Sony launches high-speed FE 50-150mm F2 GM lens
Sony is emerging as a leader in lens design with its latest release, the Sony FE 50-150mm F2 GM. The new lens is highly corrected with five ED elements, two being the ‘Super’ ED type, and two double-sided aspherical elements for mitigating fringing and distortion. It’s also relatively lightweight (1.34kg), is some 200mm in length and takes 95mm filters.
According to Sony, the lens has a “floating focusing system [which] enables a minimum focusing distance of 0.4m.” This sentence is somewhat confusing but infers the lens has ‘floating elements,’ which is meant to mitigate aberrations at close distances, and not necessarily enable a 0.4m mfd. Of course, if aberrations are significantly reduced, then a usable shorter than average mfd could be achieved, but one doesn’t always follow the other. It’s nuanced but likely lost in translation.
This new lens brings to mind Nikon’s introduction of the Zoom-Nikkor 80-200mm F2.8 ED AIS in 1982. At the time, it was the fastest available and had a similar purpose. Although numbers were low, only around 1500 units were made in all, it significantly impacted the industry. This new lens will likely have a comparable effect, leading competitors to create similar models in the future. The Nikon lens not only inspired many copies but, on the downside, also greatly reduced the market for 135mm and 180/200mm lenses. With an initial aperture of F2, this new lens will likely also affect future sales of 50mm, 85mm and 100/105mm lenses.
On a personal note, this lens could persuade one to switch makes, or at least buy a Sony body to try it with. As a garden (and architecture) photographer, a zoom lens like this would be a huge plus over a 24/28-70mm F2/2.8 and 70-200mm F2.8 for me when photographing establishing type shots and plant ‘portraits’. At just 1.34 kg, it is relatively lightweight too – the Zoom-Nikkor was 1.9 kg and manual focus.
However, this new lens is somewhat pricey at introduction, retailing at £3,800 / €4,400. All things considered, though, it’s still hugely tempting…
Pre-orderthe Sony FE 50-150mm F2 GM [affilate links]
Press release
Sony today introduces the FE 50-150mm F2 GM, the world’s firsti telephoto zoom lens with a maximum focal length of 150 mm and F2 aperture. This lens features a standard focal length of 50mm at the wide-angle end and combines an open aperture of F2 with high resolution comparable to that of a prime lens. This allows for a wide range of scenarios with just one lens for various situations and subjects. As part of Sony’s renowned G Master™ series, the FE 50-150mm F2 GM offers an exceptional combination of high resolution and stunning bokeh, enhancing the imaging results for professionals using the Sony Alpha camera system.
“The FE 50-150mm F2 GM marks a pivotal milestone in Sony’s commitment to pushing creative possibilities,” said Yann Salmon-Legagneur, Head of Marketing, Imaging Products and Solutions, Sony Europe. “By delivering a constant F2 aperture across its zoom range, this lens offers Sony Alpha users with an all-in-one solution that comparable to multiple prime lenses like a 50mm, 85mm, and 135mm. This innovation expands the versatility professionals need to capture remarkable imagery in both photography and video.”
Exceptional Image Quality and Smooth F2 Bokeh
The FE 50-150mm F2 GM’s internal optical design plays a crucial role in producing its exceptional image quality. By integrating two XA (extreme aspherical) elements, two Super ED (extra-low dispersion) glass elements, and three ED elements, the lens effectively suppresses aberrations, ensuring sharp, high-contrast imagery across the entire zoom range. Additionally, the floating focusing system enables a minimum focusing distance of 0.4m at the wide end and a maximum magnification of 0.20 for detailed shooting.
The FE 50-150mm F2 GM’s constant F2 aperture creates beautifully smooth bokeh, making it an ideal choice for portrait, wedding, and event photographers aiming to isolate subjects with a shallow depth of field. A newly developed 11-blade circular aperture further enhances the signature G Master bokeh. When shooting videos, the lens delivers stunning cinematic results and exceptional clarity.
In addition, Sony’s proprietary “Nano AR Coating II,” applied uniformly across the entire lens surface, significantly reduces ghosting and flare even in backlit conditions, delivering clear and crisp imagery.
Internal Zoom and Compact Design
Measuring at approximately 200 mm in length and weighing approximately 1,340g, the FE 50-150mm F2 GM offers remarkable portability considering its impressive combination of wide zoom range and bright aperture. This lens is ideal for both handheld and gimbal use with its featured internal zoom design that maintains the lens’s length and weight balance despite focal length changes. With its practical design, this lens serves as a versatile, all-in-one solution for those seeking a standard 50mm through 150mm telephoto range.
Fast and Precise Autofocus Performance
Equipped with four XD (extreme dynamic) linear motors and Sony’s advanced control algorithms, the FE 50-150mm F2 GM delivers fast, accurate, and quiet autofocus (AF). This high-performance AF system is compatible with Sony’s Alpha 9 III, supporting continuous shooting at up to 120 frames per second with full AF/AE trackingiii. With a fast AF system and a versatile 50-150 mm zoom range, the lens excels at capturing fast-paced indoor sports, portraits and events.
Cinematic Video Production
Designed with filmmakers in mind, the FE 50-150mm F2 GM minimises focus breathing and is compatible with Sony’s Breathing Compensationiv feature on select Alpha cameras. Linear Response MF ensures intuitive manual focus control, while the lens’s internal zoom design maintains stability even while zooming mounted on gimbals. Additionally, the XD linear motors operate quietly to prevent unwanted noise from being captured during recording.
Built for durability, the FE 50-150mm F2 GM features a robust dust- and moisture-resistant designv. A fluorine coating on the front element repels contaminants, making it easy to clean and ensuring the lens remains in top condition even in challenging environments.
Pricing and Availability
The FE 50-150mm F2 GM will be available at the beginning of June 2025 for £3,800 / €4,400.
A product video on the new FE 50-150mm F2 GM can be viewed here: https://youtu.be/o-SZCS4SgRw
For detailed product information about FE 50-150mm F2 GM please visit: https://www.sony.co.uk/electronics/camera-lenses/sel50150gm
