The Best Sony E-mount Telephoto Zoom Lenses in 2024

Welcome to my guide to the best telephoto zoom lenses for Sony E-mount in 2024.

Here you will find a collection of 15 full-frame and APS-C lenses from both Sony and third parties.

Full-frame lenses can also be used on APS-C cameras like the Sony A6700 and APS-C lenses can also be used on full-frame cameras like the Sony A1 in Crop / Super35 Mode.

Since the focus of this article is on telephoto and zoom lenses, all lenses here reach a minimum of 180mm focal length.

For prime telephoto lenses please visit my Sony Telephoto Prime Lenses Guide.

The Best Sony Full Frame Telephoto Zoom Lenses

The below list is sorted by maximum focal length and not lens performance.

1. Tamron 70-180mm F2.8 Di III VC VXD G2 Lens
2. Sony FE 70-200mm F2.8 GM OSS II Lens
3. Sony FE 70-200mm F4 Macro G OSS II Lens
4. Sigma 70-200mm F2.8 DG DN OS Sports Lens
5. Tamron 70-300mm F4.5-6.3 Di III RXD Lens
6. Sony FE 100-400mm F4.5-5.6 GM OSS Lens
7. Sigma 100-400mm F5-6.3 DG DN OS Contemporary Lens
8. Tamron 150-500mm F5-6.7 Di III VC VXD Lens
9. Sony FE 200-600mm F5.6-6.3 G OSS Lens
10. Sigma 150-600mm F5-6.3 DG DN OS Sports Lens
11. Sigma 60-600mm F4.5-6.3 DG DN OS Sports Lens

1. Tamron 70-180mm F2.8 Di III VC VXD G2 Lens

The Tamron 70-180mm F2.8 Di III VC VXD G2 lens is a great lower cost alternative to the Sony 70-200 F2.8 GM II lens.

Constructed of 20 elements in 15 groups and a 9 blade circular aperture, this lens is also weather sealed against dust and moisture.

It weighs just 30.16 oz (855 g) making it 6.70 oz / 190 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.

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. There’s also a custom button and switch that can be customized through Tamrons Lens Utility™ and the TAMRON Lens Utility Mobile™ apps.

The G2 version now features linear manual focus coupling as an option and is customizable through the apps.

The filter thread is 67 mm like many of Tamron’s E-mount lenses.

I’m also fortunate to own this G1 version of this lens that has performed exceptionally for its price. I’m not tempted to upgrade since I’m also fortunate to own the Sony FE 70-200 F2.8 GM II but if I was purchasing the Tamron today the G2 would be a no brainer.

Key Specs

Model Name:	A065S
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:	15-20
Aperture Blades:	9 circular
Minimum Focusing Distance:	0.3m (WIDE), 0.85m (TELE)
Maximum Magnification Ratio:	1:2.6 (WIDE) , 1:4.7 (TELE)
Lens Image Stabilization:	Yes
Filter Diameter:	67 mm
Diameter:	3.27″ / 83 mm
Length:	6.16″ / 156.5 mm
Weight:	30.16 oz. / 855 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 teleconverter support

What’s in the Box

• Tamron 70-180mm F2.8 Di III VC VXD G2 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 VC VXD G2 lens this review from Dustin Abbott is worth watching.

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

The Sony FE 70-200mm F2.8 GM OSS Mark II lens represents a significant upgrade over its Mark I predecessor, delivering improvements both in optical performance and physical design.

Thankfully Sony has retained the internal zoom design of this telephoto lens but also reduced the weight by a remarkable 15.34 oz / 435 g, making it approximately 29% lighter than the Mark I.

Equipped with four of Sony’s original XD (extreme dynamic) Linear Motors, the autofocus speed is boosted by up to 4x compared to the previous model. When tracking subjects in motion, such as a short-distance runner, the Mark II lens improves tracking while zooming by approximately 30% compared to its predecessor.

The Mark II lens introduces new video features, including reduced focus breathing, focus shift compensation during zooming, and axis shift compensation during zooming.

The lens body is designed with convenient controls, such as independent rings for focus, zoom, and aperture, accompanied by a click on/off switch for the aperture ring and an iris lock. Other notable features include a full-time DMF (Direct Manual Focus) on/off switch, a focus-range limiter, optical image stabilization with Mode 1, Mode 2, and Mode 3 options, and an AF/MF switch.

Overall, the Sony FE 70-200mm F2.8 GM OSS Mark II lens presents significant improvements, making it a highly capable and versatile tool for photographers and videographers alike.

The optical performance of this lens is truly exceptional, offering outstanding sharpness and contrast across the entire zoom range.

It exhibits minimal distortion and vignetting. Additionally, the lens produces stunning bokeh, creating beautiful background blur that really helps to make your subjects pop.

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.

As an owner of both the Mark I and Mark II versions of this lens, I can attest that the Mark II is a substantial upgrade over its predecessor. It surpasses the Mark I in terms of performance and handling, although it should do because it costs a little bit more!

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:	1045 g (36.9 oz.) (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.

3. Sony FE 70-200mm F4 Macro G OSS II Lens

The Sony FE 70-200mm F4 Macro G OSS Ⅱ telephoto zoom lens is the second generation of one of Sony’s earliest E-mount lenses first released in 2014.

Sony say that they have improved the AF by 20%. It’s also 15% lighter and 15% shorter that the Mark I. The 1.4x and 2x teleconverters are now also supported which were not supported with the Mark I lens.

Focus is powered by two independently moving focus groups driven by four XD ‘High thrust’ linear motors (two per group) which allow the lens to focus down to just 26 cm (10.2″).

A maximum magnification of 0.5x is the reason this lens has Macro in its name. Although not a true 1:1 macro lens if you attach the 2x teleconverter you will now have 1x magnification.

The lens is composed of 19 elements in 13 groups, including one advanced aspherical element, three extra-low dispersion (to reduce chromatic aberration), one ED aspherical element and one conventional aspherical lens.

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

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

I own both the Mark I and Mark II versions of this lens and hope to put together an in-depth comparison very soon. Until then you’ll just have to take my word that’s it’s definitely worth the upgrade!

Key Specs

Model Name:	SEL70200G2
Format:	35 mm full frame
Focal Length (mm):	70-200 mm
Angle of View (35 mm):	34°-12° 30′
Maximum Aperture:	F4
Minimum Aperture:	F22
Lens Groups / Elements:	13-19
Aperture Blades:	9 circular
Minimum Focusing Distance:	0.26-0.42 m(0.86-1.38 ft)
Maximum Magnification Ratio:	0.5x
Lens Image Stabilization:	Yes
Filter Diameter:	72 mm
Diameter:	3-1/4″ / 82.2 mm
Length:	5-7/8″ / 149 mm
Weight:	28.1 oz. / 794 g

Pros

• Small and compact
• Good build quality and weather sealing
• Very fast and quiet autofocus motors
• 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
• Minimal focus breathing
• Removable tripod collar

Cons

• Pincushion distortion throughout the zoom range
• Tripod foot not Arca-compatible (like all of Sony’s lenses)
• External zoom but this does make it more travel and backpack friendly

What’s in the Box

• Sony FE 70-200mm F4 Macro G OSS Ⅱ lens
• Lens hood: ALC-SH176
• Lens front cap: ALC-F72S
• Lens rear cap: ALC-R1EM

Review

If you would like to learn more about the Sony FE 70-200mm F4 Macro G OSS Ⅱ lens then I’d highly recommend this excellent review from Dustin Abbott.

4. Sigma 70-200mm F2.8 DG DN OS Sports Lens

It took Sigma a while but they finally released their 70-200mm F2.8 DG DN OS Sports lens for Sony E-mount.

As per usual with Sigma the build quality is very good and this telephoto zoom lens is also weather sealed against the elements.

Focus is driven by dual HLA focus motors which are very accurate, fast and quiet.

Both the zoom and focus rings are smooth and there’s also an aperture ring that can be declicked and also locked.

There are also 3 custom buttons on the lens along with the AF / MF switch, focus limiter, OS stabilization switch with 2 modes and also a custom mode switch (OFF | C1 | C2). Unfortunately the custom mode switch can not be customised on Sony bodies, so you are stuck with the default options.

The tripod foot is arca-swiss compatible so no need to attach an additional plate.

The lens is sharp through the focal range, CA is well controlled and there is very little distortion and vignette. Lens flare is also well controlled.

Unfortunately Sony limits the maximum frame rate to 15 fps on third-party lenses, so there’s not much Sigma can do here. There is also no teleconverter support for the E-mount version of this lens, again thanks to Sony’s restrictions.

Key Specs

Model Name:	S023
Format:	35 mm full frame
Focal Length (mm):	70-200
Angle of View (35 mm):	34.3° -12.3°
Maximum Aperture:	F2.8
Minimum Aperture:	F22
Lens Groups / Elements:	20 elements in 15 groups (6 FLD, 2 SLD, 3 aspherical elements)
Aperture Blades:	11 (rounded diaphragm)
Minimum Focusing Distance:	65 (W) – 100 (T) cm
Maximum Magnification Ratio:	1:5.2 (at focal length 200mm)
Lens Image Stabilization:	Yes
Filter Diameter:	77mm
Diameter:	3.6in. / 90.6mm
Length:	8.1in. / 207.0mm
Weight:	47.1oz. / 1,335g

Pros

• High build quality and weather sealing
• Aperture ring
• Up to 7.5 stops of stabilization
• Fast and quiet dual HLA focus motors
• Low focus breathing
• Low distortion and vignette
• CA well controlled
• Very good sharpness across the zoom range
• Good flare resistance
• Lovely bokeh
• Price

Cons

• Heavier than Sony and Tamron’s offerings
• Limited to 15 FPS on E-mount
• No teleconverter support on E-mount

What’s in the Box

• Case
• LENS HOOD LH860-01
• TRIPOD SOCKET TS-151
• FRONT CAP LCF-77mm III
• REAR CAP LCR II

Review

If you’d like to learn more about the Sigma 70-200 F2.8 DG DN OS Sports lens then this review from Arthur R is worth a watch.

5. Tamron 70-300mm F4.5-6.3 Di III RXD Lens

The Tamron 70-300mm f/4.5-6.3 Di III RXD telephoto zoom lens delivers a useful focal range in a very compact and lightweight body.

This lens measures just 148mm (5.8″) in length with a maximum diameter of 77mm (3″), and it weighs in at just 545 grams.

Tamron’s RXD stepping motor unit provides fast, accurate and quiet focusing and it also delivers excellent image quality across the zoom range.

To keep this lens small and light Tamron has excluded any form of built-in stabilization, so this lens will pair better with a camera that has IBIS (in-body stabilization).

Ultimately this is a very practical telephoto zoom lens that can be used across a diverse range of subjects including sports events, wildlife, portraits, and more.

Key Specs

Model Name:	A047
Format:	35 mm full frame
Focal Length (mm):	70-300
Angle of View (35 mm):	34°21′ -8°15′
Maximum Aperture:	F4.5-6.3
Minimum Aperture:	F22-32
Lens Groups / Elements:	10 groups, 15 elements
Aperture Blades:	7
Minimum Focusing Distance:	0.8m (WIDE) 1.5m (TELE)
Maximum Magnification Ratio:	1:9.4 (WIDE) 1:5.1 (TELE)
Lens Image Stabilization:	No
Filter Diameter:	67 mm
Diameter:	3in. / 77mm
Length:	5.8in / 148mm
Weight:	19.22 oz. / 545 g

Pros

• Well built and lightweight
• Good weather sealing
• Fast and accurate autofocus
• Great price
• Excellent image quality across the zoom range
• Pleasing bokeh 
• Good color and contrast

Cons

• No stabilization built-in
• No switches or zoom lock
• Poor performance in the corners at 70mm

What’s in the Box

• Tamron 70-300mm f/4.5-6.3 Di III RXD Lens for Sony E
• Tamron SP Front Lens Cap (67mm)
• Rear Lens Cap
• Lens Hood
• Limited 6-Year Manufacturer Warranty

Review

To learn more about the Tamron 70-300mm F4.5-6.3 Di III RXD lens I would recommending watching this excellent review from Dustin Abbott.

6. Sony FE 100-400mm F4.5-5.6 GM OSS Lens

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 telephoto zoom 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 zoom 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.

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.

7. Sigma 100-400mm F5-6.3 DG DN OS Contemporary Lens

The Sigma 100-400mm f/5-6.3 DG DN OS Contemporary telephoto zoom lens is a lower cost alternative to Sony’s FE 100-400 GM lens.

The Sigma 100-400 weights 1,140 grams and measures 86.0mm in diameter x 199.2mm in length.

The lens features built-in stabilization with two modes. There’s an AF/MF switch and a focus limiter switch. There’s also a custom button and the option to purchase a separate tripod collar.

The autofocus motor is fast, accurate and relatively quiet whilst image quality throughout the zoom range is excellent, especially at 400mm where this lens is most likely going to be used the most.

There are the usual Sony enforced restrictions due to this being a third-party lens, so there is no teleconverter support for E-mount and the maximum frame rate is limited to 15 fps.

Key Specs

Model Name:	C020
Format:	35 mm full frame
Focal Length (mm):	100-400
Angle of View (35 mm):	24.4°(W)-6.2°(T)
Maximum Aperture:	F5-6.3
Minimum Aperture:	F22-29
Lens Groups / Elements:	16 groups / 22 elements
Aperture Blades:	9 (Rounded diaphragm)
Minimum Focusing Distance:	112(W) – 160(T)cm
Maximum Magnification Ratio:	1:4.1(400mm)
Lens Image Stabilization:	Yes
Filter Diameter:	67mm
Diameter:	3.4″ / 86.0mm
Length:	7.8″ / 199.2mm
Weight:	40.2oz. / 1,140g

Pros

• Well built and reasonably light
• Quiet, fast, and accurate autofocus motors
• Excellent image quality especially at 400mm
• Pleasing bokeh
• Very good chromatic aberration control
• Stabilization built in
• Reasonably priced

Cons

• Tripod collar must be purchased separately if required
• Teleconverters not supported (Sony’s restrictions)

What’s in the Box

• Sigma 100-400mm f/5-6.3 DG DN OS Contemporary Lens (Sony E)
• Sigma LCF-67 III 67mm Lens Cap
• Sigma LCR II Rear Lens Cap for Sony E
• Sigma Lens Hood for 100-400mm f/5-6.3 DG DN OS Contemporary Lens
• Sigma PT-31 Protective Cover

Review

To learn more about the Sigma 100-400mm F5-6.3 DG DN OS Contemporary telephoto zoom lens I’d recommend watching this video review from Dustin Abbott.

8. Tamron 150-500mm F5-6.7 Di III VC VXD Lens

The Tamron 150-500mm F5-6.7 Di III VC VXD telephoto zoom lens offers a lower cost alternative to Sony’s FE 200-600 for those who require a 500mm focal length.

The lens is well built and includes some very useful controls on the lens body including a zoom lock switch, AF/MF on/off switch, focus limiter and an OS switch with 3 modes.

The built in stabilization really helps to keep your shots steady and in the frame when shooting at the longer lens of this versatile zoom lens.

The Tamron 150-500mm delivers very good sharpness throughout the zoom range, pleasing bokeh and good CA control all for a very reasonable price.

However, there are the usual Sony enforced restrictions due to this being a third-party lens. So there is no teleconverter support and the maximum frame rate is limited to 15 fps.

Key Specs

Model Name:	A057S
Format:	35 mm full frame
Focal Length (mm):	150-500mm
Angle of View (35 mm):	16° 25′-4° 57′
Maximum Aperture:	F5-6.7
Minimum Aperture:	F22-32
Lens Groups / Elements:	16 group / 25 elements
Aperture Blades:	7
Minimum Focusing Distance:	0.6m (WIDE) 1.8m (TELE)
Maximum Magnification Ratio:	1:3.1 (WIDE) 1:3.7 (TELE)
Lens Image Stabilization:	Yes
Filter Diameter:	82mm
Diameter:	3.66in. / 93mm
Length:	8.25in. / 209.6mm
Weight:	60.8 oz. / 1725 g (without tripod foot)

Pros

• Well built telephoto zoom lens
• Useful controls on the lens body
• Autofocus is quick, quiet, and accurate
• Built in stabilization
• Low distortion and vignette
• CA is well controlled
• Good sharpness across the zoom range
• Nice bokeh
• Fair price

Cons

• No teleconverter support
• Maximum 15 fps
• No focus hold button

What’s in the Box

• Tamron 150-500mm f/5-6.7 Di III VC VXD Lens (Sony E)
• Round Lens Hood
• Front Lens Cap
• Rear Lens Cap
• Arca-Type Tripod Foot
• Limited 6-Year Manufacturer Warranty

Review

To learn more about the Tamron 150-500mm F5-6.7 Di III VC VXD lens I’d recommend watching this excellent review from Duade Paton.

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

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.

10. Sigma 150-600mm F5-6.3 DG DN OS Sports Lens

The Sigma 150-600mm F5-6.3 DG DN OS Sports lens is slightly lower cost alternative to Sony’s 200-600.

Like with all Sigma lenses this lens is very well built and weather sealed against the elements. It offers a very versatile zoom range of 150-600 with a variable maximum aperture of F5-6.3.

Autofocus is reasonably fast and accurate but it’s not quite on par with Sony’s lenses.

Sharpness is very good across the zoom range and CA is well controlled. The built-in stabilization also helps to keep your images sharp.

Unfortunately the usual restrictions of no teleconverter support and a maximum frame rate of 15 fps apply to this third-party lens.

Although this lens is a cracking lens for the price, for just a few hundred dollars more the Sony FE 200-600 could be purchased instead, and if I had to choose between the Sigma and the Sony the Sony would win every time.

Key Specs

Model Name:	S021
Format:	35 mm full frame
Focal Length (mm):	150-600
Angle of View (35 mm):	16.4°-4.1°
Maximum Aperture:	F5-6.3
Minimum Aperture:	F22-29
Lens Groups / Elements:	15 groups / 25 elements
Aperture Blades:	9 (Rounded diaphragm)
Minimum Focusing Distance:	58-280cm / 22.8–110.2in.
Maximum Magnification Ratio:	1:2.9 (At a focusing distance of 180mm)
Lens Image Stabilization:	Yes
Filter Diameter:	95mm
Diameter:	4.3in. / 109.4mm
Length:	10.5in. / 265.6mm
Weight:	74.1oz. / 2100g

Pros

• Well built telephoto zoom lens with robust weather sealing
• Useful controls
• Built in stabilization
• Autofocus is smooth, quiet, and fast
• Low distortion and vignette
• CA is reasonably well controlled
• Good sharpness across the zoom range
• Pleasing bokeh
• Well priced

Cons

• No teleconverter support
• Tracking performance not quite on par with Sony or Tamron’s offerings
• Maximum 15 fps

What’s in the Box

• Sigma 150-600mm f/5-6.3 DG DN OS Sports Lens for Sony E
• Sigma Lens Hood for 150-600mm f/5-6.3 DG DN Sports Lens
• Sigma Cover Lens Cap for 150-600mm f/5-6.3 DG DN OS Sports Lens for Leica L- and Sony E-Mount
• Sigma Soft Lens Case for 150-600mm f/5-6.3 DG DN OS Sports Lens
• Sigma TS-121 Tripod Socket
• Sigma LCF-95 III 95mm Lens Cap
• Sigma LCR II Rear Lens Cap for Sony E
• Limited 1-Year Manufacturer Warranty
  Registration Extension: 3-Year

Review

To learn more about the Sigma 150-600mm f/5-6.3 DG DN OS Sports telephoto zoom lens this video review from DPReview is worth a watch.

11. Sigma 60-600mm F4.5-6.3 DG DN OS Sports Lens

The Sigma 60-600mm F4.5-6.3 DG DN OS Sports lens is probably the ultimate telephoto zoom lens for Sony E-mount.

It covers an incredible focal range from 60mm all the way up to 600mm with a variable maximum aperture of F4.5-6.3.

However, this focal range comes at a cost because the lens weights a hefty 2,485 grams.

If you shoot sports and frequently find yourself needing to zoom out to a wider angle to shoot a player on the sidelines, then a few seconds later zoom in to shoot the action on the other side of the pitch, this lens was probably made for you.

The built in stabilization helps to keep your shots steady and your shutter speed lower when necessary.

Image quality is very good across the frame and the autofocus motors are faster, accurate and reasonably quiet.

Unfortunately the usual restrictions of no teleconverter support and a maximum frame rate of 15 fps apply to this third-party lens.

Key Specs

Model Name:	S023
Format:	35 mm full frame
Focal Length (mm):	60-600mm
Angle of View (35 mm):	39.6-4.1°
Maximum Aperture:	F4.5-6.3
Minimum Aperture:	F22-32
Lens Groups / Elements:	19 groups / 27 elements
Aperture Blades:	9 (rounded diaphragm)
Minimum Focusing Distance:	45-260cm / 17.8-102.4in.
Maximum Magnification Ratio:	1:2.4 (at 200mm focal length)
Lens Image Stabilization:	Yes
Filter Diameter:	105mm
Diameter:	4.7in. / 119.4mm
Length:	11.1in. / 281.2mm
Weight:	87.7oz. / 2,485g

Pros

• That zoom ratio is just so useful
• Good quality of construction including robust weather sealing
• Feature rich – competes directly with Sony
• Improved autofocus is noticeably better than previous Sigma models
• The improved OS is better than anything I’ve seen in this class
• Fairly low distortion and vignette
• CA well controlled
• Good sharpness across the zoom range
• Great magnification and close up performance
• Nice bokeh rendering
• Zoom action can be push/pull or twist controlled

Cons

• Cannot be used with teleconverters
• Lower burst rate on Sony’s top sports cameras compared to a Sony lens
• Zoom action a little stiff

What’s in the Box

• Sigma 60-600mm f/4.5-6.3 DG DN OS Sports Lens (Sony E)
• Sigma LCF-105 III 105mm Lens Cap
• Sigma TS-121 Tripod Socket
• Sigma LCR II Rear Lens Cap for Sony E
• Cover Lens Cap
• Lens Hood
• Limited 4-Year Manufacturer Warranty

Review

To learn more about the Sigma 60-600mm F4.5-6.3 DG DN OS Sports lens I’d recommend watching this review from Christopher Frost.

The Best Sony APS-C Telephoto Zoom Lenses

The below list is sorted by maximum focal length and not lens performance.

1. Sony E 18–200mm F3.5–6.3 OSS LE Lens
2. Sony E 55-210mm F4.5-6.3 OSS Lens
3. Tamron 18-300mm F3.5-6.3 Di III-A VC VXD Lens
4. Sony E 70-350mm F4.5-6.3 G OSS Lens

1. Sony E 18–200mm F3.5–6.3 OSS LE Lens

The Sony E 18–200mm F3.5–6.3 OSS LE lens has a focal range from 18-200mm and a variable aperture from F3.5-6.3, there’s also optical steadyshot (OSS) built in.

The lens is sharp between 50mm and 100mm although at 200mm sharpness isn’t as great, but will still be acceptable to most.

At 18mm images are reasonably sharp even at the maximum aperture of f/3.5. Stopping down doesn’t offer any improvement in sharpness and diffraction takes hold at f/8-f/11.

There is some chromatic aberration at the wide and tele-ends but in-camera corrections will mostly take care of this if you.

There is some vignetting at 18mm and f/3.5 but it’s gone by f/5.6. At 200mm vignetting at f/6.3 is also visible until you stop down to f/8.

Distortion is also visible throughout the focal range but again in-camera corrections will take care of this.

Flare is handled fairly well even if you are shooting directly into the sun.

Key Specs

Model Name:	SEL18200LE
Format:	APS-C
Focal Length (mm):	18–200mm
Angle of View (35 mm):	76°-8°
Maximum Aperture:	F3.5-6.3
Minimum Aperture:	F22-40
Lens Groups / Elements:	13 groups / 17 elements
Aperture Blades:	7
Minimum Focusing Distance:	0.5m (1.64ft)
Maximum Magnification Ratio:	0.27x
Lens Image Stabilization:	Yes
Filter Diameter:	62mm
Diameter:	2-3/4 in. / 68mm
Length:	3-7/8 in. / 97.1mm
Weight:	6.3oz. / 460g

Pros

• Wide focal range
• Build quality
• Central sharpness
• Flare control

Cons

• Vignetting wide-open
• Distortion
• Price

What’s in the Box

• Sony E 18-200mm f/3.5-6.3 OSS LE Lens
• Sony ALC-SH124 Lens Hood
• Sony ALC-F62S 62mm Front Lens Cap
• Sony ALC-R1EM Rear Lens Cap
• Limited 1-Year Warranty

Review

I’d recommend watching this review from John Sison to learn more about the Sony E 18–200mm F3.5–6.3 OSS LE lens.

2. Sony E 55-210mm F4.5-6.3 OSS Lens

The Sony E 55-210mm F4.5-6.3 OSS variable aperture lens covers a very wide focal range, it also includes Optical Steadshot (OSS).

The build quality is pretty good and the autofocus motor is reasonably fast and virtually silent.

From 55mm to 120mm the lens is very sharp in the center of the frame when shooting wide-open, the corners are a little softer but stepping down one stop soon improves them. At 210mm the center is a little softer but is still sharp enough. There are signs of vignetting and chromatic aberration, but for JPEG shooters in-camera corrections will take care of this.

I used to own this lens myself and it’s a super little all-round lens, although after purchasing the Sony E 70-350 it’s no longer getting much attention.

Here are a few shots that I have taken with it:

Sony E 55-210mm (Shot on a6400) @ 210mm | 1/1000 | f/6.3 | ISO 1000 | Handheld | ** Full Resolution SOOC Download: JPEG | RAW

Sony E 55-210mm (Shot on a6400) @ 150mm | 1/640 | f/5.6 | ISO 400 | Handheld | ** Full Resolution SOOC Download: JPEG | RAW

Key Specs

Model Name:	SEL55210
Format:	APS-C
Focal Length (mm):	55-210mm
Angle of View (35 mm):	29°-7°40′
Maximum Aperture:	F4.5-6.3
Minimum Aperture:	F22-32
Lens Groups / Elements:	9 groups / 13 elements
Aperture Blades:	7
Minimum Focusing Distance:	1m (3.28ft)
Maximum Magnification Ratio:	0.225x
Lens Image Stabilization:	Yes
Filter Diameter:	49mm
Diameter:	2-5/8 in. / 63.8mm
Length:	4-3/8 in. / 108mm
Weight:	12.2oz. / 345g

Pros

• Price
• Central sharpness
• Weight
• Autofocus performance

Cons

• CA
• Vignetting

What’s in the Box

• Sony E 55-210mm f/4.5-6.3 OSS Lens (Black)
• Sony ALC-SH115 Lens Hood
• Sony ALC-F49S 49mm Front Lens Cap
• Sony ALC-R1EM Rear Lens Cap
• Limited 1-Year Manufacturer Warranty

Review

I’d recommend watching this review from Arthur R to learn more about this lens.

3. Tamron 18-300mm F3.5-6.3 Di III-A VC VXD Lens

The 18-300mm f/3.5-6.3 Di III-A VC VXD from Tamron is a versatile telephoto zoom lens that is ideal for APS-C photographers looking for a good all-rounder.

Tamron’s VXD (Voice-coil eXtreme-torque Drive) linear focus motor is fast, quiet and accurate and most definitely doesn’t disappoint.

The lens also features Tamron’s Vibration Compensation system that will help to keep your shots steady even at 300mm.

The lens has good optical performance throughout zoom range and low vignette, although there is some barrel distortion at 18mm.

The lens does lack some buttons and switches, the only switch you’ll find is the zoom lock switch.

Key Specs

Model Name:	B061X
Format:	APS-C
Focal Length (mm):	18-300mm
Angle of View (35 mm):	77° 24′-5° 30′
Maximum Aperture:	F3.5-6.3
Minimum Aperture:	F22-40
Lens Groups / Elements:	15 groups / 19 elements
Aperture Blades:	7
Minimum Focusing Distance:	0.15m 0.99m (TELE)
Maximum Magnification Ratio:	1:2 (WIDE) 1:4 (TELE)
Lens Image Stabilization:	Yes
Filter Diameter:	67 mm
Diameter:	2.97in. / 75.5 mm
Length:	4.94in. / 125.6 mm
Weight:	21.87oz. / 620 g

Pros

• Very useful zoom range for APS-C shooters
• Very good weather sealing
• Fast, accurate and quiet VXD focus motor
• Included VC (image stabilizer)
• Minimal focus breathing
• Good optical performance throughout zoom range
• Low vignette

Cons

• Lens quite large for APS-C camera bodies
• No AF/MF switch
• Barrel distortion at 18mm

What’s in the Box

• Tamron 18-300mm f/3.5-6.3 Di III-A VC VXD Lens for Sony E
• Front Lens Cap
• Rear Lens Cap
• Lens Hood
• Limited 6-Year Manufacturer Warranty

Review

To learn more about the Tamron 18-300mm f/3.5-6.3 Di III-A VC VXD telephoto zoom lens for Sony E-mount I’d recommend this review from Arthur R.

4. Sony E 70-350mm F4.5-6.3 G OSS Lens

The Sony E 70-350mm F4.5-6.3 G OSS is the longest APS-C telephoto zoom lens currently available for the Sony E-mount.

I bought this lens on the first day that it was available and it has quickly become one of my favorite APS-C lenses for travelling, shooting sports and shooting my dog Frank. I also often use this lens on my a7R IV in crop mode as it’s so small and light.

The lens has a focal length of 70mm to 350mm and a variable aperture of f/4.5 – 6.3. From 70mm to 82mm its f/4.5, 83mm to 113mm its f/5, 114mm to 199mm its f/5.6, and 200mm to 350mm is f/6.3.

The lens is well built and weighs only 625 g (22.1 oz.). It features an AF/MF switch and OSS (Optical Steadyshot) On/Off switch. There’s also a customizable function button and a zoom lock switch. Unfortunately Sony missed off a focus limiter switch that can be useful at times, and there’s also no panning mode 1/2 switch.

The lens is pretty sharp when shooting at 350mm and f/6.3 but by stepping down to f/7.1 you’ll see an improvement in sharpness.

Here are a few shows that I’ve taken with this lens:

And here’s one I shot with this lens on my a7R IV in crop mode:

Key Specs

Model Name:	SEL70350G
Format:	APS-C
Focal Length (mm):	70-350mm
Angle of View (35 mm):	22°-4°40′
Maximum Aperture:	F4.5-6.3
Minimum Aperture:	F22-32
Lens Groups / Elements:	13 groups / 19 elements
Aperture Blades:	7 circular
Minimum Focusing Distance:	1.1-1.5 m (3.61-4.93 ft)
Maximum Magnification Ratio:	0.23x
Lens Image Stabilization:	Yes
Filter Diameter:	67mm
Diameter:	3-1/8 in. / 77mm
Length:	5-5/8 in. / 142 mm
Weight:	22.1 oz. / 625 g

Pros

• Very fast and quiet autofocus
• Lightweight and compact body
• Sharpness across the zoom range

Cons

• No focus limiter
• No panning stabilization mode

What’s in the Box

• Sony E 70-350mm f/4.5-6.3 G OSS Lens
• Sony ALC-F67S 67mm Front Lens Cap
• Sony ALC-R1EM Rear Lens Cap
• ALC-SH160 Lens Hood
• Limited 1-Year Manufacturer Warranty

Review

To learn more about the Sony E 70-350mm F4.5-6.3 G OSS telephoto zoom lens I’d recommend watching this very nice review from Arthur R.

Teleconverters

Sony also sells a 1.4x (SEL14TC) and a 2x (SEL20TC) teleconverter.

The 1.4x will increase the focal length of your lens by 1.4x but you do sacrifice one stop of light.

With the 2x you get double the focal length but now lose 2 stops of light.

The teleconverters are not supported on every lens, here are the current zoom lenses that are compatible with the teleconverters.

1. Sony FE 70-200mm F2.8 GM OSS Lens
2. Sony FE 70-200mm F2.8 GM OSS II Lens
3. Sony FE 70-200mm F4 Macro G OSS II Lens
4. Sony FE 100-400mm F4.5-5.6 GM OSS Lens
5. Sony FE 200-600mm F5.6-6.3 G OSS Lens

Sony 1.4x Teleconverter (SEL14TC)

You will lose one stop of light when using this teleconverter but autofocus performance remains very good no matter which lens you are using it on.

Sony 2x Teleconverter (SEL20TC)

With this teleconverter you will lose two stops of light. Also depending on the lens that you are using you might find that this pushes your camera out of phase detection and into contrast detection, where you will notice a slowdown in AF performance.

Telephoto Zoom Buying Tips

When it comes to buying a telephoto zoom lens it’s important to ask yourself what subjects you will be wanting to shoot, how far away these subjects are likely to be and what type of light you will be shooting in. You’ll then be able to narrow down your lens choices based on the following characteristics:

Focal Length

The lens focal length will determine how close your subject will appear through your cameras viewfinder. The larger the focal length the closer you will be able to get to your subject.

If I’m shooting at my local motocross circuit then I’m able to get very close to the track and I often won’t need a focal length longer than 200mm on a full-frame camera.

But if I’m shooting birds in flight such as the red kite then these will typically be further away and a focal length in the 400-600mm range on a full-frame camera is preferable.

Aperture

The aperture of the lens together with shutter speed and ISO will determine your exposure. A lens with an aperture of f/2.8 will let in twice the amount of light compared to an f/4 lens. A faster maximum aperture will help you to keep your ISO lower and also create a nice smooth background.

Many zoom lenses will have a variable aperture that changes depending on your focal length.

For example, the Sony FE 100-400mm GM lens has a maximum aperture of f/4.5 when you are at 100mm but at 400mm the maximum aperture drops down to f/5.6.

However, other lenses such as the Sony FE 70-200 F2.8 GM II lens have a constant maximum aperture, for the 70-200 GM that’s f/2.8 throughout its zoom range.

For indoor photography where light levels are low apertures of f/2.8 or faster are often preferred.

Weight & Size

Telephoto zoom lenses can be both heavy and large, especially those with the longer focal ranges such as the Sony FE 200-600.

Depending on how fit you feel and also your backpack requirements you might want to check the dimensions and weight before purchasing.

Carrying around a heavier lens than you can comfortably handle can soon take the enjoyment out of shooting.

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