Sony, with the FE 24-70mm F2.8 GM II, thoroughly renews its trans-standard zoom. We therefore wanted to compare it to the previous model and also, at equivalent focal lengths, to the other members of the firm’s f/2.8 zoom trio.
A qualitative leap
Compared to the previous generation, it is worth noting the qualitative leap made by Sony with its new FE 24-70mm F2.8 GM II. During our tests of the first FE 24-70mm F2.8 GM, our analyzes had made it possible to determine that it was at 70 mm that the zoom gave its best. Put in parallel with the new optics, we notice how much Sony has improved.
If in both cases, the maximum sharpness is between f / 4 and f / 5.6, the new version is superior in all respects, whether for sharpness from full aperture or even homogeneity. A nice development. In addition to the optical qualities and the level of detail that accompanies them, especially with the Sony Alpha 7R IV (A7R IV) and its 60 Mpx, it is interesting to note the constancy of Sony with the other zooms of its “trinity” f/2 ,8.
The f/2.8 trinity placed end to end
We know nothing about the process of manufacturing and calibrating the lenses and lenses, but it must be recognized that Sony strives to bring some consistency between its lenses. Thus, when we look at the focal lengths shared by this 24-70mm zoom with the FE 12-24mm F2.8 GM and FE 70-200mm F2.8 GM OSS II, we are surprised to notice very close measurements.
Facing the FE 12-24mm F2.8 GM
Some differences are to be observed between the two 24 mm. For the trans-standard, the maximum sharpness is reached at full aperture, when it is at f/4 that the very wide-angle zoom is most effective, the latter also displaying better homogeneity between the center and the corners of the image. Despite these differences, the results remain very comparable.
Facing the FE 70-200mm F2.8 GM OSS II
When we put the two “modernized” zooms in front of each other, at 70 mm, the similarity of the data becomes impressive. Admittedly, the values show slight variations, but the behavior of the optics is almost similar. The highest level of sharpness is reached from f/4 and we can almost believe (and this is perhaps the case) that the optics come from the same mould.
Whoever acquires such a trio of optics will therefore be able to alternate between them without fearing any variation in quality.