Sony has announced the 67th lens in its mirrorless E-mount line-up, the FE 24-70mm f/2.8 GM II (model SEL2470GM2), which is due for local release in late May.


Angled view of the new Sony FE 24-70mm f/2.8 GM II lens. (Source: Sony.)

Claimed as the World’s smallest and lightest f/2.8 standard zoom lens in its category, the FE 24-70mm f/2.8 GM II weighs just 695 grams, which is 20% less than its predecessor. It is also 16 mm shorter and its overall volume has been reduced by approximately 18%.. The redesigned optical configuration consists of 20 elements in 15 groups. Among them are five aspherical elements, including two high-precision XA (extreme aspherical) elements plus two ED (extra-low dispersion) and two Super ED glass elements. They combine with a new floating focus mechanism to control chromatic aberration, astigmatism, distortion and coma and deliver sharp, detailed images throughout the image area at all zoom and aperture settings. Nano AR Coating II is applied uniformly to suppress flare and ghosting and achieve optimal image clarity. A newly-developed 11-blade aperture unit produces stunning bokeh throughout the zoom range with almost perfectly circular highlights.


This illustration shows the compact size of the new lens. (Source: Sony.)

The minimum focusing distance ranges from 21 cm at 24mm to 30 cm at 70 mm, a maximum magnification of 0.32x. Fast autofocusing is achieved through use of four of Sony’s original XD (extreme dynamic) Linear Motors, a floating focus mechanism and advanced lens control. The lens also supports up to 30 fps continuous shooting for stills and 4K 120p video recording with autofocus. Full AF tracking performance even when shooting stills with the aperture stopped down, making it possible to ensure moving subjects remain in sharp focus when shooting continuously. Tracking performance while zooming is approximately two times better than the previous model. Focus breathing, focus shift and axial shift when zooming are minimised for smooth video footage and the lens supports the breathing compensation function provided in compatible Alpha series cameras. It also includes Linear Response MF (manual focus) for high repeatability when focusing manually plus an aperture ring for fast, direct control. An updated dust and moisture resistant7 design provides extra reliability for outdoor use in challenging conditions.

The new FE 24-70mm f/2.8 GM II lens will be available in Australia from late May at an SRP of AU$3,299.00. Click here for more information.