Sony FE 16-35mm f/2.8 GM II vs Sony FE 24-70mm f/2.8 GM II Lens
The bottom line
These two are closely matched. The differences below are where they diverge — weigh the ones that map to what you shoot, and let size, price and handling break the tie.
Choose the Sony FE 16-35mm f/2.8 GM II if…
- ✓You shoot wide — it starts at 16mm vs 24mm for landscapes, interiors and architecture.
- ✓You value portability — at 547g (1.21 lb) it's lighter than the 695g (1.53 lb) alternative for travel and all-day carry.
Choose the Sony FE 24-70mm f/2.8 GM II Lens if…
- ✓You need more reach — it goes to 70mm vs 35mm for distant subjects, wildlife and sport.
Where they differ
- ›Focal range: Sony FE 16-35mm f/2.8 GM II is 16-35mm, Sony FE 24-70mm f/2.8 GM II Lens is 24-70mm — different framing and reach.
- ›Price: the Sony FE 16-35mm f/2.8 GM II is $2,299, $149 under the Sony FE 24-70mm f/2.8 GM II Lens.
- ›Weight: the Sony FE 16-35mm f/2.8 GM II is 547g (1.21 lb) vs 695g (1.53 lb) — you'll feel the difference handheld.
Frequently asked
Is the Sony FE 16-35mm f/2.8 GM II or the Sony FE 24-70mm f/2.8 GM II Lens better?
These two are closely matched. The differences below are where they diverge — weigh the ones that map to what you shoot, and let size, price and handling break the tie.
Who should choose the Sony FE 16-35mm f/2.8 GM II?
Choose the Sony FE 16-35mm f/2.8 GM II if you shoot wide — it starts at 16mm vs 24mm for landscapes, interiors and architecture. Choose it if you value portability — at 547g (1.21 lb) it's lighter than the 695g (1.53 lb) alternative for travel and all-day carry.
Who should choose the Sony FE 24-70mm f/2.8 GM II Lens?
Choose the Sony FE 24-70mm f/2.8 GM II Lens if you need more reach — it goes to 70mm vs 35mm for distant subjects, wildlife and sport.
What is the main difference between the Sony FE 16-35mm f/2.8 GM II and the Sony FE 24-70mm f/2.8 GM II Lens?
Focal range: Sony FE 16-35mm f/2.8 GM II is 16-35mm, Sony FE 24-70mm f/2.8 GM II Lens is 24-70mm — different framing and reach.
| Product | ||
|---|---|---|
| Optical Design | ||
| Focal Length | 16-35mm | 24-70mm |
| Lens Type | Zoom | Zoom |
| Optical Elements | 15 | 20 |
| Optical Groups | 12 | 15 |
| Aperture & Iris | ||
| Maximum Aperture | f/2.8 | f/2.8 |
| Minimum Aperture | f/22 | f/22 |
| Aperture Blades | 11 | 11 |
| Rounded Aperture | Yes | Yes |
| Coverage & Angle | ||
| Format Coverage | Full-Frame | Full-Frame |
| Lens Mount | Sony E | Sony E |
| Angle of View | 107° – 63° | 84° – 34° |
| 35mm Equivalent | − | − |
| Focus | ||
| Autofocus | Yes | Yes |
| Focus Motor | XD Linear | XD |
| Focus Limiter | No | No |
| AF/MF Switch | Yes | Yes |
| Min Focus Distance | 22 cm | 21 cm |
| Max Magnification | 0.32x | 0.32x |
| Stabilization & Video | ||
| Optical Stabilization | No | No |
| Aperture Ring | Yes | Yes |
| Declickable Aperture | Yes | Yes |
| Parfocal | No | No |
| Internal Zoom | No | No |
| General | ||
| Price (MSRP) | $2,299 | $2,448 |
| Filter Size | 82mm | 82mm |
| Diameter | 87.8mm | 87.8mm |
| Length | 111.5mm | 119.9mm |
| Weight | 547g (1.21 lb) | 695g (1.53 lb) |
| Weather Sealed | Yes | Yes |
| Tripod Collar | No | No |
