Released back in October 2018, the Sony FE 24mm f/1.4 GM has proven a solid choice for those requiring a fast, wide-angle prime. Christopher Frost puts it through his usual rigorous testing to see how it holds up.
A favorite with wedding photographers, the Sony FE 24mm f/1.4 GM is surprisingly compact given its maximum aperture and while video shooters might be a bit frustrated by the focus breathing, there’s little to complain about. At $1,298, you get that extra stop over the Sony Sonnar T* 24mm f/1.8 ZA which, at $1,098, now feels quite expensive for two reasons. Firstly, this lens was released almost a decade ago. As Frost mentions, the best budget alternative is probably the Samyang/Rokinon 24mm f/1.8 which is a mere $499, but of course, lacks many of the features that make the GM lens such a high quality and versatile product. You won’t see a de-clickable aperture ring or weather sealing on the Samyang lens.
There are a few lenses in Sony’s lineup that are probably due a bit of an upgrade. Some of the Zeiss lenses are starting to feel a little long in the tooth and the 24mm f/1.8 is another area where Sony might feel the need to introduce something fresh, perhaps more in line with the very successful FE 35mm f/1.8.
Which lenses does Sony need to redesign and re-release? Let us know in the comments below.
