Sony FE 24-70mm f/2.8 GM II Lens – High-Resolution Standard Zoom with XD Linear Motors and Nano AR Coating II

The Sony FE 24-70mm f/2.8 GM II Lens is engineered to deliver exceptional image quality and versatile performance for both photographers and videographers. Designed to compete with prime lenses, this zoom lens excels in resolution, clarity, and bokeh quality. Its constant f/2.8 aperture ensures reliable performance in low-light conditions and provides creative control over depth of field. Advanced optical elements, including two ED and two Super ED elements, work together to minimize chromatic aberrations and color fringing, delivering images with superior clarity and color accuracy. The Nano AR Coating II further enhances image quality by reducing flare and ghosting, while the 11-blade aperture diaphragm contributes to smooth and circular bokeh effects.

The lens features an updated focusing system that includes four XD (extreme dynamic) Linear Motors, offering faster, quieter, and more precise autofocus performance compared to its predecessor. This improved AF system supports high-speed shooting up to 30 fps and maintains focus accuracy even at high zoom levels. The floating focus mechanism enhances image quality across the entire focusing range, with a minimum focusing distance of 8.3 inches at 24mm and 11.8 inches at 70mm, providing a maximum magnification of 0.32x at the 70mm position. The lens’s internal focusing design ensures responsive operation while maintaining its compact dimensions.

Key Features

• Exceptional Image Quality: The lens is crafted to rival prime lenses, offering outstanding resolution and clarity with a constant f/2.8 aperture for consistent performance across the zoom range.
• Advanced Optical Elements: Incorporates two ED and two Super ED elements to effectively suppress chromatic aberrations and color fringing, and five aspherical elements, including two extreme aspherical (XA) elements, to minimize distortion and spherical aberrations.
• Nano AR Coating II: Applied to control flare and ghosting, enhancing contrast and color accuracy by reducing internal reflections.
• Faster Autofocus: Equipped with four XD (extreme dynamic) Linear Motors for improved focusing speed, precision, and quiet operation, supporting up to 30 fps shooting and effective focus tracking during zoom changes.
• Floating Focus Mechanism: Maintains image quality throughout the focusing range with a minimum focusing distance of 8.3 inches at 24mm and 11.8 inches at 70mm, achieving a maximum magnification of 0.32x at 70mm.
• Video-Friendly Features: Minimizes focus breathing, focus shift, and axial shift, supports Breathing Compensation on compatible cameras, and features a de-clickable manual aperture ring for silent operation.
• Compact and Lightweight Design: Approximately 22% lighter and 18% smaller than its predecessor, with a weather-sealed construction and fluorine-coated front element for durability and easy cleaning.
• Enhanced Control: Includes two programmable focus hold buttons, a focus mode switch, and a zoom smoothness switch for customizable operation and tactile control.

Specifications

• Lens Type: Standard zoom lens
• Focal Length: 24-70mm
• Maximum Aperture: f/2.8
• Lens Mount: Sony E-mount
• Elements/Groups: 18 elements in 14 groups
• Minimum Focus Distance: 8.3 inches (0.21 meters) at 24mm, 11.8 inches (0.30 meters) at 70mm
• Image Stabilization: None
• Autofocus System: Four XD Linear Motors
• Filter Size: 77mm
• Dimensions: 3.3 x 4.6 inches (83 x 117mm)
• Weight: 1.7 lbs (0.77 kg)

Conclusion

The Sony FE 24-70mm f/2.8 GM II Lens stands out with its superior image quality, fast autofocus performance, and compact design, making it a valuable asset for a wide range of photographic and videographic needs. Its advanced optical and mechanical features provide exceptional clarity, reduced aberrations, and smooth operation in various shooting conditions. This lens is well-suited for professionals seeking high performance and versatility in a standard zoom lens.