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Sony Announces 16mm f1.8 G Full-Frame Prime
26 February 2025
Sony has introduced its 16mm f1.8 G, a full-frame E-Mount lens that packages an ultra-wide 16mm focal length in a compact, lightweight build. The new prime features high-resolution image quality, smooth bokeh, precise autofocus and a bright f1.8 aperture.
"At Sony, we are committed to providing creators of all levels with a diverse range of lens options to meet their artistic and technical needs," said Yang Cheng, Sony vice president. "The 16mm f1.8 G is now the widest prime lens in our G lens lineup and pairs seamlessly with all our latest full-frame Alpha series cameras, as well as the FX3 and FX30 cinema cameras. With 79 E-Mount lenses now available, we are continuing our mission to ensure photographers, filmmakers and creators have a breadth of high-performing lens options to bring their visions to life."
HIGHLIGHTS
Highlights of the new wide angle include:
- Full-frame coverage
- Apertures: f1.8 to f22
- Dual XD linear AF motors
- Internal focus
- Two Aspherical lens elements
- Focus Hold button, AF/MF switch
- Physical aperture ring
- Compact, lightweight form factor
- Dust and moisture-resistant construction
SPECIFICATIONS
Specifications for the 16mm lens include:
SONY FE 16mm f1.8 G LENS SPECIFICATIONS Mount Sony E Focal Length 16mm Aperture f1.8 to f22
11 diaphragm bladesAngle of View 107° Minimum Focus 5.9 inches Magnification 0.25x Optical Design 15 elements in 12 groups Autofocus Yes Image Stabilization No Filter Thread No Dimensions 2.91 x 3.0 inches Weight 10.7 oz. PRICE, AVAILABILITY
Sony said the 16mm f1.8-GB will be available in April for $799.99. Adorama and B&H are both now accepting pre-orders.
Sony Electronics Launches the Ultra-Wide 16mm f1.8 G Full-Frame Prime Lens
Compact and Lightweight Design Meets Exceptional Optical Performance
SAN DIEGO, Calif. -- Sony Electronics introduces the 16mm f1.8 G (SEL16F18-GB), a full-frame E-Mount lens that combines an ultra-wide 16mm focal length with a compact, lightweight build. Delivering high-resolution image quality, smooth bokeh, precise autofocus and a bright f1.8 aperture, this lens is ideal in a variety of photo and video scenarios including landscapes, architecture, astrophotography and more.
"At Sony, we are committed to providing creators of all levels with a diverse range of lens options to meet their artistic and technical needs," said Yang Cheng, Vice President of Imaging Solutions, Sony Electronics Inc. "The 16mm f1.8 G is now the widest prime lens in our G lens lineup and pairs seamlessly with all our latest full-frame Alpha series cameras, as well as the FX3 and FX30 cinema cameras. With 79 E-Mount lenses now available, we are continuing our mission to ensure photographers, filmmakers and creators have a breadth of high-performing lens options to bring their visions to life."
Ultra-Wide Performance with Stunning Bokeh
The 16mm f1.8 G is engineered for breathtaking, dynamic perspectives with an ultra-wide 16mm focal length. Its advanced optical construction includes two AA (Advanced Aspherical) elements to ensure razor-sharp resolution across all apertures. A combination of one Super ED (Extra-low Dispersion) glass element and three ED elements effectively suppresses chromatic aberration, delivering edge-to-edge clarity. Additionally, Sony's optimized coating minimizes flare and ghosting, resulting in stunning image quality even in challenging lighting conditions.
With a bright f1.8 maximum aperture and an 11-blade circular diaphragm, the 16mm f1.8 G produces beautiful, creamy bokeh that enhances subject separation. Its impressive close-up performance allows for a minimum focus distance of just 0.5 ft (0.15 m) with autofocus and a maximum magnification of 0.25x. When using manual focus, these values improve up to 0.43 ft (0.13 m) and 0.30x, enabling unique wide-angle compositions with extraordinary depth.
Powerful Performance in a Compact Form
Through advanced optical engineering, including Sony's high-precision AA lens elements, the 16mm f1.8 G maintains ultra-wide capabilities in an impressively compact and portable form factor. Measuring just 3x3 in (73.8x75mm) and weighing approximately 10.8 oz (304 g), it offers exceptional mobility without compromising image quality. Designed for professionals on the go, this lens excels in capturing expansive landscapes and intricate architectural compositions with precision and clarity.
Fast and Accurate Autofocus
Equipped with two XD (Extreme Dynamic) linear motors, the 16mm f1.8 G delivers rapid, precise autofocus with remarkable tracking performance. A newly developed control algorithm enhances responsiveness while reducing delay and vibration, ensuring smooth, near-silent operation. This makes it an exceptional choice for both stills and video, especially when capturing fast-moving subjects.
Optimized for Stable Video
Designed with videographers in mind, the 16mm f1.8 G minimizes focus breathing for seamless focus transitions. It fully supports the breathing compensation function1 available in compatible Sony Alpha camera bodies and pairs effortlessly with in-body Active Mode2 image stabilization to ensure steady footage, even while shooting handheld or on the move. The lens also features a standard 67mm front filter thread, making it easy to integrate with a wide range of filter accessories. The compact design3 is ideal for gimbal use.
Intuitive Controls and Reliable Build
The 16mm f1.8 G offers comprehensive manual controls, including a responsive focus ring, customizable focus hold button, focus mode switch, aperture ring and iris lock switch. The aperture ring allows for tactile exposure adjustments, while the click ON/OFF switch enhances flexibility for both photography and video applications. Built to ensure durability and reliability in challenging environments, the 16mm f1.8 G features a dust- and moisture-resistant design and a fluorine-coated front element.
Pricing and Availability
The 16mm f1.8 G will be available in April for approximately $799.99 and $1099.99 CAD. It will be sold directly through Sony and at a variety of Sony's authorized dealers throughout North America.