Best Lenses for Sony a6700 in 2024

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The Sony a6700 is a groundbreaking addition to Sony’s APS-C mirrorless camera lineup, boasting cutting-edge technology and enhanced performance. With its 26.0MP back-illuminated Exmor R CMOS sensor and the powerful BIONZ XR processor, this compact camera delivers exceptional image quality and impressive capabilities, all while maintaining a lightweight design. Capable of capturing 11 frames per second in continuous stills and recording UHD 4K video oversampled from a 6K resolution, the Sony a6700 is a versatile tool that caters to the needs of creative professionals and enthusiasts alike.

However, to truly unleash the full potential of the Sony a6700, choosing the right lenses is paramount. The lenses you select will greatly influence the quality and versatility of your images, allowing you to capture stunning shots in various lighting conditions and shooting scenarios.

In this comprehensive guide, we aim to demystify the task of finding the perfect lenses for your Sony a6700 mirrorless camera. Understanding that photographers have unique requirements and budgets, we have meticulously curated a range of lenses that span different focal lengths, catering to a diverse range of photography genres. While prioritizing high-quality lenses that complement the capabilities of the Sony a6700, we also acknowledge the importance of budget-friendly alternatives, which may compromise some sharpness but still deliver remarkable results.

Whether you’re a seasoned professional or an enthusiastic hobbyist, this article will serve as your definitive resource for selecting the ideal lenses that unlock the true potential of your Sony a6700. From portraits to weddings, macro to travel photography, street scenes to landscapes, sports action to wildlife encounters, we will guide you through the lens options best suited to each genre.

Without further delay, let us embark on this comprehensive guide and explore the best lenses for the Sony a6700 mirrorless camera.

And if you’re interested in other accessories for your Sony a6700, be sure to check out our Sony a6700 Memory Card Guide and Sony a6700 Gimbal Guide for even more helpful recommendations.

Sony a6700 Store Links: B&H, Adorama.

Top 10 Recommended Lenses for Sony a6700

If you’re pressed for time and seeking a quick answer regarding lens selection for your Sony a6700 mirrorless camera, our team of experts has compiled a curated list of highly recommended lenses for Sony a6700. These lenses have been chosen meticulously, taking into consideration their performance, compatibility, and value for money. With these lenses, you can confidently invest in a product that exceeds your expectations and enables you to capture stunning photos and videos.

Alternatively, if you desire a more in-depth analysis of lens options that are compatible with your Sony a6700 mirrorless camera, we provide comprehensive evaluations for each lens below. These reviews go beyond basic specifications and delve into intricate details such as performance, build quality, image quality, and more. By gaining a thorough understanding of the strengths and weaknesses of each lens, you’ll be equipped to make an informed decision that aligns with your specific needs and preferences. Whether you’re a professional photographer or an enthusiastic beginner, our lens reviews offer valuable insights to enhance your experience with the Sony a6700 mirrorless camera.

Sony a6700 Kit Lenses

Sony E PZ 16-50mm f/3.5-5.6 OSS Lens

Sony E PZ 16-50mm f/3.5-5.6 OSS Lens Specifications:

  • Mount: Sony E
  • Lens Format Coverage: APS-C
  • Focal Length: 16-50mm (24-75mm equivalent)
  • Image Stabilization: Yes
  • Maximum Aperture: f/3.5-5.6
  • Minimum Aperture: f/22-36
  • Minimum Focus Distance: 9.84″ / 25 cm
  • Maximum Magnification: 0.21x
  • Optical Design: 9 Elements in 8 Groups
  • Diaphragm Blades: 7, Rounded
  • Filter Size: 40.5 mm (Front)
  • Dimensions: 2.55 x 1.18″ / 64.77 x 29.97 mm
  • Weight: 4.09 oz / 116 g
  • Store links at B&H, Adorama.

Pros:

  • Light and compact
  • Quick, quiet autofocus
  • Very good sharpness at mid apertures
  • Excellent distortion control
  • Excellent flare resistance
  • Minimal focus breathing
  • Optical SteadyShot image stabilization
  • Very low cost

Cons:

  • Audible zoom motor
  • No dust and moisture sealing
  • Edges never sharpen, even when stopped down
  • Zoom speed not adjustable

For about $100 more than the cost of the Sony a6700 camera body alone, you can get a versatile zoom lens for traveling or for everyday general shooting needs. While it may not deliver absolute image quality, it still performs admirably within the limits of its design.

One of the standout features of this lens is its retractable design, which significantly reduces its size when not in use, adding to its portability. The lens also incorporates optical image stabilization (Optical SteadyShot), which helps minimize camera shake and allows for sharper images, particularly when shooting handheld with slower shutter speeds.

The lens exhibits good sharpness at mid apertures, making it suitable for various shooting situations. It also controls distortion effectively and shows excellent resistance to flare. Additionally, it has minimal focus breathing, ensuring consistent results when shooting close-up subjects.

On the downside, the lens has some drawbacks. The audible zoom motor can be noticeable during video recording, which may be a concern for vloggers or those requiring quiet operation. There is also no dust and moisture sealing, so caution should be exercised when using it in challenging environmental conditions. Another limitation is that the lens edges never reach optimal sharpness, even when stopped down. However, for most everyday shooting needs, it still produces satisfactory image quality.

Overall, the Sony E PZ 16-50mm f/3.5-5.6 OSS Lens offers a good balance between size, weight, and performance. It’s an excellent choice as a starter lens for new camera users or as an affordable addition to an a6000 series camera kit. While it may not deliver the highest image quality or have advanced features, it remains a reliable and cost-effective option within its price range.

Sony E PZ 16-50mm f/3.5-5.6 OSS Lens at B&H, Adorama.

Sony a6700 with 16-50mm Lens 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
  • Store links 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 lightweight and versatile zoom lens designed for APS-C-format E-mount mirrorless cameras. With a zoom range equivalent to 27-202.5mm, this lens covers a wide range of focal lengths, making it an ideal choice for travel photography and day-to-day shooting. The built-in image stabilization helps to minimize camera shake, resulting in sharper images when shooting handheld.

Weighing just 326g, the Sony E 18-135mm lens is compact and portable, making it perfect for photographers on the go. Despite its small size, it offers an impressive zoom range, providing the versatility needed to capture a variety of subjects and scenes, from wide-angle to telephoto. The inclusion of Optical SteadyShot further enhances its usability in different shooting conditions.

When it comes to image quality, the lens performs well, especially in the central area of the frame. At smaller apertures, some loss of detail can be observed, particularly at the edges when using longer focal lengths. However, for general photography purposes, the lens still delivers bright and sharp images.

The lens features a high-quality optical design, including one aspherical element and two extra-low dispersion elements, which help to maintain high resolution and suppress chromatic aberration. The minimum focusing distance of 0.45m allows for close-up photography, and the lens produces beautiful background bokeh, adding a pleasing aesthetic to close-up shots.

Overall, the Sony E 18-135mm f/3.5-5.6 OSS Lens is a reliable and versatile option for photographers using APS-C mirrorless cameras. Its broad zoom range, compact size, and image stabilization make it an excellent choice for travel and day-to-day shooting. While there may be some limitations in terms of edge sharpness and performance at smaller apertures, it remains a solid lens for general photography, delivering bright and sharp images.

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

Sony a6700 with 18-135mm Lens at B&H, Adorama.

Best Wide-Angle Zoom Lenses for Sony a6700

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)
  • Store links 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 versatile and lightweight ultra-wide-angle zoom lens designed with the hybrid shooter in mind. It caters to the needs of vloggers and content creators, providing excellent video production capabilities and advanced optics. With its Power Zoom feature and intuitive handling, this lens is a perfect companion for daily shooting applications.

One of the standout features of this lens is its compact size, making it the smallest ultra-wide APS-C zoom lens among all camera companies. It offers a full-frame equivalent focal length range of 15-30mm, providing an ultra-wide angle of view for capturing immersive shots. The constant f/4 aperture throughout the zoom range ensures consistent brightness and allows for creative control over depth of field.

The lens’s optical performance is impressive, with three aspherical elements and two ED elements that minimize distortion and chromatic aberrations, resulting in sharp and clear images. The circular diaphragm produces smooth and natural bokeh, enhancing the visual appeal of your shots.

For video-oriented shooters, the Sony E 10-20mm f/4 PZ G lens excels in performance. The internal Power Zoom mechanism enables smooth zooming during recording, and the linear AF system provides fast and silent autofocus, crucial for video production. The lens is also compatible with Sony’s Breathing Compensation function, ensuring accurate focus tracking while minimizing breathing effects.

While the lens lacks image stabilization, it makes up for it with its lightweight design, making it ideal for handheld use and travel. It is also weather-sealed, offering protection against dust and moisture, further expanding its usability in various shooting conditions.

However, the lens does have a couple of drawbacks. The focus and zoom rings are positioned too close to each other, which may result in accidental adjustments. At the widest focal length of 10mm, 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 fantastic option for APS-C shooters, especially those focused on video and vlogging. It delivers excellent image quality, smooth zooming capabilities, and a lightweight design, making it a go-to lens for hybrid shooters and content creators. Despite its slightly higher price point, its performance and versatility make it a worthwhile investment.

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
  • Store links 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 true game-changer for Sony E-mount APS-C mirrorless cameras. This ultra-wide-angle zoom lens offers a remarkable combination of fast and constant f/2.8 maximum aperture, exceptional image quality, and a compact, lightweight design that makes it an essential tool for landscape, astrophotography, and architectural photography enthusiasts.

One of the standout features of this lens is its bright f/2.8 aperture, providing consistent brightness throughout the zoom range. This not only allows for improved control over depth of field but also enhances low-light performance, making it perfect for shooting in dimly lit environments without sacrificing image quality. Thanks to the optical design that incorporates one XLD element, two LD elements, and two glass-molded aspherical elements, the Tamron 11-20mm delivers highly corrected images with minimal chromatic aberrations and color fringing, resulting in improved clarity and accurate color reproduction.

The lens also boasts Tamron’s BBAR-G2 coating, effectively suppressing internal reflections, flare, and ghosting, which translates into greater contrast and color fidelity, especially when shooting in challenging lighting conditions. The result is stunningly sharp and clear images with exceptional detail.

Beyond its optical prowess, the Tamron 11-20mm f/2.8 Di III-A RXD Lens features a responsive RXD stepping drive motor, enabling fast and near-silent autofocus performance suitable for both stills and video shooting. The lens’s minimum object distance of just 5.9″ at the widest end of the zoom range opens up exciting possibilities for wide-angle macro imaging, creating unique perspectives that make nearby objects appear larger and distant ones smaller. Moreover, the f/2.8 maximum aperture offers a shallower depth of field, producing beautiful bokeh background details, perfect for creative compositions.

Designed with durability in mind, the lens incorporates moisture-resistant construction, ensuring its resilience under inclement weather conditions, and a fluorine coating on the front lens element protects against dust, dirt, and smearing.

In summary, the Tamron 11-20mm f/2.8 Di III-A RXD Lens is a versatile and high-performance ultra-wide-angle zoom that will undoubtedly elevate your photography to new heights. Its compact, lightweight design makes it an ideal travel companion, while the impressive optical performance, fast aperture, and rapid autofocus ensure you never miss a moment. Though it comes at a premium price, the lens’s versatility, image quality, and robust build make it a compelling investment for photographers seeking to capture awe-inspiring wide-angle shots with unmatched clarity and creativity. Whether you’re a professional or an enthusiast, this lens is bound to expand your enjoyment of shooting and unlock a world of possibilities in your creative journey.

$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 a6700

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)
  • Store links 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 that packs a punch with its fast f/1.4 aperture, making it a versatile option for both vlogging and stills photography. With a 22.5mm equivalent focal length, this lens proves to be ideal for various shooting scenarios, from street and landscapes to travel shots and environmental portraits.

The lens features advanced G Series optics, including three aspherical elements that ensure high sharpness and minimal distortion and spherical aberrations. Additionally, one Super ED and two ED elements contribute to better color accuracy and reduced chromatic aberrations, resulting in images with greater clarity.

Its fast f/1.4 aperture is perfect for creating a shallow depth of field and achieving excellent results in low-light conditions. The rounded 7-blade diaphragm further enhances the bokeh quality, providing a smooth and natural background blur.

Weighing only 7.7 oz and measuring 2.7″ in length, the lens is compact and lightweight, complementing Sony’s APS-C format mirrorless camera bodies perfectly. The weather-resistant design adds durability and reliability, making it suitable for shooting in various conditions.

The lens also boasts excellent autofocus performance, thanks to the Linear Motor system that utilizes two separate motors for quick and precise focusing. The internal focusing design ensures responsive focus performance and maintains a consistent lens length during operation.

Optically, the Sony E 15mm f/1.4 G delivers impressive results with high center sharpness throughout the aperture range. Edge sharpness is slightly less than the center, but overall image quality remains outstanding. Chromatic aberrations are minimal, and vignetting is well controlled, even when shooting directly into the sun.

One notable optical issue is barrel distortion in RAW files, which can be easily corrected when shooting JPEGs in-camera or with post-processing. The lens also pairs well with Sony’s Breathing Compensation function on select Alpha cameras to maintain compositional accuracy during focus adjustments.

The lens’s only drawback is its relatively high price, especially when compared to the older Sigma 16mm f/1.4 DC DN, which offers a similar aperture but at half the cost. However, the Sony E 15mm f/1.4 G more than justifies its price with its sublime optics, quick focus motors, and strong weather protection.

Overall, the Sony E 15mm f/1.4 G Lens is a high-performance option that excels in both stills and vlogging. Its compact and lightweight design, coupled with excellent image quality and smooth autofocus, make it a great choice for photographers and videographers looking to capture stunning wide-angle shots.

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)
  • Store links 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 lens is a highly versatile and impressive addition to the Sony APS-C mirrorless lineup. Its ultra-wide focal length of 16.5mm equivalent makes it ideal for various subjects, including landscapes, architectural interiors, astrophotography, and vlogging. The bright f/1.8 maximum aperture not only allows for creative shallow depth-of-field shots but also excels in low-light conditions, providing clear and sharp images.

In terms of image quality, the lens performs admirably, delivering sharpness across the frame and effectively reducing color fringing and other aberrations. The 7-blade diaphragm ensures a smooth and natural bokeh quality, enhancing the visual appeal of the images.

Autofocus is fast, quiet, and precise, thanks to the Linear Motor system with two separate motors. Additionally, the lens supports smooth manual focus control with Linear Response technology. It also features an AF/MF switch for quick mode switching.

The lens’s compact and lightweight build, measuring just 2.3 inches and weighing 6.4 ounces, makes it highly portable and suitable for travel and walkaround recording applications. The weather-sealed construction adds protection against dust and moisture, making it more reliable for outdoor shooting.

The lens’s close focusing capability of 4.7 inches with manual focus or 5.9 inches with autofocus provides new perspectives for dramatic viewpoints, even allowing for macro-type shots. However, the barrel distortion is noticeable in RAW files, although it is automatically corrected in-camera for JPEGs.

While the Sony E 11mm f/1.8 is marketed as a vlogging lens, it proves to be equally valuable for stills photography, particularly for landscapes and architecture. Flare control is good, but some ghosting may occur when shooting against the sun.

Despite not having the “G” branding, this lens offers impressive performance and build quality. It comes at a reasonable price point, making it an attractive choice for photographers and videographers alike. With its combination of excellent image quality, fast autofocus, and compact design, the Sony E 11mm f/1.8 is undoubtedly a highly recommended ultra-wide-angle prime lens for Sony APS-C mirrorless cameras.

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
  • Store links 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 is a compact and affordable option for APS-C mirrorless camera users seeking an ultra-wide perspective. With its pancake-style design, measuring only 25mm in length and weighing just 130g, this lens is incredibly lightweight and easy to carry. The 10mm focal length provides a 35mm-equivalent focal length of 15mm, making it well-suited for architectural and landscape photography.

One of the standout features of this lens is its minimal distortion, allowing for accurate and true-to-life image reproduction. The lens incorporates four extra-low dispersion glass elements and two aspherical glass elements, effectively reducing chromatic aberrations and distortions, resulting in sharper images.

The Laowa 10mm f/4 Cookie Lens also offers a 4-inch minimum focusing distance, enabling wide-angle macro shots and adding versatility to your photography. Additionally, the five-blade aperture creates 10-point sun stars when shooting towards a bright light source, adding a creative touch to your images.

While the lens has its strengths, it does come with some limitations. The maximum aperture of f/4 may not be ideal for low-light situations or for achieving a shallow depth of field. Furthermore, the lens lacks autofocus and weather sealing, which may be drawbacks for some photographers.

Despite its limitations, the Laowa 10mm f/4 Cookie Lens presents an affordable and fun option for those looking to experiment with ultra-wide manual lenses. Its unique aesthetic and compact size make it an appealing choice for travel photography, vlogging, and capturing everyday moments. If you’re willing to work with manual focus and can appreciate its distinctive character, this lens can be a valuable addition to your camera bag.

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

Best Standard Zoom Lenses for Sony a6700

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
  • Store links 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 highly versatile and capable standard zoom lens designed for crop-sensor mirrorless cameras. It offers a full-frame equivalent zoom range of 27-75mm, making it suitable for various photography and videography applications, including landscapes, portraits, street photography, architecture, and events.

One of the standout features of this lens is its wide constant aperture of f/2.8 throughout the entire zoom range. This allows for greater control over the focus position and enables easier hand-held shooting in low-light conditions. Additionally, the large aperture creates a shallow depth-of-field, resulting in high-impact images with pleasing background blur.

The optical performance of the Sigma 18-50mm f/2.8 DC DN lens is impressive. It incorporates three high-precision glass-molded aspherical elements and a special low dispersion element, which work together to minimize distortion, spherical aberrations, chromatic aberrations, and color fringing. The result is sharp and accurate rendering with excellent contrast and color accuracy.

Autofocus is fast, quiet, and reliable thanks to the lens’s stepping motor. This makes it well-suited for capturing video or fast-moving subjects like children and animals. The lens also has a minimum focusing distance of just 4.8″, allowing for macro-style close-up photography.

In terms of size and weight, the Sigma 18-50mm f/2.8 DC DN Contemporary Lens is exceptionally compact and lightweight, making it ideal for travel and day-to-day shooting. It weighs just over 10 ounces (290g) and measures less than 3 inches (74.5mm) in length. This makes it a perfect choice for photographers who value portability and want to keep their camera kit small.

While the lens lacks full weather sealing and a fluorine coating, it offers outstanding value for its price. It is an affordable option for beginner photographers who are looking to upgrade from their kit lens, providing sharp optics, pleasing bokeh, and decent macro capabilities.

Overall, the Sigma 18-50mm f/2.8 DC DN Contemporary Lens is a highly recommended choice for Sony APS-C photographers seeking a compact, high-quality, and budget-friendly standard zoom lens. It delivers excellent optical performance, fast autofocus, and a versatile range of focal lengths, making it a valuable tool for various 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
  • Store links 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 versatile and high-performing option for Sony E-mount APS-C-format mirrorless cameras. With its wide-to-short telephoto zoom range and constant f/2.8 maximum aperture, this lens is well-suited for everyday shooting and challenging lighting conditions. Its optical design incorporates aspherical and low dispersion elements, resulting in exceptional image quality with sharpness, clarity, and accurate color reproduction. The lens also features Tamron’s BBAR coating, minimizing flare and ghosting for increased contrast, particularly in backlit situations.

One of the standout features of the Tamron 17-70mm f/2.8 lens is its Vibration Compensation image stabilization system, which effectively reduces camera shake. This stabilization system is beneficial for both photography and video recording, especially in low-light environments. The lens’s RXD stepping motor enables fast and near-silent autofocus performance, allowing for quick and precise focusing. It also offers full-time manual focus override and a minimum focusing distance of 7.5 inches, making it suitable for close-up shots.

The construction of the lens is both sturdy and weather-resistant, providing durability and protection in various shooting conditions. Additionally, the front element is fluorine-coated to resist fingerprints and smudges. This lens offers a broad zoom range, making it ideal for travel photography, while its fast aperture allows for background blur and low-light shooting.

The Tamron 17-70mm f/2.8 Di III-A VC RXD Lens delivers excellent value for its price. It provides a large focal length range, reliable image stabilization, and impressive performance in a compact and lightweight package. However, some users may find it slightly bulky compared to other lenses in its class. While the lens generally offers pleasing image quality, sharpness could be further improved at certain settings, and uncorrected distortions may be noticeable.

Overall, the Tamron 17-70mm f/2.8 Di III-A VC RXD Lens is a solid choice for photographers seeking a versatile, everyday lens with the added benefits of image stabilization and a fast aperture. It is particularly well-suited for travel photography and videography. Despite a few minor drawbacks, this lens delivers on its promise of performance, making it a worthwhile investment for both enthusiasts and professionals alike.

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
  • Store links 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 Sony’s APS-C E-mount mirrorless camera system, and it doesn’t disappoint. Designed as a workhorse lens, it covers a versatile range from wide-angle to portrait lengths, making it suitable for a wide variety of subjects. Its constant f/2.8 maximum aperture allows for consistent brightness throughout the zoom range, enabling excellent control over depth of field and low-light performance.

Image quality is outstanding, with impressive sharpness, contrast, and pleasing bokeh. The lens incorporates advanced optics, including four aspherical elements and three extra-low dispersion elements, to minimize distortion, chromatic aberrations, and color fringing. A Nano AR Coating further enhances contrast and color accuracy by reducing surface reflections, flare, and ghosting.

Handling of the lens is refined, with a customizable focus hold button, robust build quality, and weather-sealing for added protection against dust and moisture. Autofocus is lightning-fast, precise, and nearly silent, while manual focusing benefits from Sony’s Linear Response MF feature.

The lens’s only drawbacks are the lack of optical stabilization and noticeable barrel distortion at the short end of the zoom range when uncorrected. However, these limitations can be mitigated with in-camera corrections or post-processing.

Despite its professional-level price point, the Sony E 16-55mm f/2.8 G is a worthy investment for professional stills and movie shooters. It offers excellent image quality, reliable autofocus, and a solid build quality. The lens is also compact and lightweight, making it a practical choice for everyday shooting and travel.

Overall, the Sony E 16-55mm f/2.8 G lens is an Editors’ Choice and an impressive addition to Sony’s APS-C lens lineup. While it comes at a premium price, its exceptional performance and versatile focal length range make it a go-to lens for photographers who demand top-notch image quality and reliable functionality.

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

Best Portrait Lenses for Sony a6700

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
  • Store links 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 an exceptional lens that offers superb performance, excellent build quality, and impressive image quality. With its bright f/1.4 maximum aperture, it excels in low-light conditions and provides excellent control over depth of field for creative effects and subject isolation.

One of the standout features of this lens is its sharpness, which is particularly impressive between f/2 and f/8. The optical design, including two aspherical elements and one SLD element, helps minimize aberrations and deliver sharp, clear images. The lens also features a super multilayer coating that reduces flare and ghosting, resulting in increased contrast and color accuracy.

Despite some minor downsides such as noticeable pincushion distortion and busy bokeh, these issues can be easily corrected in post-processing, especially considering the lens’s affordable price point. The build quality is commendable, with a metal body and a rubberized focus ring that feels smooth and provides a secure grip. The lens is also dust and moisture resistant, making it suitable for outdoor photography.

Autofocus performance is fast, precise, and virtually silent, making it suitable for both photography and videography applications. While the lens lacks optical image stabilization, the wide maximum aperture compensates for it by allowing faster shutter speeds in most situations.

Overall, the Sigma 56mm f/1.4 DC DN Contemporary Lens is an excellent choice for portrait and still life photographers using APS-C-format Sony E-mount mirrorless cameras. Its combination of exceptional image quality, compact size, and affordable price make it a standout option in its class. Whether you’re a professional or a casual photographer, this lens offers great value for your money and is sure to impress with its performance.

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
  • Store links 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 short telephoto prime lens designed for Sony’s APS-C mirrorless cameras. With its effective focal length of 75mm, it is an excellent choice for portraiture, offering a flattering perspective. The fast maximum aperture of f/1.8 is ideal for low-light situations and creating shallow depth-of-field effects. One notable feature is Sony’s Optical SteadyShot (OSS) image stabilization, which proves to be valuable for general photography, ensuring sharp and shake-free images.

In terms of optical performance, the Sony E 50mm f/1.8 OSS delivers excellent results. The center sharpness is impressive, although the corners and borders can be slightly soft at wider apertures. However, for its intended applications, such as portraits, this is not a significant issue. When stopped down to f/4-f/8, the lens showcases its potential, delivering very impressive image quality, especially with the high-resolution Sony sensor. While there may be some slight visible lateral chromatic aberrations and vignetting at f/1.8, they are generally manageable. One standout aspect of this lens is the quality of its bokeh, which ranks among the best in its class and will surely delight portrait photographers.

The build quality of the Sony E 50mm f/1.8 OSS lens is solid, featuring a well-constructed metal body with a metal focus ring. It is an internal focus (IF) lens, meaning it maintains its physical length during focusing and has a non-rotating front element. The inclusion of optical image stabilization adds further value, particularly for low-light photography.

With a price just around $300, the Sony E 50mm f/1.8 OSS may not be the cheapest 50mm lens, but considering its overall performance and features, including the image stabilization, it offers excellent value. It is a lens that is likely to be highly sought after by photographers in need of a near-perfect portrait-length perspective for their APS-C E-mount cameras.

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 a6700

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
  • Store links 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 and high-quality lens that offers excellent image quality and a range of features suitable for both macro photography and portraiture. With a 75mm-equivalent focal length on APS-C cameras, it provides a moderate telephoto perspective. The lens’s macro capabilities are impressive, with a 1:1 maximum magnification ratio and a minimum focusing distance of 5.9 inches, allowing for detailed close-up shots.

The optical design of the lens incorporates two aspherical elements and two low dispersion elements, resulting in sharp and well-corrected imagery. These elements effectively control aberrations, distortion, and color fringing, ensuring accurate and high-quality images. The ZEISS T* anti-reflective coating minimizes flare and ghosting, enhancing contrast and color accuracy, especially in strong lighting conditions.

The lens features a DC autofocus motor, enabling fast, precise, and quiet focusing performance. However, it should be noted that focusing can be slow when in the macro range, and the autofocus may produce noticeable noise when used for video recording. The lens construction is robust, made of solid metal and rubber, providing durability and a professional feel.

While the ZEISS Touit 50mm f/2.8M Macro Lens delivers fantastic image quality and a smooth bokeh, there are a few downsides to consider. The lens lacks manual focus/auto focus and focus limiter switches, which may limit its versatility for certain shooting scenarios. Additionally, the working distance at 1:1 magnification is very short, which can make it challenging to capture subjects without disturbing them.

In summary, the ZEISS Touit 50mm f/2.8M Macro Lens is a highly capable lens with exceptional image quality and solid construction. It excels in macro photography and portraiture, offering sharpness, accurate rendering, and pleasing bokeh. However, its autofocus performance in the macro range and the absence of certain manual focus features may impact its suitability for video work or specific shooting situations.

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
  • Store links 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 from Venus Optics is an impressive and affordable option for macro photography enthusiasts. Designed for APS-C-format Sony E-mount mirrorless cameras, it offers a 2:1 maximum magnification ratio and a minimum focusing distance of 6.7 inches, allowing for stunning close-up shots with exceptional detail.

One of the standout features of this lens is its image quality, which is remarkable for its price point. The lens utilizes three extra-low dispersion elements to effectively reduce chromatic aberrations and color fringing, resulting in high clarity and accurate color rendering. The sharpness of the lens is outstanding, delivering crisp and detailed images, particularly when stopped down. Additionally, the nine-blade diaphragm contributes to a pleasing bokeh quality for attractive background blur.

The Laowa 65mm f/2.8 2x Ultra Macro APO Lens is designed with a compact and lightweight form factor, making it easy to handle and carry around. It is a manual focus lens, which may not suit all photographers, but for macro photography, manual focus is often preferred for precise control. The lens lacks autofocus, electronic contacts for EXIF data, and image stabilization, but these compromises are reasonable considering the lens’s affordability and exceptional image quality.

Overall, the Laowa 65mm f/2.8 2x Ultra Macro APO Lens is an excellent choice for macro enthusiasts on a budget. It delivers impressive sharpness, color accuracy, and versatility in capturing extreme close-up subjects. While it may not have some of the convenience features found in more expensive lenses, its performance and price-to-performance ratio make it a highly recommended option for macro photography.

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
  • Store links 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 high-performing optic that offers excellent image quality and close-focusing capabilities. With a maximum magnification of 1:1 and a minimum focusing distance of 6.3 inches, it excels at capturing sharp and detailed close-up shots. The lens’s wide aperture of f/2.8 allows for impressive image quality and beautiful bokeh, making it suitable for a range of photography genres, including portraiture.

The lens delivers outstanding edge-to-edge sharpness and minimal distortion, ensuring high-quality images. It features an extra-low dispersion element to reduce chromatic aberrations and color fringing, resulting in improved clarity and color neutrality. The lens’s seven-blade diaphragm contributes to a pleasing bokeh quality, adding visual appeal to selective focus techniques.

Despite its compact and lightweight design, the lens is built to withstand challenging shooting conditions, with dust and moisture resistance. It also includes useful features such as a focus limiter function, allowing you to constrain the usable focus range, and a focus hold button for manual autofocus control.

While the Sony FE 50mm f/2.8 Macro Lens offers impressive image quality and versatility, it does have a few drawbacks. The autofocus speed is relatively slow, which may not be ideal for capturing fast-moving subjects. Additionally, the lens does not include optical stabilization, which could be a limitation for handheld shooting in low-light situations. The short working distance may also pose a challenge for certain macro photography scenarios.

In conclusion, the Sony FE 50mm f/2.8 Macro Lens is a reliable and capable option for macro photography and general use. Its excellent image quality, minimal distortion, and weather-sealed design make it a valuable tool for photographers seeking a versatile and compact lens. However, the lens’s autofocus speed and lack of optical stabilization may be considerations for users who prioritize fast action photography or shooting in low-light conditions.

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

Best All-In-One Lenses for Sony a6700

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
  • Store links 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 that caters to photographers seeking an all-in-one solution for various shooting situations. Designed for Sony E-mount mirrorless cameras with APS-C sensors, this lens offers a remarkable 16.6x zoom ratio, providing an equivalent focal length range of 27-450mm. With a minimum focus distance of only 5.9 inches, it allows for close-up photography, making it suitable for a wide range of subjects.

One of the standout features of the Tamron 18-300mm lens is its VXD (Voice-coil eXtreme-torque Drive) linear motor autofocus system. This advanced technology delivers fast, precise, and near-silent focusing performance, making it equally suitable for both still photography and video applications. The lens also offers a minimum focusing distance of 5.9 feet at the telephoto end and a maximum magnification ratio of 1:2 at the wide end, allowing for impressive close-up shots.

Another notable feature is the built-in Vibration Compensation system, which effectively counteracts camera shake and ensures stable photography, even at longer focal lengths. This feature is particularly beneficial for capturing sharp images when using the lens in telephoto settings.

In terms of build quality, the Tamron 18-300mm lens features a weather-sealed construction, providing added protection when shooting in challenging weather conditions. This durability adds to the lens’s versatility and makes it a reliable choice for outdoor photography.

While the lens offers many advantages, it does have some limitations to consider. The variable aperture of f/3.5-6.3 means that it performs best in well-lit conditions and may struggle in low-light situations, requiring higher ISO settings or slower shutter speeds. Additionally, some correction may be necessary when working with raw photos to achieve optimal results.

Overall, the Tamron 18-300mm f/3.5-6.3 Di III-A VC VXD Lens is an excellent option for photographers seeking a single, all-purpose lens for their Sony E-mount APS-C mirrorless cameras. Its impressive zoom range, reliable autofocus performance, close focusing capability, and weather-sealed construction make it a versatile and reliable tool for various photographic needs.

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

Best Telephoto Zoom Lenses for Sony a6700

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
  • Store links 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 super-telephoto zoom lens designed for Sony APS-C cameras. It offers a remarkable 105-525mm equivalent focal length range, making it perfect for sports, action, and wildlife photography. Despite its compact and lightweight design, this lens delivers excellent image quality, fast and reliable autofocus, and effective stabilization.

The lens features a sturdy and weather-sealed construction, ensuring its durability in various shooting conditions. The XD Linear Motor system enables quick and silent autofocus performance, making it suitable for capturing candid moments in both stills and video. Additionally, the lens has an intuitive manual focus control and customizable focus hold buttons for enhanced control.

One notable feature of the Sony E 70-350mm lens is its impressive image quality. The lens maintains high sharpness and contrast throughout the zoom range, producing sharp and detailed images. It also effectively controls chromatic aberrations, resulting in accurate color reproduction. The seven-blade diaphragm contributes to pleasing bokeh quality, allowing for attractive background blur.

Although the lens has a relatively modest aperture rating of f/4.5-6.3, it compensates with its compact size and lightweight design, making it highly portable. The built-in optical image stabilization minimizes the appearance of camera shake, enabling sharper handheld shots even at slower shutter speeds.

While the lens performs admirably, there are some minor drawbacks to consider. It is prone to flare in certain situations, and there is some pincushion distortion present. However, these issues can be easily addressed through image auto-correction. The lens is not compatible with teleconverters, limiting its reach.

Overall, the Sony E 70-350mm f/4.5-6.3 G OSS Lens is an excellent choice for sports, action, and wildlife photographers using Sony APS-C mirrorless cameras. Its compact size, superb image quality, fast autofocus, and effective stabilization make it a highly versatile option. Despite a few minor drawbacks, the lens offers great value for its price and is a must-have for those seeking a super-telephoto zoom lens.

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
  • Store links 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 mid-range zoom lens designed for APS-C-format E-mount cameras. It offers a wide focal length range of 27-157.5mm (equivalent) and a constant f/4 aperture, making it suitable for various shooting situations. The lens incorporates two extra-low dispersion elements and three aspherical elements to combat aberrations and deliver crisp, clean images.

One of the key features of this lens is its power zoom mechanism and Handycam technology, which provide smooth and quiet zooming and focusing. This makes it an excellent choice for both still photography and videography, as it enables seamless zoom transitions.

The lens also benefits from Optical SteadyShot image stabilization, which helps reduce the effects of camera shake, particularly at longer focal lengths. This stabilization system ensures sharper imagery when shooting handheld or in low-light conditions.

While the lens performs well for video shooting, there are some optical compromises to consider for still photographers. There may be noticeable edge softness and distortion, especially at the telephoto end of the zoom range. However, if you shoot JPEG or process Raw files in Lightroom, these issues can be mitigated.

The Sony E PZ 18-105mm f/4 G OSS Lens is well-built and relatively lightweight, making it a portable option for everyday use. It features a 7-blade circular diaphragm that contributes to smooth and pleasing bokeh when using selective focus techniques.

In summary, the Sony E PZ 18-105mm f/4 G OSS Lens is a versatile zoom lens with a constant aperture, suitable for APS-C-format E-mount cameras. While it may have some optical compromises, it offers excellent build quality, sharpness in the center of the frame, and effective optical stabilization. Whether you’re capturing stills or shooting videos, this lens provides a convenient and reliable option for a wide range of photography needs.

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
  • Store links 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 telephoto zoom lens designed for Sony E-mount mirrorless cameras. Its compact and lightweight design makes it a portable option for photographers seeking a telephoto lens with a constant f/2.8 aperture. With a focal length range of 70-180mm (105-270mm equivalent on APS-C models), this lens offers flexibility for various shooting scenarios.

One of the standout features of this lens is its excellent optical performance. It incorporates six low dispersion elements and three aspherical elements, which effectively reduce chromatic aberrations, color fringing, and spherical aberrations throughout the zoom range. The BBAR-G2 coating helps minimize internal reflections, flare, and ghosting, resulting in high contrast and color accuracy.

The lens utilizes two VXD linear motors for autofocus, delivering fast, accurate, and quiet focusing performance. It offers a minimum focusing distance of 2.8′ at all focal lengths, making it suitable for close-up subjects. The lens also features a zoom lock switch to prevent barrel extension during transportation.

Despite its strengths, the lens does have some limitations. Flare and ghosting can be noticeable, particularly at longer focal lengths. It lacks an internal zooming mechanism, and some distortion may be present at longer focal lengths. Additionally, it is not compatible with teleconverters.

In terms of build quality, the lens features a moisture-resistant construction, making it suitable for shooting in inclement weather conditions. It also has a fluorine coating on the front element to protect against dust and smudging.

Overall, the Tamron 70-180mm f/2.8 Di III VXD Lens offers excellent image quality, reliable autofocus performance, and a compact form factor at a more affordable price compared to other f/2.8 options. It is a compelling alternative to Sony’s professional zoom lenses, especially for photographers who prioritize portability and value for money. However, it is important to consider its limitations, such as flare and ghosting, distortion at longer focal lengths, and the lack of teleconverter compatibility.

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

Thank you for taking the time to explore our Sony a6700 lens guide. We sincerely hope that our recommendations have been helpful in your search for the perfect lens to enhance your creative endeavors. We greatly value your feedback and suggestions as they contribute to our ongoing efforts to provide informative and up-to-date guides tailored to your specific needs.

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