Sony has announced the launch of the second generation version of its highly regarded full-frame Sony 85mm G Master prime lens. The FE 85mm F1.4 GM II is smaller and lighter than the original but promises much faster autofocus.
Second generation
The previous 85 mm model was part of Sony’s original G Master line up back in 2016. The G Master series are Sony’s flagship lenses with high resolution, spectacular bokeh and professional reliability. At 22.7 ounces (642 g), the new FE 85mm GM II lens is around 20% lighter than the original version. It’s also around 13% smaller in volume, measuring 4 1/4th inches (107.3mm) in length and 3 3/8th inches (84.7 mm) in diameter. The filter diameter is 77 mm.
Optical design
The FE 85mm F1.4 GM II lens includes two XA (extreme aspherical) and two ED (extra-low dispersion) lens elements. Sony says that this design effectively suppresses aberrations and delivers corner-to-corner resolution for outstanding image quality. The lens also features Sony’s original Nano AR Coating II technology to subdue flares and ghosting for clear, crisp images. In addition, the 11-bladed iris should give the beautiful soft bokeh for which G Master lenses are renowned in the out-of-focus parts of your image.
Autofocus
Sony’s own brand lenses are held in high regard for their fast and accurate autofocus. With the FE 85mm F1.4 GM II lens, the company says that autofocus is up to three times faster compared to the previous model when taking still images. Sony also says that the new lens will track moving subjects with high precision. It can even keep up with the Alpha 9 III’s 120 fps continuous shooting, with subject tracking performance improved by as much as seven times. ​
Durability
The front element of the FE 85mm F1.4 GM II lens features a fluorine coating. Sony says this makes it easy to remove fingerprints, dust, oil and other contaminants from the lens surface. In addition, the new lens has a dust and moisture-resistant design, so you can rely on it when you are shooting outdoors in challenging conditions.
What we think
The original FE 85mm G Master lens has earned a reputation for delivering the highest image quality since its launch eight years ago. The fact that it has taken Sony so long to release the second-generation model is an indication of how good the Mark I lens is. As a professional lens, the FE 85mm F1.4 GM II comes with a premium price tag. However, the reduction in size and weight, as well as the improved autofocus, will be enough to tempt many Sony shooters to reach for their wallets.
Pricing and availability
The Sony FE 85mm F1.4 GM II G Master lens will be available in September 2024 and retail at $1,799.
