Bazbo Loc: Lisboa, Portugal

Anyone have any experience with this lens (either the f/2.8 or the f/4 version)?
Focus speed and accuracy, ergonomics, color rendition, bookeh, etc.?

I intend to use this FF lens on my a6500 (crop sensor) body. The available mid-teleohoto options for the crop camera are simply not sharp enough.

Thanks in advance.

coolhoosier Loc: Dover, NH, USA

I use the F/4 version on my A7 III and love it. Fast, responsive, and easily handleable.

Toment Loc: FL, IL

That’s exactly what I do and the IQ is wonderful with the f4.
Maybe the 2.8 would be better in low light but the cost is not worth it for me.
An example of f4 at Tigertail Beach Marco Island FL, ospreys’ nest.

(Download)

a6k Loc: Detroit & Sanibel

I have that lens (F4) on that camera. I recommend it without reservation. You can find good reviews of it on such sites as DXO and others.

UTMike Loc: South Jordan, UT

I rented this lens for a week and it took very sharp pictures. Very easy to use. In fact, Lensrental.com has a use lens sale going on now.

Bazbo Loc: Lisboa, Portugal

Thanks for the advice everyone. I have the f/4 on order so I think I will keep it when it arrives.

This has been very helpful thanks for taking the time.

jtwind

I also have the f4 version and find it a great lens. Focuses fast and is quite sharp, no complaints at all. I use it on a a6300 and a a7iii.

gwilliams6

I have the Sony 70-200mm f2.8GM lens. On your APS-c camera that will give you an equivalent 105-250mm field of view. The f4 version is smaller and lighter, if that is what you need. The f2.8 version is larger and heavier but has that f2.8 aperture and also can be used with excellent Sony 1.4X and 2X tele-extenders. The f4 version will NOT work with any teleconverters. I had an A6500 along with my fullframe Sony's and the 70-200mm f2.8 was awesome on it for wildlife and scenics. The f2.8GM is quite a bit more expensive than the f4. If you don't think you will need the f2.8 then get the f4 version, save money and weight. Both f4 and f2.8 versions are excellent image quality, quick focusing.

Be aware Tamron is set to introduce an E-mount 70-180mm f2.8 telephoto zoom that is very compact and light weight, lighter and smaller than either the Sony f4, or f2.8 70-200mm lenses, and more affordable. You really should think about that choice if you have time to wait for it. Tamron is making top quality E-mount lenses for Sony cameras. https://petapixel.com/2019/09/10/tamron-to-announce-70-180mm-f-2-8-e-mount-lens-in-october-report/ Cheers

Bazbo Loc: Lisboa, Portugal

Thanks. Weight is more of a consideration than cost for my purposes. I bought this camera to have a lightweight option for travel and casual photos. I appreciate the feedback and I am very hopeful that this will be a much sharper lens than the 55-210 that it will replace.

bwana Loc: Bergen, Alberta, Canada

I had the f/4 version and returned it for a refund after finding it was decentered, i.e.: focused nicely in the middle but neither side would come to focus on an A7S or A7R II.

I do understand this was probably a 'one-off' problem but it made me a bit leery regarding the Sony's quality control.

bwa

spaceytracey Loc: East Glacier Park, MT

I have the same camera but w/ the 70-300mm G ssm, 405-5.6. Love both the lens & the camera!!

gwilliams6

There has been NO widespread problem with the Sony 70-200mm f4. It is regarded by most as extremely sharp with excellent image quality. Unfortunately any lens can have a bad copy made. Top pros use this lens to help them make a living and love it. Cheers

gwilliams6

Then go with the f4 Sony for much lighter weight than the f2.8, but before you buy, check out that new Tamron 70-180mm f2.8, that should be a lightweight marvel. If I was in your shoes, I would wait on that Tamron for sure before committing to the f4 Sony. Cheers

spaceytracey Loc: East Glacier Park, MT