture:	F1.4
Minimum Aperture:	F16
Lens Groups / Elements:	10-13
Aperture Blades:	11 circular
Minimum Focusing Distance:	0.79 ft (0.24 m)
Maximum Magnification Ratio:	0.17x
Lens Image Stabilization:	No
Filter Diameter:	67 mm
Diameter:	3″ / 75.4 mm
Length:	3 3/4″ / 92.4 mm
Weight:	15.7 oz. / 445 g

Pros

• Very sharp across the frame wide open
• Beautiful bokeh
• Size & weight
• Aperture ring
• Fast autofocus

Cons

• Strong vignetting wide open
• Flare resistance

What’s in the Box

• Sony FE 24mm F1.4 GM lens
• Hood (model): ALC-SH154
• Lens front cap: ALC-F67S
• Lens rear cap: ALC-R1EM
• Case

Review

To learn more about the Sony FE 24mm F1.4 GM lens I’d recommending watching this excellent review from Dustin Abbott.

And if you enjoy astrophotography then this review from Alyn Wallace is a must watch.

3. Sony FE 24-70mm F2.8 GM II

The Sony FE 24-70mm F2.8 GM II is one of the very few zoom lenses that can keep up optically with many of the best prime lenses.

Constructed from 20 elements in 15 groups, this is also a very well built and weather sealed lens. The 11 bladed circular aperture helps to create a silky smooth bokeh that will really make your subjects pop.

Four of Sony’s original XD (extreme dynamic) Linear Motors help to achieve very high autofocus precision and approximately 2x better tracking performance while zooming than the previous Mark I lens.

Weighing just 24.6 oz (695 g) this updated Mark II lens is an incredible 6.74 oz (191 g) lighter than its predecessor the Mark I.

On the lens body itself you’ll find a customizable focus hold button, a separate focus, zoom and de-clickable aperture ring, an iris lock switch, AF/MF switch and a zoom smoothness switch.

Sharpness is outstanding throughout the entire zoom range at all apertures and chromatic aberrations are well controlled too.

Whether shooting landscapes, weddings, sports, or portraits, this lens will handle pretty much everything that you can possibly throw at it and more.

I don’t own this lens myself yet, but if I win the lottery it would be one of my first purchases.

Key Specs

Model Name:	SEL2470GM2
Format:	35 mm full frame
Focal Length (mm):	24-70 mm
Angle of View (35 mm):	84°-34°
Maximum Aperture:	F2.8
Minimum Aperture:	F22
Lens Groups / Elements:	15-20
Aperture Blades:	11 circular
Minimum Focusing Distance:	0.21 ft. (W)-0.3 ft. (T) 0.69 m (W)-0.99 m (T)
Maximum Magnification Ratio:	0.32 x
Lens Image Stabilization:	No
Filter Diameter:	82
Diameter:	3-1/2″ / 87.8 mm
Length:	3-1/2″ / 119.9 mm
Weight:	24.6 oz. / 695 g

Pros

• Size and weight
• Build quality and weather sealing
• Fantastic autofocus
• Excellent resolution and contrast throughout the zoom range
• Near perfect center and mid-frame sharpness

Cons

• Very expensive
• Some distortion and vignette

What’s in the Box

• Sony FE 24-70mm F2.8 GM II lens
• Lens hood: ALC-SH168
• Lens front cap: ALC-F82S
• Lens rear cap: ALC-R1EM Lens
• Case

Review

To learn more about this excellent lens I’d recommend watching this brilliant review from Gerald Undone.

4. Sony FE 24-105mm F4 G OSS

If you are looking for a great all-rounder then the Sony FE 24-105mm f/4 G OSS lens definitely ticks this box.

It’s the perfect choice for travel, landscape, or even events photography.

The lens is sharp from 24mm all the way up to 105mm even when you are shooting wide open at f/4. If you like MTF charts then Roger Cicala has some over at LensRentals.com.

The lens is constructed from 17 elements in 14 groups and built extremely well. The 9 bladed circular aperture helps to produce nice soft backgrounds that will help your subjects to standout.

On the lens body itself you’ll find a customizable focus hold button, separate focus and zoom rings, an AF/MF switch and a Steady Shot On/Off switch.

The autofocus is fast, accurate and very quiet. It also has optical stabilization built into the lens.

This is one of the best if not the best 24-105 zoom lens on the market today and it would be in my bag today if I had the spare cash.

Key Specs

Model Name:	SEL24105G
Format:	35 mm full frame
Focal Length (mm):	24-105 mm
Angle of View (35 mm):	84°-23°
Maximum Aperture:	F4
Minimum Aperture:	F22
Lens Groups / Elements:	14-17
Aperture Blades:	9 circular
Minimum Focusing Distance:	1.25 ft (0.38 m)
Maximum Magnification Ratio:	0.31x
Lens Image Stabilization:	Yes
Filter Diameter:	77
Diameter:	3-3/8″ / 83.4 mm
Length:	4-1/2″ / 113.3 mm
Weight:	23.4 oz. / 663 g

Pros

• Useful focal range
• Excellent sharpness across the frame
• Chromatic aberrations and flare well controlled
• Quiet and fast autofocus

Cons

• Expensive
• No zoom lock switch

What’s in the Box

• Sony FE 24-105mm F4 G OSS lens
• Lens hood: ALC-SH152
• Lens front cap: ALC-F77S
• Lens rear cap: ALC-R1EM
• Case

Review

To learn more about the Sony FE 24-105mm F4 G OSS lens I’d recommend this in-depth review by Dustin Abbott.

5. Tamron 28-75mm F2.8 Di III VXD G2

Tamron enjoyed so much success with their 28-75mm F2.8 Di III RXD lens that they decided to introduce a Mark II version sooner rather than later.

It appears that Tamron is trying very hard not to tread on Sony’s toes my introducing a unique 28-75mm focal length instead of going with the standard 24-70.

The lens is constructed of 17 elements in 5 groups and there’s a 9 bladed circular aperture. Despite the very attractive price this lens is still extremely well built, it’s also weather sealed.

It shares the same 67 mm filter thread like many of Tamron’s other Sony E-mount lenses, which saves you the trouble and cost of purchasing multiple filters.

The lens delivers a very strong optical performance throughout zoom range, there’s also excellent contrast and control of chromatic aberrations.

The VXD focus motor is both fast and quiet. However, like with many of Tamron’s lenses there is no stabilization built into the lens so you’ll need to rely on your cameras IBIS (in-body stabilization). Thankfully the Sony a7III does have IBIS which offers 5 stops of stabilization.

If you are looking for a more affordable alternative to the rather expensive Sony 24-70 F2.8 GM II lens then this is the lens to take a much closer look at.

Key Specs

Model Name:	A063S
Format:	35 mm full frame
Focal Length (mm):	28-75 mm
Angle of View (35 mm):	75°23′-32°11′
Maximum Aperture:	F2.8
Minimum Aperture:	F22
Lens Groups / Elements:	5-17
Aperture Blades:	9 circular
Minimum Focusing Distance:	0.59 ft / 0.18 m (wide angle), 1.25 ft / 0.38 m (telephoto)
Maximum Magnification Ratio:	1:2.7 (Wide angle), 1:4,1 (Telephoto)
Lens Image Stabilization:	No
Filter Diameter:	67 mm
Diameter:	3.10″ / 78.8 mm
Length:	4.63″ / 117.6 mm
Weight:	19.05 oz. / 540 g

Pros

• Very good build quality and handling
• Advanced weather sealing with 8 seal points
• Fast and quiet VXD focus motor
• Strong optical performance throughout zoom range
• Exceptional contrast
• Excellent control of chromatic aberrations
• Nice looking bokeh
• Price

Cons

• Limited 28mm wide-end
• A little color fringing

What’s in the Box

• Tamron 28-75mm F2.8 Di III VXD G2 lens
• Lens cap
• Lens hood

Review

To learn more about the Tamron 28-75mm F2.8 Di III VXD G2 lens I’d strongly recommend watching this review from Chris and Jordan at DPReview.

6. Sony FE 35mm F1.4 GM

There’s certainly no shortage of 35 mm lens options in Sony’s E-mount line-up, but if you want the best and money is no object then the Sony FE 35mm F1.4 GM is the best choice.

This lens has been created for both stills and video shooters and features Sony’s de-clickable aperture ring and a programmable focus hold button for multiple custom functions.

The lens is very well built and constructed of 10 groups and 14 elements. The 11 circular aperture blades help to create a beautifully soft bokeh and the lens is weather sealed at all of the important points.

Two XD Extreme Dynamic Linear motors provide fast, quiet and very precise subject tracking.

This lens delivers excellent sharpness at f/1.4 across the frame, has good flare resistance and coma handling, and also low chromatic aberrations.

If you are looking for a 35mm full frame lens then this is definitely the one to take a much closer look at.

Key Specs

Model Name:	SEL35F14GM
Format:	35 mm full frame
Focal Length (mm):	35 mm
Angle of View (35 mm):	63°
Maximum Aperture:	F1.4
Minimum Aperture:	F16
Lens Groups / Elements:	10-14
Aperture Blades:	11 circular
Minimum Focusing Distance:	0.89 ft (AF), 0.82 ft (MF) (0.27 m (AF), 0.25 m (MF))
Maximum Magnification Ratio:	x 0.23 (AF) x 0.26 (MF)
Lens Image Stabilization:	No
Filter Diameter:	67 mm
Diameter:	3″ / 76 mm
Length:	3.88″ / 96 mm
Weight:	18.5 oz. / 524 g

Pros

• Small size and weight
• Great build quality and weather sealing
• Fast, quiet, and accurate autofocus
• Excellent sharpness at f/1.4 across the frame
• Beautifully bokeh
• Low chromatic aberrations
• Good flare resistance and coma handling

Cons

• Expensive
• Some focus breathing

What’s in the Box

• Sony FE 35mm F1.4 GM lens
• Lens hood: ALC-SH164
• Lens front cap: ALC-F67S
• Lens rear cap: ALC-R1EM
• Soft case

Review

If you’d like to learn more about the Sony FE 35mm F1.4 GM lens then this review from Gerald Undone is worth a watch.

7. Sigma 70mm F2.8 DG Macro Art

The Sigma 70mm F2.8 DG Macro lens was one of the first SLR lenses that Sigma decided to adapt to Sony E-mount, so this lens has not been built from the ground up for mirrorless cameras like some of their newer lenses.

The build quality is typical of Sigma’s ART Series and it’s very hard to find anything to complain about here.

Despite adapting this lens the optical quality is excellent and the colors it produces straight out of the camera are very pleasing indeed. Images are very sharp across the frame, chromatic aberration is well controlled as is distortion.

The autofocus motor unfortunately doesn’t get the same amount of love as the optical elements of this lens as it’s both slow and rather noisy. Still, I prefer to manual focus most of the time for macro photography and with the help of focus peaking the slow noisy AF isn’t really a problem.

Unlike the Sony 90mm F2.8 G lens the Sigma does extend as you focus but never past the lens hood. The minimum focusing distance is just 0.25m from the sensor so you will need to get pretty close to your subject for 1:1 shots, which might mean that your subject flies off before you hit the shutter button.

If the Sony FE 90mm F2.8 Macro G OSS lens is a little too expensive for you, then this lens is definitely worth considering.

Key Specs

Model Name:	A018
Format:	35 mm full frame
Focal Length (mm):	70 mm
Angle of View (35 mm):	34.3°
Maximum Aperture:	F2.8
Minimum Aperture:	F22
Lens Groups / Elements:	10-13
Aperture Blades:	9 circular
Minimum Focusing Distance:	0.84 ft (0.258 m)
Maximum Magnification Ratio:	1.0x
Lens Image Stabilization:	No
Filter Diameter:	49mm
Diameter:	2.8″ / 70.8mm
Length:	5.2″ / 131.8mm
Weight:	20.1 oz. / 570 g

Pros

• Extremely sharp
• Color rendition
• Chromatic aberration control
• Build quality
• Low price

Cons

• Autofocus slow and noisy
• Extends on focus

What’s in the Box

• Sigma 70mm f/2.8 DG Macro Art Lens for Sony E
• Sigma LCF-49 III 49mm Lens Cap
• Sigma LCR II Rear Lens Cap for Sony E
• Sigma LH708-01 Lens Hood
• Lens Case
• Limited 1-Year Manufacturer Warranty

Review

If you’d like to learn more about the Sigma 70mm F2.8 DG Macro Art lens then this review from Stefan Malloch is worth a watch.

8. Sony FE 90mm F2.8 Macro G OSS

Despite being called a macro lens, the Sony FE 90mm f/2.8 Macro G OSS lens is also an excellent portrait lens and one of the sharpest lenses that Sony has ever built.

DxOMark reviewed this lens and said that its outstanding. It also scored higher marks than both the Canon and Nikon equivalents.

It is very hard to find fault with this lens but if I’m being very picky then AF performance could be faster and the manual focus ring adjustments could be finer for more precision.

The lens is constructed from 15 elements in 11 groups and has a 9 bladed circular aperture.

Being a macro lens it offers a magnification ratio of 1.0x and a minimum focussing distance of 0.92 ft (0.28 m). This lens also has optical stabilization built in.

For shooting portraits this lens is ridiculously sharp. So if you don’t want to show every spot, blemish and wrinkle on your model this lens probably shouldn’t be your first choice for portrait work.

Hopefully my mum won’t mind me posting this photo of her 🙂

If you are looking for a dedicated macro lens, or a lens that can combine both macro and portrait photography roles, then look no further than the 90mm F2.8 Macro G OSS lens.

I own this lens myself and love using it for macro work and the odd portrait.

Key Specs

Model Name:	SEL90M28G
Format:	35 mm full frame
Focal Length (mm):	90 mm
Angle of View (35 mm):	27°
Maximum Aperture:	F2.8
Minimum Aperture:	F22
Lens Groups / Elements:	11/15
Aperture Blades:	9 circular
Minimum Focusing Distance:	0.92 ft (0.28 m)
Maximum Magnification Ratio:	1.0x
Lens Image Stabilization:	Yes
Filter Diameter:	62 mm
Diameter:	3-1/8″ / 79mm
Length:	5-1/4″ / 130.5 mm
Weight:	21.3 oz. / 602 g

Pros

• Incredible sharpness at all apertures
• Excellent color rendition
• Chromatic aberrations are well controlled
• very well built
• Price

Cons

• Autofocus isn’t the fastest
• Manual focus could allow for finer adjustments

What’s in the Box

• Sony FE 90mm F2.8 Macro G OSS lens
• Lens hood: ALC-SH138
• Lens front cap
• Lens rear cap
• Case

Review

If you’d like to learn more about the Sony FE 90mm F2.8 Macro G OSS lens then this review from Pav is well worth watching.

9. Sony FE 135mm F1.8 GM

Roger Cicala from LensRentals.com tested the Sony FE 135mm F1.8 GM lens and said: “This is the sharpest lens we’ve tested. Period. (At last count, that’s out of 300+ lenses tested.)

Roger isn’t the only person to praise this lens, many reviewers are saying that this is the sharpest lens that they have ever laid hands on as well.

Thankfully it’s not only sharpness where this lens shines, it also displays minimum chromatic aberrations, very low distortion and vignetting.

The autofocus motors are also extremely fast making this lens a great choice for sports and action photographers as well as portrait shooters.

Constructed from 13 elements in 10 groups with a 11 bladed circular aperture, this is a very well built and weather sealed lens.

On the lens body itself you’ll find a customizable focus hold button, separate focus and zoom rings, an aperture ring, an aperture click on/off switch, an AF/MF switch and a focus limiter switch.

There’s no stabilization built in but with a maximum aperture of F1.8 you’ll be able to increase your shutter speed and freeze the action without bumping up the ISO too much.

If this is a focus range that you shoot at often then it’s well worth taking a closer look at this lens.

Key Specs

Model Name:	SEL135F18GM
Format:	35 mm full frame
Focal Length (mm):	135 mm
Angle of View (35 mm):	18°
Maximum Aperture:	F1.8
Minimum Aperture:	F22
Lens Groups / Elements:	10–13
Aperture Blades:	11 circular
Minimum Focusing Distance:	2.3 ft (0.7 m)
Maximum Magnification Ratio:	0.25x
Lens Image Stabilization:	No
Filter Diameter:	82 mm
Diameter:	3-5/8″ / 89.5 mm
Length:	5″ / 127 mm
Weight:	33.6 oz. / 950 g

Pros

• Very high build quality
• Extremely fast and accurate autofocus
• Excellent sharpness and contrast across the frame
• Lovely bokeh and color rendition
• Weather sealing

Cons

• Pretty expensive
• Prone to flare in some situations

What’s in the Box

• Sony FE 135mm F1.8 GM lens
• Hood (model): ALC-SH156
• Lens front cap: ALC-F82S
• Lens rear cap: ALC-R1EM
• Case

Review

To learn more about the Sony FE 135mm F1.8 GM I’d recommend watching this review form Dustin Abbott.

10. Sony FE 70-200mm F2.8 GM OSS II

The Sony FE 70-200mm F2.8 GM OSS Mark II lens offers significant improvements over its Mark I predecessor, both optically and physically.

It still maintains the excellent internal zoom design which makes handling this lens such a pleasure, but somehow Sony has also managed to shave an incredible 15.34 oz / 435 g off the weight, which makes it around 29% lighter than the Mark I.

Four of Sony’s original XD (extreme dynamic) Linear Motors boost AF speed by up to 4x compared to the previous model. When tracking a short-distance runner, for example, tracking while zooming is improved by approx. 30% compared to the previous model.

The Mark II lens features new video features including: reduced focus breathing, focus shift when zooming, and axis shift when zooming.

On the lens body you’ll find independent control rings for focus, zoom, aperture with a click on/off switch for the aperture ring and an iris lock. There’s also a full-time DMF on/off switch, a focus-range limiter, Mode 1, Mode 2, and Mode 3 optical image stabilisation, and AF/MF switch.

Optically the lens delivers exceptional sharpness and contrast throughout the zoom range, low distortion and vignette and stunning bokeh.

This lens also supports Sony’s 1.4x and 2x teleconverters. If you’d like to see how well it performs with the 2x teleconverter attached then head over to my Sony 100-400 vs Sony 70-200 F2.8 GM II + 2x Comparison.

I own both the Mark I and Mark II versions of this lens and can confidently say that the Mark II is a significant improvement over the Mark I and worth the extra dollars that it costs.

Key Specs

Model Name:	SEL70200GM2
Format:	35 mm full frame
Focal Length (mm):	70-200 mm
Angle of View (35 mm):	34°-12° 30′
Maximum Aperture:	F2.8
Minimum Aperture:	F22
Lens Groups / Elements:	14-17
Aperture Blades:	11 circular
Minimum Focusing Distance:	0.4 – 0.82 m (1.32 – 2.69 ft)
Maximum Magnification Ratio:	0.3 x
Lens Image Stabilization:	Yes
Filter Diameter:	77 mm
Diameter:	3-1/2″ / 88 mm
Length:	7-7/8″ / 200 mm
Weight:	36.9 oz. / 1045 g (Without tripod mount)

Pros

• 29% lighter than the MK 1 lens
• Great build quality and weather sealing
• Fantastic autofocus
• Compatible with Sony’s 1.4x and 2x teleconverters
• Exceptional resolution and contrast throughout the zoom range
• Lovely bokeh
• Low distortion and vignette
• Flare resistance

Cons

• Expensive
• Tripod foot not Arca-compatible

What’s in the Box

• Sony FE 70-200mm F2.8 GM OSS II lens
• Tripod collar Lens hood: ALC-SH167
• Lens front cap: ALC-F77S
• Lens rear cap: ALC-R1EM
• Lens case

Review

If you would like to learn more about the Sony FE 70-200mm F2.8 GM OSS II lens then I’d highly recommend this excellent review from Gerald Undone.

I’ve also compared the autofocus performance of this lens with the 2x teleconverter attached to the Sony FE 100-400 GM lens in this video.

Visit my Sony 100-400 vs 70-200 F2.8 GM II with 2x article for my in-depth comparison.

11. Tamron 70-180mm F2.8 Di III VXD

The Tamron 70-180mm F2.8 Di III VXD lens is a great lower cost alternative to the Sony 70-200 F2.8 GM II lens.

Constructed of 19 elements in 14 groups and a 6 blade circular aperture, this lens is also weather sealed against dust and moisture.

It weighs just 28.57 oz (810 g) making it 8.29 oz / 235 g lighter than the Sony 70-200 F2.8 GM II lens.

A lot of these weight savings come down to the reduced telephoto end of 180mm compared to 200mm of the Sony lens, it also has no stabilization built into the lens and does not support teleconverters.

The autofocus however is fast, accurate and quiet and the lens delivers very good sharpness across the frame.

On the lens body you’ll find a focus and zoom ring and a zoom lock switch but that’s it. Compared to the Sony lens it’s an extremely basic lens when it comes to the lens controls. The filter thread is 67 mm like many of Tamron’s E-mount lenses.

I’m also fortunate to own this lens and for the price it really is hard to beat. If you don’t want to spend big on the Sony then I don’t think you will have any regrets purchasing this lens.

Key Specs

Model Name:	A056S
Format:	35 mm full frame
Focal Length (mm):	70-180 mm
Angle of View (35 mm):	34°21′ -13°42′
Maximum Aperture:	F2.8
Minimum Aperture:	F22
Lens Groups / Elements:	14-19
Aperture Blades:	6 circular
Minimum Focusing Distance:	AF: 2.78 ft / 0.85m (Full zoom range), MF: 0.88 ft / 0.27m (Wide), AF: 2.78 ft / 0.85m (Full zoom range)
Maximum Magnification Ratio:	AF: 1:4.6 (Tele), MF: 1:2 (Wide), 1:4.6 (Tele)
Lens Image Stabilization:	No
Filter Diameter:	67 mm
Diameter:	3.19″ / 81 mm
Length:	5.86″ / 149 mm
Weight:	28.57 oz. / 810 g

Pros

• Small and light
• Weather sealed
• Fast and accurate autofocus
• Very good sharpness across the frame
• Good color rendition
• Good chromatic aberration control
• Good bokeh
• Excellent price

Cons

• 20mm shorter focal length than the Sony 70-200 lenses
• No Stabilization so relies on camera IBIS if available
• Lack of physical controls
• No teleconverter support

What’s in the Box

• Tamron 70-180mm f/2.8 Di III VXD Lens for Sony E
• Tamron SP Front Lens Cap (67mm)
• Rear Lens Cap
• Lens Hood

Review

To learn more about the Tamron 70-180mm F2.8 Di III VXD lens this review from Dustin Abbott is worth watching.

12. Sony FE F4.5-5.6 100-400mm G Master

I purchased the Sony FE F4.5-5.6 100-400mm G Master on the first day that it was released and it has probably spent more time attached to my cameras than any other lens I own, well at least it did until I bought the Sony FE 200-600mm F5.6-6.3 G OSS lens.

Being a GM lens the build quality is excellent and despite its focal length it weighs in at only 1395 g (49.21 oz.) and measures 205 mm (8.07 in.) in length. This makes it a very good option for travelling with and I did just that when I took this lens to Borneo for a couple of weeks (my Borneo adventure).

The lens is weather sealed against dust and moisture and I had no issues with condensation even in Borneo which was extremely hot and humid.

Sharpness across the frame is excellent and DxOMark rate this as the sharpest lens in the 100-400mm focal range.

The lens is compatible with both the Sony FE 1.4x and 2.0x teleconverters, helping to extend its reach up to 560mm with the 1.4x and up to 800mm with the 2x.

The autofocus is fast, accurate and virtually silent and the lens also features optical image stabilization built-in with 2 panning modes.

On the lens body you’ll find both a focus and zoom ring, there’s also a zoom smoothness adjuster that provides mechanical control of zoom ring torque. Unfortunately there is no zoom lock switch and this lens can creep when pointing towards the ground.

You will also find an array of switches on the side of the lens which include: AF/MF switch, AF distance limiter to reduce focus searching to 3 meters and greater, OSS (Optical Steady Shot) on and off switch which also overrides the build in IBIS of your camera if present, and the panning mode switch.

This really is the best 100-400mm zoom lens available for Sony E-mount today. An alternative would be the Sigma 100-400 but the autofocus speed and tracking stickiness lags behind by quite some distance.

Key Specs

Model Name:	SEL100400GM
Format:	35 mm full frame
Focal Length (mm):	100-400 mm
Angle of View (35 mm):	24°-6°10′
Maximum Aperture:	F4.5-5.6
Minimum Aperture:	F32-40
Lens Groups / Elements:	16-22
Aperture Blades:	9 circular
Minimum Focusing Distance:	3.22 ft / 0.98 m
Maximum Magnification Ratio:	0.35x
Lens Image Stabilization:	Yes (2 modes)
Filter Diameter:	77 mm
Teleconverter Support:	Yes: 1.4x / 2x
Diameter:	3-3/4″ / 93.9 mm
Length:	8-1/8″ / 205 mm
Weight:	49.21 oz. / 1395 g (without tripod mount)

Pros

• Very sharp from 100mm to 400mm
• Fast and silent autofocus
• Well controlled vignetting and chromatic aberration
• Pleasing bokeh
• Well balanced
• Dust and moisture resistance
• Zoom ring tension adjustment
• Flare resistance

Cons

• Focus ring is too loose
• Expensive

What’s in the Box

• Hood (model): ALC-SH151
• Lens front cap: ALC-F77S
• Lens rear cap: ALC-R1EM
• Case
• Tripod mount

Review

If you’d like to learn more about the Sony FE F4.5-5.6 100-400mm G Master lens then you’ll find my complete review here. This review from Jay is also worth a watch.

13. Sony FE 200-600mm F5.6-6.3 G OSS

The Sony FE 200-600mm F5.6-6.3 G OSS lens is an exceptional telephoto lens for wildlife and sports photographers.

With a focal range of 200-600mm and a maximum aperture of f/6.3 at 600mm this lens will help you to get closer to wildlife than ever before. If 600mm is not long enough then you can also add the 1.4x or 2.0x teleconverters.

Constructed of 24 elements in 17 groups this is a big lens and it weighs 74.7 oz (2,115 g) without tripod mount and is 318mm in length. It’s also weather sealed and has 3 mode image stabilization built-in.

It’s an internal zoom lens which really helps with the balance and a short zoom throw makes going from 200mm to 600mm a breeze.

On the lens body you’ll find a focus and zoom ring, a focus limiter switch, AF/MF switch, Steady Shot on/off switch, mode 1/2/3 OS switch and a customizable focus hold button.

The tripod foot is also removable so you can replace it with something more practical like the Kirk LP-68 (B&H Photo) that includes an arca-swiss plate.

At 600mm this lens is sharper than the Sony FE 100-400 + 1.4x is at 560mm. At 400mm this lens is also a touch sharper than the 100-400 which considering it’s a G lens and not a GM lens is really quite something.

Since owning the 200-600 my 100-400 has been collecting dust, a lot of dust.

However, if you’d like to find out how this lens stacks up against the Sony FE 100-400 GM lens then head over to my 200-600 vs 100-400 comparison.

Key Specs

Model Name:	SEL200600G
Format:	35 mm full frame
Focal Length (mm):	200-600 mm
Angle of View (35 mm):	12°30’–4°10′
Maximum Aperture:	F5.6–6.3
Minimum Aperture:	F32–36
Lens Groups / Elements:	17–24
Aperture Blades:	11 circular
Minimum Focusing Distance:	7.88 ft (2.4 m)
Maximum Magnification Ratio:	0.2x
Lens Image Stabilization:	Yes (3 modes)
Filter Diameter:	95 mm
Teleconverter Support:	Yes: 1.4x / 2x
Diameter:	4.5″ / 114.3 mm
Length:	12.625″ / 320.67 mm
Weight:	74.7 oz. / 2,115 g

Pros

• Fantastic build quality and weather sealing
• Excellent handling thanks to the internal zoom design
• Very fast and accurate autofocus
• Excellent image quality
• 1.4x and 2x teleconverter support

Cons

• Large and relatively heavy
• Small tripod foot that is not arca-swiss compatible
• Some chromatic aberration when shooting wide open

What’s in the Box

• Sony FE 200-600mm F5.6-6.3 G OSS lens
• Hood (model): ALC-SH157
• Lens front cap: ALC-F95S
• Lens rear cap: ALC-R1EM
• Tripod collar
• Soft case
• Lens strap

Review

If you would like to learn more about the Sony FE 200-600mm F5.6-6.3 G OSS lens lens then this excellent review by Olle Nilsson is worth taking the time to watch.

You might also enjoy my own video of this lens where I compare the 200-600 to the Sony 100-400 with the 1.4x teleconverter for birds in flight photography. I’m also shooting with the Sony a7III.

14. Sony FE 400mm F2.8 GM OSS

If money is no object and you demand only the best then the Sony FE 400mm F2.8 GM OSS lens is possibly the lens for you.

I don’t own this lens myself, but I know from many Alpha Shooters who do that it is extremely sharp across the frame and has terrific autofocus performance even with the 1.4x and 2x teleconverters attached that take the reach to 560mm and 800mm respectively.

For a large prime lens it still manages to weigh in at only 2895g (102.12 oz.).

If there was one negative it’s definitely the price. At $11,998.00 in the US or £10,499.00 in the UK, many of us will need to start selling body parts to afford it!

Key Specs

Model Name:	SEL400F28GM
Format:	35 mm full frame
Focal Length (mm):	400 mm
Angle of View (35 mm):	6°10′
Maximum Aperture:	F2.8
Minimum Aperture:	F22
Lens Groups / Elements:	17-23 Including one filter
Aperture Blades:	11 circular
Minimum Focusing Distance:	8.86 ft (2.7 m)
Maximum Magnification Ratio:	0.16x
Lens Image Stabilization:	Yes (3 modes)
Filter Diameter:	40.5 (slot-in)
Teleconverter Support:	Yes: 1.4x / 2x
Diameter:	6-1/4″ / 158.1 mm
Length:	14-1/4″ / 359 mm
Weight:	102.2 oz / 2,895 g

Pros

• Outstanding build quality and weather sealing
• Sharpness wide-open
• Chromatic abberation control
• Autofocus speed and accuracy
• Weight for a 400mm F2.8 prime lens
• Teleconverter support

Cons

• Very expensive

What’s in the Box

• Sony FE 400mm F2.8 GM OSS lens
• Front Lens Cap
• Sony ALC-R1EM Rear Lens Cap
• Sony ALC-SH155 Lens Hood
• Lens Strap
• Hard Case
• Case Strap

Review

He is a Sony Ambassador but Mark Galer definitely has one of the best reviews of the Sony FE 400mm F2.8 GM OSS lens and is the one that I’d recommend watching to learn more about it.

15. Sony FE 600mm F4 GM OSS

If you thought that the 400mm F2.8 GM was expensive then you should probably skip straight past the Sony FE 600mm F4 GM OSS lens, which at $12,998.00 or £11,999.00 is Sony’s most expensive super telephoto lens ever.

Just like the 400mm F2.8 this is an exceptionally sharp lens with lightning fast autofocus performance. Point this lens at your subject and it really has not chance of getting away!

Both the 1.4x and 2x teleconverters are also supported, taking this lens to 900mm or 1200mm.

This is definitely my dream lens but I’ll have to sell my car and a few body parts to afford it.

Key Specs

Model Name:	SEL600F40GM
Format:	35 mm full frame
Focal Length (mm):	600 mm
Angle of View (35 mm):	4°10′
Maximum Aperture:	F4
Minimum Aperture:	F22
Lens Groups / Elements:	18–24 Including one filter
Aperture Blades:	11 circular
Minimum Focusing Distance:	14.8 ft (4.5 m)
Maximum Magnification Ratio:	0.14x
Lens Image Stabilization:	Yes (3 modes)
Filter Diameter:	40.5 (slot-in)
Teleconverter Support:	Yes: 1.4x / 2x
Diameter:	6 1/2″ / 163.6 mm
Length:	17 3/4″ / 449 mm
Weight:	107.3 oz / 3,040 g

Pros

• Outstanding build quality and weather sealing
• Sharpness wide-open
• Chromatic abberation control
• Autofocus speed and accuracy
• Weight for a 600mm F4 prime lens
• Teleconverter support

Cons

• Very expensive

What’s in the Box

• Sony FE 600mm f/4 GM OSS lens
• Front Lens Cap
• Sony ALC-R1EM Rear Lens Cap
• Sony ALC-SH158 Lens Hood
• Lens Strap
• Hard Case
• Case Strap

Review

Whilst not an in-depth review I’d highly recommend watching this video from Mark Smith to see exactly what this lens is capable of in the right hands:

Sony E-mount Teleconverters

Sony currently offers two teleconverters for their E-mount lenses, a 1.4x and a 2x. However, these are only supported with the following E-mount lenses:

• Sony FE 70-200mm F2.8 GM OSS
• Sony FE 70-200mm F2.8 GM OSS II
• Sony FE 100-400mm F4.5-5.6 GM OSS
• Sony FE 200-600mm F5.6-6.3 G OSS
• Sony FE 400mm F2.8 GM OSS
• Sony FE 600mm F4 GM OSS

Sony 1.4x Teleconverter Lens (SEL14TC)

The Sony 1.4x teleconverter (SEL14TC) is currently only compatible with the lenses listed above. It will not physically fit any other Sony E-mount lenses.

You do lose one stop of light with the 1.4x teleconverter but AF performance still remains pretty good and it’s extremely good on the Sony FE 70-200 F2.8 GM II and the 400mm and 600mm prime lenses.

Key Specs

Model Name:	SEL14TC
Magnification:	1.4x
Format:	35 mm full-frame
Lens Groups / Elements:	5/6
Diameter:	62.4 mm
Length:	33.6 mm
Weight:	5.89 oz

Pros

• Extends focal length by 1.4x on supported lenses
• Size and weight

Cons

• Loose 1 stop of light
• Slight impact on AF speed when using Sony 100-400 and 70-200 F2.8 GM

What’s in the Box

• SEL14TC
• Case

Sony 2x Teleconverter Lens (SEL20TC)

The Sony 2x teleconverter (SEL20TC) is only compatible with the lenses listed above. It will not physically fit any other Sony E-mount lenses.

You do lose two stops of light with the 2x teleconverter and AF performance can suffer if you are using an older camera that doesn’t support phase detection above F11 depending on the lens that you are using. With the Sony FE 70-200 F2.8 GM II and the 400mm and 600mm prime lenses AF performance is still very impressive.

Key Specs

Model Name:	SEL20TC
Magnification:	2x
Format:	35 mm full-frame
Lens Groups / Elements:	5/8
Diameter:	62.4 mm
Length:	42.7 mm
Weight:	7.3 oz

Pros

• Extends focal length by 2x on supported lenses
• Size and weight

Cons

• Loose 2 stops of light
• AF speed is slower when using Sony 100-400 and 70-200 F2.8 GM

What’s in the Box

• SEL20TC
• Case

Complete List of Sony E-mount Lenses & Latest Firmware

Please visit my Sony E-Mount Lenses List for a complete list of Sony E-mount lenses including third-party lenses along with the latest firmware versions.

Sony Lens Abbreviations

Here’s a quick guide to Sony’s lens abbreviations just in case you were wondering what some of them mean.

SEL – Sony autofocus lenses designed for the Sony E-mount mirrorless camera system.

FE – “Full-frame E-mount” lenses designed for 35mm full-frame cameras like the Sony a7III.

E – Lenses designed for Sony’s mirrorless cameras with APS-C sized sensors, like the Sony Alpha a6000, a6300, a6500.

G – “Gold” series, Sony’s line-up of high-grade lenses.

GM – “Gold Master” series, Sony’s line-up of ultra-high-grade lenses featuring the highest-quality materials.

ZA – ZA lenses are designed and manufactured by Sony in Japan, but only once the designs get approval by Carl Zeiss AG to meet their high quality standards.

OSS – Optical SteadyShot means that the lens has optical image stabilization built in to the lens body.

TC – Stands for Tele Converter and means that this particular lens is designed to increase the focal length (and reduce the maximum aperture) of a telephoto lenses.

STF – Smooth Transition Focus. Lenses that employ special APD lens groups that get thicker towards the edges and, because of that, reduce the amount of light passing through. These lenses are designed to deliver extremely smooth, silky out of focus bokeh.

Before You Go

If you found this guide helpful or would like to comment on a lens mentioned here, please do drop a comment below.