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Sony FE 16-35mm f/2.8 GM II Full-Frame Autofocus Lens for E-Mount, Black {82} SEL1635GM2
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$2,263.00
Sony's lightest f/2.8 wide zoom, built for full-frame E-mount.
The FE 16-35mm f/2.8 GM II completes Sony's second-generation trinity of f/2.8 zooms, and it earned that spot by solving the original's biggest liability: bulk. At 547g and 111.5mm long, it's the lightest full-frame 16-35mm f/2.8 zoom available, without stepping down optically. The 15-element, 12-group design includes five aspherical elements, three of them XA (extreme aspherical), which drive corner resolution up and aberration down, even wide open.
Four XD Linear Motors handle autofocus through a floating dual-group mechanism, delivering speed and silence that matter equally for stills and video. Focus breathing is minimal, and the lens supports Sony's breathing compensation on compatible bodies. The de-clickable aperture ring is a genuine workflow upgrade: 1/3-stop clicks for stills, smooth stepless operation for video, with an iris lock to prevent accidental shifts during a take. Two programmable focus hold buttons round out the handling package.
The 21.8cm minimum focus distance, closer than the original's 28cm, gives the 16mm end real compositional flexibility up close. With a 82mm filter thread, standard circular polarizers and ND filters mount without vignetting issues. For photographers building a Sony full-frame kit around serious glass, this lens holds up as the wide anchor that travels as light as a mid-range prime.
Who It's For
Landscape photographers on multi-day shoots benefit directly from the weight reduction, 547g is a meaningful difference over a long trail day, and the 16mm end captures wide vistas without panoramic stitching. Wedding photographers covering tight reception spaces gain fast f/2.8 performance at 35mm for group work alongside the wide end for venue coverage. Videographers on documentary and commercial sets get silent autofocus from the XD Linear Motors, a de-clickable aperture ring, and breathing compensation for clean, usable footage. Architectural photographers working interiors and facades rely on the corner-to-corner resolution that the XA element design delivers even at maximum aperture.
Key Features
- 15-element, 12-group optical design with five aspherical elements including three XA types
- Four XD Linear Motors deliver fast, silent autofocus with floating dual-group focus mechanism
- De-clickable aperture ring switches between 1/3-stop clicks for stills and smooth stepless operation for video
- 547g weight and 111.5mm length, lightest full-frame 16-35mm f/2.8 zoom available
- Minimum focus distance of 21.8cm with 0.32x magnification at 16mm
- 82mm filter thread, dust and moisture-resistant sealing, Nano AR Coating II
- Two programmable focus hold buttons for customizable AF workflows
- Constant f/2.8 maximum aperture across entire 16-35mm range
FAQ
- Does the Sony FE 16-35mm f/2.8 GM II have image stabilization?
- No optical stabilization. The lens relies on in-body stabilization from Sony full-frame bodies. Weight and size savings came from omitting optical IS, and most current Sony cameras deliver reliable handheld performance with 5-axis IBIS.
- How does the GM II compare to the original FE 16-35mm f/2.8 GM?
- The GM II cuts 20% weight (547g vs. 680g), adds a de-clickable aperture ring for video work, includes two programmable focus hold buttons, and closes minimum focus distance from 28cm to 21.8cm. Optically, it uses five aspherical elements (three XA) instead of four, delivering sharper corners and better aberration control.
- Can I use standard filters on this lens?
- Yes, the 82mm filter thread accepts circular polarizers and ND filters without vignetting. The recessed front element and included lens hood keep flare under control in bright conditions.
- Does the barrel extend when zooming?
- Yes, approximately 20mm extension from 16mm to 35mm. It retracts as you zoom toward 35mm. The extension is minimal and doesn't compromise weather sealing.
- Will this work on Sony APS-C cameras?
- Yes, but you'll get an effective 24-52.5mm range. The lens is full-frame optimized, so APS-C shooters might prefer lenses designed specifically for crop sensors.
- How close can you focus with this lens?
- Minimum focus distance is 21.8cm (8.6 inches), closer than the original's 28cm. At 16mm, this gives real compositional flexibility for environmental portraits and detail work.
- Is the Sony FE 16-35mm f/2.8 GM II weather-sealed?
- Yes. Dust and moisture-resistant sealing throughout the barrel with fluorine coating on the front element to repel water, dust, and fingerprints. Not rated for submersion, but reliable in rain and humid conditions.
| Specification | Value |
|---|---|
| Focal Length | 16-35mm |
| Max Aperture | 2.8 |
| Min Aperture | 22 |
| Mount | Sony E |
| Min Focus Distance | 8.6" / 21.8 cm |
| Filter Thread | 82mm |
| Lens Groups | 12 |
| Lens Elements | 15 |
| Angle Of View | 83° - 44° |
| Length | 4.4" / 111.5 mm |
| Maximum Diameter | 3.5" / 87.8 mm |
| Package Weight | 2.355 lb |
| Box Dimensions | 10.5 x 5.5 x 5.5" |
| Weight | 1.2 lb / 547 g |
This description was generated using AI based on KEH's internal product standards, product expertise, and knowing what customers care about most. While we strive for accuracy, details may vary by individual item.
| Brand Name | Sony |
|---|---|
| Filter Size | 82mm |
| Focus Type | Autofocus (lens motor) |
| Lens Mount | Sony E Mount |
| Lens Type | Ultrawide |
| Max Focal Length | 35mm |
| Min Focal Length | 16mm |
