Carl Zeiss Vario-Sonnar T* 24-70 F2.8 ZA SSM reviews

sharpness: 5 color: 5 build: 5 distortion: 5 flare control: 5	user: ColiNiloK review date: May-16-13
	tested on film camera: tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP: tested on full frame:24MP
compared to:	- Sony DT 16-50mm f2.8 SSM - Canon EF 24-70mm f2.8 L USM - AF-S Nikkor 24-70mm f2.8 G ED - Tamron SP 24-70mm f2.8 DI VC USD (Canon mount) - Canon EF 24-105mm f4 L IS USM - Sony 28-75mm f2.8 SAM - Sony 70-200mm f2.8 G SSM - Sony 35mm f1.8 SAM - Sony 50mm f1.8 SAM
positive:	- Zeiss colours and contrast - Useful focual length and constant f2..8 - Quick SSM focusing - Sharp - Very well build - AFD on A99 - Great to pair with A99 in both weight balance and look. - Looks better than all the other 24-70mm and equivalent lenses out there (IMHO)
negative:	- No zoom lock - Bokeh rings can be a little busy sometimes - Some many find this lens heavy - Not cheap - Metal hood can get dirty easily
comment:	Build, pricing and general thoughts: From the look of this lens, it is enough to tell this is lens a meant to be a professional use with serious performance, quality and a serious price tag. No doubt, this is a lens that did not just wear the legendary Zeiss logo for its look, it's optical performance, colour rendition, contrast and quality speak for it self. However, by no means anyone should think the blue Zeiss logo means this is a lens without fault, no it is far from it. In fact I do think a lens at this price should come with simple features like a zoom lock( although my copy does not zoom creep) and fully weather sealed, and the metal lens hood can get dirty very easily, but IMHO, this is still one of the best standard lenses I have ever used so far. Sharpness, colours & bokeh: Simply put, if you want to find the sharpest standard zoom lens for the Sony A mount at the moment that renders wonderful neutral and contrasty colour and crisp micro contrast, this is the one that will satisfy your wish. However,I understand not everyone like the Zeiss colour rendition, the Minolta 28-70mm G lens and the Sony 70-200 G, and the Beercan produces warmer and rich Minolta styled colours and personally I like both rendering to create different mood. Compare to other Sony standard lenses, the Sony 28-75mm ( Still produce very good colours) and DT 16-50 lens appears to produce flatter colour and less contrasty compared to this lens. Compare to Canon and Nikon's standard zooms in turns of colour rendition, I admit I 'm not a fan of Nikon's 24-70's rendition, it gives a yellow and greenish cast, Canon's 24-70 and 24-105 gives a pleasing softer cast that gives out very nice skin tone, but overall I find it is not vivid enough. The new Tamron 24-70( Canon mount), when combo with a friend's 5D3 produce decent colours that is a little warm like the Sony lenses, but I still like the Zeiss and Minolta rendition better. Sharpness wise, I find this lens is ones of the sharpest zoom I have used, infact is as sharp as Sony's 35 f1.8 and a little sharper than 50 f1.8 at f2.8 at the same focal length( due to field curvature, the extreme corners as a little soft) The Nikon 24-70, Canon 24-70 Mk 1, 24-105 and Sony's own 28-75 and 16-50 lens, are all very sharp lenses and when comobed with respective camera bodies, it is hard to tell which ones are sharper, but it seem the Zeiss 24-70 is little bit sharper than all those when compare to the following combo: Sharpness: CZ 24-70 + A99 > Cannon 24-70 L Mk 1 & 24-105L + 5D2 CZ 24-70 + A99 > Sony 28-75+ A99 ( just a tiny bit) =16-50 + A57= Nikkor 24-70 G + D700 = 5D3+ Tamron 24-70 @ 70mm (Just a little) CZ 24-70 + A57 > Sony 50 f1.8 @ f2.8 CZ 24-70 + A57 = Sony 35 f1.8 @ f2.8 I also find this when paring A99 with this lens, the sharpness also beats the new Tamron 24-70 with 5D3, at 70mm wide open, very hard to tell at the other focal length. So far, I can say none of the above standard lenses from all those brands produce buttery smooth bokeh in every situation unlike Sony's 70-200 G lens, the Zeiss 24-70 is no exception, while the out focus rendition is smooth, but in bright day light the bokeh rings wide open can be a little busy, the Sony 28-75 and 16-50 seem to do a slightly better job here. AF: In general, AF is very silent, quick and accurate both outdoor in good lighting and low light. But when shooting fast moving objects in AFC mode and continuous burst all Sony lenses tend to mis-focus more especially in low light. AFD in A99 helps in this regard. This lens also has a better close focus and low light focus ability than the Sony 28-75 lens. Distortion, CA, vignetting & flare: Much better distortion control than the 16-50 on A57 and a little better than the 28-75 on A99, CA is very well controlled in fact even wide open at any focal length pointing towards the sun you won't get it, and the flare control is relatively good, much better than Sony's 16-50 and similar to 28-75 in this regard. I generally didn't find much vignetting wide open as well. Conclusion: In conclusion, if price is not a problem and you don't mind the Zeiss colour rendition, here is an excellent lens for you, though not perfect but in every regard is very good indeed with no major flaws. However, with the new Tamron A mount coming and second hand 28-75 SAM lens, you may find that both are also good value for your full frame A mount body. APSC users, I still think the 16-50 is a better choice for both the focal length, size, and weight balance with your camera bodies.

sharpness: 5 color: 5 build: 5 distortion: 5 flare control: 4	user: jon.rodeo review date: January-15-13
	tested on film camera: tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP: tested on full frame:24MP
compared to:	Minolta 35-70mm f/4 Minolta 50mm f/1.4 Minolta 50mm f/1.7 Minolta 70-210mm f/4 (beercan) Tamron 20-40mm f/2.7-3.5 Tamron 70-200mm f/2.8
price paid:	1600 USD (used)
positive:	Comparable to primes in sharpness. Color rendition, and contrast.
negative:	Price and weight, but what can you expect for this kind of quality.
comment:	This lens is fantastic and lives up to everything I expected it to be! Yeah sure there are cheeper lenses in this category, but all of them make sacrifices somewhere. I can shoot wide open with this lens and expect great results every time. I would recommend this pro-level lens to anyone willing to shell out!

sharpness: 5 color: 5 build: 5 distortion: 5 flare control: 5	user: hg102 review date: November-09-12
	tested on film camera: tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP: tested on full frame:24MP
compared to:	Minolta 35-105, Sony 16-105, Minolta 28-70G
price paid:	1600 USD new
positive:	This lens is amazing. The only lens that I didn't hesitate to give it all 5s
negative:	weight
comment:	This lens really comes through in immage quality. Some of my best photos are using this lens. Highly recomended.

sharpness: 5 color: 5 build: 5 distortion: 5 flare control: 5	user: slawrencephoto review date: November-05-12
	tested on film camera: tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP: tested on full frame:24MP
compared to:	Sony DT 16-80
positive:	Breathtaking IQ Build quality Tack sharp
negative:	None
comment:	Next to my 16-35mm F2.8 ZA and 135mm F1.8 ZA this is my favourite lens. The IQ and level of sharpness are breathtaking. Si

sharpness: 4.5 color: 4 build: 4 distortion: 4 flare control: 4	user: niji review date: September-06-12
	tested on film camera: tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP: tested on full frame:24MP
compared to:	28-70G, KM 28-75/2.8
price paid:	1,300 AUD (as new)
positive:	Sharpness, focus speed, MFD
negative:
comment:	Fabulous lens all round, it's the most recent of my standard zooms and was purchased mainly for it's focus speed and MFD over the 28-70G. Here is how I rank the 3 on a couple of dimensions. Colour: 28-70G, CZ 24-70, KM 28-75. Sharpness: CZ 24-70, KM 28-75, 28-70G. The micro-contrast of the CZ makes for jaw dropping detail. Overall I like the way that the 28-70G renders images as a whole, but the CZ has more immediate visual pop and the short MFD makes a huge difference when I'm snapping my toddlers. That last point alone means I'm getting many more usable images. Have used only with an A850, would like to see what the speed of this lens would be like with a more sophisticated focussing system.

sharpness: 5 color: 5 build: 5 distortion: 5 flare control: 5	user: dealaddict review date: June-26-12
	tested on film camera: tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP: tested on full frame:24MP
compared to:	Canon 24-70 F2.8 L
price paid:	$1400 (used)
positive:	Sharp, good color, good contrast
negative:	over priced, not weather seal
comment:	Before I switch to Sony, I use the Canon 24-70L. This is as good or better. It is sharp through out the whole range and across the whole frame, with excellent contrast and color. The only complaint is that it is over price, and it is not weather seal.

sharpness: 5 color: 5 build: 5 distortion: 5 flare control: 5	user: Ratsters review date: May-13-12
	tested on film camera: tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP: tested on full frame:24MP
compared to:	Sony Carl Zeiss 16-80
price paid:	1899.00
positive:	Excellent all around lens, solid, sharp and fast at f2.8
negative:	Heavy, but I guess this is the price to pay for full frame top notch lens.
comment:	Beside the fact that it gets to be heavy after long hours of photo shot, this lens is absolutely fantastic

sharpness: 5 color: 5 build: 5 distortion: 5 flare control: 5	user: rticknor review date: December-06-11
	tested on film camera: tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP: tested on full frame:24MP
compared to:	18-250 50mm 1.4 70-200 2.8 11-16 2.8
price paid:	a lot
positive:	Amazing image quality fast focus great colors great contrast
negative:	NO ZOOM LOCK!!! so freaking annoying bokeh is only OK.
comment:	I have had this lens for a year now and it's one of my favorites. The image quality is top notch. The one thing that really annoys me about this lens is there is no zoom lock. my 18-250 can lock at 18, so when i put it in a bag, lens down, it does not extend. The CZ 24-70 does not have this... and ever one of my bags hold the camera with lens attached facing down... so when removing it from the bag, it always gets pull to it's full extension at 70mm. I don't understand why they don't add a minimum MM zoom lock to all lenses with extending barrels.

sharpness: 5 color: 5 build: 5 distortion: 5 flare control: 5	user: Blair7 review date: November-11-11
	tested on film camera: tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP: tested on full frame:24MP
compared to:	Minolta 28-135, Minolta 28-105 RS, Minolta 50 1.7, Minolta 50 1.4, Minolta 24 2.8
price paid:	1800 CDN
positive:	Sharpness, quality images, fast focus
negative:	Heavy, Expensive
comment:	I did not understand all the fuss until I bought this lens and now I get it. There will be more Zeiss in my future. While some tests show that other lenses do as well or better in some areas this one does it all in my view. It has become my walk around lens on my A850. I uses my primes much less although I am going to make an effort to use them more. If your budget can manage this one get it.

sharpness: 5 color: 5 build: 5 distortion: 5 flare control: 5	user: bonzaicole review date: October-15-11
	tested on film camera: tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP: tested on full frame:24MP
compared to:	Minolta 28-135 Minolta 35-105 Minolta 50 1.4 Minolta 24 2.8 Minolta 80-200 APO (not for range)
price paid:	1375 used
positive:	- Sharp - Great feel - Images speak for themselves
negative:	- Expensive, but justified
comment:	****WARNING: READ AT YOUR OWN RISK** * PLEASE NOTE: I don't want to be redundant here, so I will try not to go on too long praising this lens... or saying how heavy it is. I'll just tell you what I'm doing after shooting with this lens for the VERY FIRST TIME. This is my first Sony Zeiss lens, but surely NOT THE LAST. In fact, I was so moved by the images and experience, I'm selling all my other high-quality glass, even the best classic Minolta beauties to BUY MORE SONY ZEISS LENSES and invest myself further into the Sony brand!!! This lens is a good enough reason to switch systems to Sony. Furthermore, with the new and upcoming Sony cameras and new technology, I predict Sony will gain A VERY LARGE portion of the 'digital' photography market share and in the not-so-distant future be at the top worldwide. Simply put, this is ONE OF THE BEST! ***I forgot to mention that the auto focus is unbelievable and will be great for shooting HD video.

sharpness: 5 color: 5 build: 5 distortion: 5 flare control: 5	user: michaelg review date: September-25-11
	tested on film camera: tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP: tested on full frame:24MP
compared to:	Tamron 28-75/2.8 Minolta 24-50/4 Minolta 35-70/4
price paid:	1600 USD
positive:	Sharp wide open Bokeh is smooth under right conditions Fast focus
negative:	Price hahaha
comment:	Well, you always wonder until you try it yourself. Now I understand. The detail, micro contrast &3D effect from this lens are fantastic. I have had it for a week & a half now & enjoying learning the lens very much. I don't think I will buy cheap lenses anymore. Not that the Tamron & the 2 Minoltas I compared it to are bad lenses, they are just not in the same league. I will probably keep the Minolta 24-50/4 though since the low contrast makes it very useful in some situations.

sharpness: 5 color: 5 build: 5 distortion: 5 flare control: 5	user: jdkeck review date: September-24-11
	tested on film camera: tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP: tested on full frame:24MP
compared to:	tamron 28-75
price paid:	1600
positive:	sharp, silent
negative:	could have better range.
comment:	I didn't believe the hype of this lens until i bought one when i bought an a850. They hype is not hype. It delivers an image that does have that special pleasing look. I bought this combo before going on a trip to China and used the 24-70 99% of the time. The only time i used my 70-300g was at an animal park. Although the focal length is good, I generally like a bit more range for a walk around lens. I didn't seem to mind it too much in China, and with 24megapixls, i am able to crop pretty heavy, but it would be nice if sony could make this lens with a bit more reach and still retain a constant 2.8 and the image qualitys this lens has. Other than that, which is my personal preference of shooting, this lens made me FULLY realize the value of a good lens and that, in this case, the money spent on the lens was worth it.

sharpness: 5 color: 5 build: 5 distortion: 5 flare control: 4	user: Jozioau review date: September-24-11
	tested on film camera: tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP: tested on full frame:24MP
compared to:	CZ 16-80mm f3.5-4.5 Vario-Sonar CZ 85mm f1.4 Planar
price paid:	AU$1,358 new
positive:	Remarkable optics and build quality. Quick, silent SSM focussing.
negative:	Heavy, but well balanced on a900/a850.
comment:	This is one very fine lens. Beautiful image quality and solid, precision build quality. Compares very favourably to the CZ 85mm f1.4 Planar, but of course has the advantage and convenience of its zoom range, making it a great walkabout lens on a full frame DSLR like the a850 or a900, on which it feels well balanced. Perhaps a little less so on lighter bodies. On an APSC sensor the zoom range becomes a cropped equivalent of 36mm to 105mm, losing range at the wide end. Like the CZ 16-80 Vario-Sonar, I find it produces remarkably crisp, saturated images with that special 'zing' about them - don't know what's in the T* coating but at times it's almost like a polarising filter effect. The SSM focussing is super fast and sure. A big investment but a definite keeper.

sharpness: 5 color: 5 build: 5 distortion: 5 flare control: 5	user: pwkk review date: August-07-11
	tested on film camera: tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP: tested on full frame:24MP
compared to:	Sony kit lens Min 50/1.7
price paid:	1200 AUS
positive:	Tack sharp Fast af Solid build
negative:	No major issues
comment:	Wow, what a lens! Just picking it up is an experience. Super sharp lens with a super quick focus. Images on A55 are tack sharp and have that pop factor. Definitely deserves to be on a FF body to get the most out of it. SSM works great for movie mode, even though I use an external Rode Pro Mic absolutely no noise pickup from lens focusing. Small issues are no zoom lock, as I use a Black Rapid shoulder strap and the lens always ends up at 70mm. Neck strap is not advised as it is a heavy lens. Also seems to have an issue on focusing as af doesn't always seem spot on and mirco manual adjustment needs to be done. Haven't done firmware update for A55 so, see what happens after. Lastly lens has a little movement against A55 body, none too concerning though. Can't wait to go to FF, bring on the A99!

sharpness: 5 color: 5 build: 5 distortion: 5 flare control: 5	user: Crum review date: June-05-11
	tested on film camera: tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP: tested on full frame:24MP
compared to:	Minolta 24mm f/2.8 Minolta 28mm f/2.0 Minolta 50mm f/1.4
price paid:	$520 USD (new)
positive:	Great range on full frame Sharp across the range in the centre, slightly less so at the corners, but only really if you are pixel peeping. Fast accurate focusing.
negative:	None so far.
comment:	I only received this lens last week, but I love it already. The price I posted above is not a mistake, but the discounted price Sony gave me as compensation due to the mucking around I have had with my Sony 70-200mm lens. I am using this lens as a walk around lens and yes, it is a little heavy on my A850, but I don't find it inhibitive and could easily walk around with it all day. I find the build quality is great too. Focusing is super fast, silent and accurate. To be honest I haven't used my primes since getting this lens and I think they'll now be taking a very extended holiday from my camera bag. While I probably wouldn't have bought it if I didn't get the discounted price from Sony, I'm really glad I have it now. Recommended!

sharpness: 5 color: 5 build: 5 distortion: 5 flare control: 4	user: ianb review date: May-03-11
	tested on film camera: tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP: tested on full frame:24MP
compared to:	CZ 16-80 Minolta 28-80
price paid:	£1299
positive:	Solid Build Good Contrast & Colour Fast Focus Sharp from f2.8
negative:	Nothing apart from weight
comment:	Stunning performer. Sharp, great contrast & colour straight from f2.8. Pictures generally taken on dull days are sometimes washed out. Not so with this lens, lightroom can still pull a very good image out of the bag! There is nothing not to like about this lens other than the weight as a walk around. You certainly know you have a hefty piece of glass on the camera! Oh... and of course the price!

sharpness: 5 color: 5 build: 5 distortion: 5 flare control: 4	user: Tomodo review date: April-12-11
	tested on film camera: tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP: tested on full frame:24MP
compared to:	Tamron 17-50 2.8 Tamron 28-75 2.8 CZ 85 1.4
price paid:	£800
positive:	Sharp Solid build Fast focusing SSM great for video
negative:	Heavy Not ideal on smaller bodies Range likely better on FF
comment:	Great zoom lens with excellent image quality straight from f2.8. I use this a lot for both portrait and live music work. The range is good on APS-C but is probably much better on full frame cameras. The extra 4mm between 24mm and 28mm on other zooms is actually very useful. It's a large heavy lens so is best on an A700, A77, A850 or A900. On my A580 it's poorly balanced and I tend not to use it. UPDATE FOR A77 - Focusing is excellent with the A77. Super fast for stills and when shooting video it's smooth and silent. (while zooming for example you can barely if at all see it adjusting focus)

sharpness: 4.5 color: 5 build: 5 distortion: 4 flare control: 4	user: Bob Socko review date: March-22-11
	tested on film camera: tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP: tested on full frame:24MP
compared to:	* KM 28-75mm f/2.8 * Sony 28-75mm f/2.8 * Sigma 24-70mm f/2.8 Macro
price paid:	1300 USD (used)
positive:	* Great color and contrast. * Fast SSM motor. * Sturdy build. * Good range for a walkaround lens on either crop or full-frame sensors
negative:	* Corners are soft when used on a full-frame camera. * Very heavy - feels poorly balanced on entry-level bodies * Image quality is not that much better than the 28-75mm f/2.8 lenses on the market, which costs far less. * SSM motor seems to drain the battery more quickly than screw driven focus
comment:	I recently picked up a like-new copy of this lens for a great price, and I'm very happy with it. Color is good, images have great contrast, and it focuses very quickly. It's heavy, though, and feels uncomfortable on an a580. Balance is much better on the a700 and a850. The build quality is good, and even the little things seem well made - for example, the lens hood (which is metal) fits on more solidly and snugly than any other one I've used, including the hoods on other G lenses. Though it's a very good lens, it's image quality is not leaps and bounds beyond the Tamron 28-75mm f/2.8 and its other variants on the market. In fact, other than color rendering, I doubt you'd see any meaningful difference unless you are pixel peeping or making very large prints. If you want or need the best, by all means, buy this lens. If you're satisfied with "almost as good and a whole lot cheaper", pick up one of the 28-75mm f/2.8 lenses on the market - you should be able to find the Tamron version for a quarter of the price.

sharpness: 5 color: 5 build: 5 distortion: 5 flare control: 5	user: moechslen review date: February-05-11
	tested on film camera: tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP: tested on full frame:24MP
compared to:	KoMi 28-75 f2,8
price paid:	1011 Euro like new
positive:	well build, fits in my hand as a glove, flare control, speed, max. apperture, sharpness, microcontrast
negative:	manual focus is a bit tricky with hood reverse on
comment:	My first CZ lens for Sony, I play around with it since two weeks. I love the wight (no joghurtcup ;-)), it#s fast and sharp, the coating is fantastic - in ambient light one might think to have no glass in it.

sharpness: 5 color: 5 build: 5 distortion: 5 flare control: 4	user: farfisa review date: January-31-11
	tested on film camera: tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP: tested on full frame:24MP
compared to:	Minolta 28-135/4-4.5
price paid:	1200 CAD (used)
positive:	Sharp, fast AF, beautful contrast and colour!
negative:	Heavy (but to be expected), no weather seals.
comment:	What a fantastic lens on the a850. The sharpness, colour and micro contrast are so amazing for landscape. I got it late in the Fall, and the last few sunny days with the leaves still clinging to the trees were an eye-opener! The extreme corners do get mushy at 24mm, but so much of the frame is perfect that it's not as big of a deal as I expected. Great sharpness throughout the range overall. AF is very fast, quiet and accurate. Great close focus ability too, making it a terrific (but heavy) walkaround lens, and bokeh, if a little sterile sometimes, is pleasing.

sharpness: 4.5 color: 5 build: 5 distortion: 4 flare control: 5	user: Gaz review date: January-31-11
	tested on film camera: tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP: tested on full frame:24MP
compared to:
price paid:	860 GBP S/H
positive:	Vibrant colours, clarity, looks and feels reliable.
negative:	Extreme corners can be poor and blurred @24mm, heavy for carrying all day.
comment:	I have spent ages trying to decide which 24 - 80mm lens to buy. Reading a whole variety of reviews left me more confused as to what to get. I had thought of Minoltas or Sony 28-75 and a macro prime but at the end of the day, I had the budget, so I purchased the Sony CZ24-70mm ZA. Am I disappointed? No. If you have the budget and you are looking for a zoom, this is your lens. My original nerves (because I was about to part with a lot of money) have very quickly disappeared since this lens has been attached to my camera. I cannot speak highly enough of this lens in general. My only caution to prospective buyers is: there IS distortion in the very edge of the corners. If you are meticulous enough to go in to 100% on images at the very extreme corners and expect the very highest detail - you will be disappointed. If like me you crop or print smaller, you will never notice. What you will notice is the overall quality and stunning images that this lens is capable of. It will be worth every penny that you finally pay for it! Sharpness gets 4.5 for the corners. Now firmly attached to an a850!

sharpness: 5 color: 5 build: 5 distortion: 5 flare control: 5	user: MGM review date: January-08-11
	tested on film camera: tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP: tested on full frame:24MP
compared to:
price paid:	1589 euro [new]
positive:	All
negative:	Bit heavy
comment:

sharpness: 5 color: 5 build: 5 distortion: 5 flare control: 4	user: Iggy1965 review date: November-29-10
	tested on film camera: tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP: tested on full frame:24MP
compared to:	Canon 5D MkII with 24-70/2.8 L USM
price paid:	1599 EURO
positive:	Fast AF No AF-noise due to SSM Sharp (5x)
negative:	Heavy AF not working ones on a700 (dismount and mounted again, no problems anymore)
comment:	First shots with my a700 gave me an 'AHA'-Erlebnis. It was like coming home for christmas. Next weeks it will be fitted to my a850. Surprise me baby!!!! ...... I couldn't wait for a weak and now I have to cry....... I'm so happy It is a true eye opener. Is it the a850 or is it the Zeis????? What a great combi!!!!

sharpness: 5 color: 5 build: 5 distortion: 4 flare control: 5	user: hanugro review date: November-24-10
	tested on film camera: tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP: tested on full frame:24MP
compared to:	STF 70-300 G KM 28-75 (D)
price paid:	1700 USD (New)
positive:	Sharp Fast
negative:	Expensive Heavy
comment:	This lens is a better choice than 28-75 in APS and IMHO must have for FF if you don't have super wide lens. I am buying FF lenses exclusively in the hope that I will buy FF dSLR when price is right. It is sharp and fast (aperture and AF). SSM also silent which is a bonus for video. And the DMF is great to have. Build like a tank. I drop it to concrete from 20cm (not direct fall as it hit my sandals first) and it only have just barely noticeable cosmetic scratch. The bokeh is not as good as the G let alone the STF (which is king of bokeh). But the more you see it then you will see there is something to it. Some people say it 3D effect which I am quite agree. Distortion I guess is standard like any zoom in it's class. Bottom line, if you can afford it then it is a great lens to have. It is sharper and faster than my 28-75. Does it deserve the 2x price than 28-75? Optically probably not, but with the addition of the built, SSM, and DMF make it so.

sharpness: 5 color: 4 build: 5 distortion: 5 flare control: 5	user: voets review date: November-23-10
	tested on film camera: tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP: tested on full frame:24MP
compared to:	Sony 70-200 f2.8G
price paid:	1400 Euro
positive:	Sharpness
negative:	Bokeh Weight
comment:	I had to get used to this lens. My first G lens was the Sony 70-200 f2.8G which I think gives amazing results. The 24-70CZ gives the same sharpness, but I feel the bokeh and colors of the 70-200 are somehow better. Could be it is just physics, that a portrait taken at 200mm gives a nicer background than one taken at 70mm. That's the reason I rate this lens 4 for colors. The 24-70mm is still a great lens though. It focuses fast and silent. As said the sharpness is outstanding and the 24mm wide end gives you just a little more coverage. Distortion is hardly noticable. Together with the 70-200 and the 16-35 you will have a super setup to cover most of your needs

sharpness: 5 color: 5 build: 5 distortion: 5 flare control: 4	user: hg102 review date: November-23-10
	tested on film camera: tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP: tested on full frame:24MP
compared to:	Minolta 28-70 G Minolta 24 F2.8 MINOLTA 28 F2.8 Minolta 50 F1.4 Minolta 50 F1.7 Minolta 35-105 original MINOLTA 50 3.5 Macro SONY 16-105 Minolta 35-105 original
price paid:	1600 USD
positive:	Zoom Range Build Quality Immage quality Color are all fantastic
negative:	Weight but with the immage quality who cares
comment:	This lens really shines in all areas. It has a 3D like effect that no other lens that I own has. This is my walk arround lens, except when back packing. Just completed a 4 week trip to Utah. This lens and my Sony 70-300G on my Sony A700 met all but my macro needs for which I used my Minolta 50mm f3.5 macro. I found it to be fast enough to get great available light pictures at my grand daughter's indoor valley ball game. I find this lens to fit my needs better than the Minolta 28-70 G, which may have a slight edge in color. I find the CZ to be sharper overall than the G. Just purchased an Alpha 850. On it the lens takes on a new dimention. On the A700 the camera was the limiting factore. The A850 allows more deatal to shine through.

sharpness: 4.5 color: 5 build: 5 distortion: 4 flare control: 4	user: NIKO review date: November-16-10
	tested on film camera: tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP: tested on full frame:24MP
compared to:	Direct comparison to Konica Minolta 28-75 f2.8
positive:	Optics are sharp, f2.8 aperture through out zoom range, T* coatings, contrast, SSM is fast to focus, smooth focus and zoom rings, good flare and ghosting control, no noticeable fringing
negative:	To be honest really nothing
comment:	I was reluctant to purchase this lens for a very long time since it had quite a high price tag attached to it. However, I pulled the trigger nonetheless. I have to say that the lens is actually worth its cost even though some people do not think so. Sure, it would be nice if its retail price was pushed down a bit. Perhaps.....$1400 regular price? Anyway, the lens does perform very well. I always thought my KM 28-75 f2.8 was great optically; and it is. However, the T* coatings of the Zeiss give it something extra I think. I'm not sure what, but it gives images a little more punch to them. I can relatively match the punch with the KM 28-75 with post processing, but that's the whole point; get the punch without post processing for it. As stated, the optics are sharp, f2.8 aperture is constant through the zoom range, T* coatings are excellent helping to provide great detail, contrast is great even at f2.8, SSM is fast to focus and the zoom and focus rings are smooth. I have only tried my lens on my A700. I have not tried it on a full frame camera yet. The frame seems to be sharp corner to corner on APS-C sensors. The lens is a good mate with my Sony 70-200 f2.8 G SSM. If there is any "softness" at f2.8 I think it's due to a very shallow depth of field combined with movement by the photographer regardless of the anti-shake mechanism. Though, minor misfocus can happen with any lens regardless. Flare and ghosting seems to be handled rather well. Though, no lens is perfect handling flare and ghosting. Fringing seems to be well controlled as well since I don’t really notice any. Barrel Distorsion is evident even using a camera with an APS-C sensor at the widest angles 24mm through 28mm. Not noticeable if doing landscape shots, but is noticeable when doing indoor shots. As much as I want to say buy this lens if you need an f2.8 aperture I will say this to the budget minded; get a Tamron 28-75 f2.8 (or KM version) if you need optics that will perform while sacrificing build quality as a result. However, if you need the build and the optics then this is your lens. You will get used to the weight. Since I am used to the weight of my Sigma 100-300 f4 EX DG lens I found this lens to be relatively light (for me anyway).

sharpness: 5 color: 5 build: 5 distortion: 4 flare control: 5	user: RyanTheLion review date: November-13-10
	tested on film camera: tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP: tested on full frame:24MP
compared to:	Konica Minolta 28-75/2.8 D Nikkor 24-70/2.8 G
price paid:	2244 SGD (new)
positive:	Sharp at 2.8 Focus Hold Button Moderate flare control Metal Hood Convenient AF/MF button toggle placement
negative:	Heavy Barrel distortion at wide end Contrast loss when dealt with flare
comment:	Though I prefer the flare control(Nano Crystal Coating) from the nikkor version, I still strongly believe Zeiss glass provides best sharpness!

sharpness: 5 color: 5 build: 5 distortion: 5 flare control: 5	user: gustav7117 review date: November-12-10
	tested on film camera: tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP: tested on full frame:24MP
compared to:	Tamron 70-200 Sony 70-300 Sony 70-400
positive:
negative:
comment:

sharpness: 5 color: 5 build: 5 distortion: 5 flare control: 5	user: Kwozzie review date: November-07-10
	tested on film camera: tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP: tested on full frame:24MP
compared to:	Sigma 24-70/2.8 DG EX
price paid:	3200.00 NZD (new)
positive:	Sharp Look & Feel Sharp Handling Sharp Weight Did I mention it's sharp??
negative:	Weight.. it is one heavy beastie Price, but trust me, you'll never regret the investment
comment:	I'd agonized over buying this lens for so long it's just no funny. My justification was that I'd never get the most from it on my A700. Well I updated to the A900 a few weeks ago and that excuse was no longer valid. Figuring I was wasting my A900 investment with a sub-par lens I made the leap and bought the Zeiss.. man from the moment that lens went on the camera I knew I'd made the right descision and quickly forgot about the massive holoe in my pocket. Is it heavy?? OMG yes!! A900 + VG + CZ24-70/2.8 = ~2.5Kgs but the combination of the body and grip make it well balanced and surprisingly easy to handle. It looks pretty good too and those little blue emblems do attract attention. Get it.. You'll love it

sharpness: 5 color: 5 build: 5 distortion: 5 flare control: 5	user: Vois review date: November-03-10
	tested on film camera: tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP: tested on full frame:24MP
compared to:	Tamron 28-75/2.8
price paid:	1599
positive:	centrally sharp wide open (2.8) ...much better than the Tamron 28-75
negative:	weight?
comment:	This is one of my favorite lenses... fast AF, sharp wide open unlike most zooms... It may be a little overkill for APSC but on FF its great... I initially bought the Tamron 28-75/2.8 which was soft even in the center at f2.8 (unacceptable to me). I bounced around for a while wondering if this lens was worth it... finally bought it and am completely satisfied (cured my 2.8 illness from the Tamron)

sharpness: 5 color: 5 build: 5 distortion: 5 flare control: 5	user: DaveK review date: October-29-10
	tested on film camera: tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP: tested on full frame:24MP
compared to:	CZ 1635 CZ 1680 Min 50 1.4 Min 85 1.4
price paid:	1000 Euro (second h)
positive:	Everything
negative:	Weight Price
comment:	This is a h*ll of a lens!! I own it for some time now, but since I use it on the A850 it really shines. There is nothing I can write that I don't like about it in the daily use exept for the things above. I'm selling some lenses, because this one is a worthy replacement. Never thought that zooms could be as good as (my Minolta) primes, but this one is. It deserves the name Zeiss on it! Wow! Love it!

sharpness: 5 color: 5 build: 5 distortion: 5 flare control: 5	user: Kurt Kyed review date: October-29-10
	tested on film camera: tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP: tested on full frame:24MP
compared to:	sigma 70 mm macro sigma 50 mm macro zeiss 85 mm on old contax
price paid:	10.000 d.kr.
positive:	Sharpnes, color, build, distortion,flare conrol
negative:	For some it can be a bit heavy
comment:	This is the best lens i ever had - and that mens a lot, and a lot of expensive ones. It neat a very good UV lens to avoid flare. I was sure that I would never get a zoom as good as a prime - this one is. Since I bought my first digital camere I've missed the Zeiss-look, now I've got it back.

sharpness: 4 color: 4 build: 5 distortion: 3 flare control: 3	user: Bill73 review date: October-28-10
	tested on film camera: tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP: tested on full frame:24MP
compared to:	Tamron 28-70/2.8
positive:	SOlid Sharp Zeiss
negative:	As with all Zeiss - price! Much better, and cheaper options.
comment:	I know folk get very precious about this lens. TO be honest I think this lens is a joke! In fact I think it must be very embarrassing (for Sony and Zeiss) that the Tamron 28-70 is simply a better lens at a third of the price. Whilst I am all for paying top $ for premium gear this lens simply does not cut it. It's a terrible shame Zeiss churns out lenses like this and then ask us to pay ALOT of money for them.

sharpness: 5 color: 5 build: 4 distortion: 5 flare control: 5	user: Christoph review date: October-26-10
	tested on film camera: tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP: tested on full frame:24MP
compared to:	Carl Zeiss Vario-Sonnar T* 16-80 F3.5-5.6 Sony 50mm f/1.4 Sony 70-300G f/4.5-5.6 SSM
price paid:	new
positive:	wide constant aperture, sharp, great colours, excellent IQ, fast and silent AF, solid build, smooth bokeh
negative:	no dust- or water-sealing; heavy, expensive (price is higher than others), barrel extends while zooming
comment:	I like the SSM, which seems to snap instantly into focus, and never seems to hunt. Good sharpness, contrast and colour throughout range. I like it much more than my CZ 16-80 at the same apertures.

sharpness: 5 color: 5 build: 5 distortion: 5 flare control: 5	user: mambo review date: October-25-10
	tested on film camera: tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP: tested on full frame:24MP
compared to:	Mino 24-105 D Mino 80-200 f/2.8 G HS Mino 50mm f/1.4 or f/1.7 Sigma 18mm f/3.5 zen
price paid:	1500 CAD (new)
positive:	sharp, fast to focus, great colours,.....where should I start.
negative:	$$ it left a big hole in my pocket.
comment:	I am delighted with the purchase. It is absolutely wonderful, sharp, fast to focus and silent when I use it for video recording.

sharpness: 5 color: 5 build: 5 distortion: 5 flare control: 5	user: chrisdb review date: September-18-10
	tested on film camera: tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP: tested on full frame:24MP
compared to:	nikkor 28, 35 , 50 and 85 prime
price paid:	new
positive:	wide constant aperture, covers 90% of focal lengths I use, IQ is excellent and excellent build quality
negative:	heavy (but not as heavy as 135/1.8 Zeiss) and expensive
comment:	I shoot with a FF A850. If I could carry only one lens this would be the one. wide constant aperture, excellent IQ equal to prime lenses at every focal length.

sharpness: 5 color: 5 build: 5 distortion: 5 flare control: 5	user: PhilMorley review date: September-02-10
	tested on film camera: tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP: tested on full frame:24MP
compared to:
price paid:	1500
positive:	its good :)
negative:	heavy
comment:	think it's all been said already :)

sharpness: 5 color: 5 build: 5 distortion: 5 flare control: 5	user: pcarmalt review date: August-28-10
	tested on film camera: tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP: tested on full frame:24MP
compared to:	28-135, 35-105 Old, Tamron 28-75, 24-50, Sony 24-105, 35-70, Sony 20/2.8, 50/1.4, CZ85
positive:	- Good bokeh - Perfect colour - Excellent MFD - Sharpness at all FL, all apertures (except extreme corners) - Fast silent AF
negative:	- Extreme corners
comment:	Folks, this is the one. I've bought and sold all of the zoom lenses in the "compared to" box and this is in a different league. Don't believe claims that the 28-135 or 28-75/2.8 are as good - clearly they are not. 24mm makes a big difference on full frame vs 28mm. So much so that I feel 24-70mm is a more useful range than 28-135mm. I can always crop, but I can't always step back. Bokeh is a lot better than I expected (since some reviews complained of dodgy bokeh). Sure, it doesn't quite match the CZ85/135 but that is to be expected. It's much smoother than most other zoom lenses in this focal range. Sharpness at 70/2.8 (excluding corners) is really quite surprising, not far off CZ85 at f/2.8 - at least on my copy! Though CZ85 is not redundant, given the 2 stops wider aperture, better bokeh, and better sharpness over the whole frame.

sharpness: 4.5 color: 5 build: 4 distortion: 5 flare control: 5	user: Mink review date: August-25-10
	tested on film camera: tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP: tested on full frame:24MP
compared to:	Minolta 17-35 f/3.5G KM 28-75 f/2.8 Tamron 24-70 f/3.3-5.6 Sony 18-55 f/3.5-5.6 SAM
price paid:	1400 USD (Hong Kong)
positive:	Usable images wide open.
negative:	Soft in the corners, hard on the arms and pockets
comment:	Even at Hong Kong prices, this is a big investment. And it's not exactly lightweight or compact. If you want small or cheap, look elsewhere. But if you want the best standard zoom for your a850/900, this is currently it. I wouldn't buy one for a crop-frame camera alone, unless you need the speed, because the 18-55 kit is not shamed by the CZ (in terms of sharpness - distortion is another matter). All the same, I use the CZ on my A55 for low light work and video, thanks to the SSM, but only because I have it already (for my A850). It must be said that, on full-frame, the CZ is not critically sharp in the corners at any aperture or focal length - it's quite smeary wide open, and just "acceptable" at f/8 or f/11. But the rest of the frame is good at all apertures and FLs. From what I see and hear, you won't do better for a full-frame f/2.8 zoom - it's good enough for professional work, and is an easy choice for weddings. I like the SSM, which seems to snap instantly into focus and never seems to hunt. I find the zoom mechanism a bit stiff, like everyone else, and this is particularly problematic on the tiny A55. Hopefully it will ease up with use. The ribbed rubber on the rings does attract dirt, like everyone says, and the AF/MF switch feels flimsy. I would give 4.5 for build, and 4.5 for distortion if those scores were available. So far no flare - I'll amend the score if it turns out to be a problem. If money or weight concern you, and you don't care about the blue Carl Zeiss badge, you may be disappointed with this lens. It's good, certainly, but not fully deserving of the mystique which has developed around it, IMHO.

sharpness: 5 color: 5 build: 5 distortion: 5 flare control: 5	user: MartinM review date: August-03-10
	tested on film camera: tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP: tested on full frame:24MP
compared to:	Sony 28-75 Sony 50mm Minolta AF 85 GD Canon 24-70L USM Canon 24-70L II USM Canon 24-105L IS USM
price paid:	1400 CHF (New)
positive:	- Solid build - Fast and accurate AF - Tack sharp - Aperture - Focal length on the wide end
negative:	- Weight - Size
comment:	Today i got this fantastic lens. I did take some test pictures and i am amazed how sharp the pictures are. Yes, they are sharper than the Sony 28-75. I would say that they are equal to the 85GD. Value for money. By no means this is a good value for money. Sorry Sony, but here you are exaggerating with the price tag. I have to pay 2800 USD in Switzerland for this lens. I love the 24mm wide angle. I used to have the 24-105 and i missed this on the 28-75. I don't need 20mm. 24mm is just right. I had this on Olympus 12-60mm and now i got it on my Sonnar ;-) The zoom ring is very stiff. Thats the drawback of having zoom creep on other lenses, e.g. 70-300G. This is my new always on for everything that does not require lots of light. Edit: After a couple of weeks of using this lens, I found a drawback. The AF hunts when trying to focus at low light, using the off center AF sensor points. Using the center it is snappy. Update 5.3.2013: I have this lens now on my A99. Gone are the AF hunting issues. This lens is stellar.

sharpness: 5 color: 5 build: 5 distortion: 5 flare control: 5	user: marc-104 review date: June-27-10
	tested on film camera: tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP: tested on full frame:24MP
compared to:
price paid:	1300€
positive:	Perfect at all point of view What else ?
negative:	none
comment:

sharpness: 4.5 color: 5 build: 4 distortion: 4 flare control: 3	user: boyracer review date: June-27-10
	tested on film camera: tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP: tested on full frame:24MP
compared to:	Tamron 17-50mm 2.8 Sony CZ 16-80 3.5-4.5 Sony CZ 85mm 1.4 Minolta 28-85mm 3.5-4.5
price paid:	$1,300 USD new
positive:	Sharp/Contrasty from 2.8 through the zoom range Solid build Fast AF
negative:	Soft on extreme corners Uneven zoom dampening Loose lens hood Unconvincing flare control compared to the competition
comment:	This is an incredible lens for the most part, but had to dock some points for softness in the extreme corners at the wide end of the lens. It would have been nice to see a design similar to the CaNikon variants whose lens hoods are of a variable design and shield it effectively at different focal lengths, but you do without as it performs like a champ with its blazing fast AF. The flare is ok, not having the same issues as some others are, but if it becomes a problem, I will update. UPDATE The flare gets another point knocked off as I do find issues with long exposure if there's a light source within the frame. Also slightly disturbing is the front portion of the lens definitely does not feel solid. It definitely has a slight wobble, even when pulled in at its widest setting. Still find this lens a joy to use, but its got a learning curve to extract the best performance from it.

sharpness: 5 color: 5 build: 5 distortion: 5 flare control: 5	user: nitrosyl review date: April-26-10
	tested on film camera: tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP: tested on full frame:24MP
compared to:	- Minolta 28-70mm f/2.8 G - Minolta 28-135mm f/4-4.5 - Minolta 50mm f/2.8 Macro RS - Sony Carl Zeiss 16-80mm f/3.5-4.5 Vario-Sonnar T* - Sigma 24-60mm f/2.8 EX DG
positive:	- sharp right from f/2.8 - produces contrasty pictures - excellent bokeh - fast, quiet AF like a demon! - 24mm on WA end - short MFD - very well built - circular aperture blades
negative:	- hood not efficient when zooming to 70mm - heavy?
comment:	This would be THE ONE, if I were only allowed to keep one lens for my Sony Alpha system. The Zeiss is a significant step-up from the good old Minolta 28-70/2.8 G in almost every aspect (wider view, faster AF, shorter MFD,). It also seems to produce "punchier" images than the 28-70/2.8 G. The Zeiss' length changes when it's zoomed in and out. But that's hardly a point against it, since neither of its direct competitors (e.g. Canon 24-70/2.8 USM L and Nikkor 24-70/2.8 AFS G) zooms internally. UPDATE Performance on 24.5MP FF dSLR is just amazing!

sharpness: 4.5 color: 5 build: 5 distortion: 4 flare control: 5	user: Yugus review date: April-18-10
	tested on film camera: tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP: tested on full frame:24MP
compared to:	Minolta 28-135 F4-4.5
price paid:	1350 CAD (Used)
positive:	Very smooth bokeh Very sharp all around on APS Light fall off is almost non existent on APS Much better MFD compared to Minolta 28-70 F2.8 and 28-135 F4-4.5 (not in macro mode)
negative:	Corner are soft on FF Noticeable distortion on APS (Not to bad) and FF Hood is very short and offers little protection against flare No internal focus (Not really a negative but I was disappointed that it doesn't had IF)
comment:	A very expensive lens designed for people who shoot in low light. It is extremely sharp in the centre even at F2.8 and only gets better when stopped down. With SSM focusing is accurate, fast, and silent. With a focal length of 24-70 it offers great versatility and a minimum focus distance that allows users to create very powerful images. All this explains why it is one of the most used lenses by photo journalists. Though even this Carl Zeiss branded lens does come with a few problems. When using this lens on a FF body the corners tend to be quite soft, and barrel distortion is quite noticeable on FF but not to bad on APS-C bodies. The hood the lens comes with is not of great use as your hand would provide a better shade to protect against lens flare. And one small gripe I have with this lens is the fact that it doesn't have internal focusing, not a big deal just something I would have expected from a lens at this price. If you really do not need the extra stop of light you maybe better served getting the Minolta 28-135 F4-4.5 as it covers a larger range at one stop slower, and provides excellent sharpness all around. And even has a very good MFD when in macro mode... All this for a fraction of the price of the CZ 24-70 F2.8

sharpness: 4.5 color: 4 build: 5 distortion: 5 flare control: 2	user: palmerop review date: April-15-10
	tested on film camera: tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP: tested on full frame:24MP
compared to:	Minolta 28-135mm f/4-4.5
price paid:	1500 USD (new)
positive:	Hi resolution. Silent and fast focusing. Solid build.
negative:	This lens flares a lot.
comment:	The negative point is that it tends to flare almost as much as my old 28-135mm f/4-4.5.

sharpness: 5 color: 5 build: 5 distortion: 5 flare control: 5	user: dominik review date: March-29-10
	tested on film camera: tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP: tested on full frame:24MP
compared to:	28-135/4-4.5, 24-105mm others
price paid:	$1750
positive:	Build quality, optical quality
negative:	could be better at 70mm, but its still very very good.
comment:	This lens is must-have - the best optical quality, the best build quality, very quick and great at f/2.8.

sharpness: 5 color: 5 build: 5 distortion: 5 flare control: 5	user: klw10 review date: March-18-10
	tested on film camera: tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP: tested on full frame:24MP
compared to:	Minolta 28-75 f2.8
price paid:	$1599 USD (new)
positive:	Super sharp wide open. Nice range. f2.8 Build quality Silent SSM focusing
negative:	Weight for some Expensive Colors cooler than classic Minolta colors Barrel extends while zooming.
comment:	This is one very nice lens and I am almost always pleased with the results I get from it. It is super sharp wide open throughout the range. Appears to soften a little at the long end but overall it is excellent. Much sharper wide open than the Minolta 28-75 f2.8 at the center but it is in a different league. The Minolta does appear to be sharper at the edges however. I did like the warmer colors of the Minolta better though. The colors are not bad, just not quite up to the Minolta ones. The lens has excellent build quality but I do wish it was an internal zoom as the barrel extends when zooming. Overall this is an excellent lens and I would say get it if you can afford it.

sharpness: 4 color: 5 build: 4 distortion: 4 flare control: 4	user: GramParsons review date: March-13-10
	tested on film camera: tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP: tested on full frame:24MP
compared to:	CZ 16-35
price paid:	1200 new
positive:	Great all rounder Good sharpness Good colour
negative:	Heavy / bulky Expensive
comment:	Good sharpness, contrast and colour throughout range. There is some movement in the lens when extended and this does concern me, anyone else have the same issue? The zoom is not quite a smooth as I'd have expected but that is a minor issue due to the weight of glass you are moving. Generally IQ is as good as I'd hoped for. Handling is spot on. It's well balanced on my a900 with or without grip.

sharpness: 4.5 color: 5 build: 5 distortion: 4 flare control: 3	user: brororn review date: March-13-10
	tested on film camera: tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP: tested on full frame:24MP
compared to:	Minolta 17-35/2.8-4 Minolta 28-70/2.8 G Minolta 28-135/4-4.5
price paid:	1100 EUR (used)
positive:	Optics and mechanics, SSM
negative:	Size, weight, price, some problems at corners (field curvature)
comment:	A lens with professional feeling: mechanics and build quality very good. Due to field curvature at wide angle this is not a landscape lens. I assume it was not even designed for that. Field curvature spoils the very extreme corners when focused to infinity or near it. It should be used inside in concerts, happenings etc. where the SSM shines (silent, fast) and field curvature is no more a problem (actually an advantage in certain cases).

sharpness: 5 color: 5 build: 5 distortion: 5 flare control: 4	user: Sharpedge review date: March-07-10
	tested on film camera: tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP: tested on full frame:24MP
compared to:	Minolta 50mm 1.4 SAL1870
price paid:	L1200
positive:	Sharp Sharp Sharp Fast silent auto focus
negative:	Heavy
comment:	I love this lens, it's on the camera more than any other. It's heavy on the A350 but with the bat grip it's just spot on. Just wishing I had a full frame to make the most of it's wide end.

sharpness: 4.5 color: 4 build: 4 distortion: 5 flare control: 5	user: Epic Win review date: January-22-10
	tested on film camera: tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP: tested on full frame:24MP
compared to:	28-70G: sharpness/color/build improvements are not worth the extra price hike. SSM motor is delicate.
positive:	SSM and Carl Zeiss label, better flare control than outdated Minolta lenses
negative:	expensive, overhyped
comment:	For this price, it better be waterproof/weatherproof. Zeiss/Sony seem to be aiming at a luxury section of the market. UPDATE: swapped this lens for a 28-70g

sharpness: 5 color: 4 build: 4 distortion: 5 flare control: 5	user: eic review date: January-22-10
	tested on film camera: tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP: tested on full frame:24MP
compared to:
positive:
negative:
comment:

sharpness: 5 color: 4 build: 4 distortion: 5 flare control: 5	user: rohit review date: January-19-10
	tested on film camera: tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP: tested on full frame:24MP
compared to:	Minolta 28-70G: CZ has better sharpness and flare control but results appear tacky, as if the lens is an assembly line for images. Lacks the personality of 28-70G
positive:	SSM, quieter and faster AF than 28-70G
negative:	Barrel extends while zooming
comment:

sharpness: 4.5 color: 5 build: 5 distortion: 5 flare control: 5	user: Edinator review date: December-25-09
	tested on film camera: tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP: tested on full frame:24MP
compared to:	KM 28-75 F2.8 Sigma 70mm F2.8 Minolta 28-85 F3.5-4.5
price paid:	$1909 CAD
positive:	Build quality Sharpness Great contrast Full time manual control
negative:	Price - performance ratio Weight Large Filter thread (77mm)
comment:	Great lense on the A900. I think edge sharpness is better for the KM at all apertures. Centre sharpness is around the same as the KM beyond F4. At F2.8, the CZ is very sharp (I'd say sharper than the KM at any aperture). The corner sharpness is not as good as the KM which is disappointing, but upon stopping down, the difference isn't too big. The build quality for the CZ is great. I would have preferred a metal exterior but the high quality plastic isn't too bad. The grip is a dust magnet which is going to be a problem in the future. The lense hood is great and clips on real smooth. The felt lining of the hood is also a dust magnet. The weight of the lense takes a while to get use to. On the A900 the lense balances well with the body and the F42AM flash. I was considering getting the Sigma 24-70 F2.8 EX DG but the price in Canada for Sigma lenses are pretty bloated. In the end I decided to spend the extra money and get the Zeiss. For me, this lense also meant getting a new camera bag and a more stable tripod (keep that is mind!). *Updated February 28th after more time with lense

sharpness: 5 color: 5 build: 5 distortion: 5 flare control: 5	user: brettyboy56 review date: December-23-09
	tested on film camera: tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP: tested on full frame:24MP
compared to:	CZ 16-35, Minolta 50 1.7, Minolta 28-135
price paid:	1400 USD (USED)
positive:	Great Lens, Well built, Fast, Silent and Quick Focus, Sharp
negative:
comment:	One of the best lenses out there. Great Walk around and great colors. On full frame totally different beast, cropped sensors dont do this baby any justice. Paired with the CZ 16-35 one cannot go wrong!

sharpness: 4.5 color: 5 build: 5 distortion: 4 flare control: 4	user: wolfy review date: November-21-09
	tested on film camera: tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP: tested on full frame:24MP
compared to:	Tokina AT-X 280 AF PRO 28-80 F2.8 Sigma 28-70 F2.8 (ZEN) Sigma 28-70 F2.8 EX Aspherical Carl Zeiss Planar T* 85 F1.4 Minolta 20mm f2.8 Minolta 28-135mm F4-4.5
price paid:	AU$1690 new
positive:	Sharp fast to focus good colour Works well in low light
negative:	Some flare issues
comment:	Better than all the compared to zoom lenses, better sharpness, better build and quicker to focus. Though the 28-135mm does tend to take nicer wide angle photos when wide open on full frame (edge sharpness seems better). Having said that not better than primes, the 20mm wide open edges it out at 24mm end, where edges show a bit more softness on full frame. Also not at its best at 70mm on full frame, the 85mm beats it easily for IQ. Have noticed some care needed to avoid flare in some situations. So far the best fast standard zoom I have owned. Will try update after I have owned it for a bit longer.

sharpness: 5 color: 5 build: 5 distortion: 5 flare control: 5	user: Opus1966 review date: November-20-09
	tested on film camera: tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP: tested on full frame:24MP
compared to:	- Minolta 50mm/1.4 - Minolta 24-105/3.5-4.5
price paid:	1700CAN (new)
positive:	- Sharp - Great colour - Sharp - Build - Sharp - Fast & quiet AF - Did I mention it was sharp.
negative:	Once you get past the price, there really aren't any.
comment:	S H A R P ! Totally worth the money I paid. This was the first good/fast lens I bought. I had to save a while and I am very glad I did. This is a weighty lens. For some it can be negative, but for me, I appreciate it. There is a lot of glass in that lens and you can feel it. For me, it is very satisfying. This was my main lens for a year before my guru convinced me I needed to become a "student of photography" again and use a prime as my main lens.

sharpness: 5 color: 5 build: 5 distortion: 5 flare control: 5	user: stefanDynax review date: November-13-09
	tested on film camera: tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP: tested on full frame:24MP
compared to:	nothing is comparable to this lens
price paid:	1200 EU
positive:	All inclusive!! colors, sharpness, fast af, look
negative:	nothing
comment:	Very impressive, rock solid, fast AF, well bild all. Image take with this lens is SUPERB. The tridimesional path, colors, lens blur, sharpness.....Zeiss 24/70 and A900 is a KILLER COMBO....nothing else can make better image quality. Celestial new standard....is really now.

sharpness: 5 color: 5 build: 5 distortion: 5 flare control: 5	user: jfan review date: November-11-09
	tested on film camera: tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP: tested on full frame:24MP
compared to:	CZ 16-80
price paid:	1599 USD
positive:	Sharpness, color, fast focus and build quality.
negative:	Weight (maybe)
comment:	I love this lens so much that I bought A900 to go with it. It feels heavy in my hands, but build quality is by far better than CZ 16-80 that I just sold. The mechanics is buttery smooth. The image quality has nothing to complain about. You can find some of my recent images with this lens at http://photocreation.zenfolio.com/p716760595 to make your own judgement.

sharpness: 5 color: 5 build: 5 distortion: 5 flare control: 5	user: Sparkle58 review date: November-10-09
	tested on film camera: tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP: tested on full frame:24MP
compared to:	Canon 85m 1.2 Minolta 100m 2.8 Macro RS sony 16-105 kit lens
price paid:	1500 US new
positive:	Amazing everything. Build quality is worthy of the price. It's the Beemer of lenses, I just love taking it out for a spin every chance I get.
negative:	The same things as everybody else. Expensive - heavy - the Zeiss wank factor.
comment:	I lusted after this thing for ages and got it way before I bought my A900 in preparation for going FF. It was pretty damned good on the A700 but becomes sublime on the FF. When I rate something I start at the top then subtract points for anything I dislike or otherwise wish to change. I'd actually give the build a 4.5 for the plastic barrel bit but it kinda gets that .5 back for the metal petal hood. Otherwise, it gives me what I expected, lots of super quality pictures and the feeling that I'm lucky enough to have a true top end lens. It borders on a mechanical work of art. I like a lot.

sharpness: 5 color: 5 build: 5 distortion: 5 flare control: 4	user: tobyjay review date: November-09-09
	tested on film camera: tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP: tested on full frame:24MP
compared to:	primes sigma 24-70 DG
price paid:	L1000
positive:	Sharp Great colour Build Nice contrast
negative:	Price
comment:	Best zoom lens in this category. Twice as good as the old sigma. Build amazing. Looks "pro". Silent and accurate AF, very quick to refocus. Colours lovely - neutral and accurate compared to Sigma Microcontrast second to none. Great for skin tones. Hardly any distortion - if there is any it won't show in normal use. Bokeh good for a zoom - not ugly by any means. Takes nice portraits. Close focuses for lovely clear product shots. The only problem I had was that it can be made to flare (wash out rather than show spots) against strong lights, at wider settings. Highly recommended high resolution crystal clear image machine!

sharpness: 5 color: 5 build: 5 distortion: 5 flare control: 5	user: lionking review date: November-07-09
	tested on film camera: tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP: tested on full frame:24MP
compared to:	SAL1680, Tamron 28-75
positive:	fast, sharp, colors, clarity, solid build
negative:	heavy, expensive
comment:	Bought this lens at a bundled promotion, i must say it is the best zoom lens i ever used in my life. The SSM feature really help to zoom so much faster, f2.8 constant for bokeh effects plus premium quality of CZ optics really produces wonderful colors, contrast and clarity. It is able to capture subjects in detailed sharpness. It is quite heavy on smaller bodies like A550 but still alright on A700 and A900 which bodies are bigger, robust and stronger. If you looking to own a good lens of this range, suggest you to spend a bit more for this lens, it is worth every cent to invest in its quality. In fact you will be amazed by its results.

sharpness: 5 color: 5 build: 4 distortion: 5 flare control: 4	user: mz-n10 review date: November-03-09
	tested on film camera: tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP: tested on full frame:24MP
compared to:	17-80 kit 50/1.4 beercan
price paid:	1480USD new
positive:	sharp color well built
negative:	heavy expensive weird lenght on a aps-c zoom creep
comment:	It is almost impossible to hold this lens on an a200 without a grip, the lens is really that front heavy. But aside from that, the lens is built solid, feels better then the canon 24-70L but not better then say a 90/2.8 Leica. I like the color and bokeh, but some might not because its alot "cooler" then the beercan or 50/1.4. sharpness is out of this world, I compared it with my friends 24-70L and the zeiss is sharper with less CA (imo) but less sharp when compared to a 70-200/4L IS (at 70mm for all 3 lens).

sharpness: 5 color: 5 build: 4 distortion: 5 flare control: 5	user: Shade review date: October-29-09
	tested on film camera: tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP: tested on full frame:24MP
compared to:	Nikkor AF-S 24-70, Canon EF 24-70L, and many.
price paid:	1700 USD (new)
positive:	* Very very sharp even wide open (my copy at least). * Distortion is very low. * Nice build. * Fast AF and silent. * Great bokeh for a zoom. * Colours are very nice. * I can't find any flares. * All in one solution walkaround lens.
negative:	* Kinda heavy. * The zoom and focus ring is rubber, they should've made it metal like 85/1.4 and 135/1.8. * I think the inner barrel and the end of the front barrel is metal, but the body (shell) from the extending front part towards the mount are polycarbonate. They should've made it all metal. * It extends in zooming (I love the Tokinas). * The hood is small, metal though, but small. * Price is higher than others. * No zoom lock. * I think the zooming barrel is just asking for dust.
comment:	Great lens for almost anything. Great to use indoors or outdoors, day or night, just for any use from general photography, art, and even portraiture.

sharpness: 5 color: 5 build: 5 distortion: 5 flare control: 5	user: kevinbm review date: October-28-09
	tested on film camera: tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP: tested on full frame:24MP
compared to:
price paid:	L1200
positive:	Sharpness Build quality
negative:	Little bit weighty
comment:	I first used this lens on my A700 and found that the colours were a little bit flat (nothing a bit of processing couldn't correct) although it was very sharp. On the A900 this lens is amazing - super sharp, colours and very little distortion and flare. It always my first choice walkaround lens for the A700 and will also be for the A900.

sharpness: 2 color: 5 build: 4 distortion: 4 flare control: 5	user: whz review date: October-28-09
	tested on film camera: tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP: tested on full frame:24MP
compared to:	Vario Sonnar 16-80 T* (digital) Distagon 25+35, Planar 50 and Planar 85 Contax (film)
price paid:	1700
positive:	Quick AF
negative:	not really sharp, especially wide open
comment:	Very bad quality control and extremly bad after sales service (Sony) - lens had to go to service twice - cancelled the treaty. Lens had a severe centering problem and a problem with the AF Unit which had to be changed. After "repair" image quality was worse. Avoid this lens!

sharpness: 5 color: 5 build: 5 distortion: 5 flare control: 5	user: atlbrv405 review date: October-19-09
	tested on film camera: tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP: tested on full frame:24MP
compared to:	16-80mm CZ
price paid:	1299 Used
positive:	-Sharp -build -colors -contrast
negative:	really isn't any
comment:	I bought this lens to replace the 16-80 cz since I was disappointed with the performance of that lens. I can say I have not been disappointed with this purchase and now this lens will spend the majority of the time on my camera. I notice a big jump in sharpness when compared to the same apertures to teh 16-80mm. Obviously with having a 2.8 aperture the lens does have some weight and fits well on a A700 with a vertical grip for balance. I have not had the problem of flare like I did with the 16-80mm and once the sun finally comes out will see how it performs in that department. The pictures taken with this lens are sharp, have good colors and contrast, and good control over distortion. The build is good and tight for both the zoom ring and the manual focus ring. Using the A700, I do not see any vignetting or soft corners as it was built for a full frame camera. Bokeh can be pleasing with the right background but can be busy at times. however, I like it much more than my 16-80cz at the same apertures. I highly recommend this lens.

sharpness: 5 color: 4 build: 5 distortion: 5 flare control: 5	user: Rudy review date: October-01-09
	tested on film camera: tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP: tested on full frame:24MP
compared to:	Just about everything
price paid:	1750 €
positive:	Best lens i even owned, color, bokeh, sharpness... i like it
negative:	Price weight CA!!
comment:	CZ is not just a name, it is a class leader. After a couple of weeks, i start noting rather harsh CA in my pictures, so there still is room for improvement. I dropped the color rating tot 4 for this reason.

sharpness: 3.5 color: 5 build: 4 distortion: 4 flare control: 3	user: DavidBo review date: September-17-09
	tested on film camera: tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP: tested on full frame:24MP
compared to:	Minolta 24-105 f/3,5-4,5 Sony 70-200 f/2,8 G Sony 20 f/2,8
price paid:	1550 Euro
positive:
negative:	Sharpness across the frame especially at 60-70 mm even at f/8.
comment:	I am quite dissapointed about the sharpness in the left and right side at 70mm f/8. It's not munch better than my old lousy 24-105 af 70mm f/8. My new Sony 20 f/2,8 are also better by quite a margin at f/8 or f/11 across the frame compared to 24mm f/8-f/11 on the Zeiss. Not recommended for landscape at 60-70 mm since it's only sharp at the center even above f/8. I own this lens but probably not for a long time. I am really disapointed. Not recommended for A900 landscape kind of shoot above 60mm. I think i am a future Fixed Focal length guy. Now it's sold!

sharpness: 5 color: 5 build: 5 distortion: 5 flare control: 5	user: samjackson review date: September-17-09
	tested on film camera: tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP: tested on full frame:24MP
compared to:	Sony - 70-200mm F2.8 G SSM Rokinon - 85mm F1.4 Sony - 100mm F2.8 Macro Sony - 18-70mm F3.5-5.6 Sony - 75-300mm F4.5-5.6
price paid:	2499 AUD (new)
positive:	extremely sharp everywhere! lovely colours good bokeh nice build nice mf ring af/mf switch is perfect super fast and accurate focus
negative:	price weight
comment:	my best lens by far! rhe images are sharper than any other lens i have ever tested or seen! the sharpness of this lens made my photography teacher jealous and he owns a nikon d3 with there equivelant lens! while this lens is heavy it is not enough to discourage me from having this lens on my camera 70% of the time. one of the greatest lenses ever made for any system!

sharpness: 5 color: 5 build: 5 distortion: 4 flare control: 4	user: SynJohn review date: August-25-09
	tested on film camera: tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP: tested on full frame:24MP
compared to:	Tamron 28-75 F2.8 Minolta 28-105 3.5 4.5
price paid:	1400 used
positive:	Sharpness, Focus Speed, Color and build.
negative:	Lens creep and Slight flare issues.
comment:	I have had this lens for two weeks now and am very pleased with the purchase. It has been used for everything from indoor lowlight portrait work to Landscapes to some serious action work in the middle of a skate board competition. The sharpness and almost mind reading focus speed on the A900 have totally amazed me. Weight has not been a factor to me and we have covered quite a few miles together now. My only real gripe would be the lens creep which usually is not an issue to me but when needed for really quick shots and you go to grab the camera hanging at your side and find it is at 70mm and not 24mm it can be annoying. Also as expected on a FF there is minor vignetting and some distortion when doing city scapes. These are all minor gripes as this lens has provided me with an outstanding tool for everyday use.

sharpness: 4.5 color: 5 build: 5 distortion: 4 flare control: 5	user: mavan review date: August-10-09
	tested on film camera: tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP: tested on full frame:24MP
compared to:	Minolta 24mm/2.8 Minolta 50mm/1.4 Minolta 24-105/3.5-4.5
price paid:	1405 euro
positive:	AF verry fast , accurate and silent. Well bild sharp even at 2.8 easy manual focussing
negative:	Unscharp corners from 24 to 50 mmm at all apartures untill diafragma 11
comment:	To be honnest...I expected something more From this expensive lens from a brand like Carl Zeiss. AF is verry fast , silent and accurate ! It is super bild , nice havy... Manual focussing and zooming goes very smoothly... In the center it is even scharp at 2.8 and maximum from 4 untill 8...very very good. BUT THE CORNERS are realy unscharp from 24 untill 50mm at all apartures ...untill 11 , but then the overal sharpness of the image is less. Everywhere on the internet i read tests about this lens... and how good it is ! Is this what to expect from this lens on a A900 ???

sharpness: 5 color: 5 build: 4 distortion: 5 flare control: 5	user: barri review date: July-02-09
	tested on film camera: tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP: tested on full frame:24MP
compared to:	sony 2.8/70-200 SSM sony 1.4/50 minolta 2.8/100 Macro minolta 4.5/400 APO tamron 2.8/17-50
price paid:	1500 USD (new)
positive:	very very sharp good closeup range metal lens hood
negative:	heavy some plastic exterior misses a zoom ring lock
comment:	phantastic lens. Totally worth the money. I had a Tamron 17-50 on my A700, and in comparison this one is significantly sharper wide open. it is also sharper than my 70-200 wide open. What a super lens. however, I would only buy for full frame. for APS-C it is way too heavy and the wrong zoom range. my only gripe: when you carry your camera around for a while, the zoom creeps out to 70mm. The lens needs a zoom lock.

sharpness: 5 color: 4 build: 5 distortion: 5 flare control: 5	user: gnhock review date: June-22-09
	tested on film camera: tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP: tested on full frame:24MP
compared to:	Minolta 24mm f2.8 Minolta 50mm Macro f3.5 Sony 50mm f1.4 Carl Zeiss Jena 35mm f2.4
positive:	Sharpness, contrast & clarity Solidly made
negative:	On heavy side
comment:	Great Optics rivalling primes. Colour slightly cold but can be tweaked in camera body. SSM superbly fast and quiet. Focus ring very smooth. Zoom action very heavy, zoom creep sometimes only Bokeh acceptable but not the smoothest. Slight flare but I like the effect. Main downside is weight so get a very good strap; sony's neoprene best so far

sharpness: 5 color: 5 build: 5 distortion: 5 flare control: 5	user: nemofin review date: June-16-09
	tested on film camera: tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP: tested on full frame:24MP
compared to:	- 16-35/2.8 CZ - 135/1.8 CZ - 85/1.4 CZ
positive:	- Sharp - Amazing AF - Build
negative:	- extending when zoomed
comment:	Sharp, Sharp, Sharp! Even sharper than 16-35cz. Really good AF, Fastest a-mount focus I have ever used. Again, even faster than 16-35cz... also really accurate. Build quality is good, but I dont like extending zooms.. other than that, seems really good. Nice balance with a900. Tack sharp in every aperture, corner sharpness seems to be really good also. Highly recommended!

sharpness: 5 color: 5 build: 5 distortion: 5 flare control: 4	user: ab012 review date: June-02-09
	tested on film camera: tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP: tested on full frame:24MP
compared to:	KM 28-75 M 24-105 Sony 70-200 35G, 85ZA
positive:	Sharp sharp sharp nice contrast and colours ultra fast AF short min focus distance
negative:	Heavy, $$$ Flare more than expected given T* 70mm on FF is not that long :)
comment:	Just finally failed to resist the temptation and got this lens again. Had one copy when it first came out. Was very impressed with the quality but as I was mainly using primes on the a700 at that stage I couldnt justify having this lens at the same time. On getting the a900 and changes in style (more family oriented pics with subsequent preference for zooms) meant I was hunting for a long time for a standard zoom. Tried KM 28-75 and M24-105 for quite some time but they just cant compare (nor were they designed to, given the $$ difference). Very happy with this lens so far :) Sharp sharp sharp, AF is ultra fast unlike 70-200SSM (and it is also accurate). This lens really shines on the a900. The main drawback IMO is flare resistance. I will like to give it 3.5. It is for example nowhere like the 16-80 (which is extremely good at flare resistance) although ok for a zoom. Bokeh will not compare to the primes but in my applications so far i havnt noticed any obvious problems (yet :) ) Overall an excellent match for the a900. I was originally hoping for a 24-105 f4G but now after getting the ZA I am not going to think about that anymore [lol] ps will update this as I use it more and more in coming months! It is hardly coming off the a900 at the moment with the only real competition the 85.

sharpness: 4.5 color: 5 build: 4 distortion: 4 flare control: 4	user: almassengale review date: June-02-09
	tested on film camera: tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP: tested on full frame:24MP
compared to:	16-80, 70-300G, Minolta 85 1.4.
positive:	Fast, silent, and accurate AF. Well made. Very sharp.
negative:	Range on APS-C More plastic than you'd expect at the price. Bulk Iffy bokeh. Price/Value
comment:	There is no question that this is a nice lens. The autofocus on an A700 is extremely quick, accurate, and silent and the images it produces are top class even if the bokeh doesn't compare with a good prime. I just shot a wedding with one and it performed well. That said I don't think it could replace my 16-80 as my normal walk-around lens. There are a couple reasons. The first is that on APS-C the range just isn't that good for what I like to do. It just doesn't get wide enough for my general use and there is no compelling IQ advantage over the already excellent 16-80 to make up for that. Its also very large and heavy which makes it less of a travel companion. For settings where I need the speed and don't have time to change between faster primes it works extremely well however but $1800 is a lot to spend on a bit player in your lineup. Were I to switch to FF this would move up to go-to lens status but the range issue just wouldn't allow it to become my everyday lens. Even if used FF I would be hard pressed to spend a grand more on this than on the supposedly excellent Sigma. To be honest the build doesn't feel that far above the 70-300G or even that many leaps past the 16-80 and that surprises me. It does have a lot of plastic and doesn't feel as solid as the old all metal Minolta lenses or the STF. Granted its very nice plastic but most of the body of the lens is plastic and that wasn't what I expected based on using other high end lenses in the past. For $1800 i'd have expected a higher quality feel.

sharpness: 5 color: 5 build: 5 distortion: 5 flare control: 4	user: jybriend review date: May-26-09
	tested on film camera: tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP: tested on full frame:24MP
compared to:	Sigma 30mm 1.4
price paid:	1300 Eur (new)
positive:	Sharpness, built quality, focus speed, 3D rendering
negative:	Weight
comment:	I have had this lens for about five months now, and I am still a little intimidated to use it! As almost everything has been said in other reviews, I would just had that what I like in this lens is its 3D rendering. I have made some simple landscape shots (meaning : without any pretention to make something sensational) and I was amazed by the way things just seem to pop out of the screen. Hope one day I can try it on a A900!

sharpness: 5 color: 5 build: 5 distortion: 5 flare control: 5	user: ilipin review date: May-25-09
	tested on film camera: tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP: tested on full frame:24MP
compared to:	Minolta 20/2.8, Minolta 28/2, Minolta 100/2, Minolta 35-40/4
price paid:	1450 USD (used)
positive:	Sharpness, exceptional from F4 Build like a tank Low-light performance
negative:	Front element is slightly self-zooming when camera in vertical position Slightly soft at F2.8, good for portraits.
comment:	I own this lens about 2 weeks. At this short time I see exceptional optical quality of lens. It becomes standard zoom for my A100. Not very heavy, as I expected. Camera with lens and 58 flash looks nice and feel well in hands. Not very fast focus (slightly faster than Minolta 28/2),I think, it is a low-end camera problem, not lens. Use for portraits an small studio with nice results. I make small test, compares CZ at 28mm vs. Minolta 28/2. Results, in short: primer sharper at F2.8 only. http://ilipin.livejournal.com/1365.html - in Russian!

sharpness: 5 color: 5 build: 5 distortion: 4 flare control: 4	user: 2manycamera review date: May-24-09
	tested on film camera: tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP: tested on full frame:24MP
compared to:	16-105 sony 28-70 AT-X tokina 28/2, 35/2, 50/1.4, 100/2 minolta
price paid:	1600 USD
positive:	Exceptional sharpness Build quality Focus speed Low-light performance
negative:	2.8 somewhat, slightly, sorta soft in corners.
comment:	I have been buying, trying, selling, fast wide-to-tele lenses for years! None have ever done what I needed. i.e. perform wide open to 1 stop down and give me good edges. I can now say, quite simply, the search is finally over. 50% of the money I earn from photography I do in the month of May shooting dance recitals. These take place in auditoriums and theatres with widely varying lighting. With the 24-70CZ I can easily use F4 for edge to edge sharpness, and 2.8 is usable, though not quite as good. Beyond the recital work, I have not removed the lens from the a700 except to try it out on a maxxum 70 film body. I am so looking forward to getting an a900 to match to this lens! There is some fairly typical distortion right at the edges at 24mm. I can make it flare, though for this complex a lens it is quite well controlled. The rubber ribbing gets dirty easily, just can't find anything else to complain about, heck, even the price came down $150 when I finally had the money to buy it! This is an awesome lens, it has paid for itself already and I see it a the lens that will migrate from body to next body for many years to come.

sharpness: 4 color: 5 build: 4 distortion: 5 flare control: 5	user: DonSergio review date: May-20-09
	tested on film camera: tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP: tested on full frame:24MP
compared to:	- 16-80/3.5-4.5 - 24-105/3.5-4.5 - 28-135/4-4.5 - 16-35za - and many primes
price paid:	1900$ (new)
positive:	+ Very good (but not excellent) sharpness from wide open throw the all range. + SSM + Fast focusing + Image Quality (except corners on Ful Frame cameras)
negative:	- Length changes than zooming. - Sometimes noticable CA. - Harsh bokeh - corner sharpness - no weather resistance
comment:	24-70za expensive standard zoom. But it only my zoom. I use it very often. Excellent image quality. Sharpness (resolution), colors, contrast from wide open all in one through all the range. (Personally, i prefer more neutral zeiss colors to old style (28-135, 70-210, 35-70) minolta colors). Only some minor issue: This lens extends on zooming and no resistant (CaNikons does). Sometimes CA noticable (16-80 and 24-105 practically have no CA). Bokeh is good for a zoom (not perfect at all), far from portrait primes (85za, 85G, 135za, 200G, and of course STF). (Sometimes i use 24-70za for portrait and shoot with it in small stidio). Focal Range usable on APS-C and FF.

sharpness: 5 color: 5 build: 5 distortion: 5 flare control: 5	user: acinonyx12345 review date: April-30-09
	tested on film camera: tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP: tested on full frame:24MP
compared to:	Minolta 28-70 2.8 G Sony 70-200 2.8 G
price paid:	1200€
positive:	Sharpness ;-)) Build quality Minimum focus distance quite short Silent, very quick and efficient AF Superb look
negative:	Rubber rings collecting dust No internal zoom
comment:	Amazing lens. I.Q. of very high level. Extremely sharp in most circumstances. Very fast AF. Compared to Minolta G 28-70 2.8 ; sharper, better focus range, min. focus distance quite shorter. The only advantage of the Minolta is the internal zoom. The CZ price is higher, but the difference seems jusified to me. Optical performances of the CZ (sharpness, bokeh) are weaker at 70mm; from that focal length, prefer the sony 70-200 2.8 G SSM, another amazing lens.

sharpness: 5 color: 5 build: 5 distortion: 5 flare control: 5	user: beppe61 review date: April-24-09
	tested on film camera: tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP: tested on full frame:24MP
compared to:	Minolta 28-70 f2.8 G
price paid:	1300 euro (new)
positive:	Very sharp, great colors, very fast and silent autofocus, great construction
negative:	None!
comment:	This is a perfect lens! I think A900 and "Carlone" (in Italy we call the Carl Zeiss Vario-Sonnar T* 24-70 f2.8 ZA SSM "Carlone" (Big Charles) ) are a perfect couple!

sharpness: 5 color: 5 build: 5 distortion: 5 flare control: 5	user: 05_GD7 review date: April-16-09
	tested on film camera: tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP: tested on full frame:24MP
compared to:
price paid:	1799 CAD (new)
positive:	- Build Quality (like a Tank!!) - Sharpness Wide Open - Crisp and Colorful results - SSM - Nice hood
negative:	- Some say heavy, but I think it speaks to the excellent build quality. No complaints.
comment:	I reluctantly bought this lens for my A350 thinking that it may be "too much lens" for this level of camera. I haven't looked back since. I'm afraid my 50mm f1.7 won't see much duty anymore with this fine addition to my collection. I love the zoom range (some said the 24mm would be too much for APS-C), but I can always resort to my 18-250 if I need to go wider. CZ2470 and the 70200G is the ultimate Alpha package, no matter which body you are using.

sharpness: 5 color: 5 build: 5 distortion: 5 flare control: 5	user: napo review date: April-06-09
	tested on film camera: tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP: tested on full frame:24MP
compared to:	85mm 1.4f G, 35mm 1.4f G,
price paid:	1250Euro(new)
positive:	Sharpness, SSM, fast focus
negative:	Bit heavy
comment:	Very good lens. it stays most of the time on my camera. Silent fast focusing, excellent results, makes this lens a real champion. Can't live without it :-)

sharpness: 5 color: 5 build: 4 distortion: 5 flare control: 5	user: surfshot review date: April-03-09
	tested on film camera: tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP: tested on full frame:24MP
compared to:
price paid:	900USD
positive:	Fast Fast focusing No distortion
negative:	None
comment:	I bought this lens with the Sony a900 and since then I realized I don't need primes in that area. It's fast, offers a great bokeh wide open and is very sharp. I hope to see more CZ lenses on the market and possibly their manual focus line up on Alpha mount

sharpness: 5 color: 5 build: 5 distortion: 5 flare control: 5	user: Deasy review date: March-29-09
	tested on film camera: tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP: tested on full frame:24MP
compared to:	Every other lens I have owned including Minolta primes.
price paid:	L1150
positive:	Very very sharp Macro capability Usable throughout the focal length and aperture range
negative:	Hood can fall off unexpectedly
comment:	Having used mainly Sigma zooms this lens is a total revelation to me. Astonishing sharpness at all settings and amazing macro capability which isn't really highlighted in the lens spec. I have never taken photos of such quality since I bought this lens. Expensive but most good things are, I justify the cost by considering I will get minimum 10 years fantastic performance from this lens so we are looking at L115 per year!

sharpness: 4.5 color: 5 build: 5 distortion: 4 flare control: 4	user: photoie review date: February-14-09
	tested on film camera: tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP: tested on full frame:24MP
compared to:	Minolta 28-70G Minolta 70-200G Zeiss 85 1.4
price paid:	1300€
positive:	Sharp, excellent colour and contrast. Not as bulky/cumbersome as weight might suggest. Very fast autofocus with A900.
negative:	Somewhat stiff zooming (compared to Minolta 28-70G).
comment:	This lens and the Zeiss 85 1.4 are superlative optics: look forward to adding other Zeiss lenses to my collection.

sharpness: 5 color: 5 build: 5 distortion: 5 flare control: 3	user: BrownJenkin review date: February-13-09
	tested on film camera: tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP: tested on full frame:24MP
compared to:	KM AF 17-35 2.8/4
price paid:	test
positive:	fastest AF i've seen so far great build very good sharpness silent
negative:	price weight some vignetting not mine :\| hood not included flares
comment:	Finally last edit (v 3.0, after 2 weeks test) The lens looks really heavy and bulky at the first sight, the rubber grip is a little hard to rotate. You must use it for some hours to get used to its weight (the first day my neck was not so happy...). Negative: On the A900, the balance is all on the lens, and this is not a good thing (but the problem is A900, not the lens). On an A900 body, lens vignetting from 24mm to 35mm, but very soft compared to KM AF 17-35. My copy came withouth the hood, maybe due to the fact it's not a commercial copy but a test one. So, witouth the hood, I had very serious problems outdoor with flares. Price is another problem. Positive: Great sharpness, perfect stopping aperture at 4. The SSM Motor is fast as a shark and silent too. I was used to "old" stuff like the beercan and other AF zoom lenses, this is another planet. No barrell distortion, I used the CZ for some architecture shots, both indoor than outdoor and no distortion came. Colors are... "German". The lens doesn't offer a superb bokeh and images are not colorful as the beercan or other minolta stuff, but the image quality is simply amazing.

sharpness: 4 color: 5 build: 5 distortion: 3 flare control: 4	user: ABramley review date: January-31-09
	tested on film camera: tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP: tested on full frame:24MP
compared to:	Sigma 20 1.8 Minolta 35/2 RS Minolta 50/1.4 RS Sigma 18-125 KM 17-35 2.8-4
price paid:	1500USD
positive:	Build quality Sharpness across the frame Awesome SSM focusing AF/MF toggle really easy to use with gloves
negative:	Not prime level sharp wide open - it is at f4. Not weather sealed
comment:	Big, heavy & very, very sharp. Lovely quality to the images. Stopping down to f4 produces amazing results at just about any focal length, works for landscapes stopped well down too. The SSM is very snappy, totally silent and doesn't need you to faff around with the AF/MF button, a massive help when you're only able to take off your mittens for about 5 seconds because it's about 50 degrees below 0. Blows away the 17-35 at all focal length/aperture settings and beats the 50 1.4 RS in the corners at f8 very comfortably. Doesn't come off the camera very much! CA is also a problem - mostly at 24mm, never quite goes away even with stopping down. Flare can be a problem - it's never huge but it is fairly easy to provoke. No worse than the primes I've used in the same range though. Not seen any dodgy bokkeh yet - I'll keep looking.

sharpness: 4.5 color: 5 build: 5 distortion: 5 flare control: 5	user: siglo review date: January-19-09
	tested on film camera: tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP: tested on full frame:24MP
compared to:
price paid:	1,750 USD (new)
positive:	Build quality Sharpness Silent SSM Fast focus
negative:	Corners @24mm on full frame and vignetting but both are tolerable.
comment:	One of my favorite lenses with great IQ. I took a couple of primes (50f1.4 35f1.4G) on a recent trip and haven't really found the need to mount them on the A900. Sure this lens is heavy but with the right strap (I used a Rapid Strap) you get used to it for all day shooting.

sharpness: 5 color: 5 build: 5 distortion: 5 flare control: 5	user: Burt review date: January-15-09
	tested on film camera: tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP: tested on full frame:24MP
compared to:
price paid:	1700 USD (new)
positive:	SSM focussing distance sharpness build looks (beauty)
negative:	???
comment:	I can't really say anything about this lens, othet than this is perfection. I am not a professional, but I really haven't had one moment where I said to myself: 'this or that could be better'... really, this is a must-have that is worth the price!

sharpness: 5 color: 5 build: 5 distortion: 5 flare control: 4	user: gm4jjj review date: December-31-08
	tested on film camera: tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP: tested on full frame:24MP
compared to:	Tamron 28-75/2.8
positive:	Sharp wide open.
negative:	Heavy Some samples are poor at 70mm
comment:	The first copy I got was poor at 70mm, there was noticeable softness on the RHS of the frame at f/2.8. In general this faulty copy was not as good as the Tamron 28-75/2.8 lens I had. I rejected that copy and got a replacement. This new copy is like a completely different lens. Very sharp at all focal lengths, no softness at 2.8 and no sign of one side of the frame being sharper than the other.

sharpness: 4.5 color: 5 build: 4 distortion: 4 flare control: 4	user: zfcentral review date: December-29-08
	tested on film camera: tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP: tested on full frame:24MP
compared to:	Nikon 24-70/2,8
price paid:	1400 USD (NEW)
positive:	+Excellent performance across the range, even wide open. +Field curvature seems to be more or less nonexisting. +Color rendition +Very fast focus
negative:	-Not a all metal construction.
comment:	Best midrange zoom for the A mount, and better buildt then both Canon and Nikons equivalents.

sharpness: 5 color: 5 build: 4 distortion: 4 flare control: 4	user: ihlbcn review date: November-25-08
	tested on film camera: tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP: tested on full frame:24MP
compared to:	KM 28-75 2.8.
price paid:	1500 EUR (new)
positive:	Simply superb on FF on IQ.
negative:	Not sealed. Distorsing needs to be better corrected. The range is not very useful on APS-C. Bokeh is not stellar depending on the background.
comment:	Nothing else to add... just superb image quality in all the range... just a little bit of distorsion on 24mm when used in a FF.

sharpness: 5 color: 5 build: 5 distortion: 5 flare control: 5	user: nenioscio review date: November-14-08
	tested on film camera: tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP: tested on full frame:24MP
compared to:	24-105, Sigma 50 2.8 Makro, Sony 50 1.4, Konica Minolta 17-35 2.8-4.0, Minolta 85 1.4 G
price paid:	1799 € (new)
positive:	Sharp, exceptional fast AF, great colors, low distortion, great Bokeh
negative:	Things being "not perfect": Bokeh, Corners at 24mm on FF, Flare
comment:	This Lens comes as a big block of glass and will remain attached to your camera most of the time. It was perfect on APSc size Sensor and can deal with A900 sensors resolution as good as best primes available (within range of it's focal length). Center sharpness is great even at maximum aperture setting. Overall sharpness decreases towards 70mm, but falls down from perfect to still very good. There are slight issues with the sharpness of the corners at 24mm setting on FF Sensers which can not be avoided entirely by stopping down. This is gone at 28 mm setting. Colors are very accurate at entire range starting at maximum aperture. This lens is not immune to flares but flares are well controlled in general and easily avoidable. Judging the Bokeh of the Lens is difficult. It is very smooth on short motive distance but gets harsh at distance > 5m especially towards 70mm setting.

sharpness: 5 color: 5 build: 5 distortion: 5 flare control: 4	user: walti review date: September-29-08
	tested on film camera: tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP: tested on full frame:24MP
compared to:	KM 28-75D 85/1.4GD
price paid:	1400 EUR (New)
positive:	Almost everything
negative:	Almost nothing but weight
comment:	A stunning lens. A bit less sharper at 70mm/2.8 but this can help in portrait shooting. Stopped it is as sharp as 85mm prime. Weighty, but well balanced. APS is a penalty, I'm waiting to test it on A900. Maybe I'll glue it on the camera :) A must have. Period. Edit: tested thoroughly on A900. Still excellent, just a little of vignetting @ 24mm/f2.8

sharpness: 5 color: 5 build: 5 distortion: 5 flare control: 5	user: hRs review date: September-28-08
	tested on film camera: tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP: tested on full frame:24MP
compared to:	sal 1870 sal 16105 sal 50
price paid:	15000 SEK (new)
positive:	amazing with aps-c and FF sensors alike! color, sharpness, contrast, bokeh... you name it!
negative:	some would say price, but i think it's worth it.
comment:	for an aps-c like the a700 i tend to always find myself a tad too close to the object, no matter what it is, to be able to fit it on the picture with 24mm. i quickly realized as i tried it on an a900 body that it's indeed intended for FF sensors mainly where 24mm almost goes wide angle :D i had no experience with older FF cameras so 24-70 seemed a bit odd to me at first (and many more have stated this 'issue') but it all fell in place when i saw it at FF. color is beautiful, sharpness is amazing all over, fringing is non-existant and i'm completely in love with this lens. weight wise it's almost a kilogram of pure glass and metal, but i kinda like the added weight. it's a strain for some but it reduses shakeing while taking handheld pics for me =)

sharpness: 4.5 color: 5 build: 5 distortion: 5 flare control: 4	user: Pavel review date: August-16-08
	tested on film camera: tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP: tested on full frame:24MP
compared to:	any other lans I have
price paid:	1560€ new
positive:	fast SSM 77mm filter size fits also 70-200 SSM
negative:	soft at 70mm f/2/8 flares
comment:	Great lanes.I'm very satisfied with results it delivers.

sharpness: 5 color: 5 build: 5 distortion: 5 flare control: 5	user: my-spot review date: August-11-08
	tested on film camera: tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP: tested on full frame:24MP
compared to:	Tokina - AT-X 280 AF PRO 28-80 F2.8 Sigma - 17-70 F2.8-4.5 DC Canon 24-70 L
positive:	Sharp Great Build Silent SSM Fast Focusing
negative:	Heavy! I don't own it! Zoom Ring too close to camera body. Bokeh (sometimes) No little "zzyyyck" sound when pushing the AF/MF button.
comment:	This lens completely floored me. I used it for a week or so for a wedding shoot and some other miscellaneous shots. My evaluation is simply that is the finest lens I have ever tried on any mount! It only took 10 or so shots before I was hooked. Even on my 7D, The SSM focusing was super fast and very accurate. One drawback was that after an entire day of shooting with this beast I had very tired arms. One small issue I had was I felt the zoom ring was a little too close to the camera body. I would have liked it another 25mm or so further out. Also, the bokeh could be better, however it IS possible to get decent bokeh with this lens if you know how to setup for it. I know that I must add this lens to my permanent collection!

sharpness: 5 color: 5 build: 5 distortion: 5 flare control: 5	user: PBnbaByJ review date: July-31-08
	tested on film camera: tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP: tested on full frame:24MP
compared to:	16-80Z 85Z 70200G
price paid:	1729
positive:	everything
negative:	I could nitpick, but I wont
comment:	I wasn't expecting to love this thing as much as I do. I figured nothing would come close to the images I take with the 70200G. I simply picked this up for lowlight wedding shots. 3 days of playing with it, and I am just blown away. Even the most humdrum boring test shots seem to have a quality to them. The sharpness wide open is unbelievable. This is my 3rd Zeiss lens, and most definitely my favorite. I posted a question on here about the zoom ring being very snug, and found from others that they all seem to be that way. By the next day though, I am totally used to it. It doesn't seem too heavy, since it's 1/2 the weight of the lens that used to spend all the time mounted. Sure, there is a slight tendency to flare, but I can fix that with a step to the left or right to adjust my angle, so Im not marking that as a negative. The SSM on this lens is freakish-fast. Far faster then the SSM on the 70200, perhaps because of less distance to move slightly lighter elements, whatever it is, it's amazing. I haven't had a rejected shot because of OOF even on fast moving subjects. 1Hander is right, this sets a new standard for anything that goes into my bag from now on.

sharpness: 5 color: 4 build: 5 distortion: 4 flare control: 4	user: 1hander review date: July-29-08
	tested on film camera: tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP: tested on full frame:24MP
compared to:	kit 18-70 tamron 28-75 2.8 minolta 28-135 sony 70-210 ssm G 2.8
price paid:	1650.00 usd new
positive:	super sharp really good colors built solid east to contol DOF super fast focus super quiet focus
negative:	if i have ti pick one, it would be the bokeh, if it was beercan bokeh you wouldnt be reading this, but its not bad at all
comment:	Incredible, cures disease and world hunger. I swear my leg doesnt hurt since i got this thing LOL. Picked it up 4 days ago and its clocked 2783 shots of motocross, bugs, birds, dogs, kids, people, cars,architecture,night photography and just plain ole nothin. this thing is big and heavy .. heavy ,, heavy, did i mention heavy .....but thats not an issue for me. The absolute best i had ever seen was my sony 70-210 ssm lens, and this lens is most definately better. It seems to be able to do at 2.8 what the sony ssm starts to do at 3.2 or 3.8 in sharpness. at 2.8 edge sharpness is more than tolerable. but again im not a pro LOL There were some comments on the bokeh and i have to say its not as smooth as it could/should be but its not unpleasant as has been suggested IMHO, but thats just me. to each his own. If it had beercan bokeh it would be a bases loaded -bottom of the ninth homer. The focus speed is just stupid fast, I find mtself re-half pressing the shutter release just to make sure it actually even moved to focus because its so freakishly quiet and fast LOL Im not a professional photographer but i did notice a slight tendency to flare a wee bit. I think the hood could be a bit better. I actually tried the ssm hood, it does fit but it does vignette. The colors are great, im still in love with the colors from my beercan though. (I think they are better) thats why i gave it a 4, i would give it a 4.7 if i could though. it got a 4 on distortion only because i was taking some shots that happenned to have building next to them, and at 24mm up close the subject i noticed some distortion... nothing severe but its there. It doesnt happen on every picture, but crareful control of the DOF creates a really awesome 3d kinda of jumping off the screen effect really awesome up until now, my ssm was the best ive ever known and i considerer it the mark by which all others should be judged but the bar in my camera bag just got raised. do what you gotta do ......... but get one or two .... LOL

sharpness: 5 color: 5 build: 5 distortion: 5 flare control: 3	user: Pyl review date: July-21-08
	tested on film camera: tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP: tested on full frame:24MP
compared to:	Zeiss 16-80 Minolta 28-135 Sigma 17-70
price paid:	1800 AUS$ (used)
positive:	Sharp, sharp, sharp! Even wide open. EXTREMELY fast and silent AF. Nice focusing ring makes manual focusing OK.
negative:	Big and heavy. Some issues with flare in some situations.
comment:	Outclasses all lenses I have previously tried! The only lens I've tried that comes close is the 70-200 SSM. It's big and heavy which is expected, but feels nice and balanced on an A700 with grip. I imagine it would feel a bit front-heavy without the grip. Flare can be an issue unfortunately. The 70-200 hood actually fits the 24-70 and doesn't seem to cause any vignetting, I will try it with this hood and see if it helps with the flare. AF is eerily fast and silent, has to be experienced to be really appreciated! My copy has a bit of creak when zooming, but it doesn't affect performance and I haven't decided whether to send it in to be fixed.

sharpness: 5 color: 5 build: 5 distortion: 5 flare control: 5	user: cdorzech review date: July-10-08
	tested on film camera: tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP: tested on full frame:24MP
compared to:	28mm 2.0 (original version) 50mm 1.7 100mm 2.8 macro
price paid:	1749.00
positive:	Sharp
negative:	Big & Heavy
comment:	I will post more thorough comments with pictures in the next few days. Initial tests were done on tripod shooting resolution chart at 3 meters. Minolta 28mm f2 (original version) operating at f2.8 at 1/160, Zeiss at 28mm f 2.8 also at 1/160: Oh my god! Completely outclasses the Minolta 28mm. Repeated the test three times because I could not believe it. Color seems pleasant, slightly cooler than Minolta glass. Build is excellent. More to follow.

sharpness: 5 color: 5 build: 5 distortion: 5 flare control: 5	user: donalf review date: June-30-08
	tested on film camera: tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP: tested on full frame:24MP
compared to:	minolta 17/35g cz 16/80
price paid:	1700 euros
positive:	sharpness
negative:	heavy
comment:	the best lens i have ever used re sharpness the lens is heavy and very expensive but really worth it

sharpness: 5 color: 5 build: 5 distortion: 5 flare control: 4	user: laguire review date: June-16-08
	tested on film camera: tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP: tested on full frame:24MP
compared to:	Sigma 24-70, kit lens, cz 16-80, 50/1.7
price paid:	1750
positive:	Extremely sharp in center, very sharp in corners especially on wider end. Colors and contrast are exceptional.
negative:	Bokeh is poor. Heavy but as to be expected given its range and aperture. Price.
comment:	Center sharpness is unbeatable even wide open on the wide end, still very sharp at 70mm. Corners are close to as sharp as you can get with primes. Focus speed, accuracy, and quietness are superb. The big flaw is in the harsh bokeh that reveals rings in the right setting. If you can afford the lens and work around the bokeh, there is no other lens that can even come close to matching its capabilities. The sigma is a notch worse in sharpness, color, and contrast, but obviously much more expensive.

sharpness: 5 color: 5 build: 5 distortion: 5 flare control: 5	user: AdamJ review date: June-11-08
	tested on film camera: tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP: tested on full frame:24MP
compared to:	Canon EF 24-70 f/2.8L and new Nikon 24-70 f/2.8G Nano
price paid:	1749.00
positive:	Super Sharp. The best all-around zoom I have ever owned, period. Fast AF, SSM is excellent and useful for DMF, Comfortable weight balance.
negative:	Bokeh is slightly sub-standard for price range.
comment:	Updated Review - June 27th 2008 First I must say that I have never encountered a sharper zoom lens anywhere within this range on any manufacturer. There is no doubt to me that it is a great all-around lens and it is the primary lens that I use. After having enough time to really get to know this lens, it provides better IQ then any other zoom in or near its range that I've had the ability to use. Even Popular Photography concurred calling it "an undeniable best-in-class showing" and I would have to agree. I have been asked for some comparisons. Compared to the Canon 24-70 f/2.8L (on a 40D) it has slightly less distortion, better sharpness especially 24-35mm range, and better contrast through the whole range. In my opinion I would almost say an entire 'class' difference. Compared to the new Nikon 24-70 f/2.8G Nano (on a D300) the lenses are more closely matched. From the 24-50mm the Sony is noticeably sharper with better contrast, however from 50-70mm I could not detect a difference. Interestingly, in all cases the Sony was noticeably sharper then the other two wide open at f/2.8, which has a major usability factor. My comparisons above where all with the lenses stopped down to around f/4-f/5.6. Any gap in IQ was exaggerated at f/2.8 The lens also supposedly doesn't have 'weathersealing' and while there is no rubber gasket at the mount, the zooming lens barrel is clearly sealed with what looks like to me a double rubber gasket, but I would have to disassemble the lens to be completely sure. In any case it is above what what I have from other zoom lenses. It is my understanding there seemed to be a QC issue with some of the earlier builds of these lenses, however after spending over 8 hours testing and scrutinizing images I've found no problems with the copy I received. It is a great lens, and I am extremely happy with it. If you want what is possibly THE best 24-70 zoom for a 35mm format camera, then this is the one. As many people say it may offer 2 times the performance, but it is 5 to 6 times the cost.

sharpness: 5 color: 5 build: 5 distortion: 5 flare control: 5	user: Jeff Pittman review date: June-07-08
	tested on film camera: tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP: tested on full frame:24MP
compared to:	28-70 2.8 G Minolta
price paid:	$1799 USD (new)
positive:	Build, responsiveness, outstanding results.
negative:	None
comment:	I loved the 28-70 2.8 G and was a little skeptical that the upgrade to this lens would be worth the price. However, after just one day of shooting with this lens I knew I wouldn't be using the 28-70...this lens is so much more responsive, quieter, and the focusing much more accurate. And the results are as good if not better. A great lens all around. Yes, it is heavy and expensive but that's because it is built as well as any lens you'll find. Right up there with the 85 1.4 CZ and 135 1.8 CZ IMHO.

sharpness: 5 color: 5 build: 5 distortion: 5 flare control: 5	user: OG review date: May-30-08
	tested on film camera: tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP: tested on full frame:24MP
compared to:	Canon 24-70mm f/2.8 L USM
price paid:	1550 Euro (new)
positive:	everything
negative:	nothing
comment:	Compared to the Canon (i use the 24-70 L also for work), the Zeiss is like a Leica compared to a Tamron. I cant say much about this lens because it would be waste of time. If you have the money, go and get it, and if you read ANY negative fooling about it, don't run away with the idea!

sharpness: 5 color: 4 build: 5 distortion: 5 flare control: 5	user: fuzzypoints review date: May-30-08
	tested on film camera: tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP: tested on full frame:24MP
compared to:	Minolta 24-105 Sigma 70-200 Sigma 12-24 Sony 50 macro Sony 28
price paid:	$1900 AUD
positive:	Sharp Silky smooth Build quiet Weight Everything...
negative:	Hard on the battery Small amount of CA
comment:	This lens is a dream... My favorite lens bar none, and I have it on my a700 for the majority of the time. It is as sharp as any prime I have used and the DOF is beautiful and easy to control. It is quite expensive, but you really do get what you pay for.

sharpness: 5 color: 5 build: 5 distortion: 5 flare control: 4	user: rovhazman review date: May-24-08
	tested on film camera: tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP: tested on full frame:24MP
compared to:	Tamron 17-50mm f/2.8 Minolta 50mm f/1.7 Sony 18-200mm Sony 70-200mm f/2.8 SSM G Minolta 70-210mm f/4 (BC) Minolta 75-300mm (BBC) Minolta 100-400mm APO Minolta 100mm f/2.8 macro
price paid:	1799USD (new)
positive:	SHARP!!! Colors BEST IQ!!!
negative:	Heavy Flare Price Range on APS-C
comment:	The best lenses in terms of IQ!!! It is a totally different class of IQ. After buying this lens there is no way back. It took me time to appreciate this lens, but since I learned how to use it it is on my camera most of the time. It is heavy, which can be a problem for some people. I am fine with it. I wish it had more reach on the wide end. The reach at the tele end is also not impressive, but since the IQ is so great, there is no problem with cropping. I can see some flares in some cases. Not very bad, but from such a lens I expected no flares at all. If you have the money - buy it! I hope it will preform as well on the FF camera to come...

sharpness: 5 color: 5 build: 5 distortion: 5 flare control: 5	user: roweraay review date: May-19-08
	tested on film camera: tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP: tested on full frame:24MP
compared to:	Lens in the Sony R1. Canon 24-70 f/2.8L on 5D Canon 24-105 f/4L IS on 5D Carl Zeiss 16-80 f/3.5-4.5
price paid:	1750USD + Tax
positive:	Has the feel of a precision equipment, which it obviously is. Feels heavy in a good way. Steadies the hand. Swift and silent SSM focusing. Even better than the Canon ring-USM. Obviously, this is also the ONLY 24-70 f/2.8 OEM lens (excluding 3rd party lenses like the Sigma etc) that is stabilized !
negative:	None thus far
comment:	At the outset let me state that this lens is a total waste on an APS-C crop sensored product like the A700. Why pay the price for a wide-angle Full-frame lens and then get a 36mm on the wide-end and use only the APS-C crop area on this glorious chunk of glass ? This lens took birth to reside on a high resolution Full-frame sensor and provide ultra-clear corner to corner resolution on it. The lens is VERY sharp wide-open and I personally find the OOF areas very pleasing, although there are reports that under some rare circumstances, it could present un-pleasing background highlights, in the regions that are out of focus (OOF), even though the image (in focus) regions remain RAZOR sharp. I have never experienced it in the couple of weeks I had this in my possession. I hope to put this on the "A900" Full-frame product when it gets released for retail sales. And hopefully never take it off ! But folks who are used to APS-C lenses like the CZ 16-80 or 16-105 should be pre-warned that this is a MASSIVE lens and dwarfs the 16-80 in size and weight. Edit: Have been using this on the A900 for a few months now, including on a couple of international trips. Fabulous lens and pairs wonderfully with the A900 (I sold off my A700 in the meantime, since it was not being used, after the A900 came on board).

sharpness: 5 color: 5 build: 4 distortion: 4 flare control: 5	user: Dixon042 review date: May-19-08
	tested on film camera: tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP: tested on full frame:24MP
compared to:	Minolta 28-70g Minolta 17-35g Minolta 28-135 Minolta 35-70 f/4 Beercan
price paid:	1,750.00
positive:	Fast focus and sharp at 50-70mm. Heavy but well balanced.
negative:	My copy has wide angle distortion and factory dust inside the glass elements.Bokeh leaves you wanting if used to classic Minolta glass
comment:	Nice hunk of glass takes good shots. Quality control should be much higher for lens of this price range. I was one of the early buyers when this lens was released. Did not see much heavy use until last few weeks.Hopefully the factory will solve there Q.C. Service from Sony has been next to non existent.Will update should they resolve! Although not the sharpest zoom my 28-135 has superior Bokeh IMHO. If on a budget go for one used in good condition. Update Sony has solved the problem after much debate. Uped my rating.

sharpness: 5 color: 5 build: 5 distortion: 5 flare control: 5	user: minman review date: April-20-08
	tested on film camera: tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP: tested on full frame:24MP
compared to:	17-35G 16-80CZ
price paid:	1,600 USD
positive:	great optics, exceptional construction, versatile focal length, fast zoom, SSM motor for quick and near silent AF
negative:	heavy in weight, performance at 70mm could be better, price
comment:	I found this is a great lens. Although quite pricey but it worth every penny. Highly recommend to everyone who can afford it.

sharpness: 5 color: 5 build: 5 distortion: 5 flare control: 5	user: scha review date: April-08-08
	tested on film camera: tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP: tested on full frame:24MP
compared to:	Sony 16-80Z/3.5-4.5 Sony 70-200/2.8 G
price paid:	2400 sFr.
positive:	Superb sharpness Vivid colors Nice build
negative:	Price
comment:	I own the Sony 16-80Z/3.5-4.5 and this lens here is way better. Much less distortion, much less CAs, sharper in the corners (but thats normal since its a FF lens used on a crop camera), very sharp even wide open, fast aperture, fast AF with SSM. Even if my wallet cried, i'm very happy and satisfied to own that jewel! The lens comes along with a soft pouch like the SAL-1680Z and with a petalshaped hood with the same antireflecting velvet-like surface as the SAL-70200G.

sharpness: 5 color: 5 build: 5 distortion: 5 flare control: 5	user: kaisal0 review date: April-04-08
	tested on film camera: tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP: tested on full frame:24MP
compared to:	2,8/ 80-200 G 2,8/ 28-70 G 1,8/135 Zeiss 1,4/85 G 4/200 Macro
price paid:	1500 €
positive:	Great Sharpness (also wide open) Great Colours Much better than 2,8/28-70 G Best work around lens
negative:	Price
comment:	I think this great lens will end the never ending dicussion of the old 2,8/28-70. I have the new Zeiss and had the old 2,8/28-70. There are worlds between this two lenses. The new Zeiss is so sharp for a zoom. I think it compares to the 80-200 G. Also the colors are great. The only thing is, that this lens is very expensive. But you get what you pay for....

sharpness: 5 color: 5 build: 5 distortion: 5 flare control: 5	user: shadowfax001 review date: March-28-08
	tested on film camera: tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP: tested on full frame:24MP
compared to:	KM 28-75/2.8 Sigma 28-75/2.8 Sony 16-80Z/3.5-4.5 Sony 70-200/2.8 G Sony 50/1.4
price paid:	1749.00
positive:	Superlative optical quality Beautiful colors Typical Zeiss bokeh — so they say Excellent build SSM is speedy Distortion — None that I've noticed Reasonable focal range on the A700 (36-105) Best focal range on the A900 (24-70mm)
negative:	Heavy Price Zoom/focus rings collect dust et. al. 2 samples to get a good copy
comment:	Although heavy (2lbs), it works great as a general purpose or walk around lens. Focal range suits my needs even on the A700 (36-105). It took two attempts to get a good copy. From all my testing, it seemed to suffer from a centering defect. New copy is spot on and tack sharp. Color and sharpness of the Zeiss lenses outmatch that of the 70-200G. After using a Zeiss, it's a little disappointing using the 70-200G.

sharpness: 5 color: 5 build: 5 distortion: 5 flare control: 5	user: manxtt12 review date: March-01-08
	tested on film camera: tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP: tested on full frame:24MP
compared to:
price paid:	1749 USD (New)
positive:	Superb Sharpness, Contrast, Colors, Practical zoom range, Fast and silent focus.
negative:	Price, Size, and Weight.
comment:	The Carl Zeiss 24-70mm f/2.8 SSM Lens is an impressively high performing zoom lens. I regard it as one of the best general purpose lenses. The lens build and mechanical quality are top of the line. It focuses quietly and very fast thanks to the SSM (Super Sonic Wave Motor). Also the focus zoom ring is nicely sized and operate smoothly. The Carl Zeiss 24-70mm f/2.8 is very sharp for zoom lens. It is sharp in the center at f/2.8 at all focal lengths, and the excellent contrast and saturation are what strike me the most in real life applications. Now on the negatives. The biggest downside of 24-70mm F2.8 is it's size and weight. This lens is not small or light enough for a walkaround lens(due to solid build heavy body), and I find holding this lens can be tiring for half day shooting. All in all, it is one the best Sony/Carl Zeiss all purpose lens made. The box contains a Carl Zeiss 24-70mm F2.8 SSM lens, front and rear lens cap, a metal petal lens hood, and a leather lens carrying case.

sharpness: 5 color: 5 build: 5 distortion: 5 flare control: 3	user: infrastellar review date: February-19-08
	tested on film camera: tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP: tested on full frame:24MP
compared to:	new nikkor 24-70/2,8 ED G
price paid:	1750 USD
positive:	overall sharpness, contrast, color, and everything you always look at
negative:	flares, shooting some sunrises and sunsets... and maybe the lens hood could be solved the better way too
comment:	Very well balanced lens with its weight and size. Working with this lens is very comfortable. I found the focus ring to be very smooth, excellent for manual focus. SSM makes it too, as you can still focus manually if the camera is set to AF. Silent, quite fast, and very accurate with Sony A700 body. The zoom ring works perfect too. Not easy, not heavy. I had this lens for two days, didnt shoot any charts or laboratory stuff. I caught some flares against the sun /very minor/, so that only 4 points regarding this. Unfortunately I cannot buy one now, but If I ever might need a zoom, Zeiss 24-70/2,8 SSM will be the one for sure. edit: I must lower the flare points due to deeper experience with this lens. Was travelling a lot now, using the lens in more difficult light conditions, and must say, that the flare control is average. Was comparing this lens with the new nikkor lens mounted on D300, and must say, that I would deffinetely choose sony system even with the flares problem.

sharpness: 5 color: 5 build: 5 distortion: 5 flare control: 5	user: davestanger review date: February-18-08
	tested on film camera: tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP: tested on full frame:24MP
compared to:
positive:	Wunderful colours, great SSM, perfect in the nature, very sharp and friendly to use
negative:	nothing
comment:	Hello, I have now this lense a week and it works very very good. I use it in the wild nature. The potential is great. And the colours are so wunderful warm all the time and the autofocus is very sharp. The lense is perfect build. I use it with the Sony Alpha 700. I can commend it as well. Yours, Dave

Dyxum.com - Home of the Minolta / Alpha-mount dSLR photographer.

Feel free to contact us if needed. You can support future development by making a donation.

Lens index page

Fixed focal length

Macros

Zooms

Teleconverters

Comparative view

DOF Calculator

Dyxum Lens Database Reviewing Guideline

Lens Glossary

Suggest a lens

> Dyxum lens forum <

Support dyxum when buying lenses

Support Dyxum purchuasing at B&H

lens image

Summary ratings

sharpness: 4.86

color: 4.91

build: 4.84

distortion: 4.79

flare control: 4.61

overall: 4.80

total reviews: 121

Forum sample images

Vario-Sonnar T* 24-70 F2.8 ZA SSM lens details