A046SF 17-28mm f/2.8 Di III RXD Sony Black Lens Review – In-Depth Analysis
For weeks, I’ve been putting the A046SF 17-28mm f/2.8 Di III RXD lens through its paces on my Sony full-frame mirrorless camera. This wide-angle zoom lens promises exceptional image quality and versatility, and I’m here to share my honest findings after extensive real-world testing in various shooting conditions.
This review dives deep into its performance, exploring its strengths and weaknesses to help you determine if it’s the right lens for your photography needs. From landscape photography to low-light situations, I’ve pushed this lens to its limits.
Key Features
The A046SF boasts a number of impressive features designed to deliver top-tier performance. The constant f/2.8 maximum aperture throughout the zoom range is a standout feature, providing consistent brightness and excellent low-light capabilities. This is complemented by the inclusion of XLD (eXtra Low Dispersion) and LD (Low Dispersion) elements, which effectively minimize chromatic aberrations and color fringing, leading to sharper, more accurate images.
The RXD (Rapid eXtra-silent stepping motor) ensures quiet and precise autofocus, making it ideal for both stills and video recording. The build quality feels robust and premium, promising longevity.
| Colour Name | Black |
|---|---|
| Model Number | A046S / A046SF |
| Model Name | A046S |
Performance and Image Quality
In my testing, the A046SF consistently impressed. The image sharpness is exceptional across the entire zoom range, even at wide apertures. I found the autofocus to be incredibly fast and accurate, even in challenging low-light conditions. The constant f/2.8 aperture allows for beautiful bokeh and shallow depth of field, offering creative control over your images.
I used the lens for landscape photography, street photography, and even some low-light astrophotography. In each scenario, the lens performed admirably. The color rendition is accurate and vibrant, with minimal distortion. The build quality is solid, and the lens feels comfortable to handle even during extended shooting sessions.
However, there were a few minor drawbacks. While the autofocus is generally excellent, I did experience a few instances of slight hunting in very low light conditions. This wasn’t a significant issue, but worth noting.
Pros & Cons
- Pros: Constant f/2.8 aperture, excellent image sharpness, fast and accurate autofocus, minimal distortion, robust build quality, great low-light performance.
- Cons: Minor autofocus hunting in extremely low light, slightly larger and heavier than some comparable lenses.
Final Verdict
The A046SF 17-28mm f/2.8 Di III RXD is a fantastic wide-angle zoom lens. Its exceptional image quality, fast autofocus, and constant aperture make it a versatile tool for a wide range of photography styles. While there are some minor drawbacks, they are easily outweighed by its strengths. I wholeheartedly recommend the A046SF to any photographer using a Sony full-frame mirrorless camera who needs a reliable and high-performing wide-angle zoom lens.
