Sony Launches FE 50-150mm f/2 GM Telephoto Zoom Lens
Sony introduced the FE 50-150mm f/2 G Master, a full-frame, constant-aperture zoom lens, the second constant f/2 zoom in Sony’s lineup, following the FE 28-70mm f/2 GM.
“The FE 50-150MM F2 GM G Master marks a pivotal milestone in Sony’s commitment to pushing creative possibilities,” said Yang Cheng, Vice President of Imaging Solutions, Sony Electronics Inc. “By delivering a constant F2 aperture across its zoom range, this lens offers Sony Alpha users with an all-in-one solution that is comparable to multiple prime lenses, like a 50mm, 85mm, and 135mm. This innovation expands the versatility professionals need to capture remarkable imagery in both photography and video.”
This lens features an internal zoom and focus design, maintaining a consistent external length during operation. It measures 200mm in length and has a maximum diameter of 102.8mm, with a weight of 1340 grams excluding the tripod mount. It supports 95mm front filters. Compared to the Sony 70-200mm f/2.8 GM II, which is of similar length but lighter and narrower, the 50-150mm f/2 GM offers a wider aperture across a shorter zoom range.
The optical construction consists of 19 elements arranged in 17 groups, including two XA (extreme aspherical), two aspherical, three ED (Extra-low Dispersion), and two Super ED elements. The lens also includes an 11-blade circular diaphragm designed to produce smooth bokeh. Sony’s proprietary “Nano AR Coating II” and a fluorine coating are applied to resist flare and reduce contamination from dust, oil, or water.
Autofocus performance is driven by four XD (extreme dynamic) Linear Motors, optimized for high-speed tracking and capable of supporting the Sony α9 III’s burst shooting up to 120 frames per second. Manual focus is enhanced through a linear response mechanism. The lens includes a variety of physical controls such as a zoom ring, aperture ring with de-click and lock switches, focus mode switch, focus hold buttons in three positions, a full-time DMF (Direct Manual Focus) switch, and an iris lock switch.
Minimum focusing distance is 0.4 meters at 50mm and 0.74 meters at 150mm, offering a maximum magnification of 0.2x. Although not a macro lens, it allows relatively close focusing throughout the zoom range.
For video applications, the lens provides features such as minimal focus breathing and silent autofocus, and internal mechanics that maintain consistent balance on gimbals. It is also compatible with Sony’s Breathing Compensation Function available on select α series cameras. The aperture ring can be smoothly adjusted during recording, and the lens design itslef aims to support both still photography and video work effectively.
The Sony FE 50-150mm f/2 GM is expected to be released between mid and late May with a suggested retail price of $3,899.95.
