TOP SALES FE 16-35MM F2.8GM FE 24-70MM F2.8GM FE 12-24MM F2.8GM Full-frame Standard Zoom G Master Lens READY to SHIP
Here’s a detailed comparison table for Sony’s premium wide-to-standard zoom lenses:
Sony GM Wide Zoom Trinity Comparison
| Feature | FE 12-24mm f/2.8 GM | FE 16-35mm f/2.8 GM | FE 24-70mm f/2.8 GM |
|---|---|---|---|
| Focal Range | 12-24mm (Ultra-wide) | 16-35mm (Wide) | 24-70mm (Standard) |
| Aperture | f/2.8 constant | f/2.8 constant | f/2.8 constant |
| Filter Thread | Rear gel holder | 82mm | 82mm |
| Weight | 847g (1.87 lbs) | 680g (1.5 lbs) | 886g (1.95 lbs) |
| Length | 137mm (5.4″) | 121.6mm (4.8″) | 136mm (5.4″) |
| Elements/Groups | 14/13 (3 XA, 3 ED, 1 Super ED) | 16/13 (2 XA, 3 ED) | 18/13 (1 XA, 2 ED, 1 Super ED) |
| Min. Focus Dist. | 0.28m (0.92′) | 0.28m (0.92′) | 0.38m (1.25′) |
| Max. Magnification | 0.14x | 0.19x | 0.24x |
| Autofocus | Dual XD Linear Motors | Dual XD Linear Motors | Dual XD Linear Motors |
| Best For | Architecture, Astro, Real Estate | Landscape, Events, Vlogging | Portraits, Weddings, General |
| Unique Advantage | World’s widest f/2.8 zoom | Most versatile wide zoom | Classic all-purpose workhorse |
| Price | $2,998 | $2,298 | $2,198 |
Sony’s G Master zoom trio represents the pinnacle of optical engineering for professional photographers and videographers. Each lens serves distinct creative purposes while sharing the legendary GM build quality and f/2.8 brightness. Here’s how these premium zooms compare in real-world use.
The Specialist: FE 12-24mm f/2.8 GM
*The world’s widest f/2.8 zoom*Â pushes boundaries with:
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Record-breaking 12mm ultra-wide coverage (35% wider than 16mm)
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Bulletproof distortion control via 3 XA and 3 ED elements
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Close 0.28m minimum focus for dramatic foreground emphasis
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Rear gel filter slot (requires adapter system for ND/polarizers)
Best for:Â Architectural interiors, astrophotography, immersive real estate shots
The Versatile Performer: FE 16-35mm f/2.8 GM
The Goldilocks wide zoom balances:
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Perfect 16-35mm range covering landscapes to environmental portraits
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82mm filter threads for standard ND/polarizer use
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Lightest GM zoom (680g) for gimbal/travel work
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0.19x magnification for creative close-ups
Best for:Â Travel vlogging, event coverage, landscape panoramas
The Workhorse: FE 24-70mm f/2.8 GM
The do-everything lens delivers:
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Classic 24-70mm range covering wide to short telephoto
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Best 0.24x magnification of the trio for pseudo-macro
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Optical refinement with floating focus elements
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Dual XD motors for flawless video AF transitions
Best for:Â Wedding photography, documentary work, portrait sessions
Key Decision Factors
For Filters:
16-35mm/24-70mm win with standard 82mm threads vs 12-24mm’s gel system
For Low Light:
All maintain f/2.8, but 24-70mm has best corner sharpness wide open
For Video:
16-35mm’s lighter weight balances better on gimbals
For Distortion Control:
12-24mm’s advanced optics surprisingly beat many primes
Professional Recommendations
Real Estate Shooters:
12-24mm + 24-70mm covers all interior/exterior needs
Travel Creators:
16-35mm pairs perfectly with a 70-200mm
Event Photographers:
24-70mm as primary with 16-35mm in the bag
All three share:
✔ Weather-sealed magnesium construction
✔ Customizable focus hold buttons
✔ 11-blade circular apertures
✔ Nano AR coatings
Pro Tip:Â The 12-24mm’s bulbous front element requires the $150 Sony lens hood for protection – factor this into your budget.
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