Sony presents fast telephoto zoom lens FE 50–150 mm F2 GM
Sony is expanding its lens portfolio with the world's first telephoto zoom lens with a constant speed of f/2.0 over the entire focal length range.
(Image: Sony)
Sony has introduced the FE 50–150 mm F2 GM, the first telephoto zoom with a continuous aperture of f/2.0. At 1,340 grams, the new lens is 30 percent heavier than the Sony FE 70–200 mm F2.8 GM OSS II, but surprisingly light considering the one f-stop higher speed. The lens has the same length of 200 mm as the 70–200 mm, but is slightly wider with a diameter of 103 mm.
The internal zoom mechanism ensures that the overall length does not change when zooming, which is particularly advantageous for gimbal shots. According to Sony, the lens is ideal for wedding, portrait and indoor sports photography.
High-quality optics
The optical construction comprises 19 elements in 17 groups, including two XA elements (extremely aspherical), two aspherical elements, two Super ED and three ED elements. Sony promises an imaging performance that is comparable to modern fixed focal lengths, as the published MTF diagrams should prove.
The closest focusing distance is 0.4 meters at the wide-angle end and 0.74 meters at the telephoto end, which enables a maximum magnification of 0.2x. Four XD linear motors ensure fast and precise autofocus, which also meets the requirements of the 120 fps mode of the Sony α9 III.
Optimized for photo and video
Videographers benefit from minimal focus breathing, which can also be corrected using the breathing compensation function of compatible cameras. The focus ring can be set to linear response, enabling precise focusing for video recordings.
The lens is designed for filters with a diameter of 95 mm. Sony points out that these should have a maximum outer diameter of 99.4 mm if the supplied lens hood is used at the same time.
No optical image stabilization
(Image:Â Sony)
In contrast to the FE 70–200 mm F2.8 GM OSS II, the new 50–150 mm F2 GM does not have integrated image stabilization. This could be a disadvantage for photographers working without a tripod, especially at longer focal lengths, as an image stabilizer integrated into the lens is more effective than camera-based sensor stabilization, especially at longer focal lengths.
Despite the high price of around 4,400 euros, the lens should be of interest to professional photographers and filmmakers who work indoors or in low light conditions and want to take advantage of the high speed.
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Robust construction
Sony emphasizes the dust and moisture-resistant construction of the lens. A fluorine coating on the front lens protects against dirt and makes cleaning easier. The lens has an aperture ring with lock switch and declick function, as well as three configurable function buttons.
With the FE 50–150 mm F2 GM, Sony is continuing its strategy of developing lenses for professional users. After the recently introduced FE 28–70 mm F2 GM, this is already the second zoom lens with a constant aperture of f/2.0 in the Sony range.
The new FE 50–150 mm F2 GM will be available from May/June 2025 for around 4,400 euros.
(tho)
