Here’s an overview of the Best Lenses For that we’ll explore today:
In the world of Sony E-mount imaging, lens choice often defines the practical limits of a system more than camera bodies do. The 5 lenses in this comparison span three brands (Sony, Tamron, Sigma) and cover a spectrum from compact primes to premium standard zooms and a versatile APS-C standard zoom. This article uses a consistent approach: analyze optical design, focusing performance, autofocus behavior, build quality, weather sealing, and real-world usefulness across common use cases such as street, portrait, event, and travel photography. Testing considerations include resolution across the frame, vignetting and distortion control at different focal lengths, AF speed and accuracy, close-focus performance, and handling in low light. The products reviewed are positioned by price and capability to help readers understand where each lens fits in a balanced system.
1. Tamron 17-70mm f/2.8 Di III-A VC RXD Lens for Sony E APS-C Mirrorless Cameras Black
- Brand: Tamron
- Manufacturer: Tamron
Overview: This lens marks Tamron’s foray into an APS-C standard zoom with an unusually broad 17-70mm range and a constant f/2.8 aperture, delivering a 4.1x zoom ratio for Sony E APS-C bodies. It features two GM (Glass Molded Aspherical) elements and a hybrid aspherical element to control aberrations, plus Vibration Compensation (VC) with AI-assisted optimization for video. Close focusing distance is strong (MOD 7.5 inches at 17mm, 15.4 inches at 70mm), and the construction includes moisture resistance and Fluorine coating for real-world reliability. This lens targets enthusiasts who want versatile stabilization-aware performance in a compact, affordable package.
Performance-wise, the 17-70mm f/2.8 offers impressive sharpness for an APS-C standard zoom, with notable image quality across the frame at many focal lengths thanks to its hybrid asphere and GM elements. The VC system benefits from Tamron’s AI improvements for video, helping to stabilize handheld footage on supported Sony bodies. Handling is ergonomic for long shoots, with a comfortable grip and balanced weight (approximately 1.2 pounds). Its closest focusing ability makes it a capable daily photographer’s lens for environmental portraits, travel, and street work where you’ll appreciate the flexibility of 17mm to 70mm without swapping lenses.
Pros
- Constant f/2.8 performance across the zoom range
- Remarkable close-focusing distance for an APS-C zoom
- VC with AI optimization enhances handheld video performance
- Moisture-resistant construction with fluorine coating
- Two GM elements and a hybrid aspherical element improve aberration control
Cons
- APS-C only; not suitable for full-frame bodies
- Autofocus may feel less refined at extreme macro-style close focusing
- Bulkier than some compact standard zooms
2. Sony – FE 50mm F1.8 Standard Lens (SEL50F18F/2)
- Brand: Sony
- Manufacturer: Sony
Overview: The SEL50F18F is Sony’s compact prime featuring a bright F1.8 maximum aperture, a circular 7-blade aperture for pleasing bokeh, and a lightweight, travel-friendly form factor. It employs aspherical elements to manage spherical aberration and coma, with a double-gauss configuration to suppress distortion and field curvature. The combination of a modern optical design, small footprint, and affordable price makes this lens a staple for portrait work, street, and general-purpose shooting on full-frame E-mount cameras.
Deeper analysis shows this lens excels in low-light situations and when shallow depth of field is desirable, delivering smooth bokeh that complements portrait work. AF is generally reliable and quiet on most Sony bodies, and the lens’ compact size makes it a natural partner for walk-around photography or travel kits. For enthusiasts upgrading from kit lenses, the SEL50F18F offers a tangible improvement in image quality and subject separation without a heavy investment.
Pros
- Bright f/1.8 for strong low-light performance
- Compact and lightweight; easy to carry
- Good central sharpness with pleasant bokeh
- Aspherical element reduces aberrations
- Affordable entry point into Sony prime glass
Cons
- Softness at the extremes of the frame at f/1.8
- Peripheral performance may not match higher-end primes
- No weather sealing
3. Sony SEL2470GM E-Mount Camera Lens: FE 24-70 mm F2.8 G Master Full Frame Standard Zoom Lens Black
- Brand: Sony
- Manufacturer: Sony
Overview: The FE 24-70mm F2.8 GM is Sony’s premium standard zoom, built to deliver exceptional resolution, contrast, and bokeh across a full-frame sensor. It employs two aspherical elements and an XA (extreme aspherical) element, with Nano AR Coating to optimize light transmission, and a DDSSM focusing system for fast, quiet AF. This lens is designed to minimize aberrations, focus breathing, and field curvature, making it a go-to choice for high-end stills and motion work in a single versatile zoom range.
In practical use, the 24-70mm GM demonstrates outstanding sharpness from edge-to-edge, particularly when stopped down slightly from f/2.8. Its build quality is premium, with robust weather sealing for professional environments. Autofocus is accurate and responsive on compatible bodies, though the lens is heavier and more expensive than many alternatives. The 24-70mm GM remains a benchmark for those who demand flagship performance in a universal focal range.
Pros
- Outstanding center-to-edge sharpness at f/2.8
- Excellent color and contrast with Nano AR coating
- Professional build with weather sealing
- Fast, quiet DDSSM autofocus with linear motors
- Respected for both stills and video work
Cons
- High price point
- Relatively heavy and bulky
- No optical stabilization inside body-only systems may affect video on certain bodies
4. Sigma 24-70MM F2.8 DG DN II ART Lens
- Brand: Sigma
- Manufacturer: Sigma
Overview: Sigma’s DG DN II Art 24-70mm f/2.8 for Sony E delivers high-resolution performance with a compact, lighter design relative to some rivals. The Art line emphasizes sharpness, color rendition, and pleasing bokeh, backed by a solid build and a more accessible price point compared to the flagship G Master lineup. The lens is well-suited to enthusiasts and professionals who want a premium standard zoom with strong performance characteristics for both stills and video.
Performance-wise, the II version emphasizes improved surface sharpness and contrast across the zoom range, with reliable AF performance on Sony bodies. The lens benefits from Sigma’s optimized coatings and material choices, contributing to good resistance to flare and robust color fidelity. Its lighter weight (approximately 1.64 pounds) and price provide a compelling value proposition for shooters who demand sharpness and versatility without paying for top-tier branding.
Pros
- High sharpness throughout the zoom range
- Relatively lightweight for a 24-70mm f/2.8
- Good value within the premium standard zoom category
- Solid build and reliable AF on Sony bodies
- Excellent choice for both stills and video
Cons
- Not a native GM lens; some users may prefer Sony’s color science
- Autofocus may lag slightly in very low light on certain bodies
- Resale value not as strong as flagship models
5. Sony FE 24-70mm F2.8 GM II Lens Black
- Brand: Sony
- Manufacturer: Sony
Overview: The FE 24-70mm F2.8 GM II is Sony’s latest high-end standard zoom, billed as the lightest and most compact F2.8 24-70mm in its class with significant AF and optical improvements. It features a floating lens mechanism, updated XD linear motors, and a new aperture unit to optimize AF performance and exposure control, with strong capabilities for stills and 4K video. Weight is around 695 g (24.6 oz), making it notably more portable than many earlier iterations.
In practice, this lens delivers superb resolution and contrast with improved focus speed and tracking on modern Sony bodies. It reduces focus breathing and shift during zooming, which is a boon for video shooters. The combination of advanced glass elements, coatings, and a refined design translates to excellent overall image quality, but it comes at a premium price and substantial physical size—though still lighter than its predecessor and many competitors’ equivalents.
Pros
- Best-in-class autofocus speed and tracking
- Excellent corner-to-corner sharpness and contrast
- Lightest 24-70mm f/2.8 in its class with strong form factor
- Advanced optical design minimizes breathing and axial shift
- Strong video features and image stabilization alternatives on compatible bodies
Cons
- Premium price
- Still relatively large and heavy compared to non-GM options
- Some users may not need f/2.8 across entire range
Frequently Asked Questions
We’ve compiled answers to the most common questions about lenses fors to help you make an informed decision.
Conclusion
Final thoughts: This selection covers a wide spectrum of Sony-mount needs—from APS-C versatility with stabilization to premium full-frame zooms with top-tier AF and optics. Your best pick depends on format, budget, and the balance you want between size and image quality.
For travel and hybrid use, Tamron’s 17-70mm on APS-C is exceptional. For portrait and street on full-frame, the Sony 50mm f/1.8 is a no-brainer.
For the ultimate standard zoom, go GM II if budget allows; or Sigma’s DG DN II as a cost-efficient premium alternative. If you demand absolute flagship performance and weather sealing, the original 24-70 GM remains a staple option; for the highest image quality, the GM II leads the pack in weight and AF, with improved optics and build..