Mini test: Sony 24-50mm f/2.8 G

Posted on Feb 2, 2026 by Pro Moviemaker

We tested the Sony FE 24-50mm f/2.8 G, a compact full-frame zoom that delivers sharp, contrast-rich images with fast autofocus for stills and video

Words Adam Duckworth

The Sony FE 24-50mm f/2.8 G lens brings professional image quality to a remarkably compact form factor and reasonable price. It’s one of the smallest and lightest constant f/2.8 zooms Sony has ever produced for full-frame, weighing just 440g/1lb. Yet it delivers sharp, contrast-rich images that rival much larger optics.

The compromise is that it has a slightly different focal length range to the more commonplace standard zooms of 24-70mm. So it’s less of a portrait lens and more of a wide-angle landscape or vloggers’ selfie lens. At least now there’s a choice of standard zooms for E-mount, and the £1149/$1198 24-50mm is smaller and lighter than a £1799/$2448 Sony FE 24-70mm f/2.8 GM II.

Optically, the new lens has been built with 16 elements in 13 groups, including four asphericals and two ED (extra-low dispersion) elements. This combination keeps distortion and fringing impressively low while maintaining edge-to-edge resolution. Wide open, the lens renders smooth bokeh due to its 11-blade diaphragm, and is able to focus as close as 18cm/7.1in for near-macro detail with a 0.33x magnification.

In use, it feels agile and precise. The dual linear AF motors are fast, silent and accurate, which is a big plus for both stills and video shooters.

A lens from Sony attached to a camera and against a white background

Sony’s use of engineering plastics both enhances its durability and reduces weight

Since it’s a Sony lens, there is no cap on frame rate in stills. Mounted on the Sony A9 III, the lens can track subjects at up to 120fps, maintaining full autofocus performance even when stopped down. There is minimal focus breathing, smooth aperture control thanks to a de-clickable iris ring and full support for Dynamic/Active mode stabilisation and breathing compensation on compatible cameras.

Ergonomically, it’s a joy. The zoom and focus rings move smoothly, there’s a programmable focus-hold button and the weather-sealed build inspires confidence outdoors. It’s also so light and portable, there’s no reason to leave it at home. On a motocross shoot it stayed in a coat pocket, ready for action when needed.

The Sony FE 24-50mm f/2.8 G feels like a modern classic in the making as it’s a compact, reliable, high-quality zoom that covers most real-world scenarios you could encounter.