Wide-aperture prime lenses typically require a lot of glass, which drives up their size and weight—as well as their price. Sony’s line of G Master lenses have so far followed that trend, offering truly excellent image quality, but residing in relatively massive lenses that feel even bigger on the petite mirrorless bodies. The company’s new 24mm F1.4 prime, however, significantly cuts the bulk. This lens only weighs 15.7 ounces and its dimensions clock in at 3″ x 3.64″, it’s a rare 24mm prime that combines optical quality and a small size into a single package.
Here is what else we know about it:
- 13 elements in 10 groups.
- Two extreme aspherical elements and three extra-low dispersion elements included in the lens to reduce siggital flare.
- Nano AR coating to reduce flare and ghosting.
- 67mm filter diameter.
- 0.79ft minimum focusing distance
- Customizable Focus hold button.
- Soft bokeh.
- Available October 2018 for $1,400.
This will be ideal lens for photographers interested in shooting landscapes and starscapes because of its compact design and the inclusion of those two XA elements.
The price tag on this 24mm prime is definitely pricier than some of the other options available for Sony shooters—a Sigma 24mm F1.4 ART DG HSM only costs $849—but in a similar range as the Canon EF 24mm f/1.4L II or Nikon’s AF-S FX NIKKOR 24mm f/1.4G ED. Still, if Sony delivers the bright colors, sharp corners, and fast focusing it’s promising, then it could be well-worth the investment.