Best Lenses for Sony a6000 in 2024

Looking for the best lenses for Sony a6000? Here are our top recommended E-mount lenses for Sony a6000 mirrorless camera.

Sony Alpha a6000 is one of the best mirrorless cameras on the market and it has world’s fasest AF speed according to Sony. Every artistic shot you take – from fast-action to candids – benefits from 24.3MP detail and BIONZ X processor. It’s easy to use too, with two quick-access dials and custom buttons that let you change settings on the fly. Very intuitive.

Below are the top recommended lenses for Sony A6000 mirrorless camera. You can choose the one you need.

Best Lenses for Sony a6000

If you’re in a hurry and need a quick answer regarding lens selection for your Sony a6000 mirrorless camera, here we have listed the top recommended lenses for Sony a6000 mirrorless camera:


Best All-in-one Lenses for Sony a6000

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&HAdorama.

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 the needs of photographers seeking an all-in-one solution for various shooting situations. Designed specifically for APS-C-format Sony E-mount mirrorless cameras, this lens offers a 16.6x zoom ratio and an impressive minimum focus distance of only 5.9 inches.

One of the standout features of this lens is its fast and precise autofocus mechanism powered by Tamron’s VXD (Voice-coil eXtreme-torque Drive) linear motor. The autofocus performance is among the best in its class, ensuring sharp and accurately focused images for both still photography and video applications. Additionally, the lens incorporates Tamron’s Vibration Compensation system, which effectively reduces camera shake, even at ultra-telephoto focal lengths, resulting in stable and blur-free images.

The Tamron 18-300mm f/3.5-6.3 Di III-A VC VXD lens is well-suited for a wide range of photography genres. Its 27-450mm equivalent focal length range allows for capturing everything from wide-angle shots to extreme telephoto images, making it an ideal choice for travel, walkabout, and outdoor photography. Moreover, the lens features a weather-sealed construction with nine seal points, providing added protection in inclement conditions.

In terms of image quality, the lens delivers crisp photos with the ability to create background blur when shooting at wider apertures. It also offers a close focusing distance and a maximum magnification ratio of 1:2 at the wide end of the zoom range, enabling macro capabilities for detailed close-up shots.

While the Tamron 18-300mm f/3.5-6.3 Di III-A VC VXD lens excels in many aspects, it does have a few limitations. The narrow aperture range of f/3.5-6.3 may limit its performance in low-light conditions, requiring photographers to work under sufficient lighting for optimal results. Additionally, some minor corrections may be needed when processing raw photos to achieve the desired output.

In conclusion, the Tamron 18-300mm f/3.5-6.3 Di III-A VC VXD lens offers a convenient all-in-one solution with its extensive zoom range, reliable autofocus performance, image stabilization, and weather-sealed construction. It is a versatile lens suitable for various photography needs, making it an excellent choice for photographers who prefer the convenience of a single lens without compromising image quality.

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


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&HAdorama.

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 its wide-angle to medium telephoto range of 27-202.5mm equivalent, this lens is well-suited for various photography situations, making it an ideal choice for travel and day-to-day shooting. The built-in image stabilization helps to minimize camera shake, ensuring sharper images when shooting handheld.

The lens offers a broad zoom range, covering a wide range of subjects and scenarios. Its compact and lightweight design maximizes the advantages of the APS-C format E-mount system. The lens features fast, precise, and quiet autofocus operation, making it an excellent all-in-one solution for everyday photography.

Being a superzoom lens, the Sony E 18-135mm f/3.5-5.6 OSS is compact and lightweight at just 326g. Despite its small build, it covers an effective zoom range of 27-202.5mm (taking the 1.5x crop factor of Sony APS-C mirrorless cameras into account), which is equivalent to a 28-200mm on a full-frame camera. This makes it an ideal choice as a travel and walkabout lens, handling a wide range of focal lengths with ease.

The lens performs well as a general-purpose option, excelling in close-up photography with its close focusing capabilities and long reach. The wide-angle coverage is suitable for architecture and landscapes, while the lens maintains good image quality even at close distances.

While the lens generally performs well, there are some limitations to be aware of. At small apertures, detail can be lost, especially beyond f/16. The edges may also exhibit reduced sharpness at longer focal lengths, although the center remains crisp. However, these characteristics can be creatively used for portraiture and close-up shots.

The Sony E 18-135mm f/3.5-5.6 OSS Lens offers a versatile focal range, high-resolution optics, built-in image stabilization, and a close focusing distance. It effectively covers a wide range of photography needs, making it an excellent choice for general photography, delivering bright and sharp images in various shooting situations.

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


Best Portrait lenses for Sony a6000

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 a highly impressive lens that delivers exceptional performance and image quality at a reasonable price. Designed for use with APS-C-format Sony E-mount mirrorless cameras, this lens offers a bright f/1.4 maximum aperture, allowing for excellent low-light performance and control over depth of field. The optical design incorporates two aspherical elements and one SLD element to reduce aberrations and enhance sharpness and clarity.

One of the standout features of this lens is its superb sharpness, particularly between f/2 and f/8. It also produces beautiful bokeh with smooth and pleasing out-of-focus highlights. The lens features a stepping AF motor that provides quick, precise, and near-silent autofocus, making it suitable for both photography and videography.

The build quality of the Sigma 56mm f/1.4 DC DN C is top-notch, with a metal body and a rubberized focus ring that is both smooth and grippy. The lens is also dust and splash resistant, adding to its durability and suitability for outdoor photography.

While the lens exhibits some distortion and vignetting at wider apertures, these can be easily corrected through in-camera or post-processing adjustments. The autofocus performance is excellent but may not be suitable for fast-paced action photography.

Overall, the Sigma 56mm f/1.4 DC DN Contemporary Lens is a winner in its class. Its combination of compact size, exceptional image quality, and reasonable price make it a highly recommended choice for photographers, whether they are professionals or casual users. Whether capturing portraits or still life, this lens delivers impressive results and offers great value for money.

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 is a highly capable short telephoto prime lens designed for Sony’s APS-C mirrorless cameras. With an effective focal length of 75mm, it excels in portraiture, providing a flattering perspective and beautiful background defocus effects thanks to its fast maximum aperture of f/1.8. The lens also boasts optical image stabilization (OSS), which proves invaluable in achieving sharp, shake-free images for general photography.

One of the standout features of this lens is its optical performance. The center sharpness is excellent, making it ideal for capturing subjects with impressive detail and clarity. While there might be some softness in the corners at larger apertures, this is hardly a deal-breaker, especially for portrait applications. Additionally, lateral chromatic aberrations are minimal, and the lens produces stunning bokeh, enhancing portrait photography.

Build quality is another area where the Sony E 50mm f/1.8 OSS shines. The metal construction, including a sturdy metal focus ring, adds durability and a premium feel to the lens. Its internal focus design ensures the lens remains compact and steady during focusing, making it an efficient and user-friendly option for photographers.

One of the lens’s most significant advantages is its price point, offering a high-quality 50mm prime with optical stabilization at a reasonable cost. For portrait enthusiasts and those looking to expand their APS-C lens lineup, this lens proves to be an excellent investment. Its affordability, along with its high image quality and stabilization, make it a standout option in the market.

However, no product is without its downsides. Although the Sony E 50mm f/1.8 OSS performs well, it may not match the image quality of Sony’s high-end lenses. Additionally, the absence of weather sealing could be a concern for those shooting in challenging weather conditions. But considering its overall performance and features, the lens provides outstanding value for its price.

In conclusion, the Sony E 50mm f/1.8 OSS Lens is a compelling addition to Sony’s APS-C lens lineup. Its superb optical performance, fast aperture, image stabilization, and affordable price make it an ideal choice for portrait photographers and general photography enthusiasts alike. With its smooth autofocus and compact design, this lens is highly recommended for APS-C users seeking an excellent 50mm prime option. Whether you’re capturing stunning portraits or shooting in low light, the Sony E 50mm f/1.8 OSS delivers impressive results and proves to be a worthy investment for any APS-C mirrorless photographer.

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 Wide-Angle Zoom Lenses for Sony a6000

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&HAdorama.

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 powerful tool designed for hybrid shooters, catering to both photography and video needs. It’s the smallest ultra-wide APS-C zoom available, making it ideal for vlogging and content creation. The lens features a full-frame equivalent focal length range of 15-30mm, allowing for versatile shooting options, and maintains a constant f/4 aperture throughout the zoom range, ensuring consistent brightness and performance.

One of the standout features of this lens is the Power Zoom (PZ) mechanism, which enables smooth zooming during video recording. The control options are flexible, allowing users to zoom via the lens body, using either the zoom lever or zoom ring, or through compatible camera bodies. This makes it an excellent choice for filmmakers and vloggers who require precise and silent zooming capabilities.

The optics of the E 10-20mm f/4 PZ G lens are impressive. With three aspherical elements and two ED elements, the lens delivers high sharpness and effectively suppresses distortion and chromatic aberrations. The circular diaphragm also contributes to a smooth and natural bokeh quality, enhancing the overall visual appeal of the images.

Focusing performance is refined, with a linear motor system that provides quick, quiet, and precise autofocus. The internal focusing design further enhances responsiveness and maintains a consistent lens length during operation. While the lens lacks image stabilization, its light and compact design make it a great fit for use with gimbals, ensuring smooth and steady footage.

Despite its numerous strengths, the Sony E 10-20mm f/4 PZ G lens is not without its drawbacks. Some users might find the focus and zoom rings too close and similar in design, which could lead to accidental adjustments. Additionally, at the widest 10mm focal length, there is noticeable barrel distortion, although this is common in ultra-wide-angle lenses.

In summary, the Sony E 10-20mm f/4 PZ G lens is a fantastic choice for APS-C shooters who prioritize video and vlogging capabilities. Its lightweight and compact design, combined with excellent optics and smooth Power Zoom functionality, make it a versatile and convenient tool for on-the-go content creators. While it may be a bit expensive, the overall performance and quality of this lens make it a worthwhile investment for those seeking to elevate their video production and vlogging experience.

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


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&HAdorama.

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 fantastic choice for Sony E-mount APS-C mirrorless cameras, offering a wide-angle zoom range and a bright f/2.8 aperture. With its compact and lightweight design, this lens is a reliable companion for photographers who value portability without compromising on performance.

One of the standout features of this lens is its constant f/2.8 maximum aperture, which provides consistent brightness throughout the zoom range. This not only allows for precise control over depth of field but also enhances low-light shooting capabilities. Whether you’re capturing landscapes, astrophotography, or architectural shots, the Tamron 11-20mm f/2.8 lens excels in delivering sharp images with excellent clarity and color accuracy.

The optical design of this lens incorporates advanced elements, including one XLD element, two LD elements, and two glass-molded aspherical elements. These components work together to minimize chromatic aberrations and color fringing, ensuring exceptional image quality. The lens also features Tamron’s BBAR coating, effectively reducing flare and ghosting for improved contrast and color fidelity, even in challenging lighting conditions.

The autofocus performance of the Tamron 11-20mm f/2.8 lens is impressive, thanks to the responsive RXD stepping drive motor. It delivers quick and near-silent autofocus, making it suitable for both still photography and videography applications. Additionally, the lens boasts a minimum object distance of just 5.9 inches at the widest end of the zoom range, enabling unique wide-angle macro shots that capture close objects as larger and distant objects as smaller.

Built with moisture-resistant construction and a fluorine coating on the front lens element, this lens is well-equipped to handle inclement weather conditions and protect against dust and smearing. The rounded seven-blade diaphragm further contributes to a pleasing bokeh quality, adding a touch of artistic flair to your images.

While the Tamron 11-20mm f/2.8 lens offers remarkable performance and versatility, it’s important to note that it does have a few minor drawbacks. Some users have reported flare issues in certain shooting situations, and the lens lacks an optical stabilizer. However, considering its outstanding wide-angle zoom range, compact size, and overall impressive performance, these limitations are easily outweighed by its many strengths.

In conclusion, the Tamron 11-20mm f/2.8 Di III-A RXD Lens is an excellent choice for Sony E-mount APS-C mirrorless camera users seeking a high-quality ultra-wide-angle zoom lens. Its exceptional optical performance, fast aperture, compact design, and reliable autofocus make it a valuable tool for photographers who want to capture stunning images across various genres. Despite a few minor limitations, the Tamron 11-20mm f/2.8 lens delivers exceptional value and is a worthwhile addition to any photographer’s gear collection.

Tamron 11-20mm f/2.8 Di III-A RXD Lens for Sony E at B&HAdorama.


Best Wide-Angle Prime Lenses for Sony a6000

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&HAdorama.

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 an exceptional wide-angle prime lens that combines impressive optics with advanced features and a sleek design. With a 22.5mm-equivalent focal length, this lens is versatile, making it suitable for various shooting scenarios, from landscapes to travel photography and even vlogging.

The standout feature of this lens is its fast f/1.4 maximum aperture, which allows for shallow depth of field and selective focusing techniques. It excels in low-light conditions, ensuring that you can capture sharp and detailed images even in challenging lighting situations. The lens incorporates three aspherical elements that contribute to high sharpness and help suppress distortion and spherical aberrations. Additionally, one Super ED and two ED elements reduce chromatic aberrations, resulting in greater clarity and color accuracy.

The Sony E 15mm f/1.4 G Lens boasts a rounded 7-blade diaphragm, which creates a smooth and natural bokeh quality. This makes it ideal for achieving pleasing background blur and enhancing the subject isolation in your images.

In terms of build quality, the lens does not disappoint. It is compact, lightweight, and features a dust- and moisture-resistant design, making it suitable for shooting in various weather conditions. The lens also offers intuitive handling, including an aperture control ring and a customizable focus hold button, allowing for easy and quick adjustments while shooting.

The autofocus performance of this lens is fast, reliable, and virtually silent, making it ideal for both stills and video work. The internal focusing design ensures responsive and consistent focusing performance, while the Linear Motor system provides quick and precise autofocus and tracking.

When it comes to image quality, the Sony E 15mm f/1.4 G Lens delivers exceptional results. It produces sharp and detailed images with minimal distortion, thanks to the lens’s optical design and the camera’s JPEG correction capabilities. The lens is also suitable for close-up shooting, with a minimum focusing distance of 6.7″ and a maximum magnification of 0.15x when using manual focus.

Overall, the Sony E 15mm f/1.4 G Lens is a top-tier wide-angle prime lens that offers outstanding performance and versatility. While it comes with a higher price tag compared to some competitors, its sublime optics, quick focus motors, and robust weather protection make it a highly recommended choice for both stills and vlogging purposes.

Sony E 15mm f/1.4 G Lens at B&HAdorama.


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 lens is a versatile and high-quality option for photographers and videographers alike. Its sleek and lightweight design makes it portable and easy to handle, perfect for travel and walkaround recording. The lens offers a 16.5mm equivalent focal length, making it ideal for selfie-style vlogging, architectural subjects, landscapes, and even astrophotography.

In terms of image quality, the lens delivers sharp and lively results for both stills and videography. The close focusing capability allows for new and dramatic viewpoints, making it suitable for a range of subjects, including model photography and macro-type shots. The lens also excels in controlling distortion, making it particularly well-suited for architectural photography.

The Sony E 11mm f/1.8 lens is reasonably priced for its own-brand Sony lens category, offering good value for money. Its fast maximum aperture of f/1.8 enables low-light shooting and provides a shallow depth of field for creative effects. The lens features two linear stepping motors for fast and accurate autofocus in stills and smooth and silent focus transitions in movies.

While the lens may have some barrel distortion and vignetting, these issues are well-corrected through in-camera processing or post-processing. Overall, the Sony E 11mm f/1.8 is a highly recommended ultra-wide-angle lens, offering excellent performance, versatility, and affordability. It is a great addition to Sony’s lineup of APS-C lenses and is particularly well-suited for Sony APS-C sensor mirrorless cameras. Whether you are a vlogger, landscape photographer, or architect, this lens provides a lot of bang for your buck and delivers impressive results.

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 is a compact and lightweight pancake-style lens designed for APS-C mirrorless cameras. Weighing only 130g and measuring just 25mm long, it is incredibly portable and perfect for travel photography and vlogging. With its 109.3-degree angle of view (equivalent to 15mm on a 35mm camera), this lens is well-suited for capturing architectural and landscape images, as well as everyday photography.

The lens features excellent image quality with minimal distortion, thanks to its four extra-low dispersion glass elements and two aspherical glass elements. It also has a 4″ minimum focusing distance, allowing for wide-angle macro shots. Additionally, the five-blade aperture creates beautiful 10-point sun stars when shooting towards a bright light source.

While the Laowa 10mm f/4 Cookie Lens offers great image quality and a unique perspective, it does have some drawbacks. The maximum aperture of f/4 may not be ideal for low-light situations, and the lack of autofocus and weather sealing limits its versatility. The lens also exhibits vignetting and edge softness, which can be a downside for some photographers.

However, considering its affordable price tag of $299, the Laowa 10mm f/4 Cookie Lens presents an opportunity for photographers to experiment with an ultra-wide manual focus prime lens without breaking the bank. Its retro aesthetic and compact size add to its appeal, making it a fun addition to any camera bag.

Overall, if you’re looking for a budget-friendly and compact ultra-wide lens for your APS-C camera, the Laowa 10mm f/4 Cookie Lens is worth considering. It may not excel in every aspect, but it offers good image quality, a wide field of view, and a unique shooting experience that can add creativity to your photography.

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


Best Telephoto Zoom Lenses for Sony a6000

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 versatile telephoto zoom lens designed for APS-C-format E-mount cameras. With a focal length range equivalent to 105-525mm, it is well-suited for sports, wildlife, and landscape photography. The lens features Optical SteadyShot image stabilization, which helps to minimize camera shake, ensuring sharper handheld shots.

This compact lens offers excellent image quality throughout its range, thanks to its optimized optical and mechanical design. The one aspherical element reduces distortion and spherical aberrations, resulting in sharp and highly-detailed images. The lens is also equipped with the XD Linear Motor System, providing quick, quiet, and accurate autofocus performance. Manual focus control is intuitive and precise.

One of the standout features of the E 70-350mm lens is its compact and lightweight design, making it easy to carry and handle. Despite its size, it offers an impressive 5x zoom range, allowing photographers to capture distant subjects without the need for larger and heavier lenses. The lens is also weather-sealed, adding to its durability and suitability for outdoor shooting.

The image quality of the E 70-350mm lens is impressive, with sharpness maintained throughout most of its zoom range. At 350mm, there is a slight drop in quality, but it still delivers respectable results. The lens exhibits some pincushion distortion and vignetting at maximum aperture, but these issues can be corrected with image auto-correction. The bokeh effects are pleasing, with the background rendered smoothly.

In terms of performance, the autofocus is fast and reliable, allowing for accurate tracking of moving subjects. The built-in optical image stabilization is effective, enabling sharp handheld shots even at slower shutter speeds. The lens is compatible with Sony APS-C mirrorless cameras that do not have a built-in stabilizer, providing a gain of up to 3-4 f-stops.

While the E 70-350mm lens may not offer the ultimate reach, sharpness, or brightness of higher-priced options, it provides excellent quality and focusing speed at a more affordable price point. It is a compelling choice for photographers who prioritize portability and speed, particularly those committed to the APS-C format.

In conclusion, the Sony E 70-350mm f/4.5-6.3 G OSS Lens is a versatile super-telephoto zoom lens that offers excellent image quality, fast autofocus, effective stabilization, and a compact, lightweight design. It is well-suited for sports, action, and wildlife photography, making it a must-have lens for Sony APS-C camera users.

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 a zoom range of 27-157.5mm (equivalent), it covers essential focal lengths and features a constant f/4 aperture for consistent performance throughout the zoom range. This makes it an ideal choice for both still photography and videography.

One of the standout features of this lens is the implementation of a power zoom mechanism and Handycam technology, which allows for smooth and quiet zooming and focusing. This makes it particularly well-suited for video shooters, providing effortless control over zoom speed and maintaining stability during recording.

Optically, the lens incorporates two extra-low dispersion elements and three aspherical elements to combat aberrations and deliver crisp and clean images. The lens also features Optical SteadyShot image stabilization, which effectively reduces the effects of camera shake, especially at longer focal lengths. This stabilization system can be combined with select cameras’ sensor-shift type image stabilization for enhanced control.

While the lens performs well for video applications, it does have some compromises when it comes to still photography. Users may notice softness towards the edges of the frame at the telephoto end and high levels of distortion. However, when shooting in JPEG or working with Raw files in post-processing software like Lightroom, these optical issues can be easily corrected.

In terms of build quality, the lens is solidly constructed and features a lightweight design, making it convenient for everyday use. It also offers a minimum focus distance of 1.5 feet and a seven-blade circular diaphragm, which contributes to smooth bokeh when utilizing selective focus techniques.

Overall, the Sony E PZ 18-105mm f/4 G OSS Lens is a versatile mid-range zoom lens that provides excellent sharpness in the center of the frame, effective optical stabilization, and a power zoom mechanism ideal for video shooting. While it may have some optical compromises for still photography, it offers a convenient all-in-one solution for APS-C-format E-mount camera users who value versatility and performance.

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


Best Macro Lenses for Sony a6000

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 option for macro photography enthusiasts. Designed for APS-C-format Sony E-mount mirrorless cameras, this lens offers a greater-than-life-size 2:1 maximum magnification and a minimum focusing distance of 6.7 inches, making it perfect for capturing stunning close-up shots with incredible detail.

One of the standout features of this lens is its exceptional image quality. The use of three extra-low dispersion elements helps to minimize chromatic aberrations and color fringing, resulting in images that are sharp, clear, and highly accurate in terms of color reproduction. The lens’s apochromatic optical design further contributes to outstanding sharpness and clarity throughout the frame.

Despite its manual focus design, the Laowa 65mm f/2.8 2x Ultra Macro APO Lens offers precise focusing control, thanks to focus distance and depth of field scales. Its internal focusing mechanism keeps the overall length of the lens constant, making it easier to use, especially when working with close subjects. Additionally, the lens’s nine-blade diaphragm ensures a pleasing bokeh quality.

While the lens lacks autofocus, electronic contacts for EXIF data, and image stabilization, it compensates with its superb image quality, compact size, and lightweight construction. It excels in macro photography and delivers stunning results with excellent sharpness and microcontrast. The robust build quality and attractive price-to-performance ratio make it a fantastic choice for macro photographers.

Although it may not offer the convenience of automatic aperture control or weather sealing, the Laowa 65mm f/2.8 2x Ultra Macro APO Lens provides outstanding optical performance and a true macro experience, making it an excellent addition to any photographer’s gear bag.

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 offers excellent image quality and versatility, making it a useful addition to any photographer’s kit. With its 1:1 maximum magnification, the lens allows for sharp close-up shots and is well-suited for both macro photography and portraiture.

The lens’s optical performance is impressive, providing high resolution even at its wide-open aperture of f/2.8. Distortions are negligible, and vignetting is usually not noticeable in real-world shooting situations. The bokeh quality is pleasing, and the lens exhibits minimal lateral chromatic aberrations. The build quality is solid, but not exceptional, and the lens is weather-sealed for added durability.

Despite its strong performance, the Sony FE 50mm f/2.8 Macro Lens does face some competition from third-party alternatives with similar capabilities at a lower price point. Additionally, in comparison to Canon and Nikon counterparts, the Sony lens may feel a bit dated. The autofocus can be relatively slow, and the lens lacks optical stabilization. The working distance for close-up shots is relatively short, which may limit certain shooting scenarios.

However, the lens’s edge-to-edge sharpness, minimal distortion, and 1:1 magnification make it a reliable choice for macro and general photography. It also benefits from being lightweight and compact, making it easy to carry around. Overall, the Sony FE 50mm f/2.8 Macro Lens offers a great balance between image quality, versatility, and price, making it a solid option for photographers seeking a macro lens for their Sony E-mount mirrorless cameras.

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


Read more: