The Sony FE 85mm f/1.4 GM II lens has a lot to offer its predecessor. Lens upgrades can mean sharper images, better handling, and improved usability. But with the steep cost of new lenses, you want to make sure you’re getting value before making a switch.
Coming to you from Kaiman Wong, this lively video compares the Sony FE 85mm f/1.4 GM II to its predecessor and other 85mm lenses, highlighting what’s new, what’s improved, and what might not be so special. The GM II claims to be sharper, lighter, and better overall, and the initial hands-on experience supports that. Focusing speed and reliability are standouts, thanks to two XD linear motors, which make it a solid choice for video use. Wong points out that despite these enhancements, the older GM still holds up well, and the GM II’s improvements might not justify the upgrade for everyone.
Wong sets the Sony GM II against several other lenses, including a Canon EF 85mm f/1.8, an older FD model, and a Zeiss Otus. He notes that while the newer lens is undeniably sharper with better chromatic aberration control, the Otus gives it a run for its money in image quality. However, the Otus is manual focus only, which limits its practicality. The GM II has a distinct advantage in autofocus, making it more versatile. But when it comes to bokeh—one of the main selling points of an 85mm portrait lens—the differences are less dramatic. Wong suggests that while newer isn’t always better, some might find the improvements compelling enough to switch.
Another point discussed in the video is the practical differences in size and weight. The GM II is marketed as 20% lighter and 13% smaller than the previous model. Wong finds that although this is technically true, the change isn’t immediately obvious when handling the lens. The new model is also slightly longer, making the size difference even less noticeable in real-world use. Additionally, there’s an added button and slight text changes on the body, but these are minor and probably won’t sway your decision one way or another.
For many, the choice between the GM II and other 85mm lenses boils down to cost versus performance. Wong mentions that the older GM lenses can now be had for much less, making them a tempting option if you don’t need the absolute latest and greatest. He also considers the Otus, which offers exceptional sharpness but is hampered by its manual focus requirement. The takeaway? If the marginal improvements in sharpness and autofocus of the GM II aren’t game-changers for you, the older GM or other options could be more than sufficient. Check out the video above for the full rundown from Wong.
