Sony FE 28-70mm f3.5-5.6 OSS II Lens

As the Mark II version of Sony’s compact standard zoom, the FE 28-70mm f3.5–5.6 OSS II introduces a revised optical layout using an 8-group, 9-element design with one ED and three aspherical elements to strengthen control over chromatic and spherical aberration. A linear AF actuator now drives internal focusing with higher tracking precision, supporting AF-C and AF/AE at up to 120 fps. Optical SteadyShot mitigates blur at slower shutter speeds, while the sealed barrel maintains reliability in outdoor use, making this a lightweight lens suited to everyday photography.

Sony FE 28-70mm f3.5–5.6 OSS II Key Features:

• Next-generation version of the original fE 28-70mm standard zoom
• Designed for users needing compact handling with upgraded autofocus tracking
• Advanced optical design featuring 9 elements in 8 groups
• Includes 1 ED and 3 aspherical elements to control aberrations
• Improved Linear motor AF with internal focusing
• Supports AF-C with AF/AE tracking during 120 fps continuous bursts
• Optical SteadyShot stabilisation for reduced blur at slower shutter speeds
• Rounded 7-blade diaphragm for naturally circular bokeh
• Get close to your subject with the 0.3–0.45 m minimum focus distance
• 0.19x maximum magnification for tighter framing
• Dust- and moisture-resistant construction for outdoor use
• 55mm filter thread for attaching optional accessories

What’s new?

The FE 28-70mm f3.5–5.6 OSS II replaces Sony’s original FE 28-70mm as the updated standard zoom for compact full-frame bodies. It retains the 28-70mm range and OSS unit but introduces a revised optical layout with one ED and three aspherical elements, reducing colour fringing and field curvature across the frame. A new linear AF motor drives internal focusing with higher precision, enabling full compatibility with AF-C and AF/AE tracking at up to 120 fps on recent Alpha bodies. This improvement supports faster readout systems without compromising focus stability when zooming.

Externally, the Mark II keeps the compact proportions, circular seven-blade diaphragm and weather-resistant build introduced in the original lens, but updates the control rings with rubberised surfaces for more secure handling in colder temperatures. The 293g weight and unchanged 55mm filter thread maintain a familiar balance on full-frame bodies while delivering more responsive focusing performance than the Mark I.

Optical design

The lens uses an 8-group, 9-element construction featuring one ED element to limit axial chromatic aberration and maintain colour accuracy across the zoom range. Three aspherical elements correct spherical aberration and curvature, helping preserve edge-to-edge sharpness at both 28mm and 70mm. Multi-coating is applied to suppress flare and maintain contrast in backlit scenes. The 7-blade circular aperture produces round highlights at wider apertures, supporting natural defocus and bokeh in portraits and close-range compositions.

Autofocus and stabilisation

A linear motor drives the internal focusing system, reducing mechanical inertia and improving acquisition speed during continuous AF. This architecture maintains focus accuracy when zooming, supporting tracking workloads such as 120-fps burst capture on bodies like the α9 III. Internal focusing keeps the front element fixed, enabling consistent polariser positioning. Optical SteadyShot compensates for pitch and yaw movement, and when paired with in-body stabilisation, it provides additional stability for handheld travel work or slower shutter speeds in low light.

Handling and operation

The compact 72.5 x 83mm barrel weighs 293g, maintaining balance on small full-frame and APS-C bodies during extended use. The manual zoom mechanism offers predictable resistance with minimal change in physical length, aiding steady framing. The focus ring provides linear response for precise manual adjustments, and the 55mm filter thread supports lightweight accessories. Dust- and moisture-resistant sealing protects the barrel joints and buttons, improving usability when working outdoors.

What’s in the box?

• 1 x Sony FE 28–70mm f3.5–5.6 OSS II Lens
• 1 x Lens Hood ALC-SH132
• 1 x Lens Front Cap ALC-F55S
• 1 x Lens Rear Cap ALC-R1EM

FAQs:

Is the FE 28-70mm f3.5–5.6 OSS II compatible with full-frame and APS-C bodies?

Yes. It provides a 28-70mm field of view on full-frame and a 42-105mm equivalent range on APS-C. OSS works alongside in-body stabilisation on supported Alpha bodies for extra correction. Internal focusing keeps the lens length fixed, maintaining balanced handling on small camera bodies and gimbals.

Does the lens support high-speed AF-C tracking?

Yes. The linear AF actuator supports AF-C and AF/AE tracking during 120 fps bursts on compatible cameras. This architecture maintains focus stability during rapid movement or when zooming.

Does the front element rotate during focusing?

No. The internal focusing system keeps the front element stationary. This maintains the alignment of polarisers and variable NDs when adjusting focus or zoom. It also limits airflow into the barrel, supporting long-term reliability.

Can I use Sony teleconverters with this lens?

No. The optical and mechanical design is not compatible with Sony’s 1.4x or 2.0x teleconverters. Users needing tighter framing can switch to APS-C mode on compatible bodies for a 42-105mm equivalent view. Digital zoom functions may also be used where supported.