Sony FE 50-150mm F2 GM Unveiled – A Zoom Lens with Prime Features

Lens News

by Nino LeitnerApril 22^nd, 2025

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Sony has announced the FE 50-150mm F2 GM, introducing what they’re calling the world’s first telephoto zoom lens with a maximum focal length of 150mm and constant F2 aperture. Set to be available in early June 2025, this new addition to Sony’s G Master series aims to provide filmmakers with a versatile focal range in a single lens package.

While Sony is still letting us wait for long-overdue upgrades to their Alpha and Sony Cinema lines of cameras, and shortly after announcing the Sony VENICE Extension System Mini, they just released a new medium-to-telephoto zoom lens, the Sony FE 50-150mm F2 GM.

The lens features a 50-150mm focal range (equivalent to 75-225mm on APS-C cameras) with a constant F2 aperture throughout. Weighing 1,340g (47.3 oz) and measuring 102.8 x 200mm, the lens has been designed with internal zoom mechanisms that maintain the same physical length regardless of focal position—a particularly valuable feature for gimbal-based setups.

Key specs for filmmakers

Sony has implemented several design elements specifically targeting video production challenges:

• Minimized focus breathing, addressing a common issue in video work when changing focus
• Compatibility with Sony’s Breathing Compensation feature on select Alpha cameras
• Linear Response MF for intuitive manual focus control during filming
• Four XD (extreme dynamic) linear motors for quiet autofocus operation

Fast aperture, close focus distance, internal zoom

The lens’s constant F2 aperture across the zoom range should provide filmmakers with consistent exposure and depth of field control while reframing shots. This feature may prove particularly valuable for documentary work, event videography, and narrative filmmaking where lighting conditions cannot always be controlled.

According to Sony’s specifications, the lens can focus as close as 0.4m (1.32 ft) at the wide end and 0.74m (2.43 ft) at the telephoto end, offering a maximum magnification ratio of 0.2x. This combination of close focusing capability and the F2 aperture could potentially make the lens suitable for interview setups and detail shots without lens changes.

The internal zoom design means the center of gravity remains relatively stable during zoom operations, which should help maintain balance when used with gimbals or other stabilization systems. Sony also notes that the lens supports both the Breathing Compensation and Active Mode image stabilization features found in compatible Alpha bodies.

Build quality and handling at Sony FE 50-150mm F2 GM

Sony has incorporated several professional-oriented controls including an aperture ring with click ON/OFF switch, lock switch, three assignable focus hold buttons, and a DMF (Direct Manual Focus) switch. The company states the lens features dust and moisture-resistant construction, with additional protection provided by a fluorine coating on the front element.

The lens accepts 95mm filters and includes a removable tripod foot with both 1/4″ and 3/8″ screw holes for mounting options.

Prime lens replacement? Unique features, at a hefty price

For video professionals using Sony’s Alpha system, this lens potentially represents an interesting option that could replace multiple prime lenses in the kit. The combination of a relatively wide 50mm starting point through to a moderate 150mm telephoto end—all at a constant F2 aperture—covers focal lengths commonly used for interviews, medium shots, and tighter compositions.

The emphasis on minimizing focus breathing and maintaining quiet operation addresses specific pain points in video production, though actual performance in these areas will require hands-on testing. The internal zoom mechanism is particularly noteworthy for gimbal users who often struggle with balance shifts when using traditional extending zoom lenses.

It’s worth noting that while the lens lacks built-in optical stabilization, Sony’s emphasis on compatibility with in-body stabilization systems suggests they’re targeting users of their more recent Alpha bodies with enhanced IBIS capabilities.

At its price point of close to $4,000, this lens represents a significant investment that positions it squarely in the professional market. Whether its versatility justifies the cost compared to multiple prime lenses will depend on individual production needs, but I can see this lens make a lot of sense for documentary filmmakers for sure.

Pricing and availability of the Sony FE 50-150mm F2 GM

The Sony FE 50-150mm F2 GM is scheduled for release in early June 2025, with a retail price of $3,898 / €3,700 (plus local taxes). As usual, the lens will ship with a hood, front and rear caps, soft case, tripod mount, and lens strap. More details at the manufacturers’s site, or via the buy links below.

What do you think about the new Sony FE 50-150mm F2 GM zoom lens? Is it something that would make sense in your kit bag? Or did Sony miss the mark? Let us know in the comments below.