A high-performance telephoto zoom lens, the Sony FE 100-400mm F4.5-5.6 GM OSS lens was built for use with Sony’s full-frame mirrorless cameras. Its aperture range is from 4.5 to 5.6. This lens is an excellent option for capturing distant subjects in a variety of shooting circumstances, such as landscape photography, sporting events photography, and wildlife photography, due to its variable focal length range, which ranges from 100 to 400 millimeters (mm).
The lens is a component of Sony’s G Master line, which is renowned for its superior optical performance and build quality. As a result, it is a top option among professional photographers as well as photography lovers.
Key Specs
- Focal Length: 100-400mm
- Maximum Aperture: f/4.5-5.6
- 35mm Equivalent Focal Length (APS-C): 150-600mm
- Format: 35mm full frame
- Lens Groups / Elements: 16-22
- Maximum Magnification Ratio: 0.35x
- Minimum Aperture: f/32-40
- Mount: Sony E-mount
- Angle of View (35mm): 24°-6°10′
- Aperture Blades: 9
- Circular Aperture: Yes
- Filter Diameter: 77mm
- Hood Type: Round, bayonet type
- Image Stabilization: Optical SteadyShot
- Minimum Focus Distance: 3.22 ft/0.98m
- Teleconverter Compatibility (x1.4): SEL14TC
- Teleconverter Compatibility (x2.0): SEL20TC
- Zoom System: Manual
- Dimensions (Diameter x Length): 3-3/4 x 8-1/8″ (93.9 x 205mm)
- Weight: 49.3 oz (Without tripod mount) / 1,395g (Without tripod mount)
Performance
The exceptional performance of the Sony FE 100-400mm F4.5-5.6 GM OSS lens is a direct result of the cutting-edge technology and sophisticated optical design that was included in the lens. The lens consists of a mixture of 22 elements in 16 groups, one of which is a Super ED (Extra-low Dispersion) element and two of which are ED glass elements.
These components work together to efficiently decrease chromatic aberrations and provide superb picture quality over the whole zoom range. In addition, the lens is coated with Sony’s Nano AR Coating, which helps to eliminate ghosting and flare. The end result is photos that have high contrast and are crisp, even in difficult lighting circumstances.
Autofocus System
Because the lens features a rapid and accurate focusing technology, it offers photographers the ability to monitor their subjects in a quick and accurate manner. Because of the rapid focusing reaction enabled by the two XD (Extreme Dynamic) linear motors, photographers are able to catch subjects that are moving quickly with relative ease.
Because it is a silent system, the focusing function may be used during video recording without producing any distracting background noise. In addition, the lens features a number of alternative focus modes, such as AF-S (Single-shot AF), AF-C (Continuous AF), and DMF (Direct Manual Focus), providing photographers the ability to pick the appropriate focus settings for the many shooting conditions they may encounter.
Vibration Reduction
The Sony FE 100-400mm F4.5-5.6 GM OSS lens is equipped with an Optical SteadyShot (OSS) technology, which allows for up to 5 stops of image stabilization and improves the lens’s overall image stabilization capabilities. This function is especially helpful when shooting handheld or in low-light circumstances since it efficiently decreases camera shaking and enables crisper shots.
It is particularly handy when shooting handheld in low-light conditions. When using telephoto lenses like this one, even the slightest movement of the camera can cause fuzzy photographs; therefore having an optical image stabilization system (OSS) is essential. In addition, the lens has three distinct stabilization modes to meet a variety of shooting scenarios, including a panning mode that is specifically designed for capturing subjects that are moving.
Build Quality
The Sony FE 100-400mm F4.5-5.6 GM OSS lens has an amazing build quality and a structure that is both sturdy and long-lasting. The lens also has a variable aperture range. The lens is constructed from materials of the highest quality and is designed to endure the rigorous use that is required in a professional setting. It is resistant to dust and moisture, which ensures that it will continue to work reliably even when exposed to harsh outside circumstances.
A zoom lock switch is included inside the lens barrel, which stops the lens from accidentally zooming out while it is being carried. In addition, the lens hood is a part of the package and attaches firmly, so reducing the amount of lens flare and giving further protection against stray light.
Handling and Ergonomics
The Sony FE 100-400mm F4.5-5.6 GM OSS lens is created with the user in mind, giving great handling and ergonomics as a result of its thoughtful construction. The control controls on the lens are conveniently located and offer a comfortable grip area, allowing for simple and natural use of the lens.
Because of their silky smoothness and responsiveness, the zoom and focus rings make it possible to make accurate changes while shooting. In addition, the lens possesses a focus hold button that, through the use of the menu system of the camera, may be assigned to a variety of various purposes. Because the lens has a good overall balance, it is easy to hold, which is especially important when shooting handheld for lengthy periods of time.
Image Stabilization
The Optical SteadyShot (OSS) image stabilization technology is included into the Sony FE 100-400mm F4.5-5.6 GM OSS lens. This system gives photographers better stability and reduces the negative effects of camera shake. When shooting at longer focal lengths or in settings with less available light, this capability proves to be extremely helpful.
As a consequence of the OSS system’s ability to correct for both angle and shift camera motions, the resulting photos are sharper, and the requirement for higher ISO settings is significantly reduced. This lens enables handheld photography at slower shutter speeds, enhancing the possibility for obtaining clear, blur-free photos in a variety of shooting settings. Its stabilization system can provide up to 5 stops of compensation for camera shake.
Shooting Experience
For photographers looking for a fulfilling experience behind the lens, the Sony FE 100-400mm F4.5-5.6 GM OSS is an excellent choice. The lens has a variable focal length range, which makes it possible to capture both faraway scenes and close-up details with relative ease. Even while capturing things that are moving quickly, the camera is able to achieve precise and quick focusing thanks to the system’s smooth and sensitive autofocus.
The zoom range of the lens may be simply adjusted, which provides photographers with the ability to rapidly arrange their photos and adapt to changing shooting situations. When taken along with the lens’s high build quality and user-friendly design, the lens’ overall performance helps to provide a shooting experience that is both smooth and entertaining.
Image Quality
The image quality produced by the Sony FE 100-400mm F4.5-5.6 GM OSS lens is exceptional over the entirety of its focal length range. Because of the optical design of the lens and the modern lens components, chromatic aberrations and distortions are successfully reduced, which results in images that have a high level of sharpness, contrast, and color accuracy. Additionally, the lens retains outstanding resolution from corner to corner, which guarantees that the image quality will be consistent across the frame.
Even under tough lighting circumstances, the image contrast and clarity are further improved because to the Nano AR Coating’s ability to reduce the appearance of ghosting and flare. This lens offers photographers a spectacular level of image clarity and detail, regardless of whether they are photographing landscapes, sports, or animals.
Teleconverter Compatibility
The focal length range of the lens may be expanded for greater reach by using Sony’s 1.4x and 2x teleconverters, which are compatible with the Sony FE 100-400mm F4.5-5.6 GM OSS lens. When used in conjunction with the 1.4x teleconverter, the lens takes on the characteristics of a 140-560mm F6.3-8 lens. When used in conjunction with the 2x teleconverter, the lens takes on the characteristics of a 200-800mm F9-11 lens.
The focusing capabilities of the lens are preserved by the teleconverters, which allow photographers to expand their reach while preserving the superior performance and image quality of the lens. The ability of the lens to work with teleconverters gives it a greater range of applications and makes it suited for photographing distant scenes that call for longer focal lengths.
Comparison with Competitors
When contrasted with other lenses in its class, the Sony FE 100-400mm F4.5-5.6 GM OSS is distinguished by its superior picture quality, superior autofocus performance, and superior build quality. The fact that this lens has been given the G Master designation indicates that its optics and construction are of the highest quality, resulting in results that are suitable for professional use. This lens has a distinct advantage over other telephoto zoom lenses since it provides a varied focal length range and retains outstanding image quality throughout the entirety of its zoom range.
The focusing technology of the lens is quick, precise, and relatively quiet, making it suited for a variety of shooting circumstances, including those involving photographing animals and sporting events. In addition, the high build quality of the lens assures its longevity as well as its resistance to dust and moisture, making it dependable even in harsh conditions. When measured against other telephoto zoom lenses in its category, the Sony FE 100-400mm F4.5-5.6 GM OSS lens emerges as the class leader in terms of performance.
Specifications
| 35 mm Equivalent Focal Length (APS-C) | 150-600 |
| Angle of View (APS-C) | 16°-4°10′ |
| Focal Length (mm) | 100-400 |
| Format | 35 mm full frame |
| Lens Groups / Elements | 16-22 |
| Maximum Magnification Ratio (x) | 0.35 |
| Maximum Aperture (F) | 4.5-5.6 |
| Minimum Aperture (F) | 32-40 |
| Mount | Sony E-mount |
| Angle of View (35 mm) | 24°-6°10′ |
| Aperture Blades | 9 |
| Circular Aperture | Yes |
| Filter Diameter (mm) | 77 |
| Hood Type | Round, bayonet type |
| Image Stabilization (SteadyShot) | Optical SteadyShot |
| Minimum Focus Distance | 3.22 ft/0.98 m |
| Teleconverter Compatibility (x1.4) | SEL14TC |
| Teleconverter Compatibility (x2.0) | SEL20TC |
| Zoom System | Manual |
| Size & Weight | Dimensions: 3-3/4 x 8-1/8″ (93.9 x 205 mm) <br> Weight: 49.3 oz (Without tripod mount) / 1,395 g (Without tripod mount) |
| At a Glance | Focal Length: 100-400mm <br> Max. Aperture: f/4.5-5.6 <br> Size and Weight: 3.75 x 8.125 in. / 49.3 oz. |
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Superior image quality over the whole available range of focal lengths.
- A system with rapid and precise autofocus.
- Handheld photography benefits from effective picture stabilization.
- Strong construction quality and excellent weatherproofing.
- Adaptable zoom range that can be used in a variety of shooting situations.
- Suitable for use with teleconverters, which allow for a greater range.
- The handling and ergonomics are both very smooth and accurate.
Cons:
- Performance in low light may be hindered by a variable aperture.
- When used handheld for a lengthy period of time, size and weight might become inconvenient.
- The price is higher in comparison to that of some of our rivals.
- Professionals looking for faster lenses might not be satisfied with the limited aperture selections.
Price and Availability
The high-quality build and cutting-edge optics of the Sony FE 100-400mm F4.5-5.6 GM OSS lens are reflected in the lens’s premium price point, which is offered to consumers. Because it is a member of Sony’s G Master series, it is designed to meet the needs of professional photographers as well as photography amateurs who place a premium on outstanding picture quality and performance.
You may acquire the lens via authorized sellers of Sony products or from internet retailers who specialize in selling Sony cameras and accessories. Depending on the region and the level of demand, availability may change. It is recommended that you check with local merchants or with Sony’s official website in order to obtain the most up-to-date information on pricing and availability.
Conclusion
The Sony FE 100-400mm F4.5-5.6 GM OSS lens is a top-performing telephoto zoom lens that was intended for use with Sony’s full-frame mirrorless cameras. It features an aperture range of 4.5 to 5.6. The combination of its cutting-edge optical design and high-end lens components results in an image that is of an unparalleled caliber. The autofocus technology of the lens guarantees quick and precise focusing, and the built-in image stabilization makes it possible to take steady photos even while shooting handheld.
The lens is trustworthy in a variety of shooting settings due to its sturdy build quality and weather sealing. Additionally, the lens’s broad zoom range makes it appropriate for photographing a wide variety of objects. In spite of the fact that it has a variable aperture, this lens is an excellent option for photographers who are looking for a high-quality telephoto zoom lens because of its overall performance, compatibility with teleconverters, and shooting experience.
Sony FE 100-400mm F4.5-5.6 GM OSS FAQs
Q. What is the maximum aperture of the Sony FE 100-400mm F4.5-5.6 GM OSS lens?
A. The maximum aperture of this lens is f/4.5 at 100mm and f/5.6 at 400mm.
Q. Is the Sony FE 100-400mm F4.5-5.6 GM OSS lens compatible with teleconverters?
A. Yes, this lens is compatible with Sony’s teleconverters. It can be used with the SEL14TC (1.4x) and SEL20TC (2.0x) teleconverters to extend the focal length range.
Q. Does the Sony FE 100-400mm F4.5-5.6 GM OSS lens have image stabilization?
A. Yes, this lens features Optical SteadyShot (OSS) image stabilization, which helps to minimize camera shake and allows for sharper images, especially when shooting handheld or in low-light conditions.
Q. What is the minimum focus distance of the Sony FE 100-400mm F4.5-5.6 GM OSS lens?
A. The minimum focus distance of this lens is 3.22 feet (0.98 meters). This allows you to get closer to your subject, capturing fine details even when shooting from a distance.
Q. Is the Sony FE 100-400mm F4.5-5.6 GM OSS lens weather-sealed?
A. Yes, this lens is designed with dust and moisture resistance, making it suitable for shooting in various environmental conditions. The weather-sealed construction ensures reliable performance even in challenging outdoor settings.
