FE PZ 16-35mm F4 G: Sony launches a new wide-angle zoom lens for videographers

Sony’s optical fleet for hybrids is already well-stocked. In just under a decade it has covered a very wide focal range and misses, so to speak, none of the sub-600mm lengths. The Japanese company therefore tends to offer “two versions” of its flagship lenses, like the FE 70-200 F2.8 GM OSS II, or seeks to offer more flexibility to users. It is in this perspective that the FE PZ (for “power zoom”) 16-35mm F4 G appears.

A new lighter version…

Far from being a simple iteration of the Vario-Tessar T FE 16-35mm F4 ZA OSS launched in 2014, this wide-angle zoom targets a very different audience. Rid of optical stabilization – due to the mechanical stabilization now integrated into Sony’s 24×36 hybrids -, it is thus much lighter (350 g against 518 g previously) and smaller (8.8 cm against 9.8 cm, for 8cm in diameter). However, the FE PZ 16-35mm F4 G features a totally different zoom system.

… and motorized

Indeed, it is equipped with a motorized zoom, like what can be found on bridges or in certain lenses intended for the cinema. If it is still possible to operate the zoom ring to change focal length, a control placed on the lens will make it possible to perform the same action with fewer movements. Also, the user can reassign buttons on the device to do the same. You can therefore control your zoom directly from its case, without having to touch the lens.

A lens for videographers

Sony explains that this function was designed for videographers, in order to offer them more fluid control of their framing. You can then adjust the zoom (and unzoom) speed. On the FX3 camera or the ZVE-10 camera, the zoom modifier placed around the shutter button is fully compatible with this FE PZ 16-35mm F4 G.

Regarding the optical formula, this zoom is based on 13 elements divided into 12 groups, and its diaphragm has seven blades. The minimum focusing distance varies according to the focal lengths. It stands at 28 cm in 16 mm, and 24 cm in 35 mm.

This newcomer is also well endowed in control: in addition to the focal modifier, there is a configurable button, an auto/manual focus switch and an aperture control ring which can, as desired, benefit from a smooth or notched stroke. . The lens is also protected from the weather thanks to numerous seals.

Price and availability

The FE PZ 16-35mm F4 G will be launched in May 2022 at a price of €1500. Note that in addition to the Vario-Tessar T FE 16-35 mm F4 ZA OSS (still marketed at around €1,000), Sony offers the brighter FE 16-35 mm F2.8 GM for €2,700. Finally, there is another 16-35 mm, the FE C 16-35 mm T3.1 G. A motorized lens for cinema, but which can be mounted on a classic hybrid, since it is a a full-frame lens in E-mount. Be aware, however, that you will have to pay more than 6000 € to acquire it…