Today, we're comparing two powerful telephoto zoom lenses from Sony: the Sony FE 100-400mm f/4.5-5.6 GM OSS Lens and the Sony FE 200-600mm f/5.6-6.3 G OSS Lens. Both lenses are part of Sony's highly regarded G Master (GM) and G series, respectively, and are designed for Sony's full-frame E-mount cameras. Let's dive into the details and see how they stack up against each other.
Starting with the Sony FE 100-400mm f/4.5-5.6 GM OSS Lens, this lens offers a versatile focal range suitable for a wide range of photography genres. With a maximum aperture of f/4.5-5.6, it provides excellent light gathering capabilities and impressive bokeh. The lens incorporates a high-quality optical design with 22 elements in 16 groups, including one Super ED and two ED elements, which effectively minimize chromatic aberrations and ensure outstanding image quality.
The FE 100-400mm GM lens features Sony's Nano AR coating, which reduces flare and ghosting. It also has a built-in Optical SteadyShot (OSS) image stabilization system that compensates for camera shake, allowing you to shoot handheld at slower shutter speeds. The lens is weather-sealed, making it suitable for outdoor use in various conditions.
Sony FE 100-400mm f/4.5-5.6 GM OSS Lens VS Sony FE 200-600mm f/5.6-6.3 G OSS Lens
No right or wrong choices here.
Now let's move on to the Sony FE 200-600mm f/5.6-6.3 G OSS Lens. As the name suggests, this lens offers an even longer focal length range, making it a great choice for wildlife, sports, and other distant subjects. With a maximum aperture of f/5.6-6.3, it captures a remarkable amount of light, although it is slightly narrower than the FE 100-400mm GM lens.
The FE 200-600mm lens features an advanced optical design with 24 elements in 17 groups, including five ED elements, which ensure exceptional image quality with minimal aberrations. It also incorporates Sony's Nano AR coating to reduce flare and ghosting. Like the FE 100-400mm GM lens, it has built-in Optical SteadyShot (OSS) image stabilization, providing stability when shooting handheld.
In terms of size and weight, the FE 200-600mm lens is understandably larger and heavier due to its extended focal length range. It measures approximately 318mm in length and weighs around 2.1 kg, while the FE 100-400mm GM lens measures around 205mm and weighs approximately 1.4 kg. It's worth considering your shooting needs and portability requirements when choosing between the two.
Now, let's summarize the key specifications of both lenses for a quick comparison:
Sony FE 100-400mm f/4.5-5.6 GM OSS Lens:
Focal Length Range: 100-400mm
Maximum Aperture: f/4.5-5.6
Lens Construction: 22 elements in 16 groups
Image Stabilization: Yes (Optical SteadyShot)
Weather-Sealing: Yes
Dimensions: Approximately 205mm (length)
Weight: Approximately 1.4 kg
Sony FE 200-600mm f/5.6-6.3 G OSS Lens:
Focal Length Range: 200-600mm
Maximum Aperture: f/5.6-6.3
Lens Construction: 24 elements in 17 groups
Image Stabilization: Yes (Optical SteadyShot)
Weather-Sealing: Yes
Dimensions: Approximately 318mm (length)
Weight: Approximately 2.1 kg
In conclusion, both the Sony FE 100-400mm f/4.5-5.6 GM OSS Lens and the Sony FE 200-600mm f/5.6-6.3 G OSS Lens are exceptional telephoto zoom lenses that deliver impressive image quality and versatility. The FE 100-400mm GM lens offers a slightly shorter focal length range but provides a more compact and lightweight design. On the other hand, the FE 200-600mm lens offers an extended focal length range for those who require the additional reach. Consider your specific shooting needs, portability preferences, and budget to choose the lens that suits you best. Either way, you can expect exceptional performance from both lenses in the Sony E-mount system.
