Lighter, smaller, faster, more: the new Sony FE 85mm F1.4 GM II

Sony continues on its quest to update the G Master lens series with the new FE 85mm F1.4 GM II lightweight portrait lens.

Sony’s new FE 85mm F1.4 GM II is an avowedly second-generation lens that inherits the optical design that was so highly praised in the first-generation model, and incorporates that with the latest lens tech.

“In 2016 we launched our G Master lineup and the first generation 85 mm F1.4 lens was one of the three lenses part of that pivotable moment for Sony. Our goal with our G Master line is to design glass that delivers stunning resolution and beautiful bokeh, while incorporating the highest level of technology available at the time, and we are proud to continue that message with the next-generation FE 85mm F1.4 GM II,” said Yann Salmon Legagneur, Head of IP&S Marketing, Sony Europe. “We know how many photographers and videographers rely on the large aperture 85 mm focal length. We are excited to offer an updated version packed with our latest lens technologies, all while maintaining a lightweight lens and extremely compact in size.”  

The long and the short of all that is that the FE 85mm F1.4 GM II offers appealing bokeh and enhanced high resolution, making it ideal for portrait photography.  

Photo: Sandra Hallnor

That optical design features two XA (extreme aspherical) and two ED (extra-low dispersion) lenses to effectively suppress aberrations and offer corner-to-corner resolution and rendering, resulting in outstanding image quality. Meanwhile, its Nano AR Coating II technology effectively subdues flare and ghosting for clear, crisp images. An 11-blade circular aperture and optimisation of spherical aberration during the design and manufacturing process provides its characteristic soft bokeh.

For stills, it is up to three times faster compared to the previous model, tracking moving subjects with high precision, Sony saying it keeps up ‘flawlessly’ with the Alpha 9 III’s 120fps continuous shooting. Subject tracking performance is improved by as much as seven times.  

Compared to the current FE 85mm F1.4 GM, the weight of the FE 85mm F1.4 GM II (642 grams, 22.7 oz.) is approximately 20% lighter and it’s also 13% smaller in volume. It has a filter diameter of φ77 mm, diameter of 84.7 mm (3.33 inches), and length of 107.3 mm (4.22 inches). 

For smooth video creation at F1.4, it features an XD linear motor. Focus breathing is minimal, and in-body focus breathing compensation is supported. It has two customisable focus hold buttons and an AF/MF switch, while an independent aperture ring and Linear Response MF focus control provide what should be intuitive control

Lastly, the front lens element features a fluorine coating, which makes it easy to remove fingerprints, dust, oil, and other contaminants from the lens surface. It’s also built with a dust and moisture resistant design.

Pricing and availability 

The FE 85mm F1.4 GM II will be available in September 2024 for $1799 / £1850 / €2100.  

tl;dr

• Sony introduces the FE 85mm F1.4 GM II, a lightweight second-generation portrait lens that enhances the praised optical design of its predecessor while incorporating the latest lens technologies.
• The lens features advanced elements, including two XA and two ED lenses, Nano AR Coating II to reduce flare, and an 11-blade circular aperture, delivering exceptional bokeh and high-resolution images ideal for portrait photography.
• It boasts up to three times faster autofocus and seven times better subject tracking compared to the previous model
• Weighing 642 grams (20% lighter) and 13% smaller than its predecessor, the lens is dust and moisture resistant, features a fluorine coating for easy cleaning, and includes customizable controls for enhanced user experience.
• Pricing is set at $1799, with availability in September 2024.