Sony 55-200mm f/4-5.6 DT SAM A-Mount Autofocus Lens [55]

Model #284472
  • $53.00

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Sony 55-200mm f/4-5.6 SAM: APS-C telephoto reach for Sony A-mount bodies

This DT-series lens is built specifically for Sony Alpha APS-C DSLR and SLT bodies, covering a telephoto range that starts where kit lenses typically leave off. The 55-200mm focal range gives you meaningful reach for distant subjects without the bulk of a full-sized telephoto, and the SAM (Smooth Autofocus Motor) built into the lens drives focus quietly and independently of the camera body. That matters on older Alpha bodies without an in-body focus motor, keeping AF available across a wide range of Sony A-mount cameras.

The variable aperture runs f/4 at the wide end to f/5.6 at 200mm, one stop of light loss across the zoom range. It's a practical tradeoff that keeps the lens compact and affordable. For outdoor shooting in good light, that aperture range is rarely a limitation, and the telephoto compression at 200mm does the heavy lifting for subject isolation.

Who It's For

Sports and youth activity photographers shooting outdoors will get usable reach on a modest budget, covering distances that a standard zoom can't touch. Wildlife shooters wanting a light carry lens for travel days will appreciate the 200mm ceiling for birds and mid-distance animals. Portrait photographers on APS-C bodies can work with the 55mm end for natural framing in tighter spaces. Anyone already in the Sony A-mount system looking for a second telephoto lens without a significant investment will find this a straightforward fit for their existing Alpha DSLR or SLT body.

Key Features

  • SAM (Smooth Autofocus Motor) with independent focus drive
  • 55-200mm focal range for APS-C Sony Alpha bodies
  • f/4-5.6 variable aperture across zoom range
  • Designed for Sony Alpha A-mount DSLR and SLT cameras
  • Telephoto compression at 200mm for subject isolation

FAQ

What's the difference between this 55-200mm and a full-frame 55-200mm lens?
This is a DT lens designed for Sony Alpha APS-C bodies. On an APS-C sensor, the 55-200mm focal length is native to that sensor size. If you're comparing angle of view to full-frame gear, the APS-C crop factor (~1.5x) applies - so the field of view is equivalent to roughly 82-300mm on a full-frame body.
Will autofocus work on older Sony Alpha bodies without a focus motor?
Yes. The SAM (Smooth Autofocus Motor) is built into the lens itself, so it drives focus independently of the camera body. That keeps AF available across the full range of Sony A-mount DSLRs and SLTs, regardless of whether the body has an in-body focus motor.
How much light does the aperture lose from 55mm to 200mm?
One stop. The aperture runs f/4 at 55mm and f/5.6 at 200mm. For outdoor shooting in daylight, that's rarely a practical limitation.
Is this lens good for subject isolation at 200mm?
The telephoto compression at 200mm does that work for you. Even with a variable f/5.6 aperture at the long end, the focal length itself provides meaningful background separation for portraits and wildlife at distance.
What Sony A-mount camera bodies is this lens compatible with?
All Sony Alpha A-mount DSLRs and SLTs. Because autofocus is handled by the SAM motor in the lens, it works across the entire A-mount lineup, including older bodies without in-body focus motors.
How compact is this compared to larger telephoto lenses?
It's a practical midsize telephoto that avoids the bulk of a full-sized telephoto zoom. The variable aperture and compact design keep it lighter and smaller than fixed-aperture alternatives, making it a realistic carry option for travel or casual telephoto work.
SpecificationValue
Focal Length55-200mm
Max Aperturef/4-5.6
MountSony A

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 55mm
Focus Type Autofocus (lens motor)
Lens Mount Sony A & Minolta A
Lens Type Telephoto / Long
Max Focal Length 200mm
Min Focal Length 55mm

Learn what to expect from each condition, cosmetically. Images are representative of each grade and may not show the exact item you receive. All equipment is guaranteed to work as intended, unless otherwise noted. We also occasionally offer items that fall .

Exceptions


New
New in box complete with manufacturer's USA warranty. Not previously owned or used.
Like New
Essentially new with no signs of use. “Open box.” In manufacturer's packaging with original accessories and instructions. 180-day warranty.
As Is
Non-functional or damaged. Equipment will not work. Usable for parts. Not covered under KEH warranty and non-returnable.

Like New Minus

Like New Minus
Like New Minus

Like New Minus

Barely used with virtually no traces of wear. Only the closest inspections will reveal slight use. Lens glass could contain light dust or debris. Excellent picture quality. Accessories usually not included, unless noted in listing. 180-day warranty.

Excellent Plus

Excellent Plus
Excellent Plus

Excellent Plus

Lightly used with limited signs of wear. Exceptionally nice but may have slight wear on finish visible. Lens glass could contain light dust or debris. Excellent picture quality. Accessories usually not included, unless noted in listing. 180-day warranty.

Excellent

Excellent
Excellent

Excellent

Noticeably used with average signs of wear. Shows moderate wear for the age of the item, with the possibility of blemishes and/or minimal dings. Lens glass may have average dust and zoom/focus ring tension may have slight looseness or tightness overall, but will not affect picture quality. Accessories usually not included, unless noted in listing. 180-day warranty.

Bargain

Bargain
Bargain

Bargain

Frequently used with above-average wear. May have dents, dings, or finish loss. Lens glass may have small scratches, dust, and blemishes, and zoom/focus ring tension may have moderate looseness or tightness overall, but should not affect picture quality. Accessories usually not included, unless noted in listing. 180-day warranty.

Ugly

Ugly
Ugly

Ugly

Heavily used with extensive visible wear. Equipment is rough, with multiple impressions in the finish, excessive finish loss and brassing. Glass will have marks, fungus and/or heavy/cloudy haze which could affect picture quality. Accessories usually not included, unless noted in listing. Not covered under KEH warranty.

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