Sony has introduced the 16mm f/1.8 G, an ultra-wide full frame E-mount prime lens designed for both photographers and videographers. The lens offers a combination of compact size, high-resolution optics, fast autofocus, and a bright f/1.8 aperture, making it well-suited for landscape, architectural, and astrophotography applications.
Optical Design and Performance
The 16mm f/1.8 G features an advanced optical construction, including two Advanced Aspherical (AA) elements to maintain sharpness across all apertures. One Super ED (Extra-low Dispersion) glass element and three ED elements help suppress chromatic aberrations, while Sony’s optimized lens coatings reduce flare and ghosting.
With its bright f/1.8 maximum aperture and 11-blade circular diaphragm, the lens produces smooth bokeh. The minimum focus distance is 0.5 ft (0.15 m) with autofocus and 0.43 ft (0.13 m) with manual focus, with a maximum magnification of 0.25x and 0.30x, respectively.
Compact and Lightweight Design
Measuring 3 x 3 in (73.8 x 75 mm) and weighing approximately 10.8 oz (304 g), the 16mm f/1.8 G is compact and portable, making it easy to carry for on-the-go shooting. The lightweight design makes it particularly suitable for gimbal use.
Autofocus and Video Features
The lens is equipped with two XD (Extreme Dynamic) linear motors that provide fast, accurate autofocus with minimal delay and vibration. The autofocus system is optimized for both still photography and video, with minimal focus breathing and support for Sony’s breathing compensation function in compatible Alpha cameras.
For video shooters, the lens pairs well with in-body Active Mode stabilization, providing steady footage even when shooting handheld. The 67 mm front filter thread allows easy integration with filters and accessories.
Build and Handling
The 16mm f/1.8 G includes several manual control features:
- Customizable focus hold button
- Focus mode switch
- Aperture ring with an iris lock switch
- Click ON/OFF switch for aperture control
The lens is designed for reliability in challenging conditions, featuring a dust- and moisture-resistant build and a fluorine-coated front element to repel dust, oil, and water.
Specifications
- Focal length: 16mm
- Maximum aperture: f/1.8
- Minimum aperture: f/22
- Lens construction: 13 elements in 10 groups
- Special elements: 2 AA elements, 1 Super ED element, 3 ED elements
- Aperture blades: 11, circular diaphragm
- Minimum focus distance: 0.5 ft (0.15 m) AF, 0.43 ft (0.13 m) MF
- Maximum magnification: 0.25x AF, 0.30x MF
- Autofocus system: XD linear motors
- Filter thread size: 67 mm
- Dimensions: 3 x 3 in (73.8 x 75 mm)
- Weight: 10.8 oz (304 g)
Pricing and Availability
The Sony 16mm f/1.8 G will be available in April 2025 at an estimated price of $799.99 and is available for preorder now. It will be sold through Sony’s official channels and authorized dealers.
