The type of photography that you are planning to use is an important decision factor. Here we have evaluated the Sony FE 400-800mm F6.3-8 and the Sony 300mm F2.8 G SSM II for their suitability to various photography scenarios:
Size and Weight Comparison
The size of a lens is a crucial factor to consider when comparing two lenses. Sony FE 400-800mm F6.3-8 is the longer of the two lenses at 346mm. The Sony 300mm F2.8 G SSM II with a length of 243mm, is 103mm shorter. On the other hand, the Sony 300mm F2.8 G SSM II has a larger diameter of 122mm compared to the Sony FE 400-800mm F6.3-8's 120mm diameter.
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 300mm F2.8 G SSM II weighs 2300g, 7% (175g) lighter than the Sony FE 400-800mm F6.3-8's weight of 2475g.
Lens Mounts
The Sony FE 400-800mm F6.3-8 has the Sony E lens mount whereas the Sony 300mm F2.8 G SSM II has the Sony Alpha lens mount. Some of the latest released cameras that are compatible with these mounts are Sony FX5, Sony A7R VI and Sony A7 V for the Sony E Mount and Sony A99 II, Sony A68 and Sony A77 II for the Sony Alpha Mount.
Focal Range
Sony FE 400-800mm F6.3-8 has a focal range of 400-800mm and
2.0X zoom ratio . When it is mounted on an APS-C sensor camera with 1.5x crop, it provides a 35mm (FF) equivalent of
600 - 1200mm.
On the other hand, the Sony 300mm F2.8 G SSM II is a prime lens with fixed focal lenght of 300mm. When it is mounted on an APS-C sensor camera with 1.5x crop, it provides a 35mm (FF) equivalent of 450mm.
