Sony launches a sublime and expensive 28-70 mm F2 constant!
This is not the first time we have seen a 28-70 MM F2. Indeed, Canon launched its own model in 2019 at the time of its entry into the 24x36mm hybrid market. On the other hand, this is a first for Sony and this lens completes the manufacturer's already very extensive range of trans-standard zoom lenses.
Sony presents this exceptional lens as an alternative to a series of high-end fixed focal length lenses: the G Master F1.4. Indeed, the zoom could almost replace the 28, 35, 50 and 85 mm f/1.4. It is therefore a very versatile lens that Sony offers photographers.
In terms of optical quality, the manufacturer announces performances comparable to those of a fixed focal length with equivalent focal length and aperture. In other words, it would be difficult to see the difference, for example, between a photo taken with the FE 28-70mm F2 GM at 35mm at f/2 and a photo taken with the FE 35mm F1.4 GM at F2. The optical formula of the lens is very ambitious with 20 lenses divided into 14 groups with 6 aspherical lenses including 3 extreme asphericals, 3 Super ED glasses, 1 ED glass and Nano AR Coating II treatment. This formula ensures high resolution from one angle to the other in images from f/2 and at all focal lengths.
The advantage of a constant f/2 aperture is multiple. This allows you to have a constant exposure, whatever the focal length and of course to create very marked depth of field effects with beautiful bokeh. Sony has integrated an 11-blade circular diaphragm into its lens, a manual diaphragm ring (notched or continuous) and an diaphragm lock for video use.
As for autofocus, we can count on an ultra-fast quadruple XD Linear Motor autofocus motor compatible with the most demanding continuous photo and video recording modes. The minimum focusing distance is 38 cm and therefore the maximum magnification ratio is 0.23x. Note that the optical design reduces the phenomenon of focus breathing, an undeniable advantage in video.
For the rest, we find a construction protected against bad weather, two programmable keys and the possibility of customizing the friction of the zoom ring. It's a relatively large lens at 14 cm long, 9.3 cm in diameter and weighing 918 grams.
Availability and price
The new Sony FE 28-70 mm F2 GM will be available in mid-December and priced at €3,600.
First opinion
With its new 28-70 mm F2 in the G Master range, Sony in turn offers exceptional optics and comes hunting in Canon's territory. Indeed, Canon was the first manufacturer to develop a comparable lens in 2019 when it entered the 24x36mm hybrid market. Sony therefore arrives five years later with a model full of promise and above all much more compact and lighter than its competitor (1.43 kg for the Canon model versus 918 g for the Sony model). If indeed this lens offers optical quality at a focal length and aperture equivalent to the G Master F1.4 fixed focal lengths, it will appeal to many photographers and videographers, despite its exorbitant price.
