In this review, we'll compare the Sony 16-35mm F2.8 ZA SSM for the A Mount with the Sony 16-35mm F2.8 ZA SSM II for the A Mount, both Wideangle Zoom lenses designed by Sony. Both lenses have the same focal length and max apertures of 16-35mm and F2.8 so they are very comparable in this regard.
We'll begin by briefly examining the main specifications of these two lenses. In the subsequent section, we'll delve into a more detailed analysis, outlining the strengths and weaknesses of each.
What type of photography are the Sony 16-35mm F2.8 ZA SSM and Sony 16-35mm F2.8 ZA SSM II lenses good for?
The type of photography that you are planning to use is an important decision factor. Here we have evaluated the Sony 16-35mm F2.8 ZA SSM and the Sony 16-35mm F2.8 ZA SSM II for their suitability to various photography scenarios:
Photography Type |
Sony 16-35mm F2.8 ZA SSM |
Sony 16-35mm F2.8 ZA SSM II |
Bird/Wildlife | Poor | Poor |
Sports | Poor | Poor |
Portrait | Fair | Fair |
Travel | Good | Good |
Street | Good | Good |
Wedding | Fair | Fair |
Walk Around | Good | Good |
Vlogging | Very Good | Very Good |
Landscape | Very Good | Very Good |
Macro | Fair | Fair |
Size and Weight Comparison
The weight of a lens is equally significant as its external dimensions, particularly if you intend to handhold your camera and lens combination for extended periods. Sony 16-35mm F2.8 ZA SSM II weighs 872g, 3% (28g) lighter than the Sony 16-35mm F2.8 ZA SSM's weight of 900g.
Below you can find the dimension and weight table of the Wideangle Zoom Lenses in Sony Alpha Mount for size comparison purposes.
Ultra-Wideangle Lenses in Sony Alpha Mount for Size Comparison
Filter Threads
Both the Sony 16-35mm F2.8 ZA SSM and the Sony 16-35mm F2.8 ZA SSM II have the same Filter thread size of 77mm.
Below are links to the 77mm filters that we recommend you to consider for these lenses:
Lens Mounts
Both the Sony 16-35mm F2.8 ZA SSM and the Sony 16-35mm F2.8 ZA SSM II has the same Sony Alpha lens mount. Some of the latest released cameras that are compatible with the Sony Alpha lenses are Sony A99 II, Sony A68 and Sony A77 II.
Focal Range
Both lenses have the same focal range of
16-35mm and the fastest aperture of
F2.8.