Sony SEL2470GM FE 24-70mm f/2.8 GM AI review

The Sony SEL2470GM FE 24-70mm f/2.8 GM lens represents a formidable entry in the world of professional-grade zoom lenses, catering to both enthusiast and pro photographers alike. This lens embodies Sony's commitment to quality and innovation, featuring a prime-level performance combined with the versatility of a zoom. In this review, we will delve into the design, optical performance, build quality, and overall usability of the SEL2470GM, providing a comprehensive overview for potential buyers.

At first glance, the SEL2470GM captures attention with its elegant and sturdy design. Weighing in at about 1.8 pounds (approximately 800 grams), it strikes a good balance between being lightweight enough for handheld shooting and robust enough to endure the rigors of professional use. The lens features a sleek black exterior with a luxurious satin finish that not only looks professional but also offers a level of durability against scratches and wear.

When it comes to functionality, the 24-70mm focal length range is undeniably one of the most versatile in the photographic world. It covers wide-angle shots perfect for landscapes and street photography, and can reach to a short telephoto for portraits, making it an excellent choice for wedding photographers, event shooters, and even travel photographers who appreciate a multipurpose lens. With a constant maximum aperture of f/2.8, the SEL2470GM excels in low-light conditions, allowing photographers to maintain consistent exposure while achieving beautiful background bokeh and subject isolation.

Optical performance is another area where this lens truly shines. The lens incorporates advanced optical design elements including Sony’s proprietary XA (extreme aspherical) elements and Super ED (extra-low dispersion) glass, which together help to minimize chromatic aberration and distortion. The results are images that are sharp from corner to corner, with impressive clarity even at wide-open aperture settings. The sharpness remains commendably high throughout the zoom range, holding its own against many prime lenses.

One notable feature of the SEL2470GM is its Nano AR coating, designed to reduce flare and ghosting, resulting in images that are clear and contrasty, even when shooting in backlit situations. This is particularly important for photographers who work outdoors or in challenging lighting conditions. In practical terms, this means that you can confidently shoot towards the light without worrying about losing image quality to unwanted artifacts—a crucial consideration for professional work.

In terms of autofocus performance, the SEL2470GM leverages a dual linear motor system that enhances both speed and precision. Autofocus is exceptionally fast, silent, and accurate, making it ideal for capturing fleeting moments. Whether you’re shooting fast-moving subjects or still life arrangements, the lens’s autofocus system is reliable and responsive, allowing for a seamless shooting experience. This is complemented by its compatibility with Sony's full-frame mirrorless camera systems, taking full advantage of in-camera autofocus technologies such as eye autofocus, which is invaluable for portraiture.

The build quality of the lens is also noteworthy. It features a robust weather-sealed design, protecting it from dust and moisture, which is particularly advantageous for outdoor photography. Photographers often face unpredictable environments, and knowing that your gear can withstand the elements can lead to greater peace of mind while shooting. The lens barrel includes a customizable focus hold button and a smooth manual focus ring, allowing photographers to tailor the lens to their shooting style.

While there’s much to praise about the SEL2470GM, it’s essential to address its price point. As an investment, it sits at the higher end of the spectrum for zoom lenses, which may not be feasible for every budget. However, for serious photographers who demand high performance and versatility, the price can often be justified by the value it brings to one’s work.

One might ask about its competitors; lenses like the Canon RF 24-70mm f/2.8L IS USM or the Nikon Z 24-70mm f/2.8 S also come to mind. Each has its own strengths and unique features, but the Sony SEL2470GM consistently holds its own across various comparisons, especially in terms of optical performance and autofocus capabilities.

Overall, the Sony SEL2470GM FE 24-70mm f/2.8 GM lens is a top-tier solution for anyone looking to elevate their craft. It provides a perfect blend of versatility, optical quality, and robust build, positioning it as a go-to option for a wide array of photographic genres. While the investment may be significant, the quality and performance you receive make it a lens that can truly enhance your photographic capabilities. Whether you are shooting for fun, artistic pursuits, or professional assignments, this lens is likely to exceed your expectations, delivering results that can inspire and delight.

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Pros	Cons
Exceptional image quality with sharpness across the zoom range.	Relatively expensive compared to other zoom lenses.
Fast and consistent f/2.8 maximum aperture throughout the zoom range.	Heavy and bulky design may not be ideal for all photographers.
Advanced weather-sealed construction for durability in various conditions.	Autofocus can be noisy in certain situations, especially in quiet settings.
Great performance for both stills and video, with smooth focus transitions.	Lacks image stabilization, which may require steady hands or a tripod.
Versatile focal length range suitable for a wide variety of photography styles.	Some users may find the physical controls slightly stiff to operate.
Excellent build quality and design, giving a premium feel.	Large front element may require specific filter sizes that can be costly.

``` This HTML table presents a balanced overview of the Sony SEL2470GM FE 24-70mm f/2.8 GM lens, listing both its advantages and disadvantages.

Product Sony SEL2470GM FE 24-70mm f/2.8 GM aiviewed by gpt-4o-mini model @ 4 days ago