Review: Hands on with the Sony FE 35 1.4 GM
A small intro to the lens
So the Sony FE 35 1.4 GM is finally here. It’s a lens which we all knew would come but had no idea when that day would be.
For many of you reading this, you’re probably trying to work out if you should go for the Sony FE 35mm F1.8, the Sony (Zeiss) Distagon T* FE 35mm F1.4 or this new release. The Distagon was launched in summer 2016 and has been the go-to lens for many, including myself.
Sorry, I should have probably mentioned the Sigma Art range in there. Luckily, you don’t really care. There is also the Zeiss Batis 2/40 CF, a cracking lens.
Now, this won’t be a normal review where I’ve experimented with the lens across the Namibian desert or on a Volcano in Indonesia. With the current pandemic happening around us, and the short availability of the lens, I only managed to get a day with it. I shot a few interior images at home and went for a walk with local photographer Alec Brown around Edinburgh.
The geek details:
Lens mount: Sony FE
Image stabilization: No
Lens configuration: TBC (including two XA and two ED elements)
Angle of view: 63°
Maximum aperture: f/1.4
Aperture blades: 11 (rounded diaphragm opening)
Minimum focus distance: 0.27m (0.25m manual focus)
Maximum magnification: 0.23x
Dimensions: 76×96mm (smaller than the Distagon)
Weight: 524g (lighter than the Distagon)
Filter size: 67mm
If you’ve used a G Master lens before then you’ll know what to expect, they are all top-notch with a solid build and market-leading optics. The same goes with this all-new 35, it feels just like other GM lenses we’ve grown to love.
As a G Master lens, the 35mm f/1.4 is dust- and weather-resistant, with seals on all buttons and rings, so you can be confident when using the lens in the outdoors, even with the beautiful Scottish weather we have on our Sony workshops. The build is a mixture of metal and plastic, as is the norm for many lenses, but this doesn’t detract from the premium look and feel you’d expect from a G Master lens.
The FE 35mm f/1.4 GM feels comfortable in the hand and a little smaller/ lighter than my Distagon. Although not a noticeable difference.
let’s look at a few example images around my home and the beautiful city of Edinburgh.
F2.8 - ISO 100 - 1/3200
F2.8 - ISO 100 - 1/400
F2.8 - ISO 100 - 1/500. Full image.
F2.8 - ISO 100 - 1/500. Crop one.
F2.8 - ISO 100 - 1/500 . Crop two.
F2.8 - ISO 125 - 1/200
F2.8 - ISO 250 - 1/320.
F1.4- ISO 200 - 1/200
F5.6 - ISO 2000 - 1/200
F1.4 - ISO 200 - 1/400
F4.0 - ISO 500 - 1/160
The Sony FE 35 1.4 GM in action.
questions as a potential buyer?
Should I upgrade my Sony FE 35mm F1.8?
I don’t feel the 1.8 is a direct competitor to the new GM, more or a little brother. It’s the perfect option for a light travel bag or easy-going trip. If you’re already enjoying the 1.8, then the 1.4 is really going to be a positive step forward: sharper images and improved low light opportunities.
Should I go with the Sony (Zeiss) Distagon 35 1.4 or Sony FE 35 1.4 GM?
I’d go for the GM all day long. The Distagon is a little larger, heavier and it’s nearly five years since the release. Lens technology has certainly improved. There is a small jump up from the Distagon to GM in cost, but I feel it warrants it.
Should I upgrade my Sony (Zeiss) Distagon T* FE 35mm F1.4?
This is the hardest one of all, and the position that I’m currently in. The Distagon is a cracking lens, and I don’t feel that I can answer that question from my concise test with the GM. I’ve had my Distagon three years, so it’s more of a matter of when than if.
My conclusion
Like all Sony GM lenses, it’s the one you really want. The beautiful thing about these is the consistency in quality across the set. I’ll probably buy this soon, and if you’re looking between the available options, I would go for the GM too. Even if it’s overkill for some, you’ll grow into it. It’s like my grandad who bought me a go-kart on my first birthday.
Thanks for reading this short review on the Sony FE 35 1.4 GM.
Looking to test the very best Sony equipment? Join me with other Sony Ambassadors on a workshop in moody Scotland.