Sony SEL2470GM 24-70mm f/2.8 G Master Lens

Sony SEL2470GM 24-70mm f/2.8 G Master Lens — image 1
Sony SEL2470GM 24-70mm f/2.8 G Master Lens — image 2
Sony SEL2470GM 24-70mm f/2.8 G Master Lens — image 3
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86%
94%
Image Quality
91%
Autofocus Speed and Accuracy
92%
Sharpness Across Focal Length
90%
Build Quality and Durability
89%
Low-Light Performance
70%
Portability and Size
88%
Bokeh Quality
93%
Zoom Range Versatility
85%
Ease of Use
86%
Price to Performance Ratio
95%
Compatibility with Sony E-mount Cameras
60%
Weight for Travel
More

Overview

The Sony SEL2470GM 24-70mm f/2.8 G Master Lens is a high-performance lens designed for Sony's full-frame E-mount mirrorless cameras. Part of the renowned G Master series, it offers exceptional image quality and versatile focal length. With its 24-70mm zoom range, this lens is suitable for a wide range of shooting scenarios, from landscapes to portraits. The build quality is solid and professional-grade, ensuring durability for demanding photographers and videographers. This lens provides the flexibility and optical clarity expected from a premium Sony product, making it a strong contender for serious shooters.

Features & Benefits

One of the standout features of the SEL2470GM is its fast f/2.8 aperture, which allows for excellent low-light performance and beautiful depth of field effects. The lens incorporates advanced optical technology, including ED, Super ED, and XA elements, which reduce chromatic aberrations and improve sharpness. The 9-blade circular aperture enhances bokeh, while the Nano AR coating minimizes flare and ghosting for better contrast and clarity. With its Direct Drive Super Sonic Wave Motor (DDSSM), autofocus is quick, precise, and virtually silent, making it an excellent choice for both stills and video.

Best For

The SEL2470GM is ideal for professional photographers and videographers who require both versatility and top-tier performance. Its 24-70mm zoom range and constant f/2.8 aperture make it suitable for a variety of settings, from portraits to event photography. Users shooting in diverse lighting conditions will appreciate its consistent exposure and crisp results. Its fast autofocus and sharpness also make it a great choice for those needing reliability during fast-paced moments, like weddings or sports photography. For travelers who prioritize image quality, this lens is a solid, all-around option despite its size.

User Feedback

Users frequently praise the sharpness and overall image quality of the SEL2470GM, often noting its exceptional ability to retain detail across the zoom range. The autofocus system, especially the silent operation, is widely appreciated by videographers, making it a top choice for those who need quick adjustments without distractions. However, some reviewers have pointed out that the lens can be heavy and large for extended travel, which might be a concern for those looking for something more portable. Despite this, it is often regarded as one of the best zoom lenses for Sony full-frame cameras, combining performance and reliability.

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Pros

  • This lens provides exceptional sharpness and clarity, even at wide apertures.
  • The fast f/2.8 aperture ensures excellent low-light performance, making it ideal for indoor and night shooting.
  • Its autofocus is both smooth and silent, a key benefit for video shooters and those capturing fast-moving subjects.
  • The 24-70mm focal length is highly versatile, covering a broad range of shooting scenarios from wide-angle to portrait.
  • Users appreciate the smooth, pleasing bokeh produced by the 9-blade circular aperture.
  • This G Master lens is recognized for its professional-grade build quality and performance, often considered one of the best zoom lenses for Sony full-frame cameras.

Cons

  • Some users find the lens heavy and bulky, which can make it less ideal for travel or street photography.
  • The high price point makes it a less accessible option for hobbyists or those on a tighter budget.
  • Its large size and weight may be cumbersome for handheld shooting, especially during extended use.
  • Not everyone is comfortable with the lens's size, especially when used for long periods without a tripod.
  • Some users have mentioned that while the lens is versatile, it may not offer enough focal length for specialized photography like ultra-wide landscapes.
  • The lens's price and professional features may be overkill for beginners or those who do not need the high-end specifications.

Ratings

After analyzing verified user reviews from multiple platforms and languages, we’ve compiled the feedback for the Sony SEL2470GM 24-70mm f/2.8 G Master Lens. Reviews were filtered to exclude spam, bot-generated, or incentivized feedback, ensuring only authentic and high-quality opinions contribute to the ratings. Both strengths and potential pain points are reflected in the scores, offering a well-rounded view of the product’s performance. Insights were gathered from a variety of sources worldwide, capturing the diverse experiences of professional photographers and videographers alike.

Image Quality
94%
Users consistently praise the sharpness and clarity delivered by this lens. The detailed color reproduction and contrast make images appear vivid and lifelike, even in challenging lighting conditions. The overall image quality is often considered among the best in its class, making it ideal for professional photographers who demand the highest standards.
A few users mentioned that, while the lens produces stunning images, the quality doesn't always justify its high price for those who don't need professional-level sharpness. Additionally, the lens may show some softening at extreme focal lengths, though this is generally a minor concern for most buyers.
Autofocus Speed and Accuracy
91%
Many buyers are impressed with the autofocus performance, noting its quick and precise focusing, even in low light. The Direct Drive Super Sonic Wave Motor (DDSSM) allows for almost silent and smooth autofocus transitions, which is highly valued by videographers who require silent operation during shoots.
While the autofocus is generally fast, some users have experienced occasional hunting in very dim environments or when tracking fast-moving subjects. A small number of reviews indicated that autofocus speed might lag when using it in a high-speed action setting, though these cases seem to be rare.
Sharpness Across Focal Length
92%
The lens provides excellent sharpness across its entire focal length range, from 24mm to 70mm. Many users report that images remain sharp even at f/2.8, with minimal chromatic aberrations. This consistency in sharpness is a key selling point for professionals who need reliable performance at any focal length.
Some users noted a slight reduction in sharpness at the corners of the frame when shooting at 70mm, especially at wide apertures. Although the sharpness remains high overall, this minor issue may be a concern for users who require perfect edge-to-edge performance in all situations.
Build Quality and Durability
90%
The robust build quality of this lens is frequently highlighted by users, who appreciate its professional-grade design. The lens feels solid and well-constructed, providing confidence during long shooting sessions in various environments. It's also weather-sealed, making it suitable for outdoor shoots in challenging conditions.
The lens is relatively heavy, which some photographers find cumbersome during extended use. A few users have mentioned that the substantial weight makes it less ideal for travel or handheld shooting for long periods, especially when compared to lighter alternatives.
Low-Light Performance
89%
The wide f/2.8 aperture allows this lens to perform well in low-light situations, making it a reliable choice for indoor photography or evening shoots. Users appreciate its ability to maintain sharpness and clarity, even when the light is less than ideal. This makes it an excellent tool for both stills and video work in dim environments.
Despite its solid performance in low light, some users pointed out that the lens can struggle with focus accuracy in extremely dark environments. A few reviewers noted that the autofocus system is less reliable in near total darkness, which may be an issue for those shooting in very low-light conditions.
Portability and Size
70%
30%
While the lens provides excellent image quality and versatility, some users mention that its size and weight make it less ideal for casual or travel use. For those who need a versatile lens for professional shoots, its size is seen as a minor trade-off for the performance it delivers.
A number of buyers felt that the lens is on the bulkier side, which can be inconvenient for photographers who need something lightweight for travel. Its weight, combined with the size, makes it less portable compared to other zoom lenses designed for mirrorless cameras.
Bokeh Quality
88%
Many users love the smooth, creamy bokeh produced by this lens, especially when shooting portraits or close-up subjects. The 9-blade circular aperture contributes to a pleasing out-of-focus background, enhancing the aesthetic appeal of photos and videos, particularly in artistic or cinematic shots.
Some users felt that the bokeh, while smooth, could be a bit too distracting in certain situations. A few reviewers found that, in certain lighting conditions, the background blur became a little too pronounced, drawing attention away from the subject.
Zoom Range Versatility
93%
The 24-70mm focal length range offers remarkable versatility, allowing photographers to shoot wide-angle landscapes, portraits, and medium telephoto subjects without needing to swap lenses. This flexibility makes the lens a great all-in-one option for various types of photography, including events, weddings, and travel.
Some users pointed out that while the focal range is versatile, it may not excel in some niche applications, such as super wide-angle shots or extreme telephoto work. As a result, some photographers prefer to have additional specialized lenses in their kit for these specific tasks.
Ease of Use
85%
Photographers appreciate the overall ease of use, as this lens works seamlessly with Sony E-mount mirrorless cameras. Its intuitive controls and smooth focus ring make it easy to handle, even for those who are new to the system. The autofocus system's responsiveness adds to the user-friendly experience.
A few users mentioned that while the lens is easy to use, it can be challenging to adjust to the larger size compared to other Sony lenses. Additionally, some found the lack of a dedicated focus limiter to be a minor inconvenience when shooting in certain scenarios.
Price to Performance Ratio
86%
The lens delivers high-end performance, which many users feel justifies its premium price tag. The overall image quality, build, and autofocus capabilities are seen as top-tier, making it a valuable investment for serious photographers and videographers. Those who rely on their gear for professional work find the cost worth it.
Some buyers felt that while the lens performs exceptionally well, the price is a significant factor to consider. For hobbyists or those on a budget, the cost may feel prohibitive when compared to other zoom lenses that offer good performance at a lower price point.
Compatibility with Sony E-mount Cameras
95%
Users rave about the perfect compatibility with Sony E-mount mirrorless cameras. The lens integrates seamlessly with Sony's autofocus systems, offering a smooth user experience with excellent tracking and reliable performance across different camera bodies. This level of compatibility makes it an excellent choice for Sony users.
Although compatibility is generally seamless, a small number of users mentioned occasional firmware issues or slight incompatibilities with older Sony E-mount cameras. However, these issues seem to be relatively rare and can often be resolved through firmware updates.
Weight for Travel
60%
40%
The weight can be seen as a benefit for some users who value durability and a premium feel. It provides a solid, stable feel during use, which some professional photographers prefer.
The heavy weight is one of the most frequently mentioned downsides, especially for users who need a more portable solution for travel photography. The lens feels bulky and cumbersome when carried for long periods, which can be a significant drawback for those prioritizing lightweight gear.

Suitable for:

The Sony SEL2470GM 24-70mm f/2.8 G Master Lens is a great choice for professional photographers and videographers who require versatility and high performance. It excels in delivering sharp, clear images across a broad focal length, making it ideal for a wide range of applications such as portrait, landscape, and event photography. Its fast f/2.8 aperture is particularly beneficial for low-light situations, making it a reliable tool for shooting indoors or at night. Additionally, its quiet and fast autofocus is highly appreciated by users who capture fast-moving subjects, and the lens is also a solid option for travel photographers who need a multi-purpose lens that performs well in various lighting conditions and environments.

Not suitable for:

While this lens provides exceptional image quality and versatility, it may not be the best option for casual photographers or those on a budget. Its relatively large size and weight make it less suitable for users seeking a lightweight and portable solution for travel or street photography. Additionally, those who primarily shoot in very bright conditions or with ultra-wide-angle requirements might find the 24-70mm focal range somewhat limiting. The higher price point may also be a deterrent for hobbyists who don’t need the advanced features and top-tier performance this lens offers.

Specifications

  • Focal Length: The lens offers a versatile 24-70mm zoom range, suitable for wide-angle to standard telephoto shots.
  • Aperture: The constant f/2.8 aperture provides excellent performance in low-light conditions and allows for shallow depth of field.
  • Mount Type: Designed for Sony E-mount full-frame mirrorless cameras.
  • Lens Type: This is a zoom lens, ideal for a wide range of photography styles including portrait, landscape, and event photography.
  • Optical Elements: The lens incorporates ED (Extra-low Dispersion), Super ED, and XA (Extreme Aspherical) elements to reduce aberrations and improve image quality.
  • Coating: The Nano AR coating minimizes flare and ghosting for improved contrast and clarity, even in challenging lighting.
  • Autofocus: Equipped with a Direct Drive Super Sonic Wave Motor (DDSSM), the lens delivers fast, precise, and quiet autofocus performance.
  • Minimum Focus Distance: The lens has a minimum focus distance of 0.38 meters (1.25 feet), allowing for close-up shots with sharp detail.
  • Max Magnification: The lens provides a maximum magnification ratio of 0.24x, suitable for moderately detailed close-up photography.
  • Blade Count: The lens features a 9-blade circular aperture, creating smooth, natural bokeh in out-of-focus areas.
  • Angle of View: The lens offers an angle of view ranging from 84° to 34° depending on the focal length.
  • Build Quality: The lens is constructed with a robust, weather-sealed design to withstand outdoor conditions and provide durability.
  • Weight: The lens weighs approximately 1,000 grams (2.2 pounds), making it relatively heavy for a zoom lens.
  • Dimensions: The lens has dimensions of 88.0mm x 136.0mm (3.5 inches x 5.4 inches), making it a sizeable but portable option for professionals.
  • Compatibility: This lens is compatible with all Sony E-mount full-frame and APS-C mirrorless cameras, though it provides the best performance on full-frame bodies.
  • Price Range: As a high-performance G Master lens, it is positioned at a premium price point, suitable for professionals seeking top-tier results.

FAQ

The Sony SEL2470GM is part of Sony's G Master series, offering exceptional image quality with a fast f/2.8 aperture, excellent sharpness, and smooth bokeh. It also features advanced optics like ED, Super ED, and XA elements, which help reduce chromatic aberrations and distortions, making it stand out from other zoom lenses.

Yes, the Sony SEL2470GM 24-70mm lens is designed for full-frame Sony E-mount mirrorless cameras. It also works with APS-C format cameras, but the effective focal length will be cropped due to the smaller sensor size.

The lens features a Direct Drive Super Sonic Wave Motor (DDSSM) for fast and silent autofocus, which is particularly appreciated by both photographers and videographers. It's great for capturing fast-moving subjects or recording video without focusing noise.

Users consistently praise the lens for its sharpness, color accuracy, and overall image quality. The advanced optical elements, such as ED and Super ED glass, combined with the Nano AR coating, ensure high contrast and reduced flare, even in challenging lighting conditions.

Yes, the Sony SEL2470GM has a fast f/2.8 aperture, which allows for excellent performance in low-light conditions. This aperture lets in more light, enabling faster shutter speeds and reducing the need for high ISO settings, resulting in cleaner, sharper images.

One common downside is the size and weight of the lens, which can be bulky for those who prioritize portability, especially when traveling or shooting for extended periods. Additionally, its price point may be prohibitive for amateur photographers or those on a tight budget.

Yes, this lens is highly regarded for video use due to its fast and smooth autofocus, which is essential for keeping shots in focus without abrupt shifts. Its silent autofocus also makes it ideal for capturing audio-sensitive content.

The 24-70mm focal length is perfect for a variety of photography styles, including portrait, event, travel, and landscape photography. Whether you're shooting wide landscapes or tight portraits, this lens offers the versatility to handle both scenarios with ease.

No, the Sony SEL2470GM does not have built-in optical image stabilization (OSS). However, it works well with the in-body stabilization feature found in many Sony mirrorless cameras, which helps reduce shake during handheld shooting.

This lens is built with durability in mind, featuring a weather-sealed design to protect against dust and moisture. While it’s not completely waterproof, it is solidly built for challenging conditions, making it a good choice for outdoor and travel photographers who need reliable equipment.