Sony FE 16-35mm f/2.8 GM II Wide-Angle Zoom Lens

The Sony FE 16-35mm f/2.8 GM II delivers professional-grade optical performance in a compact package designed for landscape photographers, architectural shooters, and videographers who refuse to compromise on image quality. Announced in 2023 as the completion of Sony's second-generation GM f/2.8 zoom trio, this ultra-wide lens brings refined optics, improved handling, and reduced weight to photographers working with Sony cameras.

Key Features of the Sony FE 16-35mm f/2.8 GM II

This lens addresses a long-standing request from professional photographers: exceptional ultra-wide performance without the bulk. Sony achieved a 20% weight reduction compared to the original model, bringing the GM II down to just 547 grams (1.2 pounds). At 111.5mm in length, it's also more compact than competing f/2.8 ultra-wide zooms, making it comfortable for extended handheld shooting during long wedding ceremonies, multi-day landscape trips, or all-day documentary work.

The optical design features 15 elements in 12 groups, including five aspherical elements with three of Sony's XA (extreme aspherical) elements. These specialized elements reduce aberration and deliver sharp resolution from corner to corner, even at wide apertures. Two ED (extra-low dispersion) elements and one ED aspherical element work to suppress chromatic aberrations, keeping color fringing minimal across the zoom range.

• Constant f/2.8 maximum aperture throughout 16-35mm range
• 15 elements in 12 groups with 5 aspherical elements (3 XA elements)
• Four XD (Extreme Dynamic) Linear Motors for fast, silent autofocus
• Minimum focusing distance of 0.22m (8.66 inches) with 0.32x magnification
• Manual aperture ring with click/de-click switch for video
• Two customizable focus hold buttons
• Nano AR Coating II minimizes flare and ghosting
• Dust and moisture-resistant weather sealing
• 82mm filter thread size
• 11-blade rounded aperture for smooth bokeh
• Weight: 547g (1.2 lb) - lightest in class
• Length: 111.5mm (4.4 inches)

Optical Performance and Build Quality

Professional reviews consistently highlight the Sony FE 16-35mm f/2.8 GM II's corner-to-corner sharpness, even at maximum aperture. The lens maintains excellent resolution from 16mm through the mid-range, with only a slight softening at 35mm that responds well to stopping down one or two stops. Unlike some ultra-wide zooms that struggle with corner performance, this lens delivers prime lens quality across the frame.

The floating focus mechanism shifts two groups of elements independently, each driven by dual XD Linear Motors. This design delivers fast, accurate autofocus with minimal focus breathing, making the lens suitable for both stills and video work. Autofocus operates silently enough for use with camera-mounted microphones, and the precision tracking works seamlessly with Sony's advanced subject recognition systems.

Vignetting and distortion remain well-controlled throughout the zoom range. While some light falloff appears at f/2.8 (typical for any fast ultra-wide zoom), in-camera correction handles it cleanly without introducing noticeable noise. Distortion correction works similarly well, though the native performance is strong enough that auto-correction doesn't have to work hard.

Handling and Video Features

The manual aperture ring represents a significant handling upgrade over the original GM lens. Photographers can set aperture directly on the lens via 1/3-stop clicks, or switch to smooth, clickless operation for silent video recording using the Click On/Off switch. The Iris Lock switch prevents accidental aperture changes during critical shooting situations.

Two focus hold buttons provide customization options for different shooting scenarios. Many photographers set one button to Eye AF for quick portrait work, while keeping the second button locked to the current focusing distance for situations requiring consistent depth of field. The buttons are positioned on opposite sides of the lens barrel for easy access regardless of shooting orientation.

The zoom ring extends the lens barrel slightly at 16mm (approximately 20mm extension), gradually retracting as you zoom toward 35mm. While some photographers prefer internal zoom designs, the extension here is minimal and doesn't compromise weather sealing. The weather-sealed construction protects against dust and moisture, making the lens reliable for outdoor work in challenging conditions.

Compatible Accessories and System Support

The 82mm filter thread accepts standard screw-in filters without vignetting concerns. The included locking lens hood (ALC-SH177) securely attaches with a bayonet mount and features an integrated release button for quick removal. Sony also includes a soft carrying case with the lens.

This lens works across Sony's full-frame E-mount lineup and performs equally well on APS-C bodies with an equivalent focal length of approximately 24-52.5mm. While the lens lacks optical stabilization, it pairs effectively with Sony's in-body image stabilization systems found in most current digital mirrorless cameras. Photographers report reliable handheld shooting at surprisingly slow shutter speeds when working with cameras featuring 5-axis stabilization.

For professional workflows, the lens supports Sony's breathing compensation feature on compatible camera bodies, further reducing focus breathing during video recording. The de-clickable aperture ring allows smooth, stepless aperture changes during takes, while the four linear motors provide silent focus adjustments that won't contaminate audio tracks.

Who Uses the Sony FE 16-35mm f/2.8 GM II?

Landscape photographers working in remote locations appreciate the reduced weight during multi-day backcountry trips. The 16mm wide end captures expansive vistas without requiring panoramic stitching, while the constant f/2.8 aperture enables low-light shooting during golden hour or nightscape work. The minimal distortion simplifies post-processing when stitching panoramas from multiple frames becomes necessary.

Architectural photographers rely on the corner-to-corner sharpness when documenting buildings and interiors. The lens maintains excellent resolution right to the frame edges, critical for architectural work where corner detail matters. Wedding and event photographers benefit from the fast f/2.8 aperture for reception coverage and the 35mm reach for group portraits in tight spaces.

Documentary and street photographers value the compact size paired with professional build quality. The weather sealing provides confidence during unpredictable conditions, while the fast autofocus captures decisive moments. Videographers working on documentary projects, commercial shoots, or wedding films appreciate the breathing compensation, de-clickable aperture, and silent autofocus operation.

For photographers building a complete Sony system, explore our full selection of Sony camera accessories to complement your lens investment. Protect your gear with quality camera bags designed to accommodate professional lens collections.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does the Sony FE 16-35mm f/2.8 GM II have image stabilization?

No. The lens does not feature optical image stabilization. Instead, it relies on the in-body image stabilization (IBIS) systems found in most Sony full-frame mirrorless cameras. This design choice contributes to the reduced weight and compact size. Photographers report excellent handheld performance when pairing the lens with cameras featuring 5-axis stabilization.

How does this lens compare to the original FE 16-35mm f/2.8 GM?

The GM II version offers 20% weight reduction (547g vs. 680g), improved corner sharpness, better distortion control, and reduced vignetting. The second generation adds a manual aperture ring with click/de-click functionality, dual focus hold buttons, closer minimum focusing distance (0.22m vs. 0.28m), and improved Nano AR Coating II. The optical formula features more aspherical elements (5 vs. 4) including additional XA elements for enhanced resolution.

Can I use filters with the Sony FE 16-35mm f/2.8 GM II?

Yes. The lens accepts 82mm screw-in filters without vignetting. The front element is recessed enough to protect against flare, and the lens hood mounts externally. Standard circular polarizers, ND filters, and UV filters all work without interference. Professional photographers often use high-quality circular polarizers to manage reflections in landscape and architectural work.

Is the Sony FE 16-35mm f/2.8 GM II weather-sealed?

Yes. The lens features dust and moisture-resistant sealing throughout the barrel, with particular attention paid to the lens mount area. While not rated for submersion, the weather sealing provides reliable protection during rain showers, dusty conditions, and humid environments. The fluorine coating on the front element repels water, dust, and fingerprints.

Does the lens extend when zooming?

Yes. The inner barrel extends approximately 20mm when zoomed to 16mm, gradually retracting as you zoom toward 35mm. The extension is minimal and does not compromise weather sealing. The design remains common among ultra-wide zooms and provides stable handling throughout the zoom range. The barrel shows no noticeable wobble when extended.

Will this lens work on Sony APS-C cameras?

Yes. The FE 16-35mm f/2.8 GM II works on Sony APS-C cameras with an equivalent focal length of approximately 24-52.5mm. However, the lens is designed for full-frame sensors, so APS-C shooters might consider lenses specifically designed for the crop sensor format to optimize size, weight, and cost.

Shop the Sony FE 16-35mm f/2.8 GM II at Samy's Camera

The Sony FE 16-35mm f/2.8 GM II delivers professional ultra-wide performance with improved portability, making it the definitive choice for landscape, architecture, and documentary photographers working with Sony full-frame systems. This lens represents Sony's commitment to reducing weight and size without compromising optical quality, offering corner-to-corner sharpness, fast autofocus, and thoughtful handling features in the world's lightest full-frame 16-35mm f/2.8 zoom lens.