The Sony FE 85mm f/1.4 GM II is a highly anticipated update to one of Sony’s most respected portrait lenses. The latest version promises improvements in build, autofocus performance, and image quality, making it worth a closer look.
Coming to you from Alex Barrera, this detailed video takes a close look at the Sony FE 85mm f/1.4 GM II. Barrera highlights that this lens is significantly lighter than its predecessor, weighing in at 22.6 ounces (642 grams). The reduced weight, combined with improved weather-sealing, makes it an appealing choice for photographers working in dynamic or demanding environments. It features the high-quality construction expected of Sony’s G Master line, including a tactile aperture ring and a premium feel that integrates seamlessly with Sony’s mirrorless cameras. Barrera also emphasizes its impressive autofocus capabilities, which he tested extensively with family portrait sessions—scenarios that often include fast-moving subjects like kids. The lens performed flawlessly, maintaining focus consistently.
One of the standout features Barrera praises is the lens's image quality. According to him, the FE 85mm f/1.4 GM II delivers sharpness, contrast, and color reproduction that is hard to match. The bokeh is creamy and aesthetically pleasing, giving images a professional finish. He notes that while the lens is nearly perfect, he would have preferred a maximum aperture of f/1.2 for even more dramatic background blur. Nonetheless, the f/1.4 aperture strikes a balance between quality and portability, catering well to a wide audience.
Key Specs
- Focal length: 85mm
- Maximum aperture: f/1.4
- Minimum aperture: f/16
- Lens construction: 11 elements in 8 groups
- Diaphragm blades: 11 (circular for smoother bokeh)
- Minimum focusing distance: 0.8 meters (2.62 feet)
- Maximum magnification: 0.12x
- Weight: 22.6 oz (642 g)
- Filter thread size: 77mm
- Weather-sealed construction
For those weighing alternatives, Barrera briefly touches on the Sigma 85mm f/1.4 lens, which he says is also sharp, lightweight, and priced more affordably. However, the Sigma doesn’t quite match the autofocus speed or the polished build quality of the Sony, making the latter the better choice for professional use. Check out the video above for the full rundown from Barrera.
The Sony 85mm GM II sounds like an absolute beast! But as a proud user of the Sigma 85mm f/1.4, I have to say, it’s like comparing two rockstars in the same band—they both hit the high notes, but with slightly different vibes.
The Sigma has been my trusty sidekick for years, delivering those dreamy portraits that make clients swoon. Sure, it might not have the GM’s newer bells and whistles, but as long as it keeps capturing every laugh, tear, and smoldering glance on wedding days, I’m a happy camper.
That being said, if the Sigma ever decides to retire, maybe I’ll give the GM a call... 😉
Great and even report. Supporting even other same 85mm lenses. What many reviewers forget is the past used lenses that are great and were great when using them, so a compare of all at the same time is really needed also. In my book lenses are forever and all lenses are great when they come out and remain great even when a younger lenses is born with extras more. Sony a mirrorless camera maker since 2013 October was and is way ahead of the new makers of cameras and their lenses. Sony has just about filled the Prime slots and Telephoto lenses only thing left is to make better and that is the MOD II's and beyond, but remembering always the older Millimeter lens is still grate at a lower price and never CHEAP (a word to describe but bad to use with great stuff), I still use Film FD lenses because the old prism filters capture what PS can not produce.
Example the Sony E 10-18mm f4 OSS can be used in full frame mode at 12-18mm and is so small with front threads for filters and today filter makers make filters for at the rear. A lens for the Sony APS-C cameras before the A7 models even but holds it's own as far as price even today and able to fill two worlds. I still keep in my every day carry bag for those great moments for even the Sony 12-24mm f/4/2.8's are huge and every but for a landscape or the need for a indoor wide shot. Even it is forever. Sony keeps marching on to greater things!
2015 BEFORE there were 12mm lenses!