Sony FE 70-200mm F2.8 GM OSS II SEL70200GM2 Review: The Ultimate Telephoto?
The Sony FE 70-200mm F2.8 GM OSS II SEL70200GM2 is the latest iteration of Sony’s flagship telephoto zoom lens. Having spent considerable time shooting with this lens in various conditions, I’m ready to share my comprehensive review.
This lens boasts impressive specifications. The inclusion of two aspherical elements and one XA (extreme aspherical) element promises exceptional sharpness across the entire zoom range. Sony’s Nano AR Coating II effectively minimizes flare and ghosting, even in challenging lighting conditions. The four XD (Extreme Dynamic) Linear Motors provide incredibly fast and accurate autofocus, even when tracking moving subjects. The lens is also noticeably lighter than its predecessor, making it more comfortable for extended shooting sessions. The reduced focus breathing, focus shift, and axis shift during zooming are particularly welcome additions for videographers.
| Specification | Value |
|---|---|
| Product Weight | 1045 g |
| Colour Name | White |
| What’s In The Box | Tripod collar, Lens hood, Lens front cap, Lens rear cap, Lens case |
| Autofocus | Yes |
| Product Height | 8.8 cm |
| Product Width/Depth | 20 cm |
| Camera Resolution | 77 MP |
| Features | Exposure Control, Low Light |
| Model Number | SEL70200GM2 |
| Model Name | SEL70200GM2 |
| Item Quantity | 1 |
| Image Stabilization | Yes |
| Aperture | f2.8 |
In real-world testing, the SEL70200GM2 exceeded expectations. The autofocus is lightning-fast and incredibly accurate, consistently locking onto subjects with minimal hunting. Image quality is superb, producing crisp, detailed images with minimal chromatic aberration. Even at wider apertures, the lens delivers excellent sharpness from corner to corner. The image stabilization is also very effective, allowing for sharp handheld shots at slower shutter speeds. I particularly appreciated the reduced focus breathing, making it a joy to use for video work.
I used this lens extensively for wildlife photography, capturing stunning shots of birds in flight. The fast autofocus and image stabilization were crucial in these scenarios. I also used it for portraiture, where its creamy bokeh and exceptional sharpness really shone. The lens performed admirably in low-light situations, delivering clean images with minimal noise.
The build quality is excellent. The magnesium alloy barrel feels robust and durable, and the lens controls are well-placed and easy to use. While the weight is relatively low for this class of lens, it’s still noticeable after extended use. The provided tripod collar is a welcome addition for long shooting sessions.
Pros:
- Exceptional image quality and sharpness.
- Blazing-fast and accurate autofocus.
- Effective image stabilization.
- Lightweight design for its class.
- Minimal focus breathing, ideal for video.
- Robust build quality.
Cons:
- Still relatively expensive.
- Can be noticeable heavy after prolonged use, despite being lightweight for this type of lens.
The Sony FE 70-200mm F2.8 GM OSS II SEL70200GM2 is a truly exceptional lens. Its combination of speed, accuracy, image quality, and relatively lightweight design makes it a strong contender for any professional or serious enthusiast photographer or videographer. While the price is high, the performance justifies the cost for those who demand the best. I highly recommend this lens.
