Sony just announced the 67th lens in its mirrorless E-mount lineup—the highly-anticipated, FE 24-70mm F2.8 GM II. Pitching it as the world’s lightest F2.8 standard zoom lens, Sony says it has used its “leading lens technology to deliver stunning resolution and beautiful bokeh that is a trademark of its G Master series of lenses.” The company also says that the FE 24-70mm F2.8 GM II is one of the most versatile lenses in the line-up and has been created for photographers, videographers and hybrid content creators.

“Six years have passed since Sony released the first 24-70 mm F2.8 G Master and in that time, our customers’ needs have changed,” said Yang Cheng, Vice President, Imaging Solutions, Sony Electronics Inc. “We are always listening to our community and have designed the new FE 24-70mm F2.8 GM II around feedback from creators. Knowing the 24-70 mm focal length is extremely popular, it was imperative that we continue improving to bring our most advanced technology to such a critical lens in our customers’ kit. Today, we are thrilled to introduce the world’s smallest and lightest F2.8 standard zoom lens.”

Designed to pair up with Sony’s compact Alpha™ system E-mount cameras, the FE 24-70mm F2.8 GM II weighs just 24.6 ounces (695 grams), approximately 20% less (7 ounces) than the original 24-70 mm F2.8 G Master. The lens’ length has been reduced by 16 mm, and overall volume has been reduced by approximately 18%.

[Read: Sony FE PZ 16-35mm F/4G Lens Adds to E-Mount Lineup]

This sizing makes it compact yet versatile enough to set up and allows users to capture extremely sharp, detailed imagery for both stills and video. The new lens features high resolution across the frame—even with the aperture wide open. A completely redesigned optical path features five aspherical elements, including two high-precision XA (extreme aspherical) elements. The FE 24-70mm F2.8 GM II also includes two ED (extra-low dispersion) plus two Super ED glass elements. Combined with a new floating focus mechanism, the lens effectively controls chromatic aberration, astigmatism, distortion and coma so that outstanding resolution is achieved throughout the image area at all zoom and aperture settings.

The Sony 24-70mm F2.8 FM II: Reliability and Improved Control

The new FE 24-70mm F2.8 GM II was developed based on feedback from professionals to offer even better control and usability than preceding models. This model includes:

• Zoom smoothness switch to adjust zoom ring torque either Tight or Smooth
• A newly added aperture ring with click ON/OFF switch and iris lock switch
• Two customizable focus hold buttons
• The focus ring that responds directly and linearly to subtle control when focusing manually
• New lens hood design with opening to control circular polarizing filters (dia. 82mm)
• The center of gravity back toward the mount for improved handling and operation

An updated dust and moisture resistant design provides extra reliability for outdoor use in challenging conditions. The buttons and switches are fitted with rubber gaskets, and a rubber ring seals the lens mount. The front lens element also features a fluorine coating that repels water, oil, and other contaminants, while making it easier to wipe off any contaminants or fingerprints that become attached to the lens surface.

Pricing and Availability

The new FE 24-70mm F2.8 GM II will be available in June for approximately $2,300.00 USD and $3,000.00 CAD and will be sold at a variety of Sony’s authorized dealers throughout North America.

For detailed product information, please visit:

• (US) – FE 24-70mm F2.8 GM II
• (CA) – FE 24-70mm F2.8 GM II