The Best Sony A7R V Lenses in 2024

Welcome to my guide to the best lenses for the 61 megapixel Sony A7R V full-frame mirrorless camera in 2024.

Which Lenses Are Compatible With the Sony A7R V?

The Sony A7R V is compatible with both full-frame and APS-C E-mount lenses from Sony, and also from third-parties such as Tamron and Sigma. Sony maintains a compatibility list of all of their supported lenses for the A7R V here.

Lenses with different lens mounts such as the Canon EF mount are also compatible with the A7R V but only when used with an EF to E-mount adapter such as the one from Metabones or the Sigma MC-11 adapter.

Top 16 Lenses

Here are my top 16 recommended lenses to pair with your Sony A7R V.

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

If you’re looking for the best wide-angle zoom lens for your Sony A7R V, the Sony FE 16-35mm F2.8 GM II is an excellent option to consider.

This lens shines in various photography styles that benefit from a wider perspective, such as landscapes, astrophotography, real estate, and architectural photography.

Weighing just 547g, the Mark II is 133g lighter than its predecessor. True to Sony’s G Master series, it boasts exceptional build quality, featuring 15 elements arranged in 12 groups, and is weather-sealed for protection against dust and moisture.

With 11 circular aperture blades, this lens produces beautifully smooth bokeh and striking sunstars. Its autofocus is fast and silent and the lens is nice and sharp throughout the frame.

I previously owned the Mark I version but sold it due to limited time for landscape photography. However, if I were searching for a wide-angle lens today, the Mark II would be my top pick without a doubt.

Key Specs

Model Name:	SEL1635GM2
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:	12–15
Aperture Blades:	11 circular
Minimum Focusing Distance:	8.7″ / 22.1 cm
Maximum Magnification Ratio:	0.32x
Lens Image Stabilization:	No
Filter Diameter:	82 mm
Diameter:	3.5″ / 87.8 mm
Length:	4.4″ / 111.5 mm
Weight:	547g / 19.29 oz

Pros

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

Cons

• Price

What’s in the Box

• Sony FE 16-35mm F2.8 GM II lens
• Hood (model): ALC-SH177
• Lens front cap: ALC-F82S
• Lens rear cap: ALC-R1EM
• Padded case

Review

To learn more about this lens I’d recommend watching the below video from Arthur R. To learn more the previous Mark I version then our review from Nick Hanson is worth a read.

2. Sony FE 24mm F1.4 GM

With the launch of the Sony FE 24mm F1.4 GM, Sony delivered a truly excellent lens and proved that a high-quality lens doesn’t have to be bulky or heavy to perform well.

This lens features 13 elements in 10 groups and is built to last, as you’d expect from a G Master (GM) lens. It’s also weather-sealed against dust and moisture, weighing just 15.7 oz (445 g).

On the lens, you’ll find a customizable focus hold button, an AF on/off switch, an aperture selection ring, and a click on/off switch for the aperture ring.

This lens delivers exceptional sharpness across the frame, even wide open at its maximum aperture of f/1.4. Distortion and coma are well controlled, making it an excellent choice for astrophotography.

The bokeh is beautifully smooth, arguably the best among current 24mm f/1.4 lenses. Autofocus is fast, quiet, and highly accurate.

At 24mm, it’s a versatile focal length suitable for a range of subjects, including architecture, wedding and event photography, street photography, astrophotography, and even environmental portraits.

I personally own this lens, and if I ever needed to sell some gear to raise funds, the Sony FE 24mm F1.4 GM would be one of the last lenses I’d consider parting with.

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 stands out as one of the few zoom lenses that can rival the optical performance of many high-end prime lenses.

With 20 elements arranged in 15 groups, this lens is extremely well built and weather-sealed against the elements. Its 11-blade circular aperture creates beautifully smooth bokeh, helping to make your subjects pop.

Equipped with four of Sony’s original XD (extreme dynamic) Linear Motors, it offers impressive autofocus precision and approximately twice the tracking performance of the previous Mark I lens while zooming.

At just 24.6 oz (695 g), the updated Mark II is a remarkable 6.74 oz (191 g) lighter than its predecessor.

On the lens body you’ll find two customizable focus hold buttons, dedicated focus, zoom, and de-clickable aperture rings, an iris lock switch, an AF/MF switch, and a zoom smoothness switch.

The sharpness of the Sony FE 24-70mm F2.8 GM II is outstanding throughout the entire zoom range and at all apertures, with well-controlled chromatic aberrations.

Whether you’re capturing landscapes, weddings, sports, or portraits, this lens is versatile enough to handle it all.

I don’t own this lens yet, but if I ever win the lottery it would definitely 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 35mm F1.4 GM

Sony’s E-mount lineup offers a variety of 35mm lens options, but if you’re seeking the best and budget isn’t an issue, the Sony FE 35mm F1.4 GM truly stands out.

Designed for both stills and video, this lens features a de-clickable aperture ring and a customizable focus hold button for added versatility.

The lens is constructed of 14 elements arranged in 10 groups, with 11 circular aperture blades that produce beautifully smooth bokeh. The lens is also weather-sealed at key points, providing protection in challenging conditions.

Two XD Extreme Dynamic Linear motors ensure fast, quiet, and highly precise subject acquisition and tracking.

This lens offers exceptional sharpness at f/1.4 across the frame, good flare resistance, effective coma handling, and low chromatic aberrations.

If you’re in the market for a 35mm lens for your A7R V, this is definitely one to consider.

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.

5. Sony FE 50mm F1.2 GM

The Sony FE 50mm F1.2 GM lens boasts a fast maximum aperture of f/1.2 in a compact, lightweight, and weather-sealed body.

Constructed with 10 groups and 14 elements, including three advanced aspherical elements and a Nano AR II coating to help reduce flare and ghosting. The lens features an 11-blade circular aperture for beautifully smooth and rounded bokeh.

Four XD (extreme dynamic) Linear Motors provide fast, accurate, and quiet autofocus, while Linear Response MF ensures the focus ring responds smoothly to manual adjustments.

On the lens body you’ll find two focus hold buttons, a focus mode switch, a focus ring, and an aperture ring with switchable click stops.

This lens offers excellent sharpness wide open across the frame, low chromatic aberrations, and strong resistance to flare.

If you’re looking for a 50mm lens for your A7R V, this is certainly one to consider.

Key Specs

Model Name:	SEL50F12GM
Format:	35 mm full frame
Focal Length (mm):	50 mm
Angle of View (35 mm):	47°
Maximum Aperture:	F1.2
Minimum Aperture:	F16
Lens Groups / Elements:	10-14
Aperture Blades:	11 circular
Minimum Focusing Distance:	0.4 m (1.32 ft)
Maximum Magnification Ratio:	0.17x
Lens Image Stabilization:	No
Filter Diameter:	72mm
Diameter:	3-1/2″ / 87 mm
Length:	4-3/8″ / 108 mm
Weight:	27.5 oz. / 778 g

Pros

• Smaller than the competition
• Well built and weather sealed
• Fast, quiet, and accurate autofocus
• Excellent wide open sharpness across the frame
• Lovely soft bokeh
• Low chromatic aberrations
• Good flare resistance

Cons

• Expensive
• Focus breathing

What’s in the Box

• Sony FE 50mm f/1.2 GM Lens (Sony E)
• Sony ALC-F72S 72mm Front Lens Cap
• Sony ALC-R1EM Rear Lens Cap
• Sony ALC-SH163 Lens Hood for FE 50mm f/1.2 GM Lens
• Lens Case

Review

If you’d like to learn more about the Sony FE 50mm F1.2 GM lens then this review from Dustin Abbott is the best one to watch.

6. Sony FE 85mm F1.4 GM II

The Sony FE 85mm F1.4 GM Mark II lens features a fast maximum aperture of f/1.4 in a compact, lightweight, and weather-sealed body.

If you are searching for the best portrait lens for your A7RV then this is it.

The new Mark II features an improved construction, consisting of 11 groups and 14 elements, including two ED (Extra-low Dispersion) glass elements that help minimize axial chromatic aberration while maximizing clarity and color.

Sony’s Nano AR Coating II suppresses flare and ghosting that can cause flare and ghosting, enhancing overall image quality.

The 11-blade circular aperture excels at creating beautifully rounded bokeh, helping to make your subjects stand out.

The new Mark II lens weighs in at 22.7 oz. / 642 g vs 28.9 oz. / 820 g for the Mark I, making it 6.28 oz. / 178 g lighter than its predecessor.

The lens features 2 XD (extreme dynamic) linear motors that make the new Mark II lens up to 3x faster than the previous model. Moving subject tracking is also improved by as much as 7x.

On the lens body you’ll find 2 customizable focus hold buttons , an AF/MF switch, an independent aperture ring and Linear Response MF focus ring.

The FE 85mm F1.4 GM Mark II offers excellent sharpness wide open across the frame, low chromatic aberrations, impressive flare resistance, and minimal focus breathing.

You’ll find sample images taken with this lens in our Sony FE 85mm F1.4 GM II Image Thread over on our forum.

Key Specs

Model Name:	SEL85F14GM2
Format:	35 mm full frame
Focal Length (mm):	85 mm
Angle of View (35 mm):	29°
Maximum Aperture:	F1.4
Minimum Aperture:	F16
Lens Groups / Elements:	11 / 14
Aperture Blades:	11 circular
Minimum Focusing Distance:	AF 0.85 m, MF 0.8 m
Maximum Magnification Ratio:	AF 0.11x, MF 0.12x
Lens Image Stabilization:	No
Filter Diameter:	77mm
Diameter:	3.33 ” / 84.7 mm
Length:	4.22 ” /  107.3 mm
Weight:	22.7 oz. / 642 g

Pros

• Well built and weather sealed
• Extremely fast, accurate and quiet autofocus
• Low focus breathing
• Extremely sharp wide open
• No fringing
• Low vignette and distortion
• Good flare resistance
• Lovely bokeh

Cons

• Expensive

What’s in the Box

• Sony FE 85mm f/1.4 GM II Lens
• Sony ALC-F77S 77mm Front Lens Cap
• Sony ALC-R1EM Rear Lens Cap
• Sony ALC-SH150 Lens Hood
• Padded Lens Case

Review

If you’d like to learn more about the Sony FE 85mm F1.4 GM II lens then this review from Gerald Undone is worth taking the time to watch.

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

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 focusing 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.

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:	602 g / 1.33 lb

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.

8. 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.

You’ll find sample images taken with this lens in our Sony FE 135mm F1.8 GM Image Thread over on our forum.

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.

9. 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 stabilization, 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. Mounted to the Sony A7R V it works flawlessly.

You’ll find sample images taken with this lens in our Sony FE 70-200mm F2.8 GM OSS II Image Thread over on our forum.

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.

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

The Sony FE 70-200mm F4 Macro G OSS Ⅱ 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!

Mounted to the Sony A7R V it works flawlessly, but make sure your A7R V is running the latest firmware version, as I had some focusing issues before I updated the firmware to 3.00.

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:	794 g / 1.75 lb

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.

11. 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.

You’ll find sample images taken with this lens in our Sony FE F4.5-5.6 100-400mm G Master Image Thread over on our forum.

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.

12. 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.

You’ll find sample images taken with this lens in our Sony FE 200-600mm F5.6-6.3 G OSS Image Thread over on our forum.

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.

13. Sony FE 300mm F2.8 GM OSS

The Sony FE 300mm F2.8 GM OSS is Sony’s most recent telephoto prime lens to hit the market.

This 300mm F2.8 prime lens weighs only 1470g (51.9oz) which makes it the lightest in its class and the same weight as the original Sony FE 70-200mm F2.8 GM.

The optical design includes three Super ED (extra-low dispersion) glass elements and one ED glass element that help to subdue axial chromatic aberration as well as lateral chromatic aberration.

In addition to Super ED (extra-low dispersion) and ED elements, each lens is individually calibrated during manufacture to optimise bokeh quality. An 11-blade circular aperture mechanism contributes to lovely smooth bokeh balls.

The dual XD linear motors are extremely fast and can even keep up with shooting 120 fps that the Sony A9III is capable of.

Image quality is as good as it gets and the lens works very well with both the 1.4x and 2x teleconverters.

You can find some sample images from this lens over on the forum in our Sony FE 300mm F2.8 GM OSS Image Thread.

Key Specs

Model Name:	SEL300F28GM
Format:	35 mm full frame
Focal Length (mm):	300 mm
Angle of View (35 mm):	8°10′
Maximum Aperture:	F2.8
Minimum Aperture:	F22
Lens Groups / Elements:	17 groups, 21 elements (including one filter)
Aperture Blades:	11
Minimum Focusing Distance:	2 m (6.57 ft)
Maximum Magnification Ratio:	0.16x
Lens Image Stabilization:	Yes (3 modes)
Filter Diameter:	40.5mm
Teleconverter Support:	Yes: 1.4x / 2x
Diameter:	4.9in. / 124mm
Length:	10.45in. / 265 mm
Weight:	51.9 oz. / 1470 g (Without tripod mount)

Pros

• Great Sony GM build quality and weather sealing
• Very sharp even at F2.8
• Good CA control
• Very fast and quiet autofocus
• Lightweight and compact
• Supports both 1.4x and 2x teleconverters

Cons

• None

What’s in the Box

• Sony FE 300mm f/2.8 GM OSS Lens (Sony E)
• Front Lens Cap
• Sony ALC-R1EM Rear Lens Cap
• ALC-SH175 Lens Hood
• Tripod Mount
• Drop-In Filter
• Lens Strap
• Soft Case
• Limited 1-Year Manufacturer Warranty

Review

To learn more about the Sony FE 300mm F2.8 GM OS telephoto prime lens I’d recommend watching this review from Gerald Undone.

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. Sigma 500mm F5.6 DG DN OS Sports

The Sigma 500mm F5.6 DG DN OS Sports is the only third-party telephoto prime lens currently available for Sony E-mount.

Sigma initially lent me this lens to tryout and I was so impressed with it that I decided to buy one for myself. Since it arrived my Sony FE 200-600 has been collecting dust.

The Sigma 500 weighs just 1,365g (with foot but without hood and caps). The lens hood of the Sigma 500 weighs 150g which takes the total weight up to 1,515g.

The Sigma features 3 customizable buttons, a focus limiter switch, AF/MF switch, OS switch with modes 1/2 and off.

The Sigma also has a Custom switch with the options (OFF | C1 | C2). Unfortunately unlike L-mount shooters who can use the Sigma USB Dock to customize these functions, Sony shooters are stuck with the default settings. C1 is called “Dynamic View” and offers a recognizable OS effect in the viewfinder to help with composition. C2 is called “Moderate View” and focuses more on stabilizing the image at capture and less on stabilizing the viewfinder.

There’s also de-clickable and lockable aperture ring on the Sigma, this will probably be appreciated more by videographers than photographers.

A silky smooth focus ring is located towards the rear of the lens just behind the aperture ring.

The lens foot is removable and has integrated dovetails making it arca-swiss compatible. However, it could do with being a little larger because there’s not a lot to hold onto if you want to carry the lens by its foot.

The image quality is excellent and the autofocus is accurate and fast. However, I do find that for fast action such as birds in flight it performs much better on my Sony A1 than it does on my A7R V. It tends to lock on a little slower and also loses the subject easier than my A1. For perched birds it works really well. Possibly we might see some improvements here with a lens firmware update.

If you are curious about how it compares to the 200-600 then I’ve started putting together a Sigma 500mm VS Sony FE 200-600 Comparison that you might find interesting.

Below you’ll find a few images that I’ve shot with this lens. You can find further images over on the forum in our Sigma 500 F5.6 DG DN OS Sports Image Thread.

Key Specs

Model Name:	S024
Format:	35 mm full frame
Focal Length (mm):	500 mm
Angle of View (35 mm):	5.0°
Maximum Aperture:	F5.6
Minimum Aperture:	F32
Lens Groups / Elements:	20 elements in 14 groups (3 FLD, 2 SLD)
Aperture Blades:	11 (rounded diaphragm)
Minimum Focusing Distance:	320cm / 126.0in.
Maximum Magnification Ratio:	1:6
Lens Image Stabilization:	Yes
Filter Diameter:	95mm
Teleconverter Support:	No
Diameter:	4.2in. / 107.6mm
Length:	9.3in / 236.6mm
Weight:	48.1oz. / 1,365g without hood

Pros

• Well built and weather sealed
• Very light and compact for a 500mm F5.6 prime telephoto lens
• Useful switches and buttons
• Aperture ring
• Fast and quiet autofocus motor
• Very effective Optical Stabilizer
• Very sharp across the frame
• Less vignette and distortion than zoom lenses
• No fringing visible
• lovely bokeh
• Very good flare resistance

Cons

• No teleconverter support
• Limited to 15 frames per second due to Sony’s limitation on 3rd party lenses.

What’s in the Box

• Sigma 500mm f/5.6 DG DN OS Sports Lens (Sony E)
• Case
• LH1034-02 Lens Hood
• Sigma LCF-95 III 95mm Lens Cap
• Sigma LCR II Rear Lens Cap for Sony E
• Sigma TS-151 Tripod Socket
• Lens Strap
• Allen Wrench
• 2 x Screw
• Limited 4-Year Manufacturer Warranty

Review

To learn more about the Sigma 500mm F5.6 DG DN OS Sports lens I’d recommend watching this review from Dustin Abbott.

16. 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.

You’ll find sample images taken with this lens in our Sony FE 600mm F4 GM OSS Image Thread over on our forum.

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:

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 70-200mm F4 Macro G OSS II
• Sony FE 100-400mm F4.5-5.6 GM OSS
• Sony FE 200-600mm F5.6-6.3 G OSS
• Sony FE 300mm F2.8 GM 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

Additional Lens Guides

Camera & Lens Deals

The following links should filter all of the Sony camera, lens and accessory deals currently running at Amazon and B&H Photo in the USA.

• View all Sony Deals at Amazon.com
• View all Sony Deals at B&H Photo

Sony A7R V Guides & Resources

Sony A7R V Lens FAQs