Sony 24-70mm f/2.8 GM II Review: Worth the Upgrade?

The Sony 24-70mm f/2.8 GM II has established itself as one of the most coveted standard zoom lenses for Sony E-mount cameras. As the successor to the already impressive original GM lens, this second-generation powerhouse promises enhanced optics, refined design, and superior performance across the board. After extensive testing in various real-world scenarios, this comprehensive review explores whether this premium lens justifies its hefty price tag and delivers on Sony’s ambitious promises.

Overview and Key Improvements

The Sony 24-70mm f/2.8 GM II represents a significant evolution from its predecessor, incorporating cutting-edge optical technology and addressing many of the original lens’s minor shortcomings. Sony’s engineers have completely redesigned the optical formula, resulting in a lens that’s not only sharper but also more compact and lighter than the original.

This lens belongs to Sony’s prestigious G Master series, which represents the pinnacle of their optical engineering. The “GM II” designation indicates this is the second generation of this particular focal length in the G Master lineup, building upon years of feedback from professional photographers and videographers worldwide.

Technical Specifications

Specification	Details
Focal Length	24-70mm
Maximum Aperture	f/2.8 (constant)
Minimum Aperture	f/22
Optical Construction	17 elements in 14 groups
Special Elements	2 XA elements, 1 Super ED element, 3 ED elements
Filter Thread	82mm
Minimum Focus Distance	0.21m (0.69 ft)
Maximum Magnification	0.32x
Weight	695g (24.5 oz)
Dimensions	87.8 x 119.9mm
Weather Sealing	Yes (dust and moisture resistant)
Image Stabilization	No (relies on in-body stabilization)

Optical Performance and Sharpness

Center Sharpness

The GM II’s center sharpness is nothing short of exceptional across the entire zoom range. At 24mm, the lens delivers tack-sharp results wide open at f/2.8, with only marginal improvements when stopped down to f/4. This performance is particularly impressive given the challenges inherent in designing a zoom lens that maintains consistent quality across such a versatile focal length range.

At the 50mm mark, which many photographers consider the sweet spot for this focal length, the lens truly shines. Detail rendering is extraordinary, with micro-contrast that brings images to life. Even pixel-peeping on high-resolution bodies like the Sony A7R V reveals remarkable fine detail retention.

The 70mm end maintains the same high standards, though there’s a slight softening compared to the wider focal lengths – a characteristic shared by virtually all zoom lenses in this category. However, this softening is minimal and unlikely to be noticed in real-world shooting scenarios.

Corner Performance

One of the most significant improvements over the original GM lens is the corner sharpness. The GM II maintains impressive sharpness even in the extreme corners at f/2.8, something that sets it apart from many competitors. By f/4, corner performance is virtually indistinguishable from center sharpness across the zoom range.

This improved corner performance makes the lens particularly suitable for landscape photography, where edge-to-edge sharpness is crucial. The uniformity of sharpness across the frame also makes it ideal for architectural photography, where any softening in the corners would be immediately apparent.

Chromatic Aberration Control

Sony’s implementation of specialized glass elements, including two XA (extreme aspherical) elements and multiple ED elements, effectively controls both lateral and longitudinal chromatic aberration. Purple fringing, a common issue with high-contrast subjects, is minimal even in challenging lighting conditions.

The lens’s ability to maintain color accuracy and minimize color fringing is particularly noticeable when shooting subjects with high contrast edges, such as bare tree branches against bright skies or architectural details with strong backlighting.

Bokeh Quality and Character

Background Rendering

The Sony 24-70mm f/2.8 GM II produces remarkably smooth and pleasing bokeh for a zoom lens. The 11-blade circular aperture creates nearly round bokeh balls, even when stopped down slightly from f/2.8. The background rendering is creamy and smooth, without the nervous or busy quality that can plague some zoom lenses.

At 70mm and f/2.8, the lens can produce genuinely beautiful subject separation, rivaling prime lenses in terms of bokeh quality. The transition from in-focus to out-of-focus areas is gradual and natural, contributing to a three-dimensional quality in portraits and close-up work.

Bokeh Character Analysis

The bokeh character tends toward neutral, neither overly clinical nor excessively dreamy. This balanced approach makes it versatile for various photographic styles, from corporate headshots where you want clean separation to more artistic portraits where the background rendering contributes to the overall mood.

One notable characteristic is how the lens handles point light sources in the background. Street lights, fairy lights, and similar elements render as smooth, well-defined circles without harsh edges or onion ring effects that can be distracting in some lenses.

Autofocus Performance

Speed and Accuracy

The GM II features four XD (extreme dynamic) Linear Motors that deliver exceptionally fast and quiet autofocus performance. The lens locks onto subjects almost instantaneously, even in challenging lighting conditions. This makes it ideal for event photography, where moments happen quickly and second chances are rare.

Accuracy is outstanding, with the lens consistently nailing focus even on low-contrast subjects. The improved autofocus system works seamlessly with Sony’s advanced camera bodies, taking full advantage of features like Real-time Eye AF and animal detection.

Video Performance

For video work, the autofocus transitions are smooth and natural, without the hunting or pulsing that can ruin footage. The linear focus response makes manual focus pulling predictable and repeatable – crucial for professional video production.

The focus breathing, while present, is well-controlled and less noticeable than many competing lenses. This makes it suitable for professional video work where focus breathing can be problematic during post-production.

Low Light Performance

In low light conditions, the GM II maintains its focusing speed and accuracy remarkably well. Testing in dimly lit interiors and during golden hour revealed consistent performance, with the lens successfully acquiring focus in conditions where many other lenses would struggle or hunt.

Build Quality and Handling

Construction and Materials

The build quality of the GM II is exemplary, befitting its professional positioning. The lens barrel is constructed from a combination of metal and high-grade plastics, resulting in a lens that feels substantial without being unnecessarily heavy. The weather sealing includes gaskets at critical points, providing confidence when shooting in challenging weather conditions.

The zoom ring operates smoothly with just the right amount of resistance – firm enough to prevent creep but smooth enough for comfortable operation. The focus ring is well-damped and provides good tactile feedback for manual focus work.

Weight and Balance

At 695 grams, the GM II is notably lighter than its predecessor while maintaining professional build standards. This weight reduction is particularly appreciated during long shooting sessions or when traveling. The lens balances well on full-frame Sony bodies, from the compact A7C to the larger A7R V.

Weather Protection

The dust and moisture resistance provides peace of mind when shooting in variable weather conditions. While not completely waterproof, the sealing is sufficient for most real-world shooting scenarios, from light rain to dusty environments.

Real-World Performance Scenarios

Portrait Photography

For portrait work, the GM II excels at both environmental portraits at the wide end and tighter headshots at 70mm. The combination of sharp optics and smooth bokeh creates compelling portraits with excellent subject separation. The consistent f/2.8 aperture provides sufficient depth of field control across the zoom range.

The lens’s ability to focus closely (0.21m minimum focus distance) opens up creative possibilities for detail shots and more intimate portraits. This close focusing capability, combined with the 0.32x maximum magnification, makes it versatile for various portrait styles.

Event and Wedding Photography

In event photography scenarios, the GM II’s fast autofocus and consistent aperture make it an ideal workhorse lens. The 24-70mm range covers most situations without requiring lens changes, crucial in dynamic environments where moments happen quickly.

The weather sealing provides confidence during outdoor ceremonies, while the excellent low-light performance ensures sharp images even in dimly lit reception venues. The quiet autofocus operation is particularly appreciated during quiet moments like ceremony vows.

Travel and Landscape Photography

For travel photography, the GM II’s versatility makes it an excellent choice as a primary lens. The sharp corner performance and minimal distortion make it suitable for landscape work, while the portrait capabilities ensure you’re ready for spontaneous people shots.

The improved size and weight compared to the original GM make it more travel-friendly, while the robust build quality provides confidence when shooting in various international locations with different climate conditions.

Street Photography

The 24-70mm range is ideal for street photography, providing enough wide-angle capability for environmental shots while offering sufficient reach for more candid, distant subjects. The fast, quiet autofocus doesn’t draw attention, and the professional appearance commands respect without being overly intimidating.

Comparisons and Alternatives

vs. Original Sony 24-70mm GM

The GM II represents a significant upgrade over the original, with improved sharpness (particularly in the corners), better chromatic aberration control, and reduced size and weight. The optical improvements alone justify the upgrade for professional photographers who demand the absolute best image quality.

vs. Competition

Compared to similar lenses from other manufacturers adapted to Sony cameras, the GM II offers superior integration with Sony camera bodies, particularly regarding autofocus performance and camera-lens communication. The native lens advantages include better weather sealing integration and full compatibility with all camera features.

While prime lenses like the Sony 85mm f/1.4 GM may offer superior bokeh and low-light performance, the versatility of the 24-70mm range makes the GM II more practical for many shooting scenarios.

Complementary Lenses

The GM II pairs excellently with the Sony 70-200mm f/2.8 GM OSS II for photographers who need extended reach while maintaining consistent f/2.8 performance. This combination covers 24-200mm with professional-grade optics throughout.

Practical Tips and Techniques

Maximizing Sharpness

To extract maximum sharpness from the GM II, ensure your camera’s image stabilization is properly configured. While the lens doesn’t have built-in stabilization, Sony’s in-body systems work excellently with this lens.

For critical work, consider stopping down to f/4, where the lens achieves peak sharpness across the frame. However, the f/2.8 performance is so good that stopping down is rarely necessary unless you need additional depth of field.

Focus Techniques

Take advantage of the lens’s excellent close-focusing capabilities for creative compositions. The 0.32x magnification ratio allows for compelling detail shots that weren’t possible with many standard zoom lenses.

When shooting in continuous AF mode, the lens tracks moving subjects effectively, making it suitable for photographing active children or pets.

Handling and Care

The fluorine coating on the front element makes cleaning easier and helps repel water and oil. Regular cleaning with appropriate lens cleaning supplies will maintain optimal performance.

Store the lens with the hood attached in reverse position to save space while protecting the front element. The lens hood is substantial and provides excellent protection against both impact and stray light.

Value and Investment Considerations

The Sony 24-70mm f/2.8 GM II represents a significant investment, but one that’s justified for photographers who demand professional-grade performance. The lens’s versatility makes it an excellent foundation for a Sony system, potentially eliminating the need for multiple prime lenses in many situations.

For professional photographers, the improved optical performance, weather sealing, and reliable autofocus can directly impact the quality and consistency of their work. The lens’s reputation and Sony’s support network also contribute to its value as a professional tool.

Amateur enthusiasts should consider whether the performance improvements over less expensive alternatives justify the cost. However, for those who prioritize image quality and build quality, the GM II delivers exceptional value relative to its performance level.

Conclusion and Recommendations

The Sony 24-70mm f/2.8 GM II stands as one of the finest standard zoom lenses available for any camera system. Its combination of exceptional optical performance, professional build quality, and versatile focal range makes it an outstanding choice for serious photographers across multiple disciplines.

Highly Recommended For:

• Professional photographers requiring versatile, high-quality optics
• Wedding and event photographers who need reliable performance in varying conditions
• Portrait photographers who value both sharpness and bokeh quality
• Travel photographers seeking one lens that can handle diverse subjects
• Anyone building a professional Sony E-mount system

Consider Alternatives If:

• Budget is a primary concern (excellent alternatives exist at lower price points)
• You primarily shoot subjects that would benefit from prime lens advantages
• Weight is absolutely critical (though the GM II is notably lighter than its predecessor)
• You rarely shoot in the 24-70mm range

The GM II represents Sony’s optical engineering at its finest, delivering professional-grade performance that meets the demands of today’s high-resolution cameras. While the investment is substantial, the lens’s exceptional image quality, reliable performance, and professional build quality make it a worthwhile addition to any serious photographer’s kit. For those who can justify the cost, the Sony 24-70mm f/2.8 GM II will likely exceed expectations and serve as a reliable creative partner for years to come.