In this review, we'll compare the Sony 70-400mm F4-5.6 G SSM for the A Mount with the Sony 70-400mm F4-5.6 G SSM II for the A Mount, both Telephoto Zoom lenses designed by Sony. Both lenses have the same focal length and max apertures of 70-400mm and F4.0 - F5.6 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 70-400mm F4-5.6 G SSM and Sony 70-400mm F4-5.6 G 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 70-400mm F4-5.6 G SSM and the Sony 70-400mm F4-5.6 G SSM II for their suitability to various photography scenarios:
Photography Type |
Sony 70-400mm F4-5.6 G SSM |
Sony 70-400mm F4-5.6 G SSM II |
Bird/Wildlife | Very Good | Very Good |
Sports | Very Good | Very Good |
Portrait | Fair | Fair |
Travel | Poor | Poor |
Street | Poor | Poor |
Wedding | Fair | Fair |
Walk Around | Fair | Fair |
Vlogging | Poor | Poor |
Landscape | Fair | Fair |
Macro | Average | Average |
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 70-400mm F4-5.6 G SSM weighs 1490g, which means it is 10g (0%) lighter than the Sony 70-400mm F4-5.6 G SSM II which has a weight of 1500g.
Below you can find the dimension and weight table of the Telephoto Zoom Lenses in Sony Alpha Mount for size comparison purposes.
Super Telephoto Lenses in Sony Alpha Mount for Size Comparison
Filter Threads
Both the Sony 70-400mm F4-5.6 G SSM and the Sony 70-400mm F4-5.6 G 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 70-400mm F4-5.6 G SSM and the Sony 70-400mm F4-5.6 G 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
70-400mm and the fastest aperture of
F4.0 - F5.6.