Sony FE 24-70mm f/2.8 GM II Lens (Sony E) Review
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Our editorial take on the Sony FE 24-70mm f/2.8 GM II Lens (Sony E)
The original 24-70mm f/2.8 G Master was a staple in many kits, but the Mark II is an entirely different class of lens. This is not an iterative update. it is a complete, ground-up redesign that addresses nearly every shortcoming of its predecessor. The most immediate and celebrated improvement is the significant reduction in both size and weight. This makes the lens far more manageable for all-day shoots, travel, and balancing on a gimbal, transforming it from a powerful but burdensome tool into a nimble and versatile partner for any Sony Alpha camera.
Performance-wise, the GM II raises an already high bar. Optically, it is phenomenally sharp from corner to corner, even at its widest aperture, handily surpassing the first version. The autofocus system, powered by multiple linear motors, is lightning-fast, silent, and incredibly reliable, which is a critical upgrade for capturing any fast-moving subject. Videographers in particular will celebrate the host of new features, including a de-clickable aperture ring, well-controlled focus breathing, and superior manual focus response. While the price is undeniably steep, the improvements are so comprehensive that the Sony 24-70mm GM II has definitively become the new gold standard for professional hybrid shooters.
- Significantly smaller and lighter than its predecessor
- Outstanding optical sharpness across the zoom range
- Fast, quiet, and precise autofocus performance
- Excellent video-centric features like a de-clickable aperture ring
- Improved ergonomics with more physical controls
- Reduced focus breathing compared to the original
- Premium price tag makes it a significant investment
- The original version remains a viable, lower-cost alternative for budget-conscious users
Synthesized by Geared editors from early expert reviews.
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At the end of the day I was won over – especially by the 85mm. What Sony have somehow managed to do is improve the fly-by-wire system focus to the point where it now feels and acts much more naturally.
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If the current 24-70mm GM is your go-to lens, then the answer is a resounding yes, as the new 24-70mm II is better in every conceivable way, and videographers will have an even easier time with this decision since version II introduces many features specifically for them. However, if you are perfectly content with the current 24-70mm, this first-gen lens is going to continue to serve you well.
Compared to the Mark I version, Sony has made significant improvements and additions to the exterior controls, such as the zoom ring, focus ring, and the aperture ring. This new lens also features an improved autofocus system and a closer minimum focusing distance.
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Is Sony’s new 24-70mm F2.8 GM Mark II zoom lens a significant improvement or just more of the same? The Sony FE 24-70mm F2.8 GM Mark II lens is smaller, lighter, faster, more usable and better than its predecessor.
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About this product
The Sony FE 24-70mm f/2.8 GM II is a refined standard zoom lens, offering optical, focusing, and handling upgrades compared to its predecessor. It is smaller and lighter, catering to both photo and video applications. This G Master zoom lens provides high resolution, clarity, and bokeh quality.
Specs
- Weight
- 1.5 lb / 695 g
- Aperture
- Maximum: f/2.8 Minimum: f/22
- Dimensions
- ø: 3.5 x L: 4.7" / ø: 87.8 x L: 119.9 mm
- Focus Type
- Autofocus
- Lens Mount
- Sony E
- Filter Size
- 82 mm (Front)
- Focal Length
- 24 to 70mm
- Angle Of View
- 84° to 34°
- Magnification
- 1:3.13 Macro Reproduction Ratio 0.32x Magnification
- Optical Design
- 20 Elements in 15 Groups
- Image Stabilization
- No
- Aperture/Iris Blades
- 11, Rounded
- Lens Format Coverage
- Full-Frame
- Minimum Focus Distance
- 8.3" / 21 cm
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