Sony FE 16-35mm f2.8 G Master II Lens

Following the original's success, the FE 16-35mm f2.8 G Master lens returns as the smallest and lightest wide-angle zoom in its class*. This Mark II lens encapsulates Sony’s dedication to quality and innovation with an improved optical structure for outstanding resolution, four XD Linear Motors for high-performing autofocus, and enhanced ergonomics with intuitive controls for hybrid shooters.

Sony FE 16-35mm f2.8 G Master II Lens Key Features:

• A new evolution of the renowned FE 16-35 f2.8 G Master Lens
• Ultra-wide to standard focal lengths ideal for landscapes & travel
• Premium construction featuring 15 glass elements in 12 groups
• Includes 1 Super ED, 2 ED, 1 ED ASPH, 1 ASPH, 3 XA elements
• High-resolution performance with well-suppressed aberrations
• Nano AR Coating II minimises flare & ghosting for crisp images
• Extended depth of field control with f2.8 maximum aperture
• Shoot close range with a constant 0.22m min. focusing distance
• 0.32x max. magnification helps smaller subjects fill the frame
• 11-blade aperture diaphragm for naturally circular bokeh
• Fast, precise, & silent autofocussing with 4 XD Linear Motors
• Agile tracking even at 30fps burst & shooting in 4K 120p
• Internal floating focus mechanism for speed & precision
• Optimised for video with focus breathing suppression
• Consistent centre of gravity perfect for gimbal users
• Dedicated active mode for in-body image stabilisation
• The smallest & lightest wide-angle zoom in its class*
• Designed to enhance operability for both stills & video
• Oil/water-repellent fluorine coating protects the front lens
• Dust & moisture resistant design with sealed seams

*As of August 2023 product announcement

Expanded Sony FE 16-35mm f2.8 G Master II Lens Key Features:

Outstanding G Master Image Quality

The FE 16-35mm f2.8 G Master II owes its outstanding resolution and detail-rich results to its advanced optical structure. With 15 elements arranged into 12 groups, including 1 Super ED, 2 ED, 1 ED ASPH, 1 ASPH, and 3 of the latest XA elements, this second-generation lens boats four significant optical improvements. Users will benefit from suppressed chromatic aberrations even in backlit scenes and excellent corner-to-corner resolution across the entire focal range. The upgraded Nano AR Coating II also suppresses internal reflections to minimise ghosting and flare. Finally, the most exciting improvement comes from the enhanced constant 0.22m minimum focusing distance that joins forces with a large f2.8 aperture and 11-blade diaphragm for stunning close-ups with ample bokeh.

High-Performance Autofocus

Sony’s decision to include four XD Linear Motors for improved autofocus performance is arguably one of the most significant upgrades to this lens. The much enhanced floating focus mechanism helps reduce the lens size and keeps pace with the latest AI-based autofocus systems from Sony’s Alpha range of cameras. This high-speed, high-precision performance accurately tracks subjects at 30fps in continuous shooting modes and when filming in 4K 120p. The result is an incredibly adept optic that prevents users from missing the all-important shot.

Optimised for Video

To meet the demands of contemporary hybrid shooters and visual creators, Sony has optimised the FE 16-35mm f2.8 G Master II lens with dedicated movie features. This evolution of an already popular lens now optically suppresses focus-breathing for much smoother video and supports breathing compensation in compatible bodies. When paired with A-series cameras, users can also access active/dynamic active mode for excellent image stabilisation while maintaining a wide angle of view. This feature is only available with Sony lenses and allows users to shoot whilst walking or go hand-held. Gimbal users will also be pleased to learn that this lens benefits from a centre of gravity that is virtually unchanged when zooming.

Unparalleled Mobility

There’s no denying that the Sony FE 16-35mm f2.8 G Master II lens is one of the smallest and lightest models in its class. At 20% lighter and 10.1mm shorter than the original, this lens has an incredibly compact build perfect for daily use. When combined with the re-release of other popular lenses, such as the 70-200mm and 24-77mm, professionals could also include their α1 body and still have a lighter kit than the combined weight of the original lenses. Reinforcing this lens as a reliable option for demanding field work is the dust and moisture-resistant design with sealed seams, water and oil-repellent fluorine coating, and a smaller petal-type lens hood.

Intuitive Handling

In undertaking an overall design review, Sony has developed a more compact lens with even better control and operability than preceding models. In line with the functionalities of recent lenses, Sony has equipped the FE 16-35mm f2.8 G Master II with dedicated zoom/focus/aperture rings, focus hold buttons, a focus mode switch, an iris lock switch, and an aperture click switch. This masterful combination of aperture controls makes for incredibly intuitive handling, allowing users to choose between convenient 1/3-step click stops or seamless control using the f-stop engravings for guidance. The iris lock switch also prevents the aperture ring from being moved accidentally, ensuring maximum precision for a professional workflow.

What’s in the box?

• 1 x Sony FE 16-35mm f2.8 G Master II Lens
• 1 x Lens Hood ALC-SH177
• 1 x Front Lens Cap ALC-F82S
• 1 x Rear Lens Cap ALC-R1EM
• 1 x Soft Case
• 1 x Case Strap

Sony FE 16-35mm f2.8 G Master II Lens Product Video:

FAQs:

What is a Sony G Master lens?

Sony designed the G Master Range with advances in camera performance and soaring creative ideals in mind. Each lens in this series is built with a clear vision of future developments in the photography industry, ensuring every G Master lens is futureproof enough to take advantage of everything the next generation of Sony cameras offers.

Can I use filters with the Sony FE 16-35mm f2.8 G Master II Lens?

Yes. The Sony FE 16-35mm f2.8 G Master II lens has an 82mm thread for attaching optional filters, polarisers and accessories.

What types of photography are suitable for the Sony FE 16-35mm f2.8 G Master II Lens?

As an incredibly versatile lens with an ultra-wide to standard focal range, the Sony FE 16-35mm f2.8 G Master II is perfect for everything from landscapes and travel to nightscapes and street photography. Its large f2.8 aperture and 11-blade diaphragm also naturally lend this optic to portrait work and close-ups.

How does the Sony FE 16-35mm f2.8 G Master II Lens differ from the original?

Three key elements separate the mark-II from the original Sony FE 16-35mm f2.8 G Master lens: improved image quality, video optimisation, and a more compact build. Optical improvements include added XA elements and a floating focus mechanism for corner-to-corner resolution, aberration control, minimised flare/ghosting, and improved closeups. This Sony lens also benefits from reduced focus breathing, a small centre of gravity, four XD Linear Motors for tenacious tracking, and a reduced size.

How compact is the Sony FE 16-35mm f2.8 G Master II Lens?

As the smallest and lightest lens in its class*, the Sony FE 16-35mm f2.8 G Master II is incredibly compact. Measuring just 111.5mm in length and weighing only 547g, this lens is perfect for daily use, with extra room in your kit bag for companion prime lenses.

*As of August 2023 product announcement