Sony FE 24-70mm F2.8 GM II: Smallest F2.8 Standard Zoom

Sony FE 24-70mm F2.8 GM II: Smallest F2.8 Standard Zoom

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Sony FE 24–70mm f/2.8 GM II

San Diego, CA—Sony Electronics introduced the 67th lens in its mirrorless E-mount lineup: the Sony FE 24-70mm F2.8 GM II (model SEL2470GM2). Sony developed what it calls the “world’s lightest f/2.8 standard zoom lens” using its latest lens technology to deliver both resolution and beautiful bokeh.

Moreover, the FE 24–70mm f/2.8 GM II is one of the most versatile lenses in the company’s G Master lineup. The lens is a solution for photographers, videographers and hybrid content creators.

“Six years have passed since Sony released the first 24–70mm f/2.8 G Master; in that time, our customers’ needs have changed,” said Yang Cheng, vice president, Imaging Solutions, Sony Electronics Inc.

“We are always listening to our community and have designed the new FE 24–70mm f/2.8 GM II around feedback from creators. Knowing the 24–70mm focal length is extremely popular, it was imperative we continue improving to bring our most advanced technology to such a critical lens in our customers’ kit.”

Sony FE 24-70mm F2.8 GM II Features

The new lens features high resolution across the frame—even with the aperture wide open. Furthermore, a completely redesigned optical path utilizes five aspherical elements, including two high-precision XA (extreme aspherical) elements. The lens also includes two ED (extra-low dispersion) plus two super ED glass elements.

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Sony FE 24–70mm f/2.8 GM II

Combined with a new floating focus mechanism, the lens effectively controls chromatic aberration, astigmatism, distortion as well as coma. As a result, it achieves high resolution throughout the image area at all zoom and aperture settings.

What’s more, when shooting in challenging lighting conditions, the lens effectively subdues flare and ghosting. That’s thanks to Sony’s Nano AR Coating II, which produces a uniform antireflecting coating on the lens surface.

In addition, the FE 24–70mm f/2.8 GM II produces nearly perfectly circular bokeh throughout the zoom range. This is due to its advanced optical design as well as a newly developed 11-blade aperture unit.

The lens also offers close-up performance with a minimum focusing distance of 8.25 inches at 24mm and 12 inches at 70mm. It has a maximum magnification of 0.32x.

Autofocus Specs

Additionally, the G Master lens provides reliable focus by using four of Sony’s XD (extreme dynamic) linear motors; a floating focus mechanism; and advanced lens control—even when shooting fast-moving subjects. Notably, the lens supports up to 30-frames-per-sec continuous shooting for stills and 4K 120p video recording with autofocus.

It also enables full AF tracking even when shooting stills with the aperture stopped down. As a result, photographers can use a deeper depth of field to ensure that moving subjects remain in sharp focus when shooting continuously. In fact, the lens’s AF tracking while zooming is approximately two times better than the previous model.

Sony engineers also designed the lens for all types of video applications. It offers quiet AF operation, thanks to the XD linear motors and the newly developed aperture unit. Using the latest lens technology, it reduces focus breathing, focus shift and axial shift when zooming to create smooth video footage. In addition, it supports the breathing compensation function provided in compatible Alpha cameras.

For Video Creators

As an added benefit for advanced video creation, the lens includes linear response MF (manual focus) to ensure repeatability when focusing manually; the focus ring responds directly and repeatedly to subtle control. It also includes an aperture ring to make manual aperture/iris control faster. The dedicated iris ring also enables click-less control for smooth depth-of-field transitions. Sony FE 24–70mm f/2.8 GM II Sony FE PZ 16-35mm F4 Gcanadian press Sony-Logo-HR creator in residence

To pair perfectly with compact, portable Alpha mirrorless cameras, the FE 24–70mm f/2.8 GM II weighs 24.6 ounces; that’s approximately 20% less than (7 ounces) the original 24–70 mm f/2.8 G Master. Its length was also reduced by 16mm, and overall volume was reduced by approximately 18%.

Other features include a zoom smoothness switch to adjust zoom ring torque (tight or smooth); an aperture ring with click on/off switch and iris lock switch; two customizable focus hold buttons; and a new lens hood with an opening to control circular polarizing filters (82mm). Plus, based on feedback from professionals, Sony moved the center of gravity back toward the mount for improved handling and operation.

Sony also updated the lens’s dust and moisture resistance. Buttons and switches are fitted with rubber gaskets, and a rubber ring seals the lens mount. The front lens element also has a fluorine coating to repel water, oil and other contaminants. The coating also makes it easier to wipe off any contaminants or fingerprints on the lens surface.

The Sony FE 24–70mm f/2.8 GM II lens will reach retail in June. It will have a suggested retail price of $2,300.

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