Sony 400-800mm f/6.3-8.0 G – It's Here!
Update February 26, 2025:
The question I raised in my article about the new Sony 400-800mm lens has now been answered:
How do the f-stops between f/6.3 and f/8 distribute across the focal range?
This could be a crucial factor in the purchase decision. For some, it might be a better choice to go with the 200–600mm f/5.6–6.3 G OSS and use a 1.4x teleconverter when needed to have more light available at 600mm.
- F/6.3 = 400mm – 484mm
- F/7.1 = 485mm – 590mm
- F/8 = 591mm – 800mm
The time has come: Here is the official announcement of the Sony FE 400–800mm F/6.3–8 G OSS. It looks like the leaked information from the past few days was largely accurate.
Steve Perry was one of the first to release an in-depth hands-on test of the Sony 400-800 mm on YouTube after the official announcement.
The first detailed information about the new Sony 400-800mm f/6.3-8.0 G lens has surfaced. According to an report from Sony Alpha Rumors, concrete details about the Sony 400-800mm are now available, and the lens is expected to be officially announced on February 26, 2025.
In recent weeks, there has been speculation that the price might be similar to the Sony 200-600mm. Personally, I found this assumption a bit too optimistic. The 200-600mm had an initial launch price of around €2,000 and has since settled at approximately €1,600. A newly developed lens with the performance level of the Sony 200-600mm, but offering 400-800mm at f/8, for just €1,600 at launch seems rather unrealistic.
Technical Specifications of the Sony 400-800mm f/6.3-8.0 G
- Optical Construction: 27 elements in 19 groups
- Aperture: 11-blade diaphragm for smooth bokeh
- Zoom: Internal zoom for consistent balance
- Image Stabilization: Built-in Optical SteadyShot (OSS)
- Filter Thread: 105 mm diameter
- Minimum Focus Distance: Varies between 1.7 m and 3.5 m
- Teleconverter Compatibility: Supports additional focal length extension
Dimensions and Weight of the Sony 400-800mm f/6.3-8.0 G
- Weight: 2,475 g
- Length: 34.6 cm
Additionally, the lens features a Full-Time DMF switch and a Far Mode, which activates at 8 meters and beyond.
Announcement and Availability
According to the leaked information, the Sony 400-800mm f/6.3-8.0 G will be announced on February 26, 2025, and will be available starting in March. With its impressive focal range, optical stabilization, and relatively compact design, the lens primarily targets photographers and videographers who need to cover large distances—whether for wildlife, sports, or nature photography.
Personally, I find this lens particularly appealing for wildlife videography. Of course, I would also use it for photography, but it wouldn’t be my everyday lens. In that case, I would likely stick with the 200-600mm. The main reason? f/8 is quite challenging in low-light conditions, such as dawn or early morning hours.
I’m also curious about how the aperture values change across the focal range. If the 400-800mm still offers f/6.3 at 600mm, it could be a very attractive alternative to the 200-600mm for many photographers.
