Sony FE 400mm f/2.8 GM OSS

Sony FE 400mm f/2.8 GM OSS super tele

The Sony FE 400mm 2.8 G Master is Sony's masterpiece in the super telephoto lens category. The design has been based on top-class image quality, fast autofocus and a durable construction, as well as lightness. The lens weighs 2895 grams , which means the Sony 400mm 2.8 is up to a kilogram lighter than competing manufacturers' 400mm lenses.

Due to the rearranged lens elements, the lens's center of gravity is in the center of the lens, at the focus ring. Due to its lightness and the location of the center of gravity, the lens is uniquely easy to handle as a super telephoto . The center of gravity is especially helpful when using a monopod, as most of the weight is right at the tripod mount. When combined with a Sony a9 body, for example, the total weight of the camera and lens is about a couple of kilograms less than the weight of a comparable professional-grade traditional mirrorless system and lens. This is therefore a more compact and lighter combination for nature photographers in the hidden booth, sports photographers on the sidelines, and all other professional photography that requires top-notch image quality and speed.

The Sony FE 400mm 2.8 is also a unique lens in terms of its focusing system. The lens uses two linear focusing motors (XD Linear Focus), which according to the manufacturer is five times faster than the equivalent super telephoto lens in the Sony A-mount . The autofocus keeps up with the 20 fps continuous shooting of the a9 flagship body and works in conjunction with Sony's very convenient EyeAF subject tracking focusing.

The lens has optical image stabilization, which also works in conjunction with the internal image stabilization found in Sony bodies. The image stabilization has a panning setting and a third (Mode 3) setting, which allows the system to maintain the desired composition even when tracking fast-moving subjects (fast athletes, birds, etc.).

Usability and user interface

1. Focus ring
2. Function ring: programmable for focus settings, focus speed adjustment, or changing camera settings
3. Tripod collar: the tripod collar is ball-bearing and allows you to easily change the camera to a vertical shooting position
4. Focus hold button: allows you to program specific focus distances or, for example, activate EyeAF focusing
5. Filter holder
6. Strap loop
7. Tripod mount lock switch
8. Security cable clip

1. Focus mode switch
2. Full-time DMF switch: When on, manually adjusts focus even when autofocus is on
3. Focus area limiter
4. Function ring selector switch: Preset mode allows you to save a specific focus distance, while function mode allows you to adjust the function from the camera. Options include smoother and adjustable focus speed (useful for video recording), APS-C mode activation (a bit like a digital teleconverter)
5. SET button: With the SET button you can save the desired focus in memory and thus quickly return to the desired focus point.
6. Image stabilizer switch
7. Image stabilization setting selection: normal, panning, and fast-motion tracking mode
8. BEEP switch

Despite its lightness, the Sony 400mm 2.8 is a true professional tool, the lens body is made of light and durable magnesium alloy. The metal alloy is also used in the internal components of the body to ensure durability. Reliability and durability have even been achieved by increasing the number of bayonet mounting screws! The front lens element of the lens is coated with fluorine to repel dirt and fingerprints. The lens hood supplied with the lens is also designed with durability and usability in mind: the manufacturing material is now strong and lightweight carbon fiber. The lens is supplied in a hard protective case that protects against impacts and natural elements, so the lens can be accompanied without worry even on tough shooting gigs.

Sony's 400mm f/2.8 is compatible with the FE 1.4X and FE 2X teleconverters. The lens's carrying case also has ready-made slots for both teleconverters. The lens comes with a Drop-In filter holder, which allows you to use 40.5mm filters. Sony also offers a circular polarizing filter that can be rotated inside the lens barrel to adjust the polarization effect.

Note: This product is not compatible with the separately purchased Sony 2-year extended warranty.

Features:

Focal length: 400mm
Stabilizer: Yes
Mount: Sony FE (and E)
Maximum aperture: F2.8
Aperture plates: 11 (rounded lamellas
Lens construction: 23 elements in 17 groups
Closest focusing distance: 2.70m
Magnification: 0.52x
Weight: 2895g
Size: 15.9 x 36.20 cm
Weather protection: Yes
Filter thread: 40.5 mm (Drop-in internal filters)

Sales package includes: Sony FE 400mm f/2.8 GM OSS lens, hard case, lens strap, tripod mount, bag strap and lens hood