Sony FE 400mm f4.5 GM OSS Lens

What’s new?

The Sony FE 400mm f4.5 GM introduces a new class of super-telephoto prime to Sony’s G Master range, launching alongside the 600mm f6.3 GM as a lighter, more accessible alternative to the existing larger-aperture models. To achieve this, Sony has balanced 400mm reach with an f4.5 aperture and a 994g build, creating a G Master 400mm that weighs less than 1kg. The 22-element, 16-group optical design also retains G Master image quality, while dual XD Linear Motors deliver fast autofocus for wildlife and sports. This combination gives photographers a more manageable way to shoot at 400mm, as the f4.5 aperture enables a substantial weight reduction without sacrificing optical or autofocus performance.

G Master optical design

The Sony FE 400mm f4.5 GM uses a 22-element, 16-group optical design with three Super ED and one ED element to control chromatic aberration and maintain high resolution and colour accuracy at long distances. Sony’s Nano AR Coating II complements the optical design by suppressing internal reflections, reducing flare and ghosting in backlit conditions. Alongside this correction, careful control of spherical aberration produces smooth transitions through out-of-focus areas, supported by an 11-blade circular aperture for rounded bokeh. The result combines the high level of detail expected from a G Master lens with smooth background rendering at 400mm.

Fast XD Linear Motor autofocus

Two high-thrust XD Linear Motors drive the focusing system, paired with Sony’s latest control algorithm for fast, precise subject tracking. With the α9 III, the lens supports autofocus tracking during continuous shooting at up to 120fps, giving wildlife and sports photographers the focusing speed to follow sudden movement through high-speed bursts. Subject tracking is also supported during 4K 120p recording, extending the same focusing system to fast-moving subjects in video. A focus-range limiter can restrict autofocus to 7m and beyond when you don’t need closer distances. At its closest setting, the lens focuses down to 2.5m with a maximum magnification of 0.18x.

Optical SteadyShot

Optical SteadyShot provides three modes to suit different types of subject movement. Mode 1 is intended for general handheld shooting, Mode 2 supports panning, and Mode 3 minimises framing disturbances when following fast or irregular movement such as birds in flight or sports. Compatible camera bodies can provide more effective stabilisation through coordination with the lens, with Active and Dynamic Active settings also supported during movie recording where available. Dedicated OSS and mode switches provide direct access to these settings from the lens barrel.

Operation and handling

At 108 x 242mm and 994g excluding the tripod foot, the FE 400mm f4.5 GM keeps its physical footprint and weight down for handheld super-telephoto shooting. Four focus hold buttons are positioned around the barrel for access in different orientations, with their function customisable from a compatible camera. A customisable function ring provides another direct control point alongside the focusing ring, AF/MF switch and Full-time DMF control. The rotating tripod collar lets you quickly switch between horizontal and vertical orientations, with a removable tripod mount for use with tripods and monopods.

What’s in the box?

• 1 x Sony FE 400mm f4.5 GM OSS Lens
• 1 x Lens Hood ALC-SH189
• 1 x Front Lens Cap ALC-F95S
• 1 x Rear Lens Cap ALC-R1EM
• 1 x Soft Case
• 1 x Lens Strap
• 1 x Case Strap
• 1 x Tripod Mount