Sony 70-400mm f/4-5.6 G SSM II Lens Review

Sony 70-400mm f/4-5.6 G SSM II Handling and Features

The build quality of this lens is excellent, with a selection of high quality plastics and lightweight metals being used for much of the lens barrel's construction. The lens isn't sealed against the ingress of dust and moisture, which is a little surprising given the excellent robust build. This optic tips the scales at exactly 1500 grams, which isn't overly heavy for a lens covering this focal range. As a result it balances well with the Sony A99 body used for testing.

Autofocus is powered by a Super Sonic wave motor, which is improved over that found in this lens' predecessor. As a result, autofocus is very quick indeed and the lens has no trouble keeping up with erratic and fast moving subjects. Manual focus adjustments can be made at any time by turning the focus ring and three focus lock buttons are provided on the lens within easy access of the zoom and focus controls. The focusing ring has a well damped, silky smooth action, which makes it a pleasure to apply fine manual focus adjustments.



As focusing is performed internally, the 77mm filter ring doesn't rotate. This is ideal for use with graduated and polarising filters. The included lens hood even has a small door that can be slid open to provide access for rotating a polarising filter. Unfortunately this has a tendency to open itself too easily as it doesn't lock closed very firmly at all. Closest focus is 1.5 metres, which is typical for a lens of this focal length and aperture.

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