Join me on Patreon for the best Alpha Support and Guidance. A single $10 Membership fee includes access to my 500-page camera-specific eBooks, member-only Q&A Forums + Over twenty 1-hour member-only seminars + cameras settings files & access to the Raw files from the lens and camera reviews (there is no contract or commitment beyond the first month). www.patreon.com/markgaler
Got lucky today at my local camera shop and they just received one 5 min before I walked into the door. Needless to say it came home with me. This video is epic to get me familiar with my new lens. Thank you Mark
I just traded in my older 1 and had to wait 4 weeks for it to come in and I tried it with afl training last night in dark rainy clouds as 200-600 is rubbish in that light during sunset time and it was great and I got some very nice images of rhe girls training at f2.8 iso 1600 to 3200 as the light was very poor
… thx Mark, great review! 👍🏻 ... and what a great lens, best class 70-200 / 2.8 on the market for us journalists. two days before the announcement we ordered the lens from our photo dealer. 😏 now we're hoping for the 24-70 2.8 lens next - maybe with an aperture ring too?! 🤔
With the improved AF, pairing this with the 2x teleconverter might be viable, bringing the range from 70 to 400mm - convenient for travellers. As usual, thank you for a comprehensive review. I will seriously consider this G Master lens when we can shoot sports again. Right now using the Tamron 70-180, a good affordable alternative, although it seems the V2 here is a fast focusing monster.
In some simple tests I found that cropping the image gave a better result than using the 2x teleconverter. Seems stupid I know, but that’s what I found. Annoying really because I had replaced my 100-400 with the 70-200 II and a 2x tc. Using the 1.4x, the results were the same as cropping.
@@hughjohns9110 are you saying it's not worth getting either teleconverter or only the 2x? I was hoping for this set up to be a replacement for getting a 100-400.. and one of my main reasons for buying this lens as a 2 in 1
Awesome review and detailed information. I bought the Mark I just over a week ago open box for $800 USD off. I was willing to compromise on the features of that lens for the reduced price and I didn't expect a Mark II to come out anytime soon. This new version has everything I wished for and more, especially the reduced weight and faster autofocus. Now that the Mark II will be available I am taking it back in order to upgrade to this new version.
Great vid, with real world examples, as always. One note on the TC's and the fast focusing: the clever thing about this system is that it only transmits the electric signal, there are no moving parts in the TC per se. So, the motors aren't impeded by weird srews and the such
Hi Mark Thanks, good review. It looks a lot more capable than older model. I thought it was a sure fire candidate for update when I saw how good Canon's equivalent was for mirrorless. I used to love my old 70-200 f2.8 Nikkor, but that was 3-4 years ago before selling up and switching to Sony. I didn't like heft of older model thinking it contra to ethos of 'smaller/ compact' Sony mirrorless, so bought Sony's f4 model for travel. Switched to Similar size Tamron 70-180 f2.8 but did miss OSS. Then bought Sony GM 135 f1.8 - a fab, fast, sharp lens that helped me feel at one with primes rather than zooms. Much like you I think? Yet this looks good enough to maybe tempt me back into a tele zoom since it's lighter than it's predecessor. I do appreciate my a9 for speed and sport and think this new zoom would perform a lot better than my Tamron 70-180, which I hardly use nowadays. I do want to get an a1 and plan to sell my a9 when I can stump up the extortionate price here in UK for the a1. I'm in no rush thinking that price will ease a bit once early adopters have left the queue so to speak. I'm honestly tempted to buy this, after an a1, but still feel the a1 with a 135mm f1.8 GM might still be a smaller, faster, neater solution (given APS crop to afford an equivalent of a 205mm f1.8 lens still with 20+ Mp). My key question to you is...... as a prime devotee (like me) are you personally tempted to buy one given your love of your a1 & 135mm GM combo?
135gm as awesome as it is, is less versatile. Kind of a niche use lens. The 70-200 GM mkii is close enough in IQ yet so much more versatile. I think the trade off makes sense
One Comment on weather sealing. I fell through Ice with my mk1 and a7iii. The camera was on and completely dunked for a second. I turned off the camera and left it 4 days. Both the lens and camera worked perfectly.
Thanks for the insight Chris. It's good to know Sony weather sealing is OK. I always saw Nikon as pretty robust, but switched to Sony 3 years ago. Although I never had any problems with Sony, I'm guilty of 'babying' my Sony bodies and lenses as they just don't look and feel as solid as my old Nikon kit. That said my early 'horror story' (24 years ago, in film days) was to submerge a new Nikon F5 and a mid range zoom Sigma in a Lavada (small irrigation canal in Madeira) for circa 3-5 seconds. Tried to dry out carefully, but both needed servicing and re-building before working properly. So Nikon (at least then) wasn't all it might be.
Was just considering picking up the 135mm F1.8 but it sounds like optically speaking in terms of AF performance and IQ, this zoom lens is pretty darn close. I'm a big fan of prime lenses and zooming with my feet, but there are also times where that's a challenge - sometimes impossible - depending on the circumstance. So this 70-200 refresh is awfully tempting. I have a tough decision to make!
I agree. Yes me too. I have the 135GM and love it. I now Hardy ever use my Tamron 70-180 f2.8 since getting a 135mm. For sure 'feet zoom' isn't as convenient but I must say I'm still tempted by this new refresh.
Have absolutely the same issue here… so torn between the prime 135mm and this 70-200mm (if I only considered the price, the 135mm wins it by a lot 😝). Which one did you get in the end ?
Thanks Greg - the challenge of reviewing camera gear in lockdown. I am wondering how many reviewers thought to photograph rapidly moving subjects as its the quad XD linear AF motors that are the hero of this piece.
I was wondering what is going with TH-cam, and why is it showing to many reviews of 70-200 GM lens which very old, then I noticed that your review is recently posted. Great review as usual and amazing simple photos. I don't see myself buying this lens since I spent to much on 100-400 GM. I would only by this 70-200 II GM if I sold my 100-400 and replace it with both 70-200 and 200-600 in addition to 2x teleconvertor
Mark- Very good and thorough review, as usual. I bought and am using this lens and love it. I find I spend way less time worrying if I will get the shot and concentrate more on composition and, well the actual shot- trusting the camera and lens to do the technical stuff- focus and exposure. I am curious if you will be getting this lens, or will be sticking with the 135mm?
I am still recovering from the acquisition of the 400mm and 50mm GM primes. Any reservations I had about owning the original 70-200 have been removed by the new lens but I am still very much a prime lens user with two bodies rather than a zoom photographer. I won't, however, be selling my 100-400 and 200-600 GM zooms.
@@AlphaCreativeSkills Ha! You finally got it! I was just reviewing your Flickr images and saw some recent shots taken with the 400 using the A74. I wondered if it was a loaner to entice you to do a review or if you finally got one, knowing you've wanted one for years. I'm glad for you! Hope you do a Sony 'Wish List' for 2022.
For the sharpest results...on a 7R3 would you crop your shots or use a teleconverter (where you lose a stop and add some softness)? Thanks! Great content.
I’m primarily a wedding and portraits photographer, and my v1 copy of this lens is wicked sharp and doesn’t ever miss focus. So while this is a worthy 2nd gen, for my use cases I don’t see a reason to upgrade
Yep - if you don't need quad linear AF motors then you just don't need them and although the MK II is sharper some lenses are just sharp enough already.
Thanks Mark, Enjoy the reviews, and really appreciate you helping out the homeless guys even more. Wish I could afford to add some of the newer Sony mid-zooms especially for low light performance.. but they so cost prohibitive. While I still have the A7riv A, as my "main camera" with the original Sony - Zeiss 16-35 f4, 100-400 gm and the 24-240mm (yeah I have been thinking of selling that and "at the very least" going to a 24-105 f4.. But really need an f2.8) Lately I have actually added an Olympus om-d em-1 mk ii and the m ZUIKO 12-100mm f4 as a Carry round due to weight and cost of lenses to fill the gap (though there are some big trade off's)... Also due to being in line for a neck fusion weight wise.. Though otherwise I do still want that Sony mid zoom GM 2.8mm 😁 Thanks yet again Rodger
The sharpest zoom lens Sony makes is the 12-24mm F/2.8 G Master. It is the only zoom that I know that truly is as sharp as a good prime lens (like the Sony 85mm F/1.8 lens). I haven't seen anything yet on this new lens, I assume it will be very good, but likely not quite as good as a good prime, let alone the the exceptional 135mm F/1.8 GM. Time will tell though
@@afsoto You are welcome! Looking further at the MTF charts it appears to be about the same or slightly sharper than the 100-400mm GM. That is pretty impressive because the 100-400mm GM is one of the sharpest telephoto zooms. Focus on this new lens seems to be very fast, and combined with the new features and lighter weight, this lens seems like a real winner for the 70-200mm range.
New 70-200GM MKII is sharper than the 100400GM. The 100400 although excellent never reaches outstanding sharpness like this 70-200 Mkii can. I'd say the new Mkii is one level up from the older 100400GM, and still faster Aperture along with still faster Auto Focus. What do you value reach or slightly wider FOV with overall better sharpness and faster AF??
this is amazing 👏 I own the first version and I have to say shooting at 70mm at the infinity seem be be very soft for my copy . will you be using this new mark ii lens with an a9 ?? I would love to hear your opinion with an a9 body please. thank you so much for all you do .
Hi Mark thanks for the excellent review as always. Got my copy yesterday and took it for its first outing! Grey northern hemisphere lighting I didn’t do quite as well as you did, on slow shutter speed, but it is noticeably sharper than the 100-400 on my A7R4. I can’t get the iris lock to work, the apature ring still moves. It would be really useful if you could lock the apature as on the 135mm lens it often gets changed by accident. Any thoughts on what I’m doing wrong?
Hi SH, I have the 200-600G for sport and wildlife, but always wondered about getting a 100-400 for versatility and travel as 200-600 only ever goes out when its def. getting used. You say your new GM mk ii 70-200 is notably sharper than your 100-400 lens? So I'm seriously conflicted. I used to love 70-200 on my old Nikon set-up but having switched to Sony am now wondering if new mk ii GM 70-200 is a better choice than GM 100-400? Especially if paired with a TC? In simple terms a GM 70-200mm mk ii +2×TC seems 'on paper to be more versatile and circa 200 grams lighter a than GM 100-400. It becomes a f5.6 140-400 with f2.8 aperture available upto 200mm. Downsides of more expensive and slightly fiddly (2 components) I can live with. My use case is needing flexibility, travel, taking fewer lenses whenever possible but still wanting top quality. Also if used without a TC in sports use sa a 70-200 better fits with my existing 200-600 lens. Key dilemma is planned travel trip to Iceland and travelling light as poss. Will take my GM 16-35mm, poss a 55mm prime and either a 100-400mmGM or 70-200GM mk ii with either a 1.4x or 2x TC. Don't yet own either the 100-400 or 70-200 or any TC. Will sell my Tamron 70-180 f2.8 anyway. Any insights or your thoughts comparison 70-200 with your 100-400 would be appreciated. Thanks.
@@martiipeacock4698 Thanks. Yes I'm decided. Now sold my Tamron 7-180 and paid a lot more for new 70-200 GM mk ii. Arrived yesterday. Feel it's the right way to go for my needs and use case - i.e. use with a TC when travelling or pair with my 200-600 when used domestically, for sport/wildlife assignments. Just now need to decide which TC 1.4x or 2x - I'm lucky as it's a nice dilemma to have.
Yes - the A7RIII has fast AF but the later model cameras have stickier tracking algorithms that are less likely to distracted by nearby subjects that is not your target subject.
Thank you for the great video Mark. I know you're using the A1, a phenomenal camera. How will this lens perform with the A7RIII? I haven't upgraded my camera but am eyeing this lens.Will it be a good match?
I got great results shooting sports/action with the A7RIII with FE 100-400 GM. There will be dropped shots and the newer AF tracking algorithms which were released in 2019 certainly help with stickier AF if there are obstacles your primary target is passing behind. The stacked sensors of the A9/A9II and A1 also help with hit rate success as there is no shutter mechanism temporarily blinding the steady flow of information passing to the sensor.
Hello Mark. Thanks for this informative video! Do you still use Batis 135 when traveling or prefer 70200/2.8 now? I have a batis abd dont thing if need change it to 70200/2.8 for travel.
I still own and use my Batis 135. I test new lenses for Sony but don't always add them to my personal lens collection. I do own this new FE 70-200 F2.8 GM but will take an 85 or 135 prime if I am travelling light.
Mark. On a recent trip to Yellowstone I was shooting Lower Falls from Artists point. Using my Mark1 70-200 GM on tripod with remote shutter. Mos images were shot at 70mm using aperatures from f/8 to f/16, with most at f/11. Shutter and iso varied to do different effects on the falls. I even did some focus stacking shots. When I put these into LR none were crisp!!..None! WTH? I was so bummed I bought the Mark 2 version that day. Can you comment on a possible reason these images were crap?
Did you switch SteadyShot to Off on the lens? It is recommended to switch SteadShot to off when mounting OSS lenses on a tripod - especially for long exposures. The OSS motors (if engaged) can set up vibrations if the camera/lens is not being used hand-held.
@@AlphaCreativeSkills Thanks for the reply. No, I did not dang it! I thought probably a flaw in the Mark1 because I was shooting at extreme focal lengths. I sold it yesterday and purchased the OSSII. Probably have same issue?
I suspect the fantastic image quality we see is down to the camera at least as much as the lens. It would be good to see some samples taken with something like the A7-III or A7R-III. I can't afford to upgrade my body and buy this lens at the same time....which to prioritise?
Thanks, interesting! But in your opinion do you think there’d be a noticable difference in quality at f/4 between this new lens and the Sony 70-200mm f/4 version, assuming the same optimal lighting?
A noticeable difference would be dependent on viewing size , e.g., using a large 4K monitor or zooming to 100%. Sharpness is not the only difference as the new GM has quad linear XD focus motors
Difficult question to answer quickly as the A6400 has better AF tracking while the A7III has better high ISO performance and dynamic range. The newer 33 MP sensors would also allow you to crop tighter thereby rendering a 1.4 Teleconverter surplus to requirement in many instances. I offer full support and guidance on my Patreon.com/markgaler support channel.
Can someone please recommend which lens to use for Sports photography such as basketball and football? Would this lens be great? The camera I currently use is the Sony ZV-E10 for now....Thoughts? Thank you! The big thing is I don't want to see blurry when the kids are moving quickly.
Olá amigo tudo bem !! uma duvida qual o investimento mais adequado ... A lente 135 F1.8 G master ou a 70/200 G master II 2.8? para ensaios e fotos de casamentos
I own the FE 70-200 F4 Macro G OSS + 85, 135 GM and 300mm GM primes. I can offer personal advice on my Patreon.com/markgaler support channel. It requires a conversation, as each photographer's choice is defined by differing personal priorities.
I demonstrated that shooting into the sun with the black and white image of the two boys walking away on a boardwalk and commented that the lens retained good contrast and sharpness even when shooting directly into the sun.
@@AlphaCreativeSkills Well, maybe you did but black and white is unfortunately a sure way to minimize any light green ghosting, since it's mostly a chromatic effect. Flare and ghosting has very little to do with contrast and sharpness by the way.
Hi Mark ...just your opinion , should i add this lens ( weddings, portraits and street) or 135 1.8 gm. I already have 24 1.4 gm , 35 1.4 gm , 50 1.2gm and 85/1.8. Thanks
I mainly use primes. Check out my 'Lens Choice' video tutorial on my channel, as watching this video may help you to make up your mind. I offer personal support and guidance via my Patreon support channel: Patreon.com/markgaler
Great video! Could I pick your brain on one thing? I'm waiting for the next A7R to upgrade my A7iii, but recently purchased a used 135mm 1.8. Might just sell it for a new copy of this. Any thoughts on sharpness and bokeh on the new 70-200mm vs the 135? I had the gen 1 70-200 before, but I've gotten used to just using my feet to zoom, so that's not a big loss for me. Shooting sports I usually only run the 200-600 on long end anyway. Sharpness, focus speed and bokeh is the most important to me.
The 135 F1.8 GM has near perfect MTF charts, so for any zoom lens to come close to this 'holy grail' fast-focusing prime lens would be no small feat of engineering.
Have you checked the link in the Info section to view ultra high-definition examples captured with this lens? I offer my Patrons on Patreon.com/markgaler the option to download Raw DNG files for the F4 macro and F2.8 GM lenses + images captured using the 1.4x Teleconverter.
I have included a link to ultra high definition images in the info section below the video so users can view the sharpness on a large 4K monitor or download the file and zoom in. I firmly believe sharpness is in the eye of the beholder and should not be for a reviewer to say (lest that have an invested interest to make a claim they can not prove)
was waiting for this lens. i think the 24-70 version 2 is on the horizon too. did i understand correcty that you can lock the apperture ring ? - did you process the images or are they straight out of camera ? - wondering if i should buy this lens and if it could replace the 85mm.
Thanks for this …. I’m upgrading my Sony kit and had already decided to get the new 24-70 GMii and was going to go with the 70-200 f4 G ….. not any ,ore …. It’s only money , will be using it with the A7RV …. So not getting the 30fps I expect similar quality images … 9th March 2023
Hi Mark, thanks for this overview. I just got this lens and am trying to get familiar with it. When attached, the back-dial on my Sony a7r IV doesn't work (I have it set to change aperture). I know the aperture ring does this, but is there a way to restore the function on the camera body dial, since that's more intuitive?
Excuses me, what camera did you used to take the pictures in the video? Also, may you give me some advice on choosing a74 or a7r4? l like a7r4's 6100mp more, but Im afraid that l will always get 'unsharp' photos cuz the sutter speed is not fast enough. Also, a74's auto focus is better a7r4's. IDK which is more suitable for me. Thanks🙏🏻
Sony decision not to use a stacked sensor in their new A7IV is all the confirmation you need that the A9 series of cameras will be continued. SAR reckons there will be an A9III this year.
The linear motors can slide on their rails when there is no power to the lens. If you hear a small noise when you tilt the lens back and forth this is entirely normal.
If we are using a 200 mm lens on a full frame camera , at what real distance will a 1 mtr long diagonal placed rod / stick will occupy the full 35mm diagonal of frame ??
i would like to hear how the sony a9 will shoot with the Sony FE 70 200 F2.8 GM OSS II ? I see No revies anywhere. If you could help me out . That would be greatly appreciated.Thanks
Sometimes you may not notice if SteadyShot was left on, but for longer exposures I definitely recommend turning it off if you can remember. I have a SteadyShot video tutorial on my TH-cam channel.
Join me on Patreon for the best Alpha Support and Guidance. A single $10 Membership fee includes access to my 500-page camera-specific eBooks, member-only Q&A Forums + Over twenty 1-hour member-only seminars + cameras settings files & access to the Raw files from the lens and camera reviews (there is no contract or commitment beyond the first month). www.patreon.com/markgaler
Got lucky today at my local camera shop and they just received one 5 min before I walked into the door. Needless to say it came home with me. This video is epic to get me familiar with my new lens. Thank you Mark
How are you finding it, are you happy with your purchase and what body are you pairing it with? Thank you!!
I just traded in my older 1 and had to wait 4 weeks for it to come in and I tried it with afl training last night in dark rainy clouds as 200-600 is rubbish in that light during sunset time and it was great and I got some very nice images of rhe girls training at f2.8 iso 1600 to 3200 as the light was very poor
Picked up the V2 last week based on Mark's review. All I can say is wow !!! Best lens I have ever owned based on weight, features,and IQ
I have one on order , just wondering which body you're using it with?
@@itzajdmting A1
I love your matter of fact, thorough reviews Mark. Plenty of technical and artistic considerations, along with comparisons to previous lenses. 👏👏👏👏
… thx Mark, great review! 👍🏻 ... and what a great lens, best class 70-200 / 2.8 on the market for us journalists. two days before the announcement we ordered the lens from our photo dealer. 😏 now we're hoping for the 24-70 2.8 lens next - maybe with an aperture ring too?! 🤔
A great review of a stunning lens, well done as always Mark!
Just giving you a piece of my appreciation for all you're work you put in making these video's
Thank you Mark for this review! Am considering to get this Len soon!
Got my 70-200mm! Thanks Mark for the wonderful review on this lens!
Fantastic review as always thanks Mark.
Very detailed review, happy to share it!
With the improved AF, pairing this with the 2x teleconverter might be viable, bringing the range from 70 to 400mm - convenient for travellers. As usual, thank you for a comprehensive review. I will seriously consider this G Master lens when we can shoot sports again. Right now using the Tamron 70-180, a good affordable alternative, although it seems the V2 here is a fast focusing monster.
In some simple tests I found that cropping the image gave a better result than using the 2x teleconverter. Seems stupid I know, but that’s what I found. Annoying really because I had replaced my 100-400 with the 70-200 II and a 2x tc.
Using the 1.4x, the results were the same as cropping.
@@hughjohns9110 are you saying it's not worth getting either teleconverter or only the 2x? I was hoping for this set up to be a replacement for getting a 100-400.. and one of my main reasons for buying this lens as a 2 in 1
@@joelbernard1893 yes exactly that, just the 2x. The 1.4x is fine, works well.
Awesome review and detailed information. I bought the Mark I just over a week ago open box for $800 USD off. I was willing to compromise on the features of that lens for the reduced price and I didn't expect a Mark II to come out anytime soon. This new version has everything I wished for and more, especially the reduced weight and faster autofocus. Now that the Mark II will be available I am taking it back in order to upgrade to this new version.
Great vid, with real world examples, as always. One note on the TC's and the fast focusing: the clever thing about this system is that it only transmits the electric signal, there are no moving parts in the TC per se. So, the motors aren't impeded by weird srews and the such
Extraordinary work that you have done here, apparently the lens is now much better, the photos are great, thank you very much Mr. Mark Galer.
thanks for the review, Sony listens to customers, let’s hope more mark ii version of older lenses come up, but the range is already impressive….
Thanks Mark. great review with all the details you want. You cleared out lots of questions I had and now I can make an informed decision.
Hi Mark
Thanks, good review. It looks a lot more capable than older model. I thought it was a sure fire candidate for update when I saw how good Canon's equivalent was for mirrorless. I used to love my old 70-200 f2.8 Nikkor, but that was 3-4 years ago before selling up and switching to Sony.
I didn't like heft of older model thinking it contra to ethos of 'smaller/ compact' Sony mirrorless, so bought Sony's f4 model for travel. Switched to Similar size Tamron 70-180 f2.8 but did miss OSS. Then bought Sony GM 135 f1.8 - a fab, fast, sharp lens that helped me feel at one with primes rather than zooms. Much like you I think?
Yet this looks good enough to maybe tempt me back into a tele zoom since it's lighter than it's predecessor. I do appreciate my a9 for speed and sport and think this new zoom would perform a lot better than my Tamron 70-180, which I hardly use nowadays. I do want to get an a1 and plan to sell my a9 when I can stump up the extortionate price here in UK for the a1. I'm in no rush thinking that price will ease a bit once early adopters have left the queue so to speak.
I'm honestly tempted to buy this, after an a1, but still feel the a1 with a 135mm f1.8 GM might still be a smaller, faster, neater solution (given APS crop to afford an equivalent of a 205mm f1.8 lens still with 20+ Mp). My key question to you is...... as a prime devotee (like me) are you personally tempted to buy one given your love of your a1 & 135mm GM combo?
135gm as awesome as it is, is less versatile. Kind of a niche use lens. The 70-200 GM mkii is close enough in IQ yet so much more versatile. I think the trade off makes sense
Always love your comprehensive reviews Mark. What a stellar lens and awesome video!
Excellent review Mark and fantastic images as normal. I just wish I could get such clean images as you have here.
Another outstanding review. Thanks Mark.
Great video! Always a pleasure to watch your videos!
Very informative and absolutely beautiful shots of our city Mark. Thank you for the excellent review as always. Cheers.
Glad you enjoyed it
Superb images Mark, glad i held off on the MK1 for so long, picking up the MKII on Tuesday.
Congratulations on your new purchase. You will be one of the lucky ones as these lenses will be in short supply this year.
An excellent and honest review! The best ambassador for Sony! Thank you for sharing.
Thanks for watching!
Brilliant again Mark! Please send any extra lenses to Montana!
Will do!
Awesome Review as always Mark! Very insightful
Thanks Theo - Just skipping through some of the other reviews and very few took photos of rapidly moving subjects. What's with that?
Splendid review Mark, thank you!
amazing. Not an ordinary photographer
One Comment on weather sealing. I fell through Ice with my mk1 and a7iii. The camera was on and completely dunked for a second. I turned off the camera and left it 4 days. Both the lens and camera worked perfectly.
Patience is definitely a virtue in this case
Thanks for the insight Chris. It's good to know Sony weather sealing is OK. I always saw Nikon as pretty robust, but switched to Sony 3 years ago. Although I never had any problems with Sony, I'm guilty of 'babying' my Sony bodies and lenses as they just don't look and feel as solid as my old Nikon kit. That said my early 'horror story' (24 years ago, in film days) was to submerge a new Nikon F5 and a mid range zoom Sigma in a Lavada (small irrigation canal in Madeira) for circa 3-5 seconds. Tried to dry out carefully, but both needed servicing and re-building before working properly. So Nikon (at least then) wasn't all it might be.
Fantastic Lens!!!
Was just considering picking up the 135mm F1.8 but it sounds like optically speaking in terms of AF performance and IQ, this zoom lens is pretty darn close. I'm a big fan of prime lenses and zooming with my feet, but there are also times where that's a challenge - sometimes impossible - depending on the circumstance. So this 70-200 refresh is awfully tempting. I have a tough decision to make!
I agree. Yes me too. I have the 135GM and love it. I now Hardy ever use my Tamron 70-180 f2.8 since getting a 135mm. For sure 'feet zoom' isn't as convenient but I must say I'm still tempted by this new refresh.
I have 135 and thinking same thing now that weight is not much difference.
Have absolutely the same issue here… so torn between the prime 135mm and this 70-200mm (if I only considered the price, the 135mm wins it by a lot 😝).
Which one did you get in the end ?
@@elisagarcia8555 I would advice to get both! 🥳
@@keoniland Best Advice
Thanks Mark . Always great content
I've been waiting for this lens and the 24 to 70
Very detailed video as always. Thanks Mark!
Fantastic review Mark 🙏
Thanks Greg - the challenge of reviewing camera gear in lockdown. I am wondering how many reviewers thought to photograph rapidly moving subjects as its the quad XD linear AF motors that are the hero of this piece.
Not that I needed convincing, but this review showed me, to get that lens if it gets available in my region.
I was wondering what is going with TH-cam, and why is it showing to many reviews of 70-200 GM lens which very old, then I noticed that your review is recently posted. Great review as usual and amazing simple photos. I don't see myself buying this lens since I spent to much on 100-400 GM. I would only by this 70-200 II GM if I sold my 100-400 and replace it with both 70-200 and 200-600 in addition to 2x teleconvertor
Don’t do it…buy the 200-600 but Keep the 100-400 unless you need the 2.8
Mark- Very good and thorough review, as usual. I bought and am using this lens and love it. I find I spend way less time worrying if I will get the shot and concentrate more on composition and, well the actual shot- trusting the camera and lens to do the technical stuff- focus and exposure. I am curious if you will be getting this lens, or will be sticking with the 135mm?
I am still recovering from the acquisition of the 400mm and 50mm GM primes. Any reservations I had about owning the original 70-200 have been removed by the new lens but I am still very much a prime lens user with two bodies rather than a zoom photographer. I won't, however, be selling my 100-400 and 200-600 GM zooms.
@@AlphaCreativeSkills Ha! You finally got it! I was just reviewing your Flickr images and saw some recent shots taken with the 400 using the A74. I wondered if it was a loaner to entice you to do a review or if you finally got one, knowing you've wanted one for years. I'm glad for you! Hope you do a Sony 'Wish List' for 2022.
Thanks Mark! Very informative video.
Glad it was helpful!
I’ve been waiting for this lens for long time and I can’t wait to preorder it 👌
For the sharpest results...on a 7R3 would you crop your shots or use a teleconverter (where you lose a stop and add some softness)? Thanks! Great content.
Crop in camera or in post first and then resort to an Teleconverter if I am still not close enough to pull off a 4K image from the file.
@@AlphaCreativeSkills Thanks Mark. WIll do.
I’m primarily a wedding and portraits photographer, and my v1 copy of this lens is wicked sharp and doesn’t ever miss focus. So while this is a worthy 2nd gen, for my use cases I don’t see a reason to upgrade
Yep - if you don't need quad linear AF motors then you just don't need them and although the MK II is sharper some lenses are just sharp enough already.
love your reviews. i just bought two 4k BenQ monitors you recommended in one of your videos.
Glad you like them!
Thanks Mark,
Enjoy the reviews, and really appreciate you helping out the homeless guys even more.
Wish I could afford to add some of the newer Sony mid-zooms especially for low light performance.. but they so cost prohibitive.
While I still have the A7riv A, as my "main camera" with the original Sony - Zeiss 16-35 f4, 100-400 gm and the 24-240mm
(yeah I have been thinking of selling that and "at the very least" going to a 24-105 f4.. But really need an f2.8)
Lately I have actually added an Olympus om-d em-1 mk ii and the m ZUIKO 12-100mm f4 as a Carry round due to weight and cost of lenses to fill the gap (though there are some big trade off's)...
Also due to being in line for a neck fusion weight wise..
Though otherwise I do still want that Sony mid zoom GM 2.8mm 😁
Thanks yet again
Rodger
Thanks for your positive feedback Rodger
Very good review Mark. Any experience coupled with the TC 2x? I’m tempted by that combo instead of the 100-400mm + 1.4x
I am OK using the 1.4x TC but not a fan of the 2x
Great review Mark thank you
Thanks for watching!
As usual its a great review from your end.
Wow, 100% hit rate..! 👍🏼👍🏼
Hello Mark! Can u help me about the AF settings for the very fast movements? I see 7:01 the pictures.
I offer a support service for Alpha users on Patreon.com/markgaler
Gold standard for sharpness is the 135mm F1.8. How close or far is it from this lens sharpness wise?
The sharpest zoom lens Sony makes is the 12-24mm F/2.8 G Master. It is the only zoom that I know that truly is as sharp as a good prime lens (like the Sony 85mm F/1.8 lens). I haven't seen anything yet on this new lens, I assume it will be very good, but likely not quite as good as a good prime, let alone the the exceptional 135mm F/1.8 GM. Time will tell though
@@nafnaf0 thanks!
@@afsoto You are welcome! Looking further at the MTF charts it appears to be about the same or slightly sharper than the 100-400mm GM. That is pretty impressive because the 100-400mm GM is one of the sharpest telephoto zooms. Focus on this new lens seems to be very fast, and combined with the new features and lighter weight, this lens seems like a real winner for the 70-200mm range.
New 70-200GM MKII is sharper than the 100400GM. The 100400 although excellent never reaches outstanding sharpness like this 70-200 Mkii can. I'd say the new Mkii is one level up from the older 100400GM, and still faster Aperture along with still faster Auto Focus. What do you value reach or slightly wider FOV with overall better sharpness and faster AF??
@@nrocha2466 Thanks
Ok….so I decided to keep my version one of this lens and upgrade my a7iii to the a7iv…..hopefully the correct choice.🤞🏻🤞🏻
this is amazing 👏 I own the first version and I have to say shooting at 70mm at the infinity seem be be very soft for my copy . will you be using this new mark ii lens with an a9 ?? I would love to hear your opinion with an a9 body please. thank you so much for all you do .
Hi Mark thanks for the excellent review as always. Got my copy yesterday and took it for its first outing! Grey northern hemisphere lighting I didn’t do quite as well as you did, on slow shutter speed, but it is noticeably sharper than the 100-400 on my A7R4. I can’t get the iris lock to work, the apature ring still moves. It would be really useful if you could lock the apature as on the 135mm lens it often gets changed by accident. Any thoughts on what I’m doing wrong?
The iris lock should work when you turn the aperture ring to A
Hi SH, I have the 200-600G for sport and wildlife, but always wondered about getting a 100-400 for versatility and travel as 200-600 only ever goes out when its def. getting used. You say your new GM mk ii 70-200 is notably sharper than your 100-400 lens? So I'm seriously conflicted. I used to love 70-200 on my old Nikon set-up but having switched to Sony am now wondering if new mk ii GM 70-200 is a better choice than GM 100-400? Especially if paired with a TC?
In simple terms a GM 70-200mm mk ii +2×TC seems 'on paper to be more versatile and circa 200 grams lighter a than GM 100-400. It becomes a f5.6 140-400 with f2.8 aperture available upto 200mm. Downsides of more expensive and slightly fiddly (2 components) I can live with. My use case is needing flexibility, travel, taking fewer lenses whenever possible but still wanting top quality. Also if used without a TC in sports use sa a 70-200 better fits with my existing 200-600 lens.
Key dilemma is planned travel trip to Iceland and travelling light as poss. Will take my GM 16-35mm, poss a 55mm prime and either a 100-400mmGM or 70-200GM mk ii with either a 1.4x or 2x TC. Don't yet own either the 100-400 or 70-200 or any TC. Will sell my Tamron 70-180 f2.8 anyway. Any insights or your thoughts comparison 70-200 with your 100-400 would be appreciated. Thanks.
@@rickymcc9072 see Gerald Undone he did that comparison 😉
@@martiipeacock4698 Thanks. Yes I'm decided. Now sold my Tamron 7-180 and paid a lot more for new 70-200 GM mk ii. Arrived yesterday. Feel it's the right way to go for my needs and use case - i.e. use with a TC when travelling or pair with my 200-600 when used domestically, for sport/wildlife assignments. Just now need to decide which TC 1.4x or 2x - I'm lucky as it's a nice dilemma to have.
@@rickymcc9072 Buy both 1.4 / 2.0x.
Hi Mark, Thank you for reviewing this lens. Do you think the A7Riii body can keep up with this 70-200mm version II lens?
Yes - the A7RIII has fast AF but the later model cameras have stickier tracking algorithms that are less likely to distracted by nearby subjects that is not your target subject.
Thank you for the great video Mark. I know you're using the A1, a phenomenal camera. How will this lens perform with the A7RIII? I haven't upgraded my camera but am eyeing this lens.Will it be a good match?
100% it will match
I got great results shooting sports/action with the A7RIII with FE 100-400 GM. There will be dropped shots and the newer AF tracking algorithms which were released in 2019 certainly help with stickier AF if there are obstacles your primary target is passing behind. The stacked sensors of the A9/A9II and A1 also help with hit rate success as there is no shutter mechanism temporarily blinding the steady flow of information passing to the sensor.
@@AlphaCreativeSkills Thank you!
Hello Mark. Thanks for this informative video! Do you still use Batis 135 when traveling or prefer 70200/2.8 now? I have a batis abd dont thing if need change it to 70200/2.8 for travel.
I still own and use my Batis 135. I test new lenses for Sony but don't always add them to my personal lens collection. I do own this new FE 70-200 F2.8 GM but will take an 85 or 135 prime if I am travelling light.
@@AlphaCreativeSkills Thanks a lot. For me also a bit scary to travel with big White lenses. like target for thieves.
Hi mark, excelent review like everything you do, how this lens compares with the 100-400 in terms of AF speed?
I tested the 109-400 with the A1 and as expected it can keep up with the super fast AF of this camera.
@@AlphaCreativeSkills thank you sir! That’s a great news!
Mark. On a recent trip to Yellowstone I was shooting Lower Falls from Artists point. Using my Mark1 70-200 GM on tripod with remote shutter. Mos images were shot at 70mm using aperatures from f/8 to f/16, with most at f/11. Shutter and iso varied to do different effects on the falls. I even did some focus stacking shots. When I put these into LR none were crisp!!..None! WTH? I was so bummed I bought the Mark 2 version that day. Can you comment on a possible reason these images were crap?
Did you switch SteadyShot to Off on the lens? It is recommended to switch SteadShot to off when mounting OSS lenses on a tripod - especially for long exposures. The OSS motors (if engaged) can set up vibrations if the camera/lens is not being used hand-held.
@@AlphaCreativeSkills Thanks for the reply. No, I did not dang it! I thought probably a flaw in the Mark1 because I was shooting at extreme focal lengths. I sold it yesterday and purchased the OSSII. Probably have same issue?
I suspect the fantastic image quality we see is down to the camera at least as much as the lens. It would be good to see some samples taken with something like the A7-III or A7R-III. I can't afford to upgrade my body and buy this lens at the same time....which to prioritise?
The image quality is mainly down to the lens as the sensors in the A7III and A7RIII are not too much different than the A7IV
@@AlphaCreativeSkills but the focusing performance (especially AF-C/tracking) is, or is said to be. And the A1 is said to be wayyy better.
I use an A7IV and A7C - both works magically with 70200GM2 shooting fast-moving cats. Of course, the A1 should have better and more accurate AF.
Thanks, interesting! But in your opinion do you think there’d be a noticable difference in quality at f/4 between this new lens and the Sony 70-200mm f/4 version, assuming the same optimal lighting?
A noticeable difference would be dependent on viewing size , e.g., using a large 4K monitor or zooming to 100%. Sharpness is not the only difference as the new GM has quad linear XD focus motors
Ah yes, the focussing. Thanks for replying! I’m real tempted to sell my f/4 model & upgrade, but still mulling it over.
I have this lens. I use it with my trusty A7 iii. Is it better to buy the 1.4 teleconverter or to get a cheap A6400? Thanks for the video Mark.
Difficult question to answer quickly as the A6400 has better AF tracking while the A7III has better high ISO performance and dynamic range. The newer 33 MP sensors would also allow you to crop tighter thereby rendering a 1.4 Teleconverter surplus to requirement in many instances. I offer full support and guidance on my Patreon.com/markgaler support channel.
I was waiting for you to mention the 1.4x converter later on...did I miss it, or did you leave it out? Enjoy your videos!
I mentioned it starting at 10 minutes and 30 seconds: th-cam.com/video/ZIIc58yF3_U/w-d-xo.html
1.4 / 2.0x are really cool with 70200GM2.
I wonder if Full time DMF slows autofocus of the lens or not? Do I need to turn it off if I'm not using it?
No it doesn't slow focus in my experience but is invaluable when your focusing distances are very different.
Can someone please recommend which lens to use for Sports photography such as basketball and football? Would this lens be great? The camera I currently use is the Sony ZV-E10 for now....Thoughts? Thank you! The big thing is I don't want to see blurry when the kids are moving quickly.
This is a great lens for action/sports
Appropriate Camera settings are also essential
Just bought for pet photography: was the OSS on mode 3 for all those action sequence (1/2000 and faster) or was it off?
I have a SteadyShot video on my TH-cam channel explaining when to switch between Modes 1, 2 and 3
Olá amigo tudo bem !! uma duvida qual o investimento mais adequado ... A lente 135 F1.8 G master ou a 70/200 G master II 2.8? para ensaios e fotos de casamentos
I own the FE 70-200 F4 Macro G OSS + 85, 135 GM and 300mm GM primes. I can offer personal advice on my Patreon.com/markgaler support channel. It requires a conversation, as each photographer's choice is defined by differing personal priorities.
Did you test the major flaring and ghosting issues mentioned elsewhere with this lens when shooting against the sun?
I demonstrated that shooting into the sun with the black and white image of the two boys walking away on a boardwalk and commented that the lens retained good contrast and sharpness even when shooting directly into the sun.
@@AlphaCreativeSkills Well, maybe you did but black and white is unfortunately a sure way to minimize any light green ghosting, since it's mostly a chromatic effect. Flare and ghosting has very little to do with contrast and sharpness by the way.
Can't wait for a faster focusing 85 F1.4
Hi Mark ...just your opinion , should i add this lens ( weddings, portraits and street) or 135 1.8 gm. I already have 24 1.4 gm , 35 1.4 gm , 50 1.2gm and 85/1.8. Thanks
I mainly use primes. Check out my 'Lens Choice' video tutorial on my channel, as watching this video may help you to make up your mind. I offer personal support and guidance via my Patreon support channel: Patreon.com/markgaler
Very impressive, wish I could afford that lens!
Mark, great video once again. I wonder if you could share some factual info about OSS while mounted on a tripod. Should it be on or off. Thanks!
Check out my SteadyShot video tutorial on my channel. I have covered all the answers in this one.
It's going to be a while before I can afford this lens but I'm glad Sony upgraded it.
Awesome!
Great video! Could I pick your brain on one thing? I'm waiting for the next A7R to upgrade my A7iii, but recently purchased a used 135mm 1.8. Might just sell it for a new copy of this. Any thoughts on sharpness and bokeh on the new 70-200mm vs the 135? I had the gen 1 70-200 before, but I've gotten used to just using my feet to zoom, so that's not a big loss for me. Shooting sports I usually only run the 200-600 on long end anyway. Sharpness, focus speed and bokeh is the most important to me.
The 135 F1.8 GM has near perfect MTF charts, so for any zoom lens to come close to this 'holy grail' fast-focusing prime lens would be no small feat of engineering.
Hello, between this and little brother 70-200 f/4 G2 macro, is there a huge difference in terms of sharpness and contrast at 200mm?
Have you checked the link in the Info section to view ultra high-definition examples captured with this lens? I offer my Patrons on Patreon.com/markgaler the option to download Raw DNG files for the F4 macro and F2.8 GM lenses + images captured using the 1.4x Teleconverter.
How did you find the corner sharpness as compared to the old 70-200?
I have included a link to ultra high definition images in the info section below the video so users can view the sharpness on a large 4K monitor or download the file and zoom in. I firmly believe sharpness is in the eye of the beholder and should not be for a reviewer to say (lest that have an invested interest to make a claim they can not prove)
What about the video capabilities ?
Fantastic thumbnail!
Glad you think so!
I like many wish we could own Sony products?
Thanks for the great video
Thanks for watching!
Mark is da man
was waiting for this lens. i think the 24-70 version 2 is on the horizon too. did i understand correcty that you can lock the apperture ring ?
- did you process the images or are they straight out of camera ?
- wondering if i should buy this lens and if it could replace the 85mm.
Yes you can turn the aperture ring to A and lock the ring so it does not move. I would never sell an 85mm prime for a zoom as each has its own merits.
@@AlphaCreativeSkills than i will buy them both but you gotta love this new 70-200 as an alrounder.
Thanks for this …. I’m upgrading my Sony kit and had already decided to get the new 24-70 GMii and was going to go with the 70-200 f4 G ….. not any ,ore …. It’s only money , will be using it with the A7RV …. So not getting the 30fps I expect similar quality images …
9th March 2023
It's a much better lens than the original 70-200 GM , especially for capturing rapidly moving subjects.
Hi Mark, thanks for this overview. I just got this lens and am trying to get familiar with it. When attached, the back-dial on my Sony a7r IV doesn't work (I have it set to change aperture). I know the aperture ring does this, but is there a way to restore the function on the camera body dial, since that's more intuitive?
You have to set the aperture ring to A if you want the camera to control the aperture.
@@AlphaCreativeSkills Thank you!
You're the real master！🎉
Thanks for the positive feedback
Which alpha series camera body were you using for the majority of the images taken?
A1
Does it work ok with the Sony Alpha 7 lll ??
Yes
I use mine with A7C / A7IV.
Excuses me, what camera did you used to take the pictures in the video?
Also, may you give me some advice on choosing a74 or a7r4? l like a7r4's 6100mp more, but Im afraid that l will always get 'unsharp' photos cuz the sutter speed is not fast enough. Also, a74's auto focus is better a7r4's. IDK which is more suitable for me. Thanks🙏🏻
Mark Galer offers individual support for Alpha owners on his Patreon.com/markgaler support channel
just out of curiosity has sony abandoned the A9II? It seems every review I see lens or otherwise is either the latest A7** or the hi end A1?
Sony decision not to use a stacked sensor in their new A7IV is all the confirmation you need that the A9 series of cameras will be continued. SAR reckons there will be an A9III this year.
Does the lens have components that move slightly when off (tilted up and down)? Or is just my copy?
The linear motors can slide on their rails when there is no power to the lens. If you hear a small noise when you tilt the lens back and forth this is entirely normal.
Hi mark are you originally from the uk ?
Originally from the UK but have been living in Australia for the last 25 years
If we are using a 200 mm lens on a full frame camera , at what real distance will a 1 mtr long diagonal placed rod / stick will occupy the full 35mm diagonal of frame ??
I offer a consultation service at Patreon.com/markgaler
you are wonderful!
Would this be a good lense to pair with a Sony a7iii?
Yes
i would like to hear how the sony a9 will shoot with the Sony FE 70 200 F2.8 GM OSS II ? I see No revies anywhere. If you could help me out . That would be greatly appreciated.Thanks
Both the AF speed of the camera and the lens are very fast - they work extremely well together
@@AlphaCreativeSkills Good to know .Thank You
Will the tracking of the dogs be as good with the a7IV ?
My A7lV review features images of running dogs
When shoot with tripod Must I turn Oss off ?
Sometimes you may not notice if SteadyShot was left on, but for longer exposures I definitely recommend turning it off if you can remember. I have a SteadyShot video tutorial on my TH-cam channel.
Hmmmm, certainly not a cheap lens, maybe I'll stick with the f4. Great overview, as always
Thanks for the positive feedback Paul
Which mode is best for OSS if I want the most stability for treating it like a gimbal with the Sony a7siii that has built in Active steady shot ?
depends if you are walking or panning
@@AlphaCreativeSkills probably a bit of walking/movement ?
Would you trade 135GM for this?
The 135 is probably the most optically perfect lens I own and at more than a stop wider than the 70-200 if I had to choose it would be the 135 prime.
So is it still worth a upgrade for somebody that owns 70-200 f2.8 V1?
The video answers that question
Yes Yes Yes