The FE 24-50mm f/2.8 G is designed for Sony Alpha full-frame E-mount mirrorless cameras, but it also works with APS-C sensor cameras (with an effective focal length of 36-75mm due to the 1.5x crop factor). Here’s what you need to know about this lens:
- Compact and Lightweight: Weighing in at just 440g (15.5 oz) and measuring 9.23cm in length, this lens is remarkably light and compact for a standard zoom. It strikes a balance between portability and performance.
- Aperture: The constant f/2.8 aperture throughout the zoom range ensures excellent low-light performance and allows for creative depth of field control.
- Optical Design: The lens features 16 elements in 13 groups, including two ED (extra-low dispersion) elements and four standard aspherical elements. This construction contributes to high image quality, reduced aberrations, and improved sharpness.
- Bokeh: With its 11-blade diaphragm, the lens produces smooth and attractive bokeh in out-of-focus areas.
- Close Focusing: The lens offers a minimum focusing distance of 19cm (0.62ft) and a maximum magnification of 0.33x, making it versatile for close-up shots.
- Autofocus: The linear motor ensures fast and quiet autofocusing, even when shooting at up to 120 fps using burst modes.
- Video Capabilities: Videographers will appreciate smooth tracking in slow-motion 4K 120p and Full HD 240p. Focus breathing compensation is also available.
- Build Quality: The lens is dust- and moisture-resistant, making it suitable for various shooting conditions. The fluorine coating on the front element repels water, oil, and contaminants.
- Customizable Focus Hold Button: Like other Sony lenses, the FE 24-50mm f/2.8 G includes a customizable focus hold button for added convenience.
- Price and Availability: The lens is expected to be available in April 2024, priced at £1150 / €1300 in the UK and Europe, respectively.
The Sony FE 24-50mm f/2.8 G Lens offers a compelling alternative for photographers seeking a versatile, high-quality standard zoom without the bulk of larger lenses. Whether you’re capturing everyday moments or diving into creative projects, this lens could be exactly what you need.
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A lightweight flexible general purpose zoom is something I am waiting on.
I’m still very happy with the 24-105, it is exactly what I thought it would be.
Guess which one I kept, yet knowing that there are some very good 24-105 around.
As OpticalLimits often stated, it is far from easy producing an excellent "standard" zoom. Fact is, a standard zoom lags behind similar focal length primes. Not so tele-zooms.
Therefore, I'd rather see a 24-50 than a 20-60, less extreme is often better, meaning less optical compromises. Sadly, moderate zooms do not sell that well, think of the really great Sigma 24-35 F2.
But I still expect some good Canon surprises...
My copy of the RF is not as sharp as the one I rented years ago, but only slightly. Sharp enough for my uses, if I want better sharpness I’ll use a (non-L) prime.