Best Lenses for Sony a6100 in 2024

Looking for the best lenses for Sony a6100? Here are our top recommended E-mount lenses for Sony a6100 mirrorless camera.

Featuring a 24.2MP APS-C Exmor CMOS Sensor, the latest BIONZ X image processor, and a front-end LSI implemented in Sony’s full-frame cameras, the Sony a6100 camera (B&H, Adorama) delivers outstanding image quality with rich detail and true-to-life color reproduction, and it is capable of UHD 4K video recording up to 30 fps along with quick continuous shooting up to 11 fps for working with moving subjects. Also benefitting fast-paced shooting, Real-time Eye AF and subject tracking capabilities help to ensure sharp focus on a variety of subject types. In addition, the Sony a6100 incorporates Sony’s unrivaled 4D FOCUS system for unsurpassed fast autofocus (AF) acquisition time that can lock focus on even the fastest moving subject in as little as 0.02 seconds. It also boasts an incredible 425 phase detection and 425 contrast detection AF points that are densely positioned over 84% of the image area, effectively tracking subjects as they move across the frame. Simply put, presenting a versatile feature-set in an especially compact design, the Sony a6100 is an APS-C-format mirrorless camera well-suited for stills and video applications.

Choosing the right lens is not always an easy task. Here we list all the top recommended lenses for Sony a6100 mirrorless camera based on good price, usefulness and high image quality, including leading prime and zoom options from wide-angle to telephoto. You can choose the one you need.

Best Lenses for Sony a6100 in 2024

If you’re in a hurry and need a quick answer regarding lens selection for your Sony a6100 mirrorless camera, here we have listed the top recommended lenses for Sony a6100 mirrorless camera:


Best Wide-Angle Zoom / Vlogging Lenses for Sony a6100

Sony E 10-20mm f/4 PZ G Lens

An ideal lens for for vlogging and content creation

Sony E 10-20mm f/4 PZ G Lens Specifications:

  • Mount: Sony E
  • Lens Format Coverage: APS-C
  • Focal Length: 10-20mm (15-30mm equivalent)
  • Image Stabilization: No
  • Maximum Aperture: f/4
  • Minimum Aperture: f/22
  • Minimum Focus Distance: 0.2m (AF), 0.13-0.17m (MF)
  • Maximum Magnification: 0.14x (AF), 0.18x (MF)
  • Optical Design: 11 Elements in 8 Groups
  • Diaphragm Blades: 7, Rounded
  • Filter Size: 62 mm (Front)
  • Dimensions: 2.7 x 2.2″ (69.8 x 55 mm)
  • Weight: 6.3 oz (178 g)
  • at B&H, Adorama.

Pros:

  • Ultra-wide angle of view (15-35mm equivalent)
  • Constant f/4 maximum aperture
  • Great image quality and handling
  • Consistently excellent sharpness and contrast
  • Power zoom mechanism
  • Quality degree of weather sealing
  • Low focus breathing
  • Good flare resistance
  • Good bokeh rendering
  • Good control of chromatic aberrations
  • Extremely compact size

Cons:

  • No image stabilization
  • Focus and zoom rings too close and too similar
  • Strong barrel distortion at 10mm
  • Quite expensive

The Sony E 10-20mm f/4 PZ G lens is a fantastic option for hybrid shooters, vloggers, and content creators who require a lightweight and versatile ultra-wide-angle zoom lens. This lens is specifically designed for Sony’s APS-C mirrorless camera systems and offers a full-frame equivalent focal length range of 15-30mm. Its compact size and impressive optical performance make it an ideal choice for everyday shooting applications.

One of the standout features of this lens is its Power Zoom mechanism, which allows for smooth zooming during video recording. The zoom control can be easily operated via the lens body, zoom lever, or zoom ring, providing intuitive handling and control. The internal zoom and focus design maintain the lens’s length and center of gravity, making it suitable for use with handheld gimbals.

In terms of image quality, the Sony E 10-20mm f/4 PZ G lens excels. It features three aspherical elements and two ED elements, which help to achieve high sharpness, suppress distortion, and reduce chromatic aberrations. The lens also boasts a constant f/4 maximum aperture, ensuring consistent brightness throughout the zoom range. The circular diaphragm produces a smooth and natural bokeh quality, enhancing the visual appeal of your shots.

The focusing performance of this lens is impressive, thanks to the Linear Motor system. It provides quick, quiet, and precise autofocus, making it suitable for both stills and video shooting. The internal focusing design contributes to responsive focusing performance and maintains a consistent lens length during operation.

The Sony E 10-20mm f/4 PZ G lens is designed with lightweight and intuitive handling in mind. It weighs just 6.3 oz and measures 2.2″ in length, making it highly portable for everyday use and travel. The lens is also weather-sealed, providing protection against dust and moisture, enabling you to work in various conditions.

While the Sony E 10-20mm f/4 PZ G lens has numerous advantages, such as its compact size, excellent image quality, and versatile zoom range, it does have a few drawbacks. It lacks image stabilization, which may require the use of a stabilizer for handheld footage. Additionally, some users may find the focus and zoom rings to be too close and too similar in design. At the 10mm focal length, there is noticeable barrel distortion, although this can be corrected in post-processing.

Overall, the Sony E 10-20mm f/4 PZ G lens is a highly recommended choice for APS-C shooters, particularly those focused on video recording and vlogging. Its compact size, impressive image quality, and advanced features make it a valuable addition to any content creator’s toolkit.

Sony E 10-20mm f/4 PZ G Lens at B&H, Adorama.


Tamron 11-20mm f/2.8 Di III-A RXD Lens

Tamron 11-20mm f/2.8 Di III-A RXD Lens Specifications:

  • Mount: Sony E
  • Lens Format Coverage: APS-C
  • Focal Length: 11-20mm (16.5-30mm equivalent)
  • Image Stabilization: No
  • Maximum Aperture: f/2.8
  • Minimum Aperture: f/16
  • Minimum Focus Distance: 5.9″ / 15 cm
  • Maximum Magnification: 0.25x
  • Macro Reproduction Ratio: 1:4
  • Optical Design: 12 Elements in 10 Groups
  • Diaphragm Blades: 7, Rounded
  • Filter Size: 67 mm (Front)
  • Dimensions: 2.9 x 3.4″ / 73 x 86.2 mm
  • Weight: 11.8 oz / 335 g
  • at B&H, Adorama.

Pros:

  • Great wide angle zoom range
  • Fast and constant f/2.8 aperture
  • Relatively compact and lightweight
  • Fast, quiet, and accurate autofocus
  • Good coma control
  • Strong aberration control
  • Great build with weather sealing

Cons:

  • Some flare issues
  • No optical stabilizer

The Tamron 11-20mm f/2.8 Di III-A RXD Lens is a remarkable ultra-wide-angle zoom lens designed specifically for Sony E-mount APS-C mirrorless cameras. With its fast and constant f/2.8 aperture, compact size, and lightweight construction, this lens is an excellent choice for photographers seeking versatility and high performance. Whether you’re capturing breathtaking landscapes, venturing into astrophotography, or exploring architectural wonders, the Tamron 11-20mm delivers exceptional results.

One of the standout features of this lens is its bright f/2.8 aperture, which remains consistent throughout the zoom range. This aperture not only offers increased control over depth of field but also enhances low-light performance, allowing you to shoot handheld with minimal shake even in dimly lit conditions. The optical design of the lens includes one XLD element, two LD elements, and two glass-molded aspherical elements. This combination significantly reduces chromatic aberrations and color fringing, resulting in improved clarity and color accuracy.

Tamron’s BBAR coating further enhances the lens’s performance by suppressing flare and ghosting, ensuring greater contrast and color fidelity when working in challenging lighting conditions. The RXD stepping drive motor enables quick, near-silent autofocus performance, making it suitable for both stills and video applications.

One notable feature of the Tamron 11-20mm lens is its minimum object distance, which is just 5.9″ at the widest end of the zoom range. This allows you to explore dynamic wide-angle macro imaging, creating a unique perspective where close objects appear larger and distant objects smaller. Additionally, the f/2.8 maximum aperture produces a shallow depth of field, resulting in soft and pleasing bokeh background details.

Built with moisture-resistant construction and a fluorine coating on the front lens element, the Tamron 11-20mm is designed to withstand inclement weather conditions while protecting against dust, dirt, and smearing. The lens’s rounded seven-blade diaphragm contributes to a pleasing bokeh quality, further enhancing your creative possibilities.

While the Tamron 11-20mm lens does exhibit some flare issues, its overall performance is highly impressive. It offers a great wide-angle zoom range, a fast aperture, and delivers outstanding image quality. The lens’s robust build quality, weather sealing, and fast, quiet autofocus make it a reliable companion for various shooting situations.

In conclusion, the Tamron 11-20mm f/2.8 Di III-A RXD Lens is a standout choice for Sony E-mount APS-C mirrorless cameras. Its excellent portability, exceptional image quality, and unique capabilities make it a versatile lens that will expand your photographic horizons. Despite the absence of optical stabilization and some flare issues, the Tamron 11-20mm remains a top contender for photographers seeking a high-performance ultra-wide-angle zoom lens.

$130 off on Tamron 11-20mm f/2.8 Di III-A RXD Lens for Sony E at B&H, Adorama.


Best Wide-Angle Prime Lenses for Sony a6100

Sony E 15mm f/1.4 G Lens

Sony E 15mm f/1.4 G Lens Specifications:

  • Mount: Sony E
  • Lens Format Coverage: APS-C
  • Focal Length: 15mm (22.5mm equivalent)
  • Image Stabilization: No
  • Maximum Aperture: f/1.4
  • Minimum Aperture: f/16
  • Minimum Focus Distance: 6.7″ (17cm)
  • Maximum Magnification: 0.15x
  • Optical Design: 13 Elements in 12 Groups
  • Diaphragm Blades: 7, Rounded
  • Filter Size: 55 mm (Front)
  • Dimensions: 2.6 x 2.7″ (66.6 x 69.5mm)
  • Weight: 7.7 oz (219 g)
  • at B&H, Adorama.

Pros:

  • f/1.4 maximum aperture
  • Superb image quality
  • Consistently excellent sharpness and contrast
  • Fast, quiet focus
  • Low focus breathing
  • Excellent flare resistance
  • Dust and splash protection
  • Nicely built lens with great handling
  • Compact and lightweight

Cons:

  • Slightly expensive
  • Heavy barrel distortion
  • No stabilizer

The Sony E 15mm f/1.4 G Lens is a highly desirable wide-angle prime lens that offers exceptional image quality and speed. With its fast f/1.4 maximum aperture, this lens is perfect for creating shallow depth of field effects and excels in low-light conditions. The 22.5mm-equivalent focal length makes it a versatile option for various types of photography, including street, landscape, travel, and even vlogging.

The lens features advanced G Series optics, including three aspherical elements that ensure high sharpness and minimize distortion and spherical aberrations. Additionally, one Super ED and two ED elements reduce chromatic aberrations, resulting in greater clarity and color accuracy. The rounded 7-blade diaphragm contributes to a smooth and natural bokeh quality.

Despite its premium features, the Sony E 15mm f/1.4 G Lens remains compact and lightweight, making it a great companion for Sony’s APS-C format mirrorless cameras. The lens has a sturdy build and offers full weather sealing for added durability. The handling is intuitive, with an aperture control ring and a linear manual focusing ring that works well for both stills and video applications.

In terms of performance, the lens delivers excellent center sharpness throughout the aperture range, although wide open at f/1.4, it may show some softness. Chromatic aberrations are well-controlled, vignetting is minimal, and flare is effectively managed, even when shooting directly into the sun. The lens does exhibit some barrel distortion in RAW files, but this can be easily corrected in post-processing or with a lens correction profile.

One of the main competitors for this lens is the Sigma 16mm f/1.4 DC DN, which offers a similar maximum aperture but is larger and heavier. However, the Sony E 15mm f/1.4 G Lens justifies its higher price with its superior optics, quick autofocus, and strong weather protection.

Overall, the Sony E 15mm f/1.4 G Lens is a top choice for wide-angle prime lenses. It delivers outstanding image quality, offers excellent control and handling, and is suitable for a variety of photography styles, including vlogging and stills. While it may be a bit more expensive than some alternatives, its performance and features make it worth the investment for serious photographers and videographers.

Sony E 15mm f/1.4 G Lens at B&H, Adorama.


Sony E 11mm f/1.8 Lens

Sony E 11mm f/1.8 Lens Specifications:

  • Mount: Sony E
  • Lens Format Coverage: APS-C
  • Focal Length: 11mm (16.5mm equivalent)
  • Image Stabilization: No
  • Maximum Aperture: f/1.8
  • Minimum Aperture: f/16
  • Minimum Focus Distance: 4.7″ (12cm)
  • Maximum Magnification: 0.2x
  • Optical Design: 12 Elements in 11 Groups
  • Diaphragm Blades: 7, Rounded
  • Filter Size: 55 mm (Front)
  • Dimensions: 2.6 x 2.3″ (66 x 57.5mm)
  • Weight: 6.4 oz (181 g)
  • at B&H, Adorama.

Pros:

  • Lightweight and extremely compact
  • Wide-angle view
  • Quick, quiet autofocus
  • Consistently excellent sharpness and contrast
  • Quality degree of weather sealing (8 seal points)
  • Almost no focus breathing
  • On-lens function button
  • Excellent flare resistance
  • Good bokeh rendering
  • Good control of chromatic aberrations
  • Affordable price tag

Cons:

  • Strong barrel distortion
  • Fairly heavy vignette
  • No aperture control ring
  • No image stabilization

The Sony E 11mm f/1.8 is an impressive ultra-wide-angle prime lens that offers a versatile shooting experience for both stills and videography. With its sleek and lightweight design, it is highly portable and convenient for travel and walkaround recording. The lens’s wide-angle perspective, equivalent to 16.5mm, makes it ideal for capturing expansive landscapes, architectural interiors, and astrophotography.

One of the standout features of the Sony E 11mm f/1.8 is its bright f/1.8 maximum aperture, allowing for shallow depth of field shooting and excellent performance in low-light conditions. The optical design of the lens ensures high image quality, with impressive sharpness across the frame and minimal color fringing and aberrations.

The lens’s autofocus system, powered by dual linear motors, provides fast, precise, and silent autofocus performance, making it suitable for both still photography and video recording. The internal focusing design contributes to responsive and consistent focusing performance while maintaining a compact size.

The Sony E 11mm f/1.8 also offers excellent close-up capabilities, with a minimum focusing distance of 4.7″ and a maximum magnification of 0.2x in manual focus or 5.9″ and 0.13x in autofocus mode. This makes it well-suited for capturing macro-type subjects and adds a new dimension to model photography.

While the lens is particularly suited for vlogging and video-oriented applications, its versatility extends to other genres such as landscapes, architecture, and portraits. However, some caution is advised when using it for portraits to ensure flattering results.

In terms of optical performance, the lens delivers excellent sharpness throughout its aperture range, with center sharpness being particularly impressive. Chromatic aberrations are well controlled, and flare is minimal. The only notable optical drawback is the presence of barrel distortion, which can be corrected in post-processing or with a lens correction profile.

Overall, the Sony E 11mm f/1.8 is a highly recommended lens for Sony APS-C camera users. It offers a wide range of creative possibilities, excellent image quality, and a relatively affordable price point. Whether you’re a vlogger, landscape photographer, or astrophotography enthusiast, this lens provides a compact and high-quality solution for your needs.

Sony E 11mm f/1.8 Lens at B&H, Adorama.


Laowa 10mm f/4 Cookie Lens

A great wide-angle lens for travel photography and vlogging

Laowa 10mm f/4 Cookie Lens Specifications:

  • Mount: Sony E
  • Lens Format Coverage: APS-C
  • Focal Length: 10mm (15mm equivalent)
  • Image Stabilization: No
  • Maximum Aperture: f/4
  • Minimum Aperture: f/22
  • Minimum Focus Distance: 3.9″ / 10 cm
  • Maximum Magnification: 0.15x
  • Optical Design: 12 Elements in 8 Groups
  • Diaphragm Blades: 5
  • Focus Type: Manual Focus
  • Filter Size: 37 mm (Front)
  • Dimensions: 2.4 x 1″ / 59.8 x 25 mm
  • Weight: 4.6 oz / 130 g
  • at B&H, Adorama.

Pros:

  • Tiny size and light weight
  • Affordable price
  • Stylish aesthetic
  • Excellent center and mid-frame sharpness
  • Focus and aperture rings move smoothly
  • Very low distortion
  • Great flare resistance overall
  • Good magnification and close focus performance

Cons:

  • Strong vignetting and poor edge sharpness
  • No weather sealing
  • No electronics
  • Manual focus ring can be a little hard to find by feel

The Laowa 10mm f/4 Cookie Lens by Venus Optics is a compact and lightweight pancake-style lens designed for APS-C mirrorless cameras. With a focal length equivalent to 15mm and a wide 109.3° angle of view, this lens is ideal for architectural, landscape, and everyday photography. Its compact form factor, measuring just 25mm in length and weighing only 130g, makes it perfect for travel and vlogging.

Featuring excellent image quality and minimal distortion, the Laowa 10mm f/4 Cookie Lens is a reliable choice for street and landscape photographers. The lens incorporates four extra-low dispersion glass elements and two aspherical glass elements to reduce chromatic aberrations and distortions, resulting in sharper images. The minimum focusing distance of 4 inches allows for wide-angle macro shots, adding versatility to its capabilities.

One standout feature of this lens is its ability to create 10-point sun stars when shooting towards a bright light source, thanks to its five-blade aperture. This adds a unique touch to your photographs and allows for creative effects. Additionally, the lens includes a 37mm front filter thread, enabling the use of screw-in filters.

While the Laowa 10mm f/4 Cookie Lens excels in image quality and its compact size, it does have some drawbacks. The lens lacks autofocus and weather sealing, which may be limiting for certain photographers. The manual focus ring can be a bit challenging to locate by feel, and the vignetting and edge sharpness suffer when shooting wide open at f/4.

Overall, the Laowa 10mm f/4 Cookie Lens is a reasonably priced option for photographers looking to explore ultra-wide perspectives. Its affordability, small size, and lightweight nature make it an appealing choice for those seeking a portable and creative lens. However, photographers should be aware of its limitations, particularly the lack of autofocus and weather sealing.

Laowa 10mm f/4 Cookie Lens for Sony E at B&H, Adorama.


Best Standard Zoom Lenses for Sony a6100

Sigma 18-50mm f/2.8 DC DN Contemporary Lens

A small, light, and bright standard zoom for landscapes, portraits, street photography, architecture, and events

Sigma 18-50mm f/2.8 DC DN Contemporary Lens Specifications:

  • Mount: Sony E
  • Lens Format Coverage: APS-C
  • Focal Length: 18-50mm (27-75mm equivalent)
  • Image Stabilization: No
  • Maximum Aperture: f/2.8
  • Minimum Aperture: f/22
  • Minimum Focus Distance: 0.12m (W) 0.3m (T)
  • Maximum Magnification: 0.36x (W) 0.2x (T)
  • Macro Reproduction Ratio: 1:2.8
  • Optical Design: 13 Elements in 10 Groups
  • Diaphragm Blades: 7, Rounded
  • Filter Size: 55 mm (Front)
  • Dimensions: 2.5 x 2.9″ / 64.5 x 74.5 mm
  • Weight: 10.2 oz / 290 g
  • at B&H, Adorama.

Pros:

  • Compact size and light weight
  • Useful focal range with constant F2.8 aperture
  • Close focus for 1:2.8 macro
  • Quick, quiet autofocus
  • Minimal focus breathing
  • Low amounts of chromatic aberrations
  • Good sharpness across zoom range
  • Nice bokeh in most situations
  • Fairly good coma performance
  • Nicely made with a weather sealing gasket
  • Reasonably priced

Cons:

  • No optical stabilization
  • Fairly strong barrel distortion at 18mm

The Sigma 18-50mm f/2.8 DC DN Contemporary Lens is a versatile and high-quality standard zoom lens designed for crop-sensor mirrorless cameras. With a full-frame equivalent zoom range of 27-75mm and a wide constant aperture of f/2.8, this lens is suitable for a wide range of photography and video applications, including landscapes, portraits, street photography, architecture, and events.

One of the standout features of this lens is its compact and lightweight design. Measuring less than 3 inches in length and weighing just over 10 ounces, it is the smallest and lightest f/2.8 standard zoom lens for crop-sensor mirrorless cameras. This makes it an excellent option for travel and day-to-day shooting, as it doesn’t add unnecessary bulk to your camera setup.

In terms of optical performance, the Sigma 18-50mm f/2.8 delivers sharp and high-quality images throughout the zoom range. It incorporates three high-precision glass-molded aspherical elements and a special low dispersion element to minimize distortion, spherical aberrations, and chromatic aberrations. The lens also features a Super Multi-Layer Coating to reduce flare and ghosting, resulting in improved contrast and color accuracy.

The autofocus system of the Sigma 18-50mm f/2.8 is fast and quiet, thanks to the stepping motor. This makes it particularly useful for shooting video or capturing fast-moving subjects such as children and animals. Additionally, the lens has a minimum focusing distance of just 4.8 inches, enabling you to get close to your subjects for macro-style close-up photography.

The lens is also equipped with a rounded seven-blade diaphragm, which produces a pleasing bokeh quality, enhancing the out-of-focus areas in your images.

While the Sigma 18-50mm f/2.8 is an excellent lens, it does have a few drawbacks. It lacks full weather sealing and a fluorine coating, which may limit its durability and protection in harsh shooting conditions. However, considering its affordable price and impressive performance, these shortcomings can be overlooked.

In conclusion, the Sigma 18-50mm f/2.8 DC DN Contemporary Lens is a highly recommended option for photographers using Sony APS-C cameras who are looking for a compact, lightweight, and affordable standard zoom lens. It delivers excellent optical quality, fast autofocus, and versatile functionality, making it a great choice for a wide range of photography and videography needs.

Sigma 18-50mm f/2.8 DC DN Contemporary Lens for Sony E at B&H, Adorama.


Tamron 17-70mm f/2.8 Di III-A VC RXD Lens

Tamron 17-70mm f/2.8 Di III-A VC RXD Lens Specifications:

  • Mount: Sony E
  • Lens Format Coverage: APS-C
  • Focal Length: 17-70mm (25.5-105mm equivalent)
  • Image Stabilization: Yes
  • Maximum Aperture: f/2.8
  • Minimum Aperture: f/16
  • Minimum Focus Distance: 7.5″ / 19 cm
  • Maximum Magnification: 0.21x
  • Optical Design: 16 Elements in 12 Groups
  • Diaphragm Blades: 9, Rounded
  • Filter Size: 67 mm (Front)
  • Dimensions: 2.9 x 4.7″ / 74.6 x 119.3 mm
  • Weight: 1.2 lb / 525 g
  • at B&H, Adorama.

Pros:

  • Great zoom range
  • Maintains F2.8 aperture
  • Pleasing image quality
  • Excellent image stabilization (VC)
  • Fast, quiet, and accurate autofocus
  • Good flare resistance
  • Strong aberration control
  • Good build with weather sealing
  • Excellent price

Cons:

  • Largest and heaviest lens in the class, a little bulky
  • Sharpness could be better at some settings
  • Noticeable distortions when uncorrected

The Tamron 17-70mm f/2.8 Di III-A VC RXD lens is a highly versatile and capable option for Sony E-mount APS-C mirrorless cameras. With its wide to short-tele zoom range and bright f/2.8 aperture, this lens is suitable for a wide variety of shooting situations, from everyday photography to travel and video shooting.

One of the standout features of this lens is its image quality. Thanks to the inclusion of specialized optics, including aspherical and low dispersion elements, the lens delivers well-corrected imagery with high sharpness, clarity, and accurate colors. Tamron’s BBAR coating further enhances the image quality by reducing flare and ghosting, particularly when shooting in challenging lighting conditions.

The lens also features Tamron’s Vibration Compensation (VC) image stabilization system, which minimizes the appearance of camera shake. This is especially useful when shooting in low-light conditions or when recording videos, as it ensures steady footage and sharp images.

In terms of handling, the lens excels with its quick and near-silent autofocus performance, thanks to the RXD stepping motor. It also offers full-time manual focus override, allowing for precise manual control when needed. The minimum focusing distance of 7.5″ adds versatility for close-up shots.

The Tamron 17-70mm f/2.8 Di III-A VC RXD lens is constructed with durability in mind. It features a moisture-resistant design, making it suitable for use in various weather conditions. Additionally, the fluorine coating on the front element protects against fingerprints and smudging.

While the lens offers a great zoom range and maintains a constant f/2.8 aperture, it is worth noting that it is slightly larger and heavier compared to some other options in its class. Some users may find it a bit bulky to carry around. Sharpness could also be improved at certain settings, and there may be noticeable distortions when the lens is uncorrected.

Overall, the Tamron 17-70mm f/2.8 Di III-A VC RXD lens provides excellent value for its price. It combines versatility, good image quality, effective image stabilization, and reliable autofocus performance, making it a suitable choice for photographers and videographers looking for a general-purpose lens for their Sony E-mount APS-C mirrorless cameras.

Tamron 17-70mm f/2.8 Di III-A VC RXD Lens for Sony E at B&H, Adorama.


Sony E 16-55mm f/2.8 G Lens

Sony E 16-55mm f/2.8 G Lens Specifications:

  • Mount: Sony E
  • Lens Format Coverage: APS-C
  • Focal Length: 16-55mm (24-82.5mm equivalent)
  • Image Stabilization: No
  • Maximum Aperture: f/2.8
  • Minimum Aperture: f/22
  • Minimum Focus Distance: 1.08′ / 33 cm
  • Maximum Magnification: 0.2x
  • Optical Design: 17 Elements in 12 Groups
  • Diaphragm Blades: 9, Rounded
  • Filter Size: 67 mm (Front)
  • Dimensions: 2.87 x 3.94″ / 73 x 100 mm
  • Weight: 1.09 lb / 494 g
  • at B&H, Adorama.

Pros:

  • Excellent build quality
  • Fast and constant f/2.8 aperture
  • Excellent image quality
  • Quick, quiet autofocus
  • Dust and splash protection
  • Fluorine coating
  • Lightweight and travel-friendly
  • High-end, weather-sealed construction

Cons:

  • Pricey
  • No image stabilization
  • Fair amount of distortion without corrections

The Sony E 16-55mm f/2.8 G lens is a highly anticipated addition to the Sony APS-C E-mount mirrorless camera system, and it lives up to the expectations. With its versatile wide-angle to portrait-length zoom range and a bright constant f/2.8 maximum aperture, this lens is a workhorse that can handle a wide variety of subjects, from landscapes to portraiture. Its compact and portable size makes it an ideal choice for everyday shooting.

One of the standout features of this lens is its exceptional image quality. It delivers sharpness and contrast, along with pleasing bokeh, creating stunning photos. The build quality is top-notch, with weather-sealing to protect against the elements. The autofocus is super-fast and accurate, ensuring you can capture your subjects with precision.

However, there are a couple of downsides to consider. The lens lacks built-in optical stabilization, which may be a drawback for some photographers, especially those using cameras without in-body image stabilization. Additionally, there is noticeable barrel distortion at the short end of the zoom range if not corrected in-camera or during raw processing.

Despite these minor drawbacks, the Sony E 16-55mm f/2.8 G lens earns the Editors’ Choice recognition due to its outstanding optical performance and solid build quality. Its relatively compact size is another advantage, making it convenient for travel and everyday use. However, if you require more zoom range or have a tighter budget, the E 18-135mm F3.5-5.6 OSS is a worthy alternative to consider.

In summary, the Sony E 16-55mm f/2.8 G lens is a long-awaited addition to the Sony APS-C lens lineup. It delivers excellent image quality, fast autofocus, and professional-level build quality. While it comes with a higher price tag and lacks optical stabilization, its overall performance and versatility make it a great choice for professional photographers and videographers alike.

Sony E 16-55mm f/2.8 G Lens at B&H, Adorama.


Best Portrait Lenses for Sony a6100

Sigma 56mm f/1.4 DC DN Contemporary Lens

Sigma 56mm f/1.4 DC DN Contemporary Lens Specifications:

  • Mount: Sony E
  • Lens Format Coverage: APS-C
  • Focal Length: 56mm (84mm equivalent)
  • Image Stabilization: No
  • Maximum Aperture: f/1.4
  • Minimum Aperture: f/16
  • Minimum Focus Distance: 1.6′ / 50 cm
  • Maximum Magnification: 0.14x
  • Optical Design: 10 Elements in 6 Groups
  • Diaphragm Blades: 9, Rounded
  • Filter Size: 55 mm (Front)
  • Dimensions: 2.62 x 2.34″ / 66.5 x 59.5 mm
  • Weight: 9.88 oz / 280 g
  • at B&H, Adorama.

Pros:

  • Compact and lightweight
  • Beautifully built lens with some weather sealing
  • Large, bright maximum aperture.
  • Exceptional sharpness across the frame
  • Fast, silent autofocus
  • Very high contrast
  • Good color rendition
  • Excellent flare resistance
  • Excellent focus accuracy (including with Eye AF)
  • Very reasonably priced

Cons:

  • Pronounced pincushion distortion
  • The bokeh is a little busy

The Sigma 56mm f/1.4 DC DN Contemporary Lens is a fantastic option for photographers seeking a fast, short telephoto lens with excellent performance at an affordable price. With its bright f/1.4 maximum aperture, this lens excels in low-light conditions and allows for greater control over depth of field, enabling beautiful subject isolation and selective focus techniques.

The optical design of the lens incorporates two aspherical elements and one special low dispersion (SLD) element, which effectively minimize spherical and chromatic aberrations, resulting in sharp and clear images. The lens also features a super multilayer coating to reduce flare and ghosting, ensuring contrast-rich and color-accurate images even in strong lighting situations.

The autofocus performance of the Sigma 56mm f/1.4 DC DN C is fast, precise, and nearly silent, making it suitable for both photography and videography applications. The lens has a rounded nine-blade diaphragm, contributing to smooth and pleasing bokeh quality.

In terms of build quality, the lens is well constructed with a metal body and a rubberized focus ring that provides a smooth and grippy feel. It also offers some weather sealing, adding to its durability. However, manual focusing can be coarse at shorter focus distances.

Image quality is impressive, with excellent sharpness wide open at f/1.4, particularly in the center, and even better results between f/2 and f/8. The lens produces attractive bokeh and effectively controls chromatic aberration, although there is noticeable pincushion distortion, which can be corrected in post-processing. Vignetting is pronounced at f/1.4 but can be mitigated with image auto-correction.

Despite a few minor drawbacks, such as distortion and vignetting, the Sigma 56mm f/1.4 DC DN C offers outstanding image quality, solid build, and excellent value for the price. It is a versatile lens suitable for a range of photography genres, including portraits and still life. Its small size and lightweight design make it a great companion for mirrorless cameras, and its affordable price further adds to its appeal. Overall, the Sigma 56mm f/1.4 DC DN Contemporary Lens is highly recommended for those seeking a high-performing lens without breaking the bank.

Sigma 56mm f/1.4 DC DN Contemporary Lens for Sony E at B&H, Adorama.


Sony E 50mm f/1.8 OSS Lens

Sony E 50mm f/1.8 OSS Lens Specifications:

  • Mount: Sony E
  • Lens Format Coverage: APS-C
  • Focal Length: 50mm (75mm equivalent)
  • Image Stabilization: Yes
  • Maximum Aperture: f/1.8
  • Minimum Aperture: f/22
  • Minimum Focus Distance: 1.28′ / 39 cm
  • Maximum Magnification: 0.16x
  • Optical Design: 9 Elements in 8 Groups
  • Diaphragm Blades: 7, Rounded
  • Filter Size: 49 mm (Front)
  • Dimensions: 2.44 x 2.44″ / 61.98 x 61.98 mm
  • Weight: 7.13 oz / 202 g
  • at B&H, Adorama.

Pros:

  • Wide f/1.8 aperture
  • Affordable and portable
  • Image stabilization
  • Minimal distortion
  • Crisp optics
  • Excellent build quality
  • Near silent super smooth autofocus

Cons:

  • Some softness
  • Omits weather sealing
  • Image quality not as good as Sony’s high-end lenses

The Sony E 50mm f/1.8 OSS Lens is a fantastic option for photographers using APS-C mirrorless cameras. With its effective focal length of 75mm, this lens is ideal for capturing stunning portraits and achieving a pleasing perspective. The fast f/1.8 aperture allows for excellent performance in low-light situations and enables beautiful background defocus effects.

Optical performance is impressive, with sharp center performance and acceptable corner sharpness at larger apertures. While there may be some softness in the corners, it is not a significant issue for typical applications like portraits. Stopping down to f/4-f/8 greatly improves image quality, taking advantage of the camera’s high-resolution sensor. Lateral chromatic aberrations are minimal, and the lens produces a gorgeous bokeh that will be appreciated by portrait photographers.

Build quality is solid, featuring a well-assembled metal body and a metal focus ring. The lens remains internally focused, maintaining its physical length and avoiding rotation of the front element. The inclusion of optical image stabilization is a valuable feature for low-light photography.

With a price tag just under 300EUR/US$, the Sony E 50mm f/1.8 OSS Lens offers good value considering its overall performance and the added benefit of image stabilization. The lens is well-suited for portrait photography and will be highly sought after by enthusiasts and professionals alike.

In summary, the Sony E 50mm f/1.8 OSS Lens delivers a flattering focal length, excellent image quality, and valuable features for its price point. Whether you’re capturing portraits or pursuing general photography, this lens will provide sharp and vibrant imagery with the convenience of image stabilization. It is a worthy addition to the Sony NEX lens lineup and is sure to be a popular choice among photographers.

Sony E 50mm f/1.8 OSS Lens at B&H, Adorama.

If you have a preference for Sony lenses or are considering a future transition to a full-frame system, the FE 50mm f/1.8 is a suitable choice.

Sony FE 50mm f/1.8 Lens at B&H, Adorama.


Best Macro Lenses for Sony a6100

ZEISS Touit 50mm f/2.8M Macro Lens

ZEISS Touit 50mm f/2.8M Macro Lens Specifications:

  • Mount: Sony E
  • Lens Format Coverage: APS-C
  • Focal Length: 50mm (75mm equivalent)
  • Image Stabilization: No
  • Maximum Aperture: f/2.8
  • Minimum Aperture: f/22
  • Minimum Focus Distance: 5.91″ / 15 cm
  • Maximum Magnification: 1x
  • Macro Reproduction Ratio: 1:1
  • Optical Design: 14 Elements in 11 Groups
  • Diaphragm Blades: 9, Rounded
  • Filter Size: 52 mm (Front)
  • Dimensions: 2.95 x 3.58″ / 75 x 91 mm
  • Weight: 10.23 oz / 290 g
  • at B&H, Adorama.

Pros:

  • Fantastic Image quality
  • Extremely well-built and solid lens made of solid metal and rubber
  • Extremely fun and easy to use
  • Very nice and smooth bokeh at close focusing distances
  • Resists flare and controls vignetting well
  • Focuses down to 1:1 magnification for true macro shooting

Cons:

  • No manual MF/AF or focus limiter switches
  • Slow focusing when in the macro range
  • Working distance at 1:1 is extremely short
  • Noisy autofocus if trying to use for video

The ZEISS Touit 50mm f/2.8M Macro Lens is a versatile short telephoto prime lens that excels in both portraiture and close-up photography. With its 75mm-equivalent focal length and 1:1 maximum magnification ratio, it offers creative possibilities for capturing fine details and intimate shots. The lens’s advanced Planar optical design, featuring two aspherical elements and two low dispersion elements, ensures excellent image quality by minimizing aberrations, distortion, and color fringing.

Built with quality in mind, the ZEISS Touit 50mm f/2.8M Macro Lens is constructed from solid metal and rubber, providing a durable and reliable feel. The lens’s bokeh is pleasingly smooth, especially at close focusing distances, and it effectively resists flare and controls vignetting. The inclusion of a ZEISS T* anti-reflective coating enhances contrast and color accuracy, particularly in challenging lighting conditions.

While the lens delivers fantastic image quality, it does have a few drawbacks. It lacks manual focus/auto-focus or focus limiter switches, which can be inconvenient for certain shooting situations. Focusing speed can also be slow when working in the macro range. Additionally, the working distance at 1:1 magnification is quite short, requiring close proximity to the subject. Lastly, the autofocus can be noisy when used for video, potentially impacting audio quality.

Overall, the ZEISS Touit 50mm f/2.8M Macro Lens is a high-quality option for photographers seeking exceptional image quality and the versatility of macro capabilities. Its solid construction, smooth bokeh, and resistance to flare make it a reliable tool for a variety of photography genres, including portraiture, still-life, and landscape. However, if manual focus functionality or quieter autofocus performance for video work is a priority, other options may be worth considering.

ZEISS Touit 50mm f/2.8M Macro Lens for Sony E at B&H, Adorama.


Laowa 65mm f/2.8 2x Ultra Macro APO Lens

Laowa 65mm f/2.8 2x Ultra Macro APO Lens Specifications:

  • Mount: Sony E
  • Lens Format Coverage: APS-C
  • Focal Length: 65mm (97.5mm equivalent)
  • Image Stabilization: No
  • Maximum Aperture: f/2.8
  • Minimum Aperture: f/22
  • Minimum Focus Distance: 6.69″ / 17 cm
  • Maximum Magnification: 2x
  • Macro Reproduction Ratio: 2:1
  • Optical Design: 14 Elements in 10 Groups
  • Diaphragm Blades: 9
  • Focus Type: Manual Focus
  • Filter Size: 52 mm (Front)
  • Dimensions: 2.24 x 3.94″ / 57 x 100 mm
  • Weight: 11.82 oz / 335 g
  • at B&H, Adorama.

Pros:

  • Relatively small and lightweight
  • Sharp as a Savile Row suit
  • Focuses to infinity
  • 2x magnification
  • Amazing microcontrast
  • Excellent image quality
  • APO design delivers stunningly good optical performance
  • Nice bokeh
  • Low distortion and vignette
  • Robust construction
  • Fantastic price-to-performance ratio

Cons:

  • No automatic /preset aperture
  • No electronic contacts / EXIF
  • No stabilization
  • No weather-sealing

The Laowa 65mm f/2.8 2x Ultra Macro APO Lens is an exceptional choice for macro photographers looking for high magnification and outstanding image quality. Designed for APS-C-format Sony E-mount mirrorless cameras, this lens offers a 2:1 maximum magnification ratio, allowing you to capture intricate details of your subjects. With a minimum focusing distance of 6.7 inches, it excels in close-up photography.

The optical design of the lens incorporates three extra-low dispersion elements, which effectively minimize color fringing and chromatic aberrations, resulting in exceptional clarity and color accuracy. The lens delivers excellent sharpness, even when shooting wide open, and produces stunning images from the center to the corners.

While the Laowa 65mm f/2.8 lacks autofocus and electronic features, its manual focus operation is precise and easy to use, especially for macro photography where manual focus is preferred. The lens boasts a lightweight and compact design, making it a portable and versatile option for both leisure and professional use.

The APO (apochromatic) optical design of the lens ensures minimal chromatic aberrations, providing images with superb color rendition and clarity. The lens also produces a pleasing bokeh, thanks to its nine-blade diaphragm.

Despite its lack of automatic aperture, electronic contacts, and image stabilization, the Laowa 65mm f/2.8 2x Ultra Macro APO Lens offers exceptional image quality and robust construction. It is a reliable and cost-effective option, delivering professional-level performance at a fraction of the price of other macro lenses on the market. With its 2x magnification and outstanding optical performance, this lens is a fantastic tool for macro enthusiasts and professionals alike.

Laowa 65mm f/2.8 2x Ultra Macro APO Lens for Sony E at B&H, Adorama.


Sony FE 50mm f/2.8 Macro Lens

Sony FE 50mm f/2.8 Macro Lens Specifications:

  • Mount: Sony E
  • Lens Format Coverage: Full-Frame
  • Focal Length: 50mm (75mm equivalent on APS-C cameras)
  • Image Stabilization: No
  • Maximum Aperture: f/2.8
  • Minimum Aperture: f/16
  • Minimum Focus Distance: 6.3″ / 16 cm
  • Maximum Magnification: 1x
  • Macro Reproduction Ratio: 1:1
  • Optical Design: 8 Elements in 7 Groups
  • Diaphragm Blades: 7
  • Filter Size: 55 mm (Front)
  • Dimensions: 2.79 x 2.8″ / 70.8 x 71 mm
  • Weight: 8.32 oz / 236 g
  • at B&H, Adorama.

Pros:

  • Excellent edge to edge sharpness
  • Minimal distortion
  • 1:1 magnification
  • Very low central CA
  • Resistant to flare
  • Weather-sealed design
  • Focus limiter function
  • Light and compact

Cons:

  • Fairly slow AF
  • Omits optical stabilization
  • Short working distance

The Sony FE 50mm f/2.8 Macro Lens is a versatile and reliable optic that offers exceptional image quality and close-focusing capabilities. With a 1:1 maximum magnification ratio and a minimum focusing distance of 6.3 inches, this lens is ideal for macro photography, allowing photographers to capture sharp close-up shots of their subjects. The lens’s wide aperture of f/2.8 delivers excellent image quality and pleasing bokeh, making it suitable for everyday photography and portraiture.

In terms of optical performance, the Sony FE 50mm f/2.8 Macro Lens is a top performer. It achieves high resolution even at its widest aperture and exhibits minimal distortions and vignetting. The quality of the bokeh is also commendable. While lateral chromatic aberrations may be slightly high at large apertures, it is not a significant concern. The lens’s build quality is good, although it does not stand out compared to other options in its class.

The lens’s price point of around $400 may be seen as a bit steep compared to third-party alternatives, and it may feel a little dated compared to its Canon and Nikon counterparts. However, considering its excellent optical performance and versatility, it remains a solid choice for photographers seeking a reliable macro lens.

Additional features such as the focus-mode switch, focus-range limiter, and focus-hold button enhance the shooting experience, providing greater control and ease of use. The lens’s lightweight and portable design make it convenient for carrying around, and its dust- and moisture-resistant construction adds to its durability.

While the Sony FE 50mm f/2.8 Macro Lens has its limitations, such as relatively slow autofocus and the absence of optical stabilization, its strengths in image quality, minimal distortion, and weather-sealed design make it a compelling option for macro photography and general use.

Sony FE 50mm f/2.8 Macro Lens at B&H, Adorama.


Best Sports & Wildlife Lenses for Sony a6100

Sony E 70-350mm f/4.5-6.3 G OSS Lens

A great telephoto zoom for sports, wildlife, and landscape photography

Sony E 70-350mm f/4.5-6.3 G OSS Lens Specifications:

  • Mount: Sony E
  • Lens Format Coverage: APS-C
  • Focal Length: 70-350mm (105-525mm equivalent)
  • Image Stabilization: Yes
  • Maximum Aperture: f/4.5-6.3
  • Minimum Aperture: f/22-32
  • Minimum Focus Distance: 3.61′ / 1.1 m
  • Maximum Magnification: 0.23x
  • Optical Design: 19 Elements in 13 Groups
  • Diaphragm Blades: 7
  • Filter Size: 67 mm (Front)
  • Dimensions: 3.03 x 5.59″ / 77 x 142 mm
  • Weight: 1.38 lb / 625 g
  • at B&H, Adorama.

Pros:

  • Excellent Weather-Sealed Build Quality
  • Compact size and weight for the zoom range
  • Consistently excellent sharpness and contrast
  • Sharp across frame and across zoom range
  • Extremely fast and quiet autofocus
  • Built-in optical stabilization
  • Good tracking capabilities
  • Great bokeh rendering
  • Excellent control of chromatic aberrations
  • Low vignette

Cons:

  • Slightly expensive
  • Flare prone
  • Some pincushion distortion
  • Not compatible with teleconverters

The Sony E 70-350mm f/4.5-6.3 G OSS Lens is a highly versatile telephoto zoom lens designed for APS-C-format E-mount cameras. With a focal length range equivalent to 105-525mm in 35mm format, it offers a long reach that is well-suited for sports, wildlife, and landscape photography. The lens features Optical SteadyShot image stabilization, which effectively minimizes camera shake, allowing for sharper handheld shots.

One standout feature of the Sony E 70-350mm f/4.5-6.3 G OSS lens is its optimized optical and mechanical design, which ensures excellent image quality throughout the zoom range. The lens is compact and lightweight, making it highly portable and convenient to use, even with its 5x zoom capability. It incorporates one aspherical element to reduce distortion and spherical aberrations, resulting in sharp and detailed images.

The lens boasts a fast and reliable autofocus system, thanks to the XD Linear Motor System found in other G-class lenses. It also offers an intuitive manual focus control, allowing for precise focusing when desired. A zoom lock switch keeps the lens length fixed and secure when not in use.

The Sony E 70-350mm f/4.5-6.3 G OSS lens is highly regarded for its image quality, delivering impressive sharpness and clarity. It achieves a remarkable effective focal length of 525mm while maintaining a compact and lightweight design, making it a perfect match for Sony’s APS-C mirrorless cameras. Despite its relatively modest aperture rating, the lens performs well in various shooting conditions, and its built-in image stabilization compensates for camera shake at super-telephoto settings or slower shutter speeds. It produces pleasing bokeh effects and is capable of throwing the background out of focus.

In terms of build quality, the lens is sturdy, weather-resistant, and designed to withstand challenging shooting environments. It features customizable focus hold buttons and a dust- and moisture-sealed construction. The autofocus is fast, quiet, and accurate, providing excellent tracking capabilities.

While the Sony E 70-350mm f/4.5-6.3 G OSS lens may not offer the ultimate reach and brightness of other lenses, it provides respectable quality, focusing speed, and image stabilization at a more affordable price point. It is an attractive option for sports, action, and wildlife photographers who desire a compact and lightweight setup. However, it should be noted that there are some compromises in terms of pincushion distortion, vignetting, and out-of-focus highlights.

Overall, the Sony E 70-350mm f/4.5-6.3 G OSS lens is a highly versatile and well-built telephoto zoom lens that offers excellent image quality, fast autofocus, effective stabilization, and weather resistance. It is a compelling choice for Sony Alpha shooters who require a super-telephoto lens for their APS-C cameras.

Sony E 70-350mm f/4.5-6.3 G OSS Lens at B&H, Adorama.


Sony E PZ 18-105mm f/4 G OSS Lens

Sony E PZ 18-105mm f/4 G OSS Lens Specifications:

  • Mount: Sony E
  • Lens Format Coverage: APS-C
  • Focal Length: 18-105mm (27-157.5mm equivalent)
  • Image Stabilization: Yes
  • Maximum Aperture: f/4
  • Minimum Aperture: f/22
  • Minimum Focus Distance: 1.48′ / 45 cm
  • Maximum Magnification: 0.11x
  • Optical Design: 16 Elements in 12 Groups
  • Diaphragm Blades: 7, Rounded
  • Filter Size: 72 mm (Front)
  • Dimensions: 3.1 x 4.3″ / 78 x 110 mm
  • Weight: 15.1 oz / 427 g
  • at B&H, Adorama.

Pros:

  • Excellent build quality
  • Excellent sharpness in the centre of the frame
  • Relatively lightweight
  • Effective optical stabilisation

Cons:

  • Lack of sharpness towards the edges of the frame at 105mm
  • High CA levels
  • Wild distortion at 105mm

The Sony E PZ 18-105mm f/4 G OSS Lens is a versatile zoom lens designed for APS-C-format E-mount cameras. With its wide focal length range of 18-105mm (27-157.5mm equivalent), this lens covers a variety of shooting scenarios, from wide-angle landscapes to short telephoto portraits. The constant f/4 aperture ensures consistent performance throughout the zoom range, making it suitable for both stills and video.

One of the key features of this lens is the power zoom mechanism, which allows for smooth and quiet zooming, making it ideal for video shooters. The implementation of Handycam technology ensures precise control over the zoom speed. Additionally, the lens features internal focusing, maintaining its length during focusing, and a minimum focus distance of 1.5 feet.

Optical performance is enhanced by the inclusion of two extra-low dispersion elements and three aspherical elements, which help combat aberrations and deliver clean and crisp images. The lens also employs a seven-blade circular diaphragm, producing smooth and pleasing bokeh.

Image stabilization is another advantage of this lens, thanks to the Optical SteadyShot technology. It effectively reduces camera shake, especially at longer focal lengths, resulting in sharper images.

While the lens excels in video applications, it does have some optical compromises for still photography. Users may notice softness towards the edges of the frame at the telephoto end and significant distortion. However, shooting in JPEG or working with Raw files in post-processing software like Lightroom can help mitigate these issues.

Overall, the Sony E PZ 18-105mm f/4 G OSS Lens is a versatile mid-range zoom lens that offers a wide focal length range, constant aperture, smooth power zoom, and optical image stabilization. It is well-suited for video shooters, providing excellent performance and control. However, photographers who prioritize edge-to-edge sharpness and minimal distortion may need to consider other options.

Sony E PZ 18-105mm f/4 G OSS Lens at B&H, Adorama.


Tamron 70-180mm f/2.8 Di III VXD Lens

Tamron 70-180mm f/2.8 Di III VXD Lens Specifications:

  • Mount: Sony E
  • Lens Format Coverage: Full-Frame
  • Focal Length: 70-180mm (105-270mm equivalent on APS-C models)
  • Image Stabilization: No
  • Maximum Aperture: f/2.8
  • Minimum Aperture: f/22
  • Minimum Focus Distance: 10.63″ / 27 cm
  • Maximum Magnification: 0.5x
  • Macro Reproduction Ratio: 1:2
  • Optical Design: 19 Elements in 14 Groups
  • Diaphragm Blades: 9, Rounded
  • Filter Size: 67 mm (Front)
  • Dimensions: 3.19 x 5.87″ / 81 x 149 mm
  • Weight: 1.78 lb / 810 g
  • at B&H, Adorama.

Pros:

  • Light, comparatively compact
  • Smaller filter size than the competition
  • Bright f/2.8 aperture
  • Excellent sharpness and uniformity at all apertures and focal lengths
  • Very good resolution
  • Nice Bokeh
  • Reliable and fast AF tracking, extremely fast static AF
  • Low vignetting and minimal distortions
  • Very usable close-up performance at 180mm focal length
  • Extensive weather sealing plus fluorine coating against moist and dust
  • Low price when compared with other F2.8 options

Cons:

  • Significant flare and ghosting except at 180mm
  • No internal zooming
  • Some distortion at longer focal lengths
  • No AF/MF switch, relies on camera menu
  • Incompatible with teleconverters

The Tamron 70-180mm f/2.8 Di III VXD Lens is a versatile and compact telephoto zoom designed for Sony E-mount mirrorless cameras. With its constant f/2.8 aperture, this lens offers excellent control over depth of field and consistent brightness throughout the zoom range. The lens features a sophisticated optical design with six low dispersion elements and three aspherical elements, which work together to minimize chromatic aberrations and distortions and deliver sharp and accurate images.

The lens is equipped with Tamron’s BBAR-G2 coating, which effectively reduces flare and ghosting, resulting in improved contrast and color accuracy, especially in challenging lighting conditions. The two VXD linear motors provide fast, accurate, and quiet autofocus performance, making it suitable for both still photography and video applications. The lens also offers a minimum focusing distance of 2.8′ and a maximum magnification ratio of 1:4.6, allowing for close-up photography.

Despite its compact size, the Tamron 70-180mm f/2.8 Di III VXD Lens is built to withstand various weather conditions, thanks to its moisture-resistant construction. It also features a fluorine coating on the front element to protect against dust, dirt, and smudging. The lens incorporates a zoom lock switch to prevent barrel extension during transportation.

In terms of image quality, this lens excels, providing excellent sharpness and uniformity across all apertures and focal lengths. The bokeh is soft and pleasing, contributing to beautiful background blur. The lens performs well in close-up situations and offers a maximum magnification ratio of 0.5x. Additionally, it has low vignetting and minimal distortions.

While the Tamron 70-180mm f/2.8 Di III VXD Lens offers many advantages, there are a few drawbacks to consider. Flare and ghosting can be significant, particularly at longer focal lengths. The lens does not have internal zooming, and there is some distortion at the longer end of the focal range. It lacks an AF/MF switch and relies on camera menu settings for switching between autofocus and manual focus. Additionally, it is not compatible with teleconverters.

Overall, the Tamron 70-180mm f/2.8 Di III VXD Lens is an attractive option for Sony E-mount users who require a versatile telephoto zoom with excellent image quality. Its compact size, affordable price, and reliable performance make it a compelling alternative to Sony’s more expensive offerings in this category.

Tamron 70-180mm f/2.8 Di III VXD Lens for Sony E at B&H, Adorama.


Best All-In-One Lenses for Sony a6100

Tamron 18-300mm f/3.5-6.3 Di III-A VC VXD Lens

Tamron 18-300mm f/3.5-6.3 Di III-A VC VXD Lens Specifications:

  • Mount: Sony E
  • Lens Format Coverage: APS-C
  • Focal Length: 18-300mm (27-450mm equivalent)
  • Image Stabilization: Yes
  • Maximum Aperture: f/3.5-6.3
  • Minimum Aperture: f/22-40
  • Minimum Focus Distance: 5.9″ (0.15m) (Wide)/39″ (0.99m) (Tele)
  • Maximum Magnification: 1:2 (Wide)/1:4 (Tele)
  • Optical Design: 19 Elements in 5 Groups
  • Diaphragm Blades: 7
  • Filter Size: 67 mm (Front)
  • Dimensions: 3 x 4.9″ / 75.5 x 125.6 mm
  • Weight: 21.9 oz / 620 g
  • at B&H, Adorama.

Pros:

  • Stunning 16.6x zoom range covers wide to extreme telephoto
  • Advanced weather sealing with 9 seal points
  • Quick, quiet autofocus
  • Very little focus breathing
  • Optical stabilization
  • Low vignette
  • Low distortion outside of 18mm
  • Fluorine coating
  • Powerful VXD focus motor

Cons:

  • Narrow aperture limits low-light use
  • Raw photos require some correction

The Tamron 18-300mm f/3.5-6.3 Di III-A VC VXD Lens is a versatile superzoom lens designed for Sony E-mount APS-C mirrorless cameras. With its impressive 16.6x zoom range and a focal length equivalent of 27-450mm, it covers a wide range of shooting situations, making it the perfect all-in-one lens for photographers who value convenience and flexibility.

One of the standout features of this lens is the Vibration Compensation system, which effectively reduces camera shake, allowing for sharp and stable photography, even at longer focal lengths. The two gyroscopic sensors precisely measure vibrations in both horizontal and vertical directions, resulting in clear images even in challenging conditions.

The lens features Tamron’s VXD (Voice-coil eXtreme-torque Drive) linear motor, which delivers fast, precise, and virtually silent autofocus performance. This makes it suitable for both still photography and video applications. The minimum focusing distance of 5.9″ at the wide end and a maximum magnification ratio of 1:2 further enhance its versatility, allowing for close-up shots and macro photography.

In terms of construction, the lens boasts a weather-sealed design, offering protection against dust and moisture. This feature makes it a reliable companion for outdoor photographers who need to shoot in various weather conditions.

Optically, the Tamron 18-300mm f/3.5-6.3 Di III-A VC VXD lens delivers high image quality throughout its zoom range. It incorporates aspherical and special lens elements to minimize aberrations and produce sharp, clear images. The lens also features a fluorine coating that helps repel water and oil, making it easier to clean and maintain.

While the lens offers exceptional convenience and versatility, it does have some limitations. The narrow aperture range of f/3.5-6.3 restricts its performance in low-light situations, requiring higher ISO settings or the use of artificial lighting. Additionally, some minor corrections may be needed when working with raw photos.

In conclusion, the Tamron 18-300mm f/3.5-6.3 Di III-A VC VXD Lens is a top choice for photographers seeking a single, all-purpose lens for their Sony E-mount APS-C mirrorless cameras. Its extensive zoom range, excellent image stabilization, and weather-sealed construction make it a reliable and versatile option for travel, outdoor, and everyday photography. Despite a few technical compromises, the lens offers remarkable performance, earning it a well-deserved recommendation.

Tamron 18-300mm f/3.5-6.3 Di III-A VC VXD Lens for Sony E at B&H, Adorama.


Sony E 18-135mm f/3.5-5.6 OSS Lens

A great long-zoom standard lens for travel photography and day-to-day shooting

Sony E 18-135mm f/3.5-5.6 OSS Lens Specifications:

  • Mount: Sony E
  • Lens Format Coverage: APS-C
  • Focal Length: 18-135mm (27-202.5mm equivalent)
  • Image Stabilization: Yes
  • Maximum Aperture: f/3.5-5.6
  • Minimum Aperture: f/22-36
  • Minimum Focus Distance: 1.48′ / 45 cm
  • Maximum Magnification: 0.29x
  • Optical Design: 16 Elements in 12 Groups
  • Diaphragm Blades: 7, Rounded
  • Filter Size: 55 mm (Front)
  • Dimensions: 2.65 x 3.46″ / 67.2 x 88 mm
  • Weight: 11.5 oz / 326 g
  • at B&H, Adorama.

Pros:

  • Versatile zoom range
  • Optical image stabilization
  • Excellent central sharpness at wider apertures
  • Low central CA
  • Lovely bokeh
  • Fast AF
  • Low distortion
  • Bright, colourful images
  • Compact and light

Cons:

  • High edge CA
  • No weather resistance
  • Soft at small apertures
  • Poor edges at 135mm

The Sony E 18-135mm f/3.5-5.6 OSS Lens is a versatile and lightweight zoom lens designed for APS-C-format E-mount mirrorless cameras. With its wide-angle to medium telephoto range of 27-202.5mm equivalent, this lens is well-suited for a variety of shooting situations, making it an ideal choice for travel photography. The built-in image stabilization helps to reduce camera shake, resulting in sharper images when shooting handheld.

This lens offers a broad zoom range, allowing you to capture a wide range of subjects and scenes. Its compact and lightweight design maximizes the advantages of the APS-C format, making it easy to carry and handle. The fast, precise, and quiet autofocus operation adds to its appeal, making it an excellent all-in-one lens solution for day-to-day shooting.

One of the standout features of the Sony E 18-135mm f/3.5-5.6 OSS Lens is its versatility. It covers a wide range of focal lengths, from wide-angle to telephoto, providing the flexibility to capture various types of photography. Whether you’re shooting landscapes, architecture, portraits, or close-ups, this lens can handle it all.

In terms of image quality, the lens performs well, delivering sharp and bright images. It maintains good center sharpness throughout the zoom range, although edge performance may suffer at longer focal lengths. However, this can be used creatively for certain types of photography, such as portraiture and close-ups.

The lens features a high zoom ratio and incorporates advanced optical elements, including aspherical and ED glass elements, to ensure high resolution and reduce chromatic aberrations. It also has a close focusing distance, allowing you to capture close-up shots with pleasing background bokeh.

Overall, the Sony E 18-135mm f/3.5-5.6 OSS Lens is an excellent choice for general photography, offering a versatile zoom range, lightweight design, and image stabilization. While it may have some limitations in terms of edge performance and small apertures, it remains a solid option for photographers seeking a single lens solution for their APS-C mirrorless cameras.

Sony E 18-135mm f/3.5-5.6 OSS Lens at B&H, Adorama.


Read more: