Sony AF 70-400 F4-5.6 G SSM reviews

sharpness: 5 color: 5 build: 4 distortion: 5 flare control: 5	user: Icebergovich review date: April-05-13
	tested on film camera: tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP: tested on full frame:24MP
compared to:	Sigma 70-200 2.8 EX DG HSM Macro Tamron 18-200
price paid:	10500 SEK used
positive:	* Crazy sharp * Fast & silent AF * Flexibility (both 70mm and 400mm in same lens + great IQ)
negative:	* Zoom creepage (how were they thinking when they didn't add a zoom lock to this giant?) * Heavy (doesn't matter cuz you have so fun using it and capturing great pictures with it, but it hurts afterwards sometimes) * Expensive
comment:	An extremely sharp lens. I have been in love with it since I first fastened it to the camera. Not only does it produce an excellent IQ, but also has made me a more active photographer in many ways. The most negative part about it is the price, but my wifes' "WOW WHAT AMAZING PICUTRES!" reaction approved the lens purchase soon enough, and more than once... Used for: * Birding * Wildlife * Moon shots * Soon astrophotography I'm totally in love with it and can't consider leaving it.

sharpness: 5 color: 5 build: 5 distortion: 5 flare control: 5	user: robberly12 review date: January-06-13
	tested on film camera: tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP: tested on full frame:24MP
compared to:	Sony 500/f8 Reflex Tamron 70-300/USD Tamron 70-200/f2.8
price paid:	1863 USD (new)
positive:	Sharp Quick, silent focus DMF with focus hold/limiter Versatile focal length range AF with Kenko 1.4x DGX TC
negative:	Expensive, but worth it Slightly busy bokeh
comment:	I bought the Sony 70-400G to get better detail in my bird photos than was possible with the Sony 500/F8 Reflex. I initially considered the Tamron 200-500 & Sigma 150-500/OS. Both provided near the image quality with greater reach at a significantly lower price. The Sigma, in particular, was appealing because of its good reported image quality and HSM focusing, but ultimately I chose 70-400G in part because of its better build and more bells and whistles (focus hold & limiter). I also, ironically, preferred to not have a lens with OS. Having image stabilization on my Sigma 18-250 has been a nuisance for me because it has inadvertently gotten turned on a couple times and conflicted with Sony's SSS. The 150-500/OS is heavier, which also favored the 70-400G. Finally, the 70-400G was reported to work well with my Kenko 1.4x DGX TC, which clinched the decision. (See below for a caveat on using the Kenko 1.4x.) Overall, I have been very happy with my decision. Image quality with my A580 is excellent, and flare is well controlled using the lens hood. As reported elsewhere, the lens hood is a little flimsy, but it fits securely and keeps the total lens weight down. The bokeh at full zoom is a little busy, but is so much better than my 500 Reflex that I barely notice it! Although it is a large heavy lens, I have no trouble hand-holding it on the A580. On my smaller A330, it feels a bit unbalanced and is harder to handhold, but I have yet to break out the tripod mount. I would prefer that the zoom and focus rings were reversed in their respective positions, although I was used to this layout because it's also used on my Tamron 70-300/USD. Autofocus is silent and quick, although it can occasionally hunt at the 400mm end in less than ideal light. Using the focus limiter helps to reduce this, though. I was initially disappointed that the 70-400G would not AF with my Kenko 1.4x DGX TC in anything other than bright light, and even then was wildly inaccurate. Further experimentation revealed that it would autofocus well in good light if I selected the wide AF area on the camera. Normally I use spot focus for bird photography, but I can get good results using wide AF if I carefully confirm the focus point. Image quality with the Kenko is surprisingly good, surpassing that from the 500 Reflex at an equivalent focal length. As a bonus, Exif is correctly reported as 560 mm/F8 at the long end, so image stabilization works correctly. On a side issue, I am keeping the much smaller, lighter Sony 500 Reflex for bird outings where I don't want to carry as much heavy gear. Overall, the 70-400G is a solid, high performing, and versatile lens with excellent image quality. It is well worth its premium price!

sharpness: 5 color: 5 build: 5 distortion: 5 flare control: 5	user: arCreation review date: December-29-12
	tested on film camera: tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP: tested on full frame:24MP
compared to:	70-210 4.0 Minolta 70-200 2.8 Sony
price paid:	1800
positive:	-AF -Sharpness -Bokeh -Colours
negative:	-None really -Heavy
comment:	This is a truly incredible lens. I have used this for photojournalism as well as private sporting events. It has never let me down, I took over 1500 shots with this lens in both AF, MF mode. Mostly sports events. I was using M mode and was keeping the aperture wide open in most cases and its sharpness is out of this world. YOU CANNOT GO WRONG IN BUYING THIS LENS. I even used it in winter conditions for a skiing event and the fact it wasn't weather sealed didn't affect it in any way, it stayed outdoors for the better part of 8 hours at temperatures of -5 to -15 and performed perfectly. Ideally I suggest you step it down one stop if doing sports just to give you a bit more of DOF. You will need a mono pod to stabilize this lens and take the weight out of your shoulders. Handheld shooting is possible but practically impossible for extended periods of time due to the weight of the lens. I used it on the A65 as well as the A850. I think this lens really shines on the A65/A77 giving you 105-600mm reach with amazing sharpness and a lighter body than the A850.

sharpness: 5 color: 5 build: 5 distortion: 5 flare control: 5	user: slawrencephoto review date: November-03-12
	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
positive:	Build quality Focal lenght range IQ AF speed is excellent.
negative:	Heavy Extends when zooming Lens hood could be of better quality but that would add to the overall weight.
comment:	I owned both the 70-200G and 70-400G and found that the 70-200G spent most of the time at home. Whilst the 70-400G does not have the fast aperture it weights ths same, IQ and all other features are the same. I found the extra reach a real bonus. Si

sharpness: 4.5 color: 4 build: 4 distortion: 5 flare control: 5	user: BUNS review date: October-29-12
	tested on film camera: tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP: tested on full frame:24MP
compared to:	Beercans
price paid:	£1000
positive:	Sharpness, focus speed, silent.Zoom range is very handy. Focus hold buttons
negative:	Loose fit on a700 and a77.zoom creep but only when cold. Heavy
comment:	Great lens,I had to buy a grip to help with hand holding.My sharpest images achieved using a tripod.Not a fast lens.

sharpness: 5 color: 5 build: 5 distortion: 5 flare control: 5	user: Zachoff1 review date: October-28-12
	tested on film camera: tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP: tested on full frame:24MP
compared to:	70-200G f/2.8 Tokina 80-200 f/2.8 70-200 f/2.8 Tamron
price paid:	1595.00 USD
positive:	G Quality Outstanding sharpness Quiet Quick and accurate AF
negative:	Large Silver Color
comment:	This is an outstanding lens and it is my go to long lens. Sharp throughout the entire focal range with maybe a little softness at 400mm in lower light situations. It is fast and finds target quickly and accurately. I shoot a lot of birds and this lens makes it quite easy. I am able to zero in on a bird and the AF is right there for multiple shots. AF is nice and quiet and focus hold buttons are easy to find. Before I took the plunge and purchased this lens I tested quite a few Sigmas and Tammys at many camera stores for a few months. I found them not to be as quick and the builds were nowhere near the build of this lens. Older Sigmas of equal focal range sounded like coffee grinders. This lens can also be used quite effectively for portraits as it yields great results hand held. Matched up with my a77, using TC feature and a tripod, I can shoot targets nice and sharp at 1800mm. Bottom line, I love this lens!

sharpness: 4.5 color: 5 build: 4 distortion: 5 flare control: 5	user: cortell 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:	Sony 300mm f2.8 and the 70-300 G SMM. I've also compared it to the equivalent Canon and the big silver Sony is better.
price paid:	875 UKP (used)
positive:	Sharp pretty much from wide open right through the zoom range. Really good contrast. As good as the Sony 300mm f2.8 in my view. Lovely colours. Build quality is also very good. AF is quiet, fast and accurate.
negative:	It's a bit heavy and really too heavy to handhold for long periods of time. Not massively keen on the silver colour as it makes an already eye catching lens even more so. It's not weather sealed and it really ought to be at this price. It would alsobe nice if it had the same focus control as the 300 G lens.
comment:	I use this lens for sports photography, mainly rugby which it excels at. A little faster at the long end would make it perfect but then it would also be bigger, heavier, and more expensive!

sharpness: 5 color: 5 build: 5 distortion: 5 flare control: 5	user: MinoltaMad review date: September-04-12
	tested on film camera: tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP: tested on full frame:24MP
compared to:	Minolta 85mm F1.4 (D) Minolta 80-200mm F2.8 HS APO G Minolta 28-70mm F2.8 G Konica-Minolta 28-75mm F2.8 D Tamron 17-35mm (D) Tamron 70-200mm F2.8
price paid:	$1900 AUD (new)
positive:	Amazing range and great sharpness Excellent focus
negative:	Aperture change over zoom range
comment:	All round great lens which deals with the compromise of the range very very well. Amazing sharpness and functionally really easy to use with rapid, accurate focus and easy handling if the tripod mount is removed. It is so good that I'm going to have it as the 70-200mm range back-up and sell the Tamron 70-200mm F2.8 because my copy is sharper even at 400mm plus you get the extra range. The only compromise is you have to remember the aperture change when zooming and accommodate accordingly.

sharpness: 5 color: 5 build: 5 distortion: 5 flare control: 5	user: tdehoff review date: July-30-12
	tested on film camera: tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP: tested on full frame:24MP
compared to:	Tamron 200-400, Tamron 70-200, Beercan.
price paid:	Rented for a week
positive:	Excellent images
negative:	heavy, cost
comment:	Rented this lens for a week for a vacation trip and was amazed by how good this lens is. I did some test shots comparing it to my Tamron 200-400 and in every case the Sony 70-400 was superior to the Tamron. Compared against the Tamron 70-200 was a push (both equally good) Compared against the beercan was like watching the Mens USA Olympic Basketball team playing against your local HS team, wasn't even close. This lens lives up to its reputation. The only negatives is the weight and now the desire to own one.

sharpness: 5 color: 5 build: 5 distortion: 5 flare control: 5	user: CharlesMorrison review date: June-25-12
	tested on film camera: tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP: tested on full frame:24MP
compared to:	Junk
price paid:	Rental $120/week
positive:	Beautiful images Accurate focusing
negative:	Heavy Tight zoom ring
comment:	Initially I was struck by the diameter, the length and weight. After one day at an airshow, my right hand hurt the most and the zoom ring is stiff and required a lot of effort. On the 2nd day I made an effort to let the camera strap hold all the weight rather than holding it with my right hand. This alleviated any pain/soreness. Also don't hit the people standing next to you when your lens is extended ! Images are gorgeous ! Focus is accurate and fast, but I did find it might hunt for focus with scenes where an object at a distance (small in VF) and is coming directly toward or away from you. On some shots I can read small decals on planes in flight that do not fill the frame at 300mm and 400mm ! I want this lens !

sharpness: 4.5 color: 4 build: 5 distortion: 5 flare control: 4	user: Nas79 review date: June-14-12
	tested on film camera: tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP: tested on full frame:24MP
compared to:
price paid:	$1950.00 (new)
positive:	Sharp Versatile Quick Quiet AF limiter switch Focus hold buttons Bokeh Weight
negative:	Color (To flashy) No weather sealing Tripod collar (small)
comment:	I sold my Sigma 50-500 (Bigma) to switch to this lens. I do not regret it for a minute. The 70400G is a much better lens all around. This image quality in my opinion is outstanding. The Bokeh is very nice and this produces very sharp images. I do not dislike the color of the body of the lens but am not really a big fan. It is a little flashy for me and it definately stands out in a crowd. I would have liked it if it was weather sealed as I am constantly outdoors with it but I imagine that would bring the price up substantially. The only thing I prefered on my Sigma was the Tripod collar. It was large and doubled as a hand grip. The Sony one is pretty small. I almost always shoot handheld and find the weight of the lens helpful to keep me steady. I do love this lens but never use it below 300mm. For the type of photography I use this lens for I think an older Minolta 300 F2.8G would serve me better.

sharpness: 5 color: 5 build: 5 distortion: 4 flare control: 5	user: ABDurbs review date: May-30-12
	tested on film camera: tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP: tested on full frame:24MP
compared to:	Canon 100-400
price paid:	$1500.00 (new)
positive:	Sharp Fast Focus Hold Buttons AF limiter button AF / MF selection on lens Sony SSM F4
negative:	None really. Weather Sealing would be nice.
comment:	I have used this lens on my A850, A700 and now my A77, mostly for wildlife and birds. I find it simply outstanding and is in my view the best 70-400 (or similar) lens out there. It is sharp, good in low light, focuses pretty fast, great colour rendition and has next to no distortion. For me it produced great IQ throughout the entire focal length and on all my Sony's. It is big and heavy, but that does not bother me as I use this lens mostly on a monopod or tripod. I have taken a video with this lens on my A77 and was blown away by the quality. I must be honest and say that this lens has kept me "faithful" to Sony, as I could never see myself selling it, and there is nothing else out there in this range that would make me change brands. I would highly reccomend this lens.

sharpness: 5 color: 5 build: 5 distortion: 5 flare control: 4	user: Werner B. review date: May-08-12
	tested on film camera: tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP: tested on full frame:24MP
compared to:	Tamron 70-200 2.8 Minolta 100-300 APO
price paid:	$1,250.00 used
positive:	Amazing I.Q. Creamy bokeh
negative:	Big, Need a tripod at the long end to make this work
comment:	I have had this lens for about a year now and find I do not use it very often. Sometimes I think I should sell it and get the Zeiss 24-70 as I would probably use it more. But every time I fire off a few shots with it, I think OMG. This lens is amazing! The colours, image quality and bokeh are as good as any prime lens. The only negative is it's size. If you pull this out at a wedding-people are going to head for cover. It is NOT subtle. Furthermore this lens commands a decent tripod and head arrangement. I use a carbon fiber Manfrotto with a high quality ball head for my DSLR's. This is not enough for this lens, I have to pull out my medium format Manfrotto 055 with the 410 geared head to keep this lens steady. The quality of the images from this lens are so good, the range so convenient, that I don't think I will ever sell it. The size of the lens is a small price to pay for the images it produces.

sharpness: 4.5 color: 5 build: 5 distortion: 5 flare control: 5	user: tefoonez review date: April-11-12
	tested on film camera: tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP: tested on full frame:24MP
compared to:	Minolta 300 2.8 Minolta 400 4.5 Sony 70-300G Nikon 80-400 VR
price paid:	L1000
positive:	Range, colours, sharpness, weight (considering range).
negative:	None apart from silver colour.
comment:	An absolute must-have lens I believe and certainly the one that Sony should be most proud of to date. Awesome range, great colours and very impressive sharpness even handheld. Makes the Nikon seem like a toy. Albeit considerably slower than the Minolta I found this immeasurably more practical and was an absolute joy on safari in Africa. Only negative is the colour since anything not black makes you like jam to wasps.

sharpness: 5 color: 5 build: 5 distortion: 5 flare control: 5	user: selmicka.cz review date: March-21-12
	tested on film camera: tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP: tested on full frame:24MP
compared to:
positive:	fast focus, sharpness even at maximum zoom
negative:	cardinality of the body, need a tripod with a smaller zoom - it is difficult to hold in your hand
comment:	get for the price of the lens zoom range with great texture and a sharp focus quickly. PS: I'm beginning photographer!

sharpness: 5 color: 5 build: 5 distortion: 5 flare control: 5	user: Baskir review date: March-15-12
	tested on film camera: tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP: tested on full frame:24MP
compared to:	Minolta 100 - 400
positive:	Incredible clarity and super fast foscus. Very easy to use even when hand held. Very convenently placed focus locks. Substantial feel in hand like the old Minolta lenses.
negative:	Weight
comment:	I have been using a Minolta 100 - 400mm lens for tha past 3 years. It is a nice lens but is loud and has trouble locking on target with fast moving objects when fully extended to 400mm. The Sony not only is a sharper lens but is a much faster focusing lens in the field. Yes this lens is heavy....2x the weight but it is totally worth it. I typically dont use a tripod and by the end of the day.....tired....but I have improved my keepers by 35%. On the tripod this lens is superb. Highly recommended. I am taking it on Safari to Botswana this summer.....really looking forward to it!!!!

sharpness: 5 color: 5 build: 5 distortion: 5 flare control: 5	user: Hols52 review date: February-12-12
	tested on film camera: tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP: tested on full frame:24MP
compared to:	Sony 16-50, Sony 70-300G, Sony 35mm F1.8
price paid:	£1400 (new)
positive:	Build quality, IQ, Focusing
negative:	Weight
comment:	Excellent lens - if anything the IQ, focusing, colour rating etc are better than the 70-300G, but not that those from the 70-300 are are not excellent and more than enough for me. It is just that this is even better. The pictures I have got from this lens I love, the solid feel I love. Yet I have used the 70-300G far more often. Why? Well partly because I have owned the 70-300 longer but also because I find that this lens I do not want to walk around with. It is too big - for me. I can use it hand-held and can have it round my neck. I just choose not to as I find it far more comfortable using it on at least a monopod if not a tripod (preferred. Also, for me the results are better if I use the tripod than handheld - so it is an easy decision - when I know I will be using it take the tripod. But, this does limit how often I use it compared to the 70-300. Does that mean I would consider letting it go or regret buying it - no way! The extra reach and that touch of extra quality are for me totally worth it. I love planning a trip out for the birds or some landscapes or some architecture. The whole thing becomes more of an event - I love it. But, if I am going to be walking all day and want something to grab birds in flight or a landscape which just appears - I have the 70-300 and 16-50. So I guess for me its horses for courses. For what I enjoy the 16-50, 70-300 and 70-400 all have their part to play and all I really enjoy. If you forced my hand and I was limited to two, I would have to let the 70-400 go simply because for me the weight is an issue. A few years back though I would be letting the 70-300 go because at the end of the day, if you are fine with the weight then this lens is superb.

sharpness: 5 color: 5 build: 5 distortion: 5 flare control: 5	user: winet review date: January-21-12
	tested on film camera: tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP: tested on full frame:24MP
compared to:	Canon 100-400 IS Tamron 200-500mm Nikon 80-400mm
price paid:	1799
positive:	Build quality AF speed SSM Great IQ Focus limiter
negative:	None
comment:	This lens is the king of the zooms in this focal range. Over the years have owned Canon and Nikon and their versions are inferior to the the Sony in every way. Sure it's expensive and a bit heavy but in this case you really do get what you pay for. The SSM is very quiet and focuses quickly on the a77. Another great feature of this lens is the focus limiter allows you to fill the frame on most subjects without going to the full focus setting at 400mm. Some reviewes complain of zoom creep but my copy is very good in this regard. I don't know if it will loosen over time. If you need the reach and can afford it buy it.

sharpness: 4.5 color: 4 build: 4 distortion: 4 flare control: 4	user: mvanrheenen review date: January-13-12
	tested on film camera: tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP: tested on full frame:24MP
compared to:
price paid:	1389 EUR (new)
positive:	Sharpness IQ wide open Size Price
negative:	Zoom creep Placement focus hold buttons Will refuse focus lock on occasion. Hunts in dimmer light
comment:	I was supprised about the size and weight of the lens when I recieved it. It's portable enough to take on hiking trips as opposed to the primes of this focal length. I like the IQ. Wide open the IQ is great, even on both ends. The lens isn't that fast, which can make the bokeh a bit messy. This can easily be avoided by composing the image different. This can however be a bit of an issue sometimes. Build quality is good, although a lot of plastic is used. Biggest issue is the placement of the focus hold buttons, which can be pressed accidentally if not careful. After 4 months of use, zoom creep has popped up as a minor issue. Biggest gripe I have is that it can hunt if used in dimmer light or with a busy background. I need to intervene with MF on a regular basis when shooting in the woods, as the lens keeps hunting or won't lock focus, even when focus limit is set.

sharpness: 5 color: 5 build: 5 distortion: 5 flare control: 5	user: cobwebscavern review date: December-17-11
	tested on film camera: tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP: tested on full frame:24MP
compared to:	Sony 70-300G Sony 55-200 Cosina 75-300 Centon 500 Mirror
price paid:	900 Pounds (Used)
positive:	Everything about this lens screams quality.
negative:	None
comment:	I have read comments before getting this lens with people unhappy with the hood design and the colour. These issues are trivial and really not worth bothering over (and not true as the hood is a great design and of well made plastics & the colour I personally find to be lovely) when you take into account the quality of photos this lens produces. It 25 years of photography this is simply the best zoom lens I have ever seen or used and this includes forays into Canikon lenses as well. If you get a chance to buy one - don't hesitate - you won't regret it.

sharpness: 5 color: 5 build: 4 distortion: 5 flare control: 5	user: Roby72 review date: December-04-11
	tested on film camera: tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP: tested on full frame:24MP
compared to:	sony 70-300G
price paid:	1000 EUR (new)
positive:	sharpness construction SSM color rendition hood window focus limiter focus hold button
negative:	not weather sealed no zoom-lock
comment:	I bought this lens to replace my precedent 70-300G and I found one brand new just for 1000 EUR even though I had to wait almost a month to put my hands on it. But I'm so happy with it! SHARPNESS AND IMAGE QUALITY = I can't ask for something better at any aperture or any focal range! I'm extremely satisfied and a step over the fantastic 70-300G. Generally image quality is at the top and you can't see any chromatic aberration at all. Bokeh is a little harsh, you have to take care to put distance between subject and background to obtain better results. Vignetting is not an issue on APS sensor camera. SSM is pretty fast and unnoticeable. I obtained pretty decent photos at motogp. COLOR = Same of all the Sony lenses BUILD = Despite of a well built lens I only give 4 because it's not weather sealed. The hood, a little "light", present a useful window to operate a CPL filter! DISTORTION = Unnoticeable FLARE = Well, how could you be able to obtain any flare with that huge hood?

sharpness: 5 color: 5 build: 5 distortion: 5 flare control: 5	user: Snegren review date: November-15-11
	tested on film camera: tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP: tested on full frame:24MP
compared to:	70-300 G SSM Sigma 70-300 APO and APO DG
price paid:	1428 EUR (new)
positive:	Razor sharp wide open, razor sharp at 400 mm one stop down Built like a tank, handles nicely Smooth, silent fast and accurate AF Slide window in the hood to allow polariser manipulation
negative:	Weight
comment:	My first Sigma 70-300 died in Iceland because of mist/sulphur vapour entering the lens (it seized) and got binned. The Sigma 70-300 AF DG replacement had its gearbox stripped by my A700 AF motor at minimum focus distance and also went into the bin. Replaced it with a 70-300 G SSM and was very happy with the improved images until I bought the 70-400. Could not believe how much better it is than the 70-300 G SSM. I walk around with this lens but I don't think this is for everybody, it is big and heavy and of no use without tripod or monopod. It gives you sharp and contrasty images, great colour, no CAs, distortion or flare. If you want great bokeh look for primes, but this one won't let you down IMO. I bought it for reach so use it a lot at 400 F5.6, but is truly amazing at 70 F4. On my A700 it was hard to focus correctly due to back-focus. I use it now on the A99 where it is a solid performer. Micro focus adjustment made, it is spot on. Now available in white in the more expensive second version for those who do not like the silver.......

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:	Sigma 70-200 2.8, Minolta 100-400 APO, Sony 70-300G
price paid:	1200 CDN (refurb)
positive:	Fast focusing and really sharp
negative:	Heavy
comment:	I bought this as a refurbished lens for a good price. I had wanted it for a long time and could not pass it up. I am very glad I did. I have used it for motorsports and wildlife and a lot in between. I don't use it all the time but when I do I am always thrilled to have it. A monopod helps if you are going to be shooting for any length of time. I really like the opening in the lens hood so you can adjust a polarizing filter.

sharpness: 4.5 color: 5 build: 4 distortion: 4 flare control: 4	user: NickR review date: November-10-11
	tested on film camera: tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP: tested on full frame:24MP
compared to:	Nikon 80-400mm VR Canon 100-400mm IS
price paid:	999 GBP (new)
positive:	Sharp Fast AF Build
negative:	No Zoom Lock
comment:	I'm very impressed with the SAL70400G, it is better than I expected being a long zoom lens which is often a compromise compared to a fix lens telephoto. So far is very sharp at all focal lengths and apertures. I've owned a Nikon 80-400mm VR and used Canon 100-400mm IS lenses which aren't as good as the Sony for build quality and sharpness, its not really possible to shoot wide open like I can with the SAL70400G. If the zoom mechanism was internally in the lens body this lens would be 100%.

sharpness: 5 color: 5 build: 4 distortion: 4 flare control: 5	user: amflmnt review date: October-27-11
	tested on film camera: tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP: tested on full frame:24MP
compared to:	Minolta 85G-RS
price paid:	1200.00 USD (new)
positive:	Sharp Color rendition Bokeh/DOF unlimited focus ring
negative:	Battery hog when using SSM Heavy Aux function button placement
comment:	Got this lens 4 months after relese so it was pricey. Luv it. 75mm my fave length. The Bokeh is creamy (to my eye) and gentley accurate color rendition. 400mm can almost get macro-like results but it does vignette-be sure the AS is on. What's lost in speed of the 85G is made up for in zoom range with negligable loss of quality. It's heavy and since your favored hand is controlling the camera it's likely your weak arm will be supporting it. When shooting free-hand, take off the collar mount-its heavy,too. Auxillary function button placement + my hand size means I always have to be wary of activating one accidently, esp. when anticipating a shot, it can throw your timing off. SSM will drain your battery quickly-use manual focus when able. The cons aren't photographic concerns and you'll get consistant quality images once you manage the physical.

sharpness: 5 color: 5 build: 5 distortion: 5 flare control: 5	user: Mahipal review date: October-24-11
	tested on film camera: tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP: tested on full frame:24MP
compared to:	70-300 150-500 sigma
price paid:	1500 USD(New)
positive:	Sharp Accurate focusing Everything
negative:	Hood Color of the lens Gets dirty easily.
comment:	This one is very very precious possession. A wonderful lens for bird photography. Can be used as a binoc to view birds :) After using 70-400G, I want to shoot everything with this lens even portraits.

sharpness: 5 color: 5 build: 5 distortion: 5 flare control: 5	user: livinginparadise review date: October-23-11
	tested on film camera: tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP: tested on full frame:24MP
compared to:	Sigma 400 Sigma 70-200 Beercan
price paid:	1150 A$ (used)
positive:	Sharpness Flare control Contrast Focus speed and accuracy
negative:	a little heavy
comment:	WOW! Amazing lens Sharp Lighting fast focus For wildlife THIS IS THE ONE TO GET

sharpness: 5 color: 5 build: 4 distortion: 5 flare control: 4	user: aburagohain review date: October-08-11
	tested on film camera: tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP: tested on full frame:24MP
compared to:	Beercan
price paid:	1600 USD new
positive:	Sharpness, silent focus, color, focus hold buttons
negative:	None to think of
comment:	This is a very capable lens, sharp throughout the range wide open, the reach and the clarity is great at this price point. The bokeh can be harsh at times especially for a background of leaves, but quite good and not distracting otherwise. The hood could have been better but probably made of plastic to cut weight, lens is already quite heavy. Not suitable for walk-around use, a over the shoulder kind of carrying solution is good to have. Takes some getting used to, some form of support is very helpful. Need to push ISO higher to match the shutter speed required in not very bright conditions towards the long end. The zoom ring is slightly hard to rotate. There is a very slight wiggle when mounted on the A700, was told at the shop that this is same for the 70-200, do not know how true that is; not a problem for me over 4 months of use, the lens has performed beautifully. A happy owner.

sharpness: 5 color: 5 build: 5 distortion: 5 flare control: 5	user: mdmwrx review date: August-25-11
	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, Sony 70-400mm f4-5.6, Minolta 400mm f4.5, Minolta 600mm f4.0, Sigma 500mm f4.5, Sigma 10-20mm F4 - 5.6 Sigma 105mm F2.8, Sigma 85mm f1.4,
price paid:	1500 USD (new)
positive:	Sharpness, color, build, distortion, & flare is way beyond what I expected when I got this lens.
negative:	The only thing that bad about this lens is the weight of it, that all!
comment:	That is great

sharpness: 5 color: 5 build: 5 distortion: 5 flare control: 5	user: ponz review date: July-28-11
	tested on film camera: tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP: tested on full frame:24MP
compared to:
price paid:	$1599
positive:	Sharpness, colors, build quality.
negative:	Can't access zoom ring with hood reversed, Duh Struggles to focus in low light
comment:	I've only had this beauty for a couple of days now. Will update this review soon. So far, I'm very impressed. It's built solidly, focuses fast and silently in proper lighting. It's very sharp, wide open, throughout it's range. And an added bonus, to me, is that I'm finding very useful as an indoor lens for either portraits or across the room candids. I hope to get her outside this weekend for some real testing.

sharpness: 5 color: 5 build: 3 distortion: 5 flare control: 5	user: Ome Kees review date: July-17-11
	tested on film camera: tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP: tested on full frame:24MP
compared to:	Big beercan Minolta 300 2.8 APO
price paid:	1400 Euro (new)
positive:	IQ Weight
negative:	No zoomlock Slow autofocus
comment:	Very good IQ even wide open from corner to corner were CA is no issue. The hood is a bit thin but does its work very wel. The AF is slow compared to the Minolta 300.

sharpness: 4.5 color: 5 build: 4 distortion: 5 flare control: 5	user: dschroed review date: July-05-11
	tested on film camera: tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP: tested on full frame:24MP
compared to:	Sigma - 70-200mm F2.8 II EX DG APO MACRO HSM Tokina AT-X PRO AF 80-200 F2.8
price paid:	1600 € (new)
positive:	fast for a 70-400 SSM - silent accurate focus
negative:	Silver design because I do use a sun-sniper pro - steel & bear and wear a blue jeans today and guess what... the lens has got a few blue freckles on it... no zoom-lock
comment:	Focus is fast an silent, lens is tack sharp. I fell in love with that lens since the first picture I have taken with it. Thought the price is to high and I was not sure, if I should keep this lens. Comparing the lens with the Tokina and the Sigma (at the lower to middle range of course). Signa is silent to, but has got sometimes blue or green fringe. Tokina is a very old design, makes a lot of noise, some fringing. The Tokina will be on ebay those days, Sigma will stay but I believe I won't use it that often any more. The 70-400 G SSM is a clear winner. A few words about the lens-hood: I think the hood is ok, I like the little door for filters. But on this heavy, build-like-a-tank-lens the hood looks very cheap and weak. Edit [04.Sept.2012]: I really miss a zoom-lock. Walking around with the dslr facing with the lens to the ground makes the front element extend...

sharpness: 5 color: 5 build: 5 distortion: 5 flare control: 5	user: Eml review date: June-16-11
	tested on film camera: tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP: tested on full frame:24MP
compared to:
price paid:	1750 USD -> 1250€
positive:	sharpness colours actually everything :-)
negative:
comment:	This lens is just great, nearly nothing could be better! It's really worth the money...

sharpness: 4 color: 4 build: 4 distortion: 5 flare control: 5	user: leonblij review date: June-04-11
	tested on film camera: tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP: tested on full frame:24MP
compared to:	Sony 70-300G Tamron 70-200 f2.8
positive:	Fast and silent af. Colors. 1:4 macro. Can be used hand held. Works perfect with 1.4tc
negative:	Needs bright light to preform or the iso has to go up. Hade to buy a new bag it won't fit i my old lowepro aw200.
comment:	I use a sun snipper with two screws (1 in the body and 1 in the tripod collar). The load is more on the tripod collar (80%) so the body is not ripped apart by this heavy lens. I walked for hours and never get tired and the camera is on my hip ready for action. The silver color realy helps to cool down the lens, in full sun it is not getting warm. On bright sunny day's its a perfect lens but in the woods or on a cloudy day the iso have to go up if you want sharp pictures. The first week i almost returned this lens but then i put in al my efforts to realy understand this lens now it's not commimg from my a700.

sharpness: 5 color: 5 build: 5 distortion: 5 flare control: 5	user: fabiox6 review date: June-04-11
	tested on film camera: tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP: tested on full frame:24MP
compared to:	300 f/4 APO G ( + 1,4 TC ) 80-200 f/2.8 APO
positive:	- range - quality
negative:	- Color ( I would prefer black ) - Easy to loose hood - Weight ( not too much compared with a 300 f/4 + TC - No strap ( Big issue ! ) - Tripod support makes a bit difficult the handling - zooming require too much torque
comment:	I use this kind of lenses mainly for airshows. I owned a 300 f/4 that I used with a 1,4 TC. I was fully satisfied for the quality provided by my combo. The only drawback was the fixed focal. I had the chance to buy a 400 4,5 and so I started to look all possible comparison/test on the web. So I ended up with the 70-400. I find this lens very special. This can be used more frequently than my 300 ( You can do a bit of macro too!)and the quality is the same all over the range ( I did a lot of comparison shots ). Last but not least it works with my TC 1,4 ( not original ). No issues at all on the focusing speed ( I find it better than the 300/4 ). Hood is filmsy. I say : who cares! Except that it is very easy to lose it( Last time after a photo session someone went to me with the hood in the hands: Is it yours? ). Be careful. A strap is missing. You should lift it using the camera. I do not like it at all. I had an idea to sell my 80-200 once I had this lens, but I'll keep both

sharpness: 5 color: 5 build: 5 distortion: 5 flare control: 5	user: Bob Socko review date: June-04-11
	tested on film camera: tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP: tested on full frame:24MP
compared to:	* Sony 70-300mm f/4.5-5.6 SSM G * Minolta 70-210mm f/4 Beercan * Tamron 70-200m f/2.8 * Sony 70-200mm f/2.8 SSM G * Minolta 80-200mm f/2.8 HS G * Tamron 200-400mm f/5.6
price paid:	1480 USD (used)
positive:	* Very sharp - any aperture, any focal length. * Great color and contrast. * SSM focus is relatively fast. * Focus hold and focus limiters improve focus even more. * Meaningfully sturdy build. * Lens hood has a slot which allows for polarizers to be used.
negative:	* The hood feels flimsy compared to the rest of the lens (though I'm sure it's to cut down on weight). * Large and heavy enough to be hard to use without a tripod.
comment:	There are a few lenses out there which are perfect - or at least, they're as perfect as you can realistically expect. This is one of them. It's sharp wide open at any aperture. Focus is appropriately fast. Color, contrast, saturation, it's all fantastic. The build quality is professional, and it shows. This is one of the few expensive lenses where, without hesitation, I can say it's worth the price. I can't say that about the Zeiss 24-70mm f/2.8 SSM, as the Tamron/KM/Sony variants are almost as good and a whole lot cheaper. I can't say that about the Sony 70-200mm f/2.8 SSM G - the Tamron/Minolta/Sigma variants are almost as good and a whole lot cheaper. Am I saying the Zeiss 24-70 and Sony 70-200 lenses are bad? No, not at all, they're excellent lenses. But where they have reasonable competition at a fair price, this lens is in a league of its own. There's just nothing else like it on the market.

sharpness: 5 color: 5 build: 5 distortion: 5 flare control: 5	user: boyzone review date: May-21-11
	tested on film camera: tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP: tested on full frame:24MP
compared to:	-Minolta 100-400APO -Minolta Beercan
price paid:	1424 USD (used)
positive:	Sharp across the range with wide open
negative:	Heavy, but this is reasonable for 400mm zoom range.
comment:	Is totally different game when u plug in with "G" lens. Good bokeh, sharp image and fast focus speed. Worth to invest. Attached with image link with 400@f5.6 hand held. http://img829.imageshack.us/img829/1752/dsc02584q.jpg

sharpness: 5 color: 5 build: 5 distortion: 5 flare control: 5	user: Erriv review date: May-14-11
	tested on film camera: tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP: tested on full frame:24MP
compared to:	70-300 G SSM, this one is slightly better at 400mm than the 70-300 is at 300mm. At similar FL's and apertures the 70-400 is noticably better.
positive:	-Excellent sharpness all across the range. -Saturated and vivid colors (typical Sony/Minolta). -The color of the lens, not because it looks good, but because it does exactly what it's supposed to do: Keep the lens cool. I've been shooting with it for days on end in the scorching african summer-sun, and while the camera body could get really hot the lens was -always- close to cool to the touch.
negative:	Size/Weight, but then again the physics demand it. Maybe the hood is a little weak, but mine has never fallen off or anything like that.
comment:	Nothing new to add, people have said it all already. The only lens I've paid full price in a store for, and it was soooo worth it.

sharpness: 5 color: 5 build: 5 distortion: 5 flare control: 5	user: niji review date: May-14-11
	tested on film camera: tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP: tested on full frame:24MP
compared to:	Minolta 100-300 APO (D) - always found it a bit soft, even on film
price paid:	1100 USD (as new)
positive:	Sharp (tails off, goes from excellent to merely very very good) Built well Accurate AF that's reasonably quick Forward zoom ring works well on a lens of this size and weight
negative:	It seems like quibbling to ping this lens, it does so much so well. Sony doesn't make a matching standard zoom in this colour. Takes the space of 3 other competent lenses in my bag.
comment:	I picked this up on ebay for $30 less than my maximum bid, had I known what I was in for I would have easily raised my bid by another 20%. Like NAD and Marantz do with their senior designers, I want to know the lead designer behind this lens and what they and their team are working on now.

sharpness: 4.5 color: 4 build: 5 distortion: 5 flare control: 5	user: wingedpower review date: March-05-11
	tested on film camera: tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP: tested on full frame:24MP
compared to:	70-200/2.8 G/SSM
positive:	400mm on APS-C = 600mm Very sharp Heavily built SSM is silent
negative:	Very Heavily Built Zoom is VERY stiff Zoom extends lens tube, some wiggle Slower SSM/AF Variable Max Aperture
comment:	I rented the lens from BorrowLenses.com for about $150 for 10 days for a trip to Florida. I used this lens almost exclusively in Florida. My 70-200/2.8 sat in the pack back for the whole trip. The 70-400 is sharp. However, given the longer focal length, smaller aperture, and extension/wiggle of the lens tube at max extension, this is a lens that requires stable hand holding techniques and a very capable tripod. The lens is heavy. Very heavy. However, after a couple of days, you get used to it. As I got more used to the weight of the lens, I was able to get sharper pictures. It was basically the same story with the 70-200/2.8 lens, when I first started using it. The zoom is stiff. Very stiff. I ended up holding the zoom and turning the body with my right and, and recomposing. Zoom creep was a big issue with the lens going into and out of my camera bag. This was remedied mostly by taking the lens hood off and just keeping it off. I did not experience much lens flare, but then again, I wasn't shooting into the light much. I shot the whole trip without a lens hood in fairly bright Florida sunlight. Definitely a plus for the lens. Overall, my thoughts about the lens are: - love the long focal length and the reach it gives me. - this lens is definitely designed for folks with cameras with better high ISO handling. I got great shots when shooting at 1600/3200 ISO when in the shade, and ISO 800 in most other situations to get a fast enough shutter speed. - You WILL get noticed using this lens. I got alot of oohs when I was wielding the 70-200/2.8/G, but with the 70-400/G, I definitely got a lot more folks asking about it. - The weight is something to get used. What I would have liked: - internal zoom. The extending zoom magnifies camera shake. - constant f/4 aperture would have been great, but dropping to 5.3 isn't a deal breaker. This lens is a good matchup with low noise high iso shooters like the A900, A580. I think it will absolutely kill on the upcoming A77.

sharpness: 5 color: 5 build: 5 distortion: 5 flare control: 4	user: ryansholl review date: March-03-11
	tested on film camera: tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP: tested on full frame:24MP
compared to:
price paid:	1600 USD new
positive:	Sharp everywhere. Huge useable range. Works great with my kenko dgx 1.4x.
negative:	Heavier than my 50mm prime
comment:	It was a lot of pennies but definitely worth all of them. I can repeat the other reviews but what's the point?

sharpness: 4.5 color: 5 build: 5 distortion: 5 flare control: 4	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:	Minolta AF 75-300 F4.5-5.6 [BB]
price paid:	1350 euro [New]
positive:	All
negative:	Heavy
comment:

sharpness: 5 color: 5 build: 5 distortion: 5 flare control: 5	user: Yugus review date: December-17-10
	tested on film camera: tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP: tested on full frame:24MP
compared to:
price paid:	$1200 CAD (Used)
positive:	SSM focusing is fast and silent Amazing range Very good minimum focusing distance Very sharp Good bokeh Distortion is well controlled Focus limiter is very welcomed
negative:	Hood really is as flimsy as they say Cannot zoom with hood reversed Weight (Not really a negative for this kind of lens) Colour (Based on personal opinion)
comment:	I actually really like this lens, though it maybe to slow to use indoors it is a great outdoor lens. On a full frame body it 70-400mm covers a very useful range in my opinion. I find the focusing to be very fast and accurate more so then my Minolta 400mm F4.5 HS APO G. This lens is very sharp, it is considered the best out of the super telephoto zoom lenses (compared to the Canon 100-400 and Nikon 80-400). The bokeh is very nicely rendered though it can be a little harsh at 400mm if the distance between the subject and background isn't far enough. Also this lens has very little distortion compared to the other super telephoto zooms out there. Vignetting on a full frame with a filter on isn't much of an issue either. The only downside to this lens is the weight, even though it is probably as light as they could really get it, the build is a mix of plastic and metal in order to keep the weight down. Oh and the flimsy hood, but thats not a deal breaker here, though some would suggest the colour is... Overall I really think this lens is worth the money, it is a great lens that can cover almost all your telephoto bases, and it does it really well.

sharpness: 5 color: 5 build: 5 distortion: 5 flare control: 5	user: Akunde review date: December-14-10
	tested on film camera: tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP: tested on full frame:24MP
compared to:	SAL70 - 300mm G SAL55 - 200mm
price paid:	AU$1600
positive:	Image quality Weight Ergonomics AF speed SSM
negative:	Slightly flimsy hood (have knocked it off once so far)
comment:	A truly superb lens. It has provided me with some very nice photos over the last few months. It is quite weighty but I managed to carry it on and A700 (plus grip) with a 58AM flash on the top (about 3KG) for upwards of 5 hours, so it is pretty good. I find the layout of the focus hold buttons and AF/MF switch to be very good. Did not take me long to memorise their positions. AF speed is good enough, though I generally give the ring a bit of a spin to get it close and let AF do the rest. All in all, I believe that this is an amazing wildlife lens that will not leave many people wanting for more.

sharpness: 5 color: 5 build: 5 distortion: 5 flare control: 5	user: hayasa8 review date: December-08-10
	tested on film camera: tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP: tested on full frame:24MP
compared to:	80-200 g several other long range zooms that aren't in the same league.
price paid:	1312.00 (new)
positive:	Incredible piece. Tack sharp, accurate focus, beautiful natural color, lightweight and compact for what it is.
negative:	Focus hunts on SLT's a little bit in low light but nothing bad. Supposedly bokeh is too busy at 400 but only when strong highlights for me.
comment:	Best zoom I've ever used. Period. Best 1300 bucks I ever spent. Really a must have. Perfect! People complain about the flimsy hood but I appreciate that they kept any weight off the end of the thing. Astonishingly great lens. Sell something and buy it. Update after having this a few years, mount came loose but tightened it up and all is fine. Also had a weird issue on my a77 where the focus hold buttons became a switch between manual focus and something like DMF... If I pushed the buttons, the camera would focus but only while holding them. Reset camera to no progress. unmounted lens for a few minutes and it was right again. This did happen while the mount wasn't as secure as it should be...

sharpness: 5 color: 5 build: 4 distortion: 4 flare control: 5	user: mstaben review date: November-19-10
	tested on film camera: tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP: tested on full frame:24MP
compared to:	Sigma 500 f7.2 Big Beercan 75-300 Beercan
price paid:	1599
positive:	Versatile outdoor lens. Permits accurate metering. Lightweight hood. Good looking. (even if silver!) Decent open aperture at 70-150mm. (70-100mm f4,100-150mm f4.5) Sharp!
negative:	Slow AF. A bit soft at 400mm. (just a bit) Slow.
comment:	This lens can capture some amazing shots from far away. Or up closer. Let's not forget this lens zooms from 70mm to 400mm, and maintains its sharpness throughout the range - a photograph shot at 70, 250, or 400mm will all be accepted at Alamy (stock photo service) without reservation (assuming the picture's of a sufficient subject). Its main drawback, however, is that the 70-400G is a slow lens in overcast conditions - the 70-400G has difficulty separating the subject from a mono-background - but on a bright day, there's no compare. AF is slow. It can take eons to shuttle the AF from infinity to MFD. The AF limiter helps some, and there are tricks using the manual focus ring to 'get ready' for the money shot. One way is to manually focus to infinity and settle the focus spot on the subject then let AF take over - chances are the focus will lock rather quickly. Start at the opposite for close-up subjects. Ultimately, this lens is a keeper, for sure. There's nothing quite like it available for any mount, so they say. I believe it. If you can afford the 70-400G, it's the one you'll have a barrel of fun with. I use this lens across all its zoom range, and its output will give a "4" prime of the equivalent focal length a run for its life!

sharpness: 5 color: 5 build: 5 distortion: 5 flare control: 4	user: Sharpeye 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:	sigma 50-500 minolta 80-200 HS sigma 180mm macro
price paid:	1458 eur
positive:	sharp, good range, color, SSM
negative:	could not find anything yet..
comment:	Just got this beautiful beast, and all i can say is WOW! It's large, a little heavy, but after looking into pictures you will forget about that immediately. My sample (lucky me:) is really, really sharp wide open at full 400mm,seems even sharper at maximum focal lenght than zoomed to 200 or 300mm. SSM is so quiet, but could be a little faster. Using focus limiter it may get faster also. This lens is absolutely fantastic piece of G(c)lass. Can't wait for improved weather here, to test it further. Absolutely recommended for anyone who need 400mm or more. Work great with 2x TC added, above all my expectations (but only MF, aperture will be F11),as it stays sharp even at 800mm! Will post some samples when i catch some time later. Outstanding lens.

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:	CZ 24-70 Tamron 70-200 Sony 70-300
positive:
negative:
comment:

sharpness: 5 color: 5 build: 5 distortion: 5 flare control: 5	user: Photovisionz review date: November-11-10
	tested on film camera: tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP: tested on full frame:24MP
compared to:	Sony 70-300g
price paid:	2005 NZD
positive:	sharp as contrast colours build tripod collar
negative:	nothing
comment:	This lens is great. It is sharper than the Sony 70-300G which softens from 250mm onwards. The 70-400 lens is razor sharp at all focal lengths. It is surprisingly compact for its range and Sony have done a good job balancing lightweight materials with durability. This means that although a heavy lens it is much lighter than it could have been and is easily hand held. The tripod collar is a must. This is missing on the 70-300 which is one of the reasons why at 300mm the latter could never be sharp - even on a tripod. First class engineering and optics.

sharpness: 5 color: 5 build: 5 distortion: 5 flare control: 5	user: Crum 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:	70-210mm Beercan
price paid:	1230 USD (new)
positive:	Solid build Smooth, quiet focus IQ
negative:	Weight Flimsy feel to hood
comment:	This is my first G & SSM lens and I am really enjoying it. I was surprised when I actually saw the size of it in the box. It is a beast! Build is superb and solid, apart from the hood which is plastic and feels like it could break easily. Because of that all metal build for the body it is heavy and I don't know that I would want to be carrying it around all day. Carry this lens in a crowd and you certainly pull the looks. I have had people come to talk to me about my gear on account of this lens (never happened before). As with the other reviews it is sharp wide open and at all focal lengths. I haven't had any problem with flare shooting into the sunlight. Well worth the $$ spent if you can get one. Recently while in South Africa I was able to take a photo of Cape Point from 28 miles away on my A850 using this lens and was able to make out the lighthouse and buildings when zoomed in on the picture.

sharpness: 5 color: 5 build: 5 distortion: 5 flare control: 5	user: dragoonpvw review date: October-17-10
	tested on film camera: tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP: tested on full frame:24MP
compared to:	28-70G 70-200 2.8 Sigma ad infinitum
price paid:	1200
positive:	Image Focusing speed Range Colour
negative:	Dont like tripod ring
comment:	this lens is my favourite at the moment. In fact, ever since I bought it about 6 months ago. With the stabilisation I even pop quite a few portrait shots off it while I am out, it has a great close focus. I use it for a lot of aviation photography and shoot handheld a lot. It is a weight but nothing too prohibitive and easily manageable. I love the colours, and it sems so easy to focus on the 900. I have been a pro Minolta user for 20 years or so and this stays in my bag with 28-70G.

sharpness: 5 color: 5 build: 5 distortion: 5 flare control: 5	user: MartinM review date: September-13-10
	tested on film camera: tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP: tested on full frame:24MP
compared to:	70-300G SSM Zuiko 50-200 SWD
price paid:	1700 (new)
positive:	Sharpness Zoom range
negative:	Weight Small apperture
comment:	For the past 5 days i had a test sample of a 70-400G SSM. I wanted to make myself a picture of this lens, before buying another one which I would be no happy with it. Yesterday I was hiking through a wildlife park, here in Switzerland. It was "always on". The 24-70Z stayed in the bag all day. So weight, for hiking, less an issue, than going to a Zoo, where you will add the low light equipment with you for the aquariums. 24-70 + 70-400 G truly a great combination Sharpness and its tremendous zoom range makes this lens absolutely perfect. AF speed leaves room for improvement. The AF is however always better than the 70-300G. BIF out of the waist won't be fast enough to capture. Till you got a really AF lock, the bird is gone. In the forest you quickly reach the limits of this lens. Aperture. You need to boost your ISO up to 800+ Anyway, I most probably will get this lens Update: I purchased the lens today!!

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:	sigma 50-500, tamron 200-500
price paid:	1500
positive:	everything
negative:	heavy
comment:	had it a year, it still regularly amazes me. brilliant even wide open. definately the sharpest zoom I have ever used. the sigma and tamron were both good, but aren't in the same class.

sharpness: 5 color: 5 build: 4 distortion: 5 flare control: 5	user: Basil review date: August-09-10
	tested on film camera: tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP: tested on full frame:24MP
compared to:	Tokina AT-X 400 5.6 Minolta 500 Reflex Tamron 70-200 2.8 with 2X TC
price paid:	1600 USD
positive:	Sharp!!! Silent AF with limiters Rotating tripod collar is solid Window on lens hood makes using a CPL easy Color helps lens stay cool, even in hot sunlight Perfect balance on A700w/grip Not much bigger than 70-200 2.8
negative:	Slow AF in low light (focus limiters really help here) Flimsy feeling hood Can't use zoom with hood reversed on lens body Drains battery faster than any other lens I own Big, attention grabbing size (though some people may see this as a positive) Bokeh can be a bit harsh in some situations,
comment:	I am amazed by this lens every time I use it. It is sharp throughout the range, even wide open. The colors are beautiful. The balance is perfect on my A700 w/grip. I had reached the point where I needed to use some sort of support with the Tokina or Tamron, but I can hand-hold this combo without adverse effects on image quality. It is a big, heavy lens that draws attention. You WILL get noticed. I actually like the color. It makes it unique and does an excellent job of keeping the lens cool in hot sunshine. I had to get used to the faster battery drain. It's not an issue for me now, but I can see where I will need to monitor it more closely in all-day shooting situations. The bokeh is a mixed bag. It can be a bit harsh at times, but other times is quite pleasant. It's not the creamy smooth background of a good prime, but that's not what I really expect from this lens. as time goes on, I learn to recognize those situations and work around them. I admit that I thought long and hard before I bought this lens. It's a lot of money for a non-pro shooter to part with. But after swallowing hard once at the price, I have not thought about it again. It really is THAT good of a lens.

sharpness: 5 color: 5 build: 5 distortion: 5 flare control: 5	user: cruiser review date: August-08-10
	tested on film camera: tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP: tested on full frame:24MP
compared to:	Minolta 100-300 APO D Minolta 100-400 APO
price paid:	1250 € (new)
positive:	+excellent sharpness +silent SSM +tripod mount +nice colors +solid construction +good macro (1:4) capability
negative:	-weight -no zoom lock -sometimes slow focus -power consumption
comment:	I have received this lens this week and took a long 20km walk with it yesterday. I used a sholder strap hooked to the Manfrotto mount similar to an R-Strap. So even though the lens has its weigth, you can still take it for a long walk. The sharpness is stunning. Even at 400mm I have never seen similar results. AF is very silent - in fact I thought it wasn´t working first :-) The lens has no zoom creep at all. However, I would prefer to have a zoom lock to keep the lens from extending when pulling out my camera bag. AF can be slow at times. Using the focus limiter helps. Take a second battery along. The power consumption is higher than with a Minolta 100-400 Apo. Having a 1:4 capability at 400mm is a very nice add on. Together with my Kenko spacers (beware, there are two different versions) I can use higher magnification with AF. The lens hood should be made out of metal. I'm afraid it will brake one day.

sharpness: 4.5 color: 4 build: 4 distortion: 4 flare control: 4	user: TravelBug review date: July-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:	Approx £780 new
positive:	Sharp
negative:	focussing speed
comment:	Bought my copy in HK (hence the price) and took it on safari in Zambia and Tanzania. On a walking safari in Zambia for 3 hrs its a little on the weighty side, but was very very happy with the results! On safari in Tanzania we were in a vehicle so less of an issue. If you don't might the weight, its a nice lens to have!

sharpness: 5 color: 5 build: 5 distortion: 5 flare control: 5	user: Beer_Stalker review date: July-05-10
	tested on film camera: tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP: tested on full frame:24MP
compared to:	70-300G
price paid:	53,900 THB (new)
positive:	Probably the sharpest telephoto zoom on the market.
negative:	Weight. I wouldn't want to use it on a camera without a metal mount.
comment:	The sharpness of this lens is amazing. It knocks the 70-300G into a cocked hat.

sharpness: 4.5 color: 5 build: 4 distortion: 4 flare control: 4	user: Swisskiter review date: June-29-10
	tested on film camera: tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP: tested on full frame:24MP
compared to:	Kit Lens 18-55 Kit Lens 55-200 CZ 16-35
price paid:	2450 CHF
positive:	Sharpness, great Colors, fast SSM
negative:	Color of the Lens and the Hood -> can't zoom with it on reverse. But i can put up with that
comment:	I'm not a professional Photographer so this Review isen't eighter... through out i love this Lens, i'm very happy to own it! If you can put up with the weight and the color it's werth every penny! P.S. sorry for the bad english

sharpness: 5 color: 5 build: 5 distortion: 5 flare control: 5	user: Jozioau review date: June-28-10
	tested on film camera: tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP: tested on full frame:24MP
compared to:	SAL70200/f2.8 G
price paid:	£924 (HK eBay)
positive:	Sharpness, build, image quality, zoom range, SSM silent and fast focus in good light.
negative:	Plastic hood feels a bit flimsy, but fixes firmly (it's very new). The zoom ring is set to the front where it is covered by the hood when it is reverse mounted and so you can't get to it. When it's not sunny and you don't need the hood, you still have to remove it (and find somewhere to stow it) or mount it forward just to be able to zoom. The SAL70200 is better in that regard with its zoom ring nearer the camera lens mount.
comment:	A big, well built, solid lens. Fast, sure, silent SSM focussing particularly in good light. Early days as yet but very impressive image quality, colour rendition, sharpness. Similar results to the 70-200/f2.8G although Bokeh at the long end is a little harsher. Great image quality whether on the a700 or a900. Obviously a slower lens, and in dim light the AF can hunt a bit. As well, it doesn't autofocus with the SAL teleconverters, although with its natural zoom range, that's no big deal for me. 70-400mm (105mm-600mm cropped equivalent on APSC sensors) is plenty enough for my purposes. Look forward to giving it a more rigorous workout and doing a lot more shooting in the coming while. So far, very impressed.

sharpness: 4 color: 5 build: 5 distortion: 5 flare control: 4	user: aarif 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:	100-400 Canon
price paid:	1700$
positive:	Zoom range sharpness from f6.3 is very good not heavy for its size
negative:	soft wide-open not the fastest lens color
comment:	focus limiter could have been between 4-6 meter for extra speed, color and size attracts unwanted attention

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:	70-200mm
price paid:	1300€
positive:	range, sharpness, build quality AF in outdoor
negative:	heavy, long at 400mm not as fast as 70-200mm
comment:	used it in theatre with a monopod at 3200iso on A900 give really good color rendition and sharp images

sharpness: 5 color: 5 build: 5 distortion: 5 flare control: 5	user: capo99 review date: June-19-10
	tested on film camera: tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP: tested on full frame:24MP
compared to:	Sony 75-300 Tamron 70-200 e2.8
price paid:	1300
positive:	Sharpness is awesome not super fast but faster than my Tamron 70-200 2.8 Great Color Sharp all the way to 400 Very quiet Great Build Nice to have the short end down to 70mm
negative:	Only negative is the mount is a little loose on my a350. This may be more the camera as the Tamron 70-200 has a little play on as well.
comment:	My first G or expensive lens and I just love it. Could be why it gets all 5's from me. Built like a tank yet I don't mind holding it or packing it around in my bag. I bought it used and it was definitley worth the money. Proved to me you get what you pay for. Better to save your pennies than go cheap. Right now this lens is on my camera 90% of the time.

sharpness: 5 color: 5 build: 5 distortion: 5 flare control: 5	user: Janneman1967 review date: June-19-10
	tested on film camera: tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP: tested on full frame:24MP
compared to:	minolta 80-200 f.2.8 APO HS minolta 100-300 f.4.5-5.6 APO
price paid:	EUR 1350 (new)
positive:	Quiet and fast AF Useful range
negative:	Hood feels a bit cheap
comment:	Love this lens. Wish i could use it al the time. It only leaves my camera unless it's absolutely necesaary.

sharpness: 5 color: 5 build: 5 distortion: 4 flare control: 4	user: vinayn review date: June-16-10
	tested on film camera: tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP: tested on full frame:24MP
compared to:	Tamron 200-500 Sony 70-300
price paid:	$1599 USD (new)
positive:	Sharpness Color Output SSM
negative:	Build of the Hood
comment:	After lots of deliberation I finally decided to buy this lens a couple of months back and realized that it was one of the best decisions that I made. The Pictures are amazingly sharp and lot of my Canon friends have stated that it is better than the 100-400 L lens which is considered as one of the best lenses in the Canon lineup. Makes me dream as to what the 500G will be like. The AF is good but not great, but i think its more of a camera issue. Hope the A700 replacement has better AF capabilities. The only think i didn't like about the lens was the build of the lens hood. It keeps constantly falling off and I almost lost it in the forest once.

sharpness: 5 color: 5 build: 5 distortion: 4 flare control: 4	user: Tedthemecanic review date: June-15-10
	tested on film camera: tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP: tested on full frame:24MP
compared to:	Sony 18-70mm Sony 55-200mm Sigma 105mm macro Sigma 170-500 mm APO
price paid:	1249 euro (new)
positive:	Sharp Fast autofocus Color I like the bokeh
negative:
comment:	Don't talk abouth weight you know this lens is heavy! The color of the lens is not important white or silver it dos not matter. I was used to carry the Sigma 170-500mm lens and this lens is a little heavier. It is just one day i own this lens but i love it already.

sharpness: 5 color: 5 build: 5 distortion: 5 flare control: 5	user: PLLD69 review date: May-18-10
	tested on film camera: tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP: tested on full frame:24MP
compared to:	70-300G 300f4 Sigma 70-200APO
price paid:	£1200
positive:	Everything!
negative:	Nothing!
comment:	Can't really fault it.....complaints about 'cheap' lens hood miss the point. Bought from RGB at good price too so very happy all round.

sharpness: 5 color: 5 build: 5 distortion: 5 flare control: 5	user: RobY 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:	70-300 SSM G 70-200 SSM G 50-500 "Bigma"
price paid:	1100 GBP
positive:	Sharp Quick, accurate, quiet focusing
negative:	Hood doesn't feel all that special and trying to use the polariser with the hood attached is a pain when hand holding.
comment:	I sold my trusty Bigma and 3 other lenses to buy this lens; what an excellent move, even at f5.6 and 400mm it is so sharp. Really looking forward to the first airshow of the season. Need to try it on the A700 next.

sharpness: 5 color: 5 build: 5 distortion: 5 flare control: 5	user: klw10 review date: March-17-10
	tested on film camera: tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP: tested on full frame:24MP
compared to:	Sony 70-300G Sigma 100-300 f4 EX DG
price paid:	$1599 USD (new)
positive:	Very sharp wide open throughout its range, Fast and Silent Focusing with SSM, Nice Colors, Build quality, Color of the lens - Stands out from most other brands
negative:	None realy, though for some weight could be an issue. High cost, but you get what you pay for. Bokeh is not as smooth at times at the long end. SSM tends to drain the battery faster I have noticed.
comment:	I decided to take the plunge with this lens and see what all the fuss was about. I definitely found out. Wow! I love this lens and it stays mounted on my camera unless I need a wide shot. It is sharp throughout its range even wide open! I have found that I have a higher "keep" rate with my pictures as compared to the other two above mentioned lens. Both of them are about the same in terms of sharpness to me but this beauty is in another league. What an amazing lens! It even works with my Sigma 1.4TC EX DG non HSM in auto focus mode. One draw back to this lens is the bokeh is not as pleasing as the Sigma. It is also not as fast as the Sigma. If you can afford it you will not be disappointed.

sharpness: 4.5 color: 5 build: 5 distortion: 5 flare control: 5	user: mavan review date: March-09-10
	tested on film camera: tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP: tested on full frame:24MP
compared to:	Minolta : 100mm/2.8 macro 135mm/2.8 50mm/1.4 73-300/4.5-5.6 (big beercan) Carl Zeiss : CZ 24-70/2.8 SSM
price paid:	1269 euro
positive:	- AF is accurate , very silent and fast - very well build - sharp , even at 5.6 / 400mm
negative:	- weight ? - lenshood attachment ?
comment:	I had a really WOW experience with this lens , much more than with the CZ 24-70/2.8 I bought this to replace my 22y old 75-300/4.5-5.6 (big beercan ) Everything on this lens is better... Even at 400mm 5.6 you can get very sharp pictures ... the AF is fast , extreem silent and very accurate... the lenshood attachment could be better but I don't care it's made of plastic distorsion is almost none nice colors and good contrast A really G lens !

sharpness: 4.5 color: 5 build: 4 distortion: 5 flare control: 5	user: Hans B review date: March-06-10
	tested on film camera: tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP: tested on full frame:24MP
compared to:	Minolta 24 mm f2.8 Minolta 50 mm F1.7 Minolta 200 mm HS apo F2.8 Minolta 1.4 apo type 2 TC Minolta 2.0 apo type 2 TC Sony 16-105 mm Sony 1.4 TC Tamron 90 mm macro f2.8 Sigma EX IF 180 mm macro apo F3.5 Sony Alpha 700
price paid:	1350 euro
positive:	# This lens is a great value for money
negative:	# lens-hood-fixation could be better. # Bokeh is good enough, but could be better # My wish is that this lens was made in the 200-400 mm range with F4. This because I would like also to buy the Sony 70-200 soon.
comment:	I have wrote a large user experiences review of the 70-400 G lens. In this review a lot of example foto's in good and bad circumstances and als some shots with the Sony 1.4 teleconverter. You can find this review here: http://www.dyxum.com/dforum/topic59782_post663856.html#663856 You may als check this test report I made. Our initial point was "how does this modern and newly developed Sony lens for the digital age fare against the older Minolta 400 prime lens from the analogue film age?". This comprehensive report can be found on: http://www.dyxum.com/dforum/comparision-test-sony-70400-vsminolta-400mm-f4_topic46212_page1&SID=ad9fbdeda4ec1d578699b91ze76119bc.html

sharpness: 5 color: 5 build: 5 distortion: 4 flare control: 5	user: Andreas L. review date: March-05-10
	tested on film camera: tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP: tested on full frame:24MP
compared to:	Sigma 5,6/400 APO Sigma 4,5/500 APO Sigma 4/100-300 APO
positive:	sharpness and contrast compact an lightweight(for it's range) well buildt fast an silent focussing
negative:	lens-hood-fixation could be better
comment:	This lens is probably the best zoom-lens in his class. The sharpness and contrast are really impressive. For it's range is's handy and lightweight too.

sharpness: 4.5 color: 4 build: 4 distortion: 4 flare control: 4	user: vivo review date: February-26-10
	tested on film camera: tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP: tested on full frame:24MP
compared to:	Tamron 200-500mm
positive:	Everything!
negative:	Not found yet.
comment:	Very sharp en fast on the a900 and the a700. I'll like the bokeh.

sharpness: 4.5 color: 5 build: 4 distortion: 5 flare control: 5	user: Webguyyy review date: February-10-10
	tested on film camera: tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP: tested on full frame:24MP
compared to:	Sigma 10-20 Sony 16-105 Sony 70-300G Sony 50mm F1.4 Sony 50mm F2.8 Sony 100mm F2.8
price paid:	$1600CDN (new)
positive:	Very sharp wide open and all the way to 400mm. Excellent build quality. Easily handheld in good light. Silent precise SSM focusing. No zoom creep. Very effective petal lens hood.
negative:	Hate the colour. Lens cover needed for wildlife photography. Len hood, falls off easily in the camera bag, and inside lining is a felt which dust sticks too. Teleconverters are manual focus (normal for a F5.6 lens though) AF speed just average.
comment:	This lens is the best 400mm zoom on the market, compared to Canon & Nikons etc. offerings. Forget all the nit picking you find in some reviewers, check out some pro reviews like Pop Photo etc, they are easy to find. Currently there just isn't a better 400mm zoom available, glad it's on a Sony. I admit I hate the colour for wildlife photography, but BH Photo does sell lens covers for this lens (about $90). The lens hood is fine when it's on, and in use, but constantly falls off in my camera bag, and the inner felt lining is a dust collector. SSM is silent and very accurate, but a little faster would be nice. The focus limiter helps. Myself on SSM lenses, if I'm shooting at infinity, I manualy turn the focus ring which spins freely when not focusing, to infinity and it focuses much faster. Little pricy, but after having some lower quality long lenses, it was worth the price. After 9 months I find the lens quite easy to handhold in good light, and if you remove the tripod bracket, it's less than a 3 lb lens. Far easier to handhold than the 500mm 3rd party zooms, and much better IQ, and build quality. Definitely a 'G' class lens. 400mm is sort of a compromise lens compared to 4 lb slower F6.3 500mm zooms, but is suited to a wider range of photographic applications, such as air shows, outdoor sports in good light, and wildlife. 500mm zooms are more of a one trick pony lens (best for wildlife and a tripod), and at F6.3 require good light or the AF system will hunt very easily. Very happy I didn't go for a 500mm zoom, but I admit I was very tempted, but the disadvantages were too many.

sharpness: 4.5 color: 5 build: 4 distortion: 5 flare control: 5	user: cputeq review date: February-05-10
	tested on film camera: tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP: tested on full frame:24MP
compared to:	Nikon 300mm AF-S Sigma 100-300 f/4 HSM Sigma 150-500 OS
price paid:	1550 USD New
positive:	Great optics Fairly easy to hand-hold Good color rendering Excellent flare control
negative:	Slower AF IQ at 400 not as good as 300 Hood will crossthread.
comment:	I bought this lens when I switched over to the Sony Alpha system about 3 weeks ago. I use it with the A850. I have used the Sigma 150-500 OS, Sigma 100-300 f/4 and Nikon 300mm AF-S f/4 lenses to compare (all on Nikon mount) Overall a nice lens - I thought I would dislike the lens color, but after actually using it, it's not annoying and I really don't notice it. Optics are very, very good. 70-300 they are extremely sharp. At 400mm the quality takes a little bit of a hit, but images are still great, and I usually can crop very heavy on my A850 when I use for birding. AF is a bit slow - mainly it performs like a silent screw-drive lens - not horribly slow, and I can track some birds in flight and some sports, but not nearly as fast as my Sigma 100-300 f/4 (on Nikon with HSM) or my CZ 24-70 f/2.8 Thankfully it has a focus limiter (3m - Infinity), which helps a lot. I also dislike the hood design - it's rather easy to crossthread the hood and not get a good connection. Not a huge issue, but one to be aware of. Overall I think the lens was well worth the money - I have already gotten some great birding/wildlife samples that I very much like. I would like to see faster AF and better performance at 400mm, but these are nitpicks.

sharpness: 5 color: 5 build: 5 distortion: 5 flare control: 5	user: fritzenm review date: February-05-10
	tested on film camera: tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP: tested on full frame:24MP
compared to:	Sigma EX f/4 100-300 Sigma 120-400
price paid:	1500 EUR
positive:	Sharpness over the whole range even wide open Contrast (micro-contrast) Colours Size - which is smaller than the Sigma EX f/4100-300 for storing
negative:	Price a little bit hefty Bokeh a little bit busy in some situations Extending
comment:	The Sigma EX 4/100-300 was over 2 years my main workhorse. The downside (perhaps of my copy) was that for sharp results it was necessary to stop it down so the constant f/4 wasn't very useful in real life. The range on an APS-C sensor camera was a little bit limiting too. These were the points I'd wished to improve and after some comparison with the Sigma 120-400 I opted for the Sony. No regrets whatsoever. This is a sharp lens and it can be used wide open over the whole range. Silver fish is fine for me. Same the hood. Just take care when mounting that it really "clicks" into the right position - because I noted that if it's not exactly aligned when mounting one doesn't hear the click and then it may loosen. EDIT 2011/05: Equal or even better performance on the A850 making full use of the resolution power of its sensor.

sharpness: 3.5 color: 4 build: 3 distortion: 4 flare control: 4	user: Misa review date: February-04-10
	tested on film camera: tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP: tested on full frame:24MP
compared to:	Canon 100-400 Nikon 70-300 Olympus 50-200 Pentax 60-250 Sigma 120-400 mm
positive:	70-400 mm instead of 100-400 mm really sharp at 300 mm
negative:	only sharp until 300 mm at f: 5,6 Autofocus not as fast as Canon, Nikon, not even as fast as Sigma or Olympus bad hood much too pricy to much cheap plastics ugly silver
comment:	for me not worth the price not good at 400 mm on the Alpha 900 it feels like chaep plastic and I can`t catch moving animals with the AF the Sigma 120-400 mm is by far better at 5,6/400 mm and much cheaper and does'nt feeö so cheap!!! The sharpness and contrast are really high until 300 mm but thats all. it all depends on the comparison, most people see just one lens and that should be a very good example, because they bought it... I can*t unterstand easy sharpness ratings like 5! 4,5 would be the 4,5/400 mm Minolta and 5 the Nikon 2,8/400 mm VR!

sharpness: 5 color: 5 build: 5 distortion: 5 flare control: 5	user: JGraham review date: January-30-10
	tested on film camera: tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP: tested on full frame:24MP
compared to:	70-200G 16-80CZ SAL 100mm Macro 100-300APO
price paid:	1500
positive:	Light for a 400mm lens Very Sharp Minolta Colors Focus is very quiet
negative:	Poor Hood securing design Body Color
comment:	This is a very good lens. After reading many reviews on this lens, the Tamron 200-500, and the Sigma 150-500 I decided on this one. The primary function to be wildlife photography. I think the lens build is every bit A "G" class lens. It's construction with Metal and Plastic minimizes weight while maintaining a very quality feel. It allows hand holding at the 400mm end with results that are incredible. This Lens is very sharp. Sharper than my copy of the 70-200G at similar magnification. This lens will not replace the 70-200G at similar range. It is not in the same class for speed of operation and low light ability. (But its not suppose to be) The target is a light long length lens that is somewhat portable with excellent IQ. This lens certainly accomplished that task. The Image colors are in line with my other Minolta/Sony units which is still better the the Ziess colors (IMO). While the Body color is not bad, I don't understand it. It does not match the Sony color Scheme. I would much rather see Black Mat Finish on this type Lens. The SSM is a little slower than the 70-200G but it seems to focus more accurately, and is slightly quieter. I don't care for the Tripod mount as it is not hinged like some 3rd party lenses. Overall I am sure that I made the right choice with this unit and will have it in my inventory for a long time.

sharpness: 5 color: 5 build: 5 distortion: 5 flare control: 5	user: DAVY793 review date: January-24-10
	tested on film camera: tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP: tested on full frame:24MP
compared to:	Minolta 70-210mm Beercan Minolta 200mm APO HS Minolta 25-105mm Beercan Tamron 28-300mm XR Di Tamron 55-200mm Sigma 24-70mm f2.8 HSM Tamron 18-250mm
price paid:	L1100 new
positive:	Sharp as a tack. Great colours Built like a tank No distortions or flare Posers lens
negative:	Heavy Posers lens
comment:	I don't know how anyone can rate the sharpness of this lens below 5. If it isn't 5/5 send it back to Sony to sort it out. It's as sharp at 400mm as my Minolta 200mm G is at 200mm. This lens is outstanding and will not be on my "sell" list unless I change systems. It is heavy and under UK skies we need a tripod, but it is well worth the effort as the many excellent comments on my "Eyefetch" images will support. I had some AF problems at the start but Sony sorted out my A700 and Hey Presto is works like magic. The hood is a pain so I rarely use it and I have not encountered any flare without it.

sharpness: 5 color: 5 build: 5 distortion: 5 flare control: 5	user: kevinbm review date: January-12-10
	tested on film camera: tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP: tested on full frame:24MP
compared to:	100-400 APO 70-300G
price paid:	L1092
positive:	Sharp Solid build
negative:
comment:	I bought this lens just before Christmas and took it with me when I went walking at New Year. Yes it is a big and heavy lens but given the quality of the shots I got from it who cares. This lens like the CZ ones is big and heavy because it has high quality glass in it and it shows. Colours are great, and it is sharp sharp sharp. Highly recommended.

sharpness: 5 color: 5 build: 5 distortion: 5 flare control: 5	user: JasperD review date: December-22-09
	tested on film camera: tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP: tested on full frame:24MP
compared to:	Sigma 70-300 APO MACRO
price paid:	1800 CHF
positive:	Extremely silent AF Focus limiter Well placed focus hold buttons
negative:	Filter thread.
comment:	I'm only starting using this lens, the price is certainly up to par with its weight, to say the least. My good old and faithful pre 1996 Sigma 70-300 is not totally bound for retirement because of that, the weight does not compare, it's not a lens you put casually in the daily backpack. That said, I managed to take some wonderful pictures of a distant blue tit at 400mm and over 10 meters away, just handheld, that I would not have thought possible, even with SSS. Of course, on a sturdy tripod, nothing compares to this beauty. I even like the silver color! Cann't wait to check it out on my A100, at Sony for repairs under warranty right now. Just one thing I dislike, not sure if it's only my copy or general: the filter thread is just a tiny bit too deep, there's no way I can manage to turn my polarizer - B&W MRC KSM - through the one finger hole in the hood, it sinks in just that much. I'm sure the filter is smooth, I use it a lot on the same sized Sigma 50/f1.4. Not that much of a dealbraker though, not even enough to affect build rating.

sharpness: 5 color: 5 build: 5 distortion: 5 flare control: 5	user: Haz review date: November-25-09
	tested on film camera: tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP: tested on full frame:24MP
compared to:	Sigma 70-300 DG APO Macro
price paid:	L1170
positive:	-Excellent zoom range -Accurate and near silent AF -Sharp throughout range
negative:	-Heavy -Expensive
comment:	I thought long and hard about buying this lens, due the its very high cost. But wow, I can't really fault it! AF is very accurante, near silent, and fast considering it's huge range. I like the focus limiter too. IQ is excellent in most situations. Not as good in low light, but then again I would expect it to be. I've not had any flare or distortion issues at all. The hood is a little flimsy and annoying, but I'll forgive it, everything else makes up for it! I know some don't like the silver finish, but I do. The rotating handle and tripod thread are nice touches too. It is very heavy, but thats not really a problem for me. My wife struggles with it though. Overall, an excellent lens which I am proud to own. I can't wait to see how it performs at an airshow next year...

sharpness: 5 color: 5 build: 5 distortion: 5 flare control: 5	user: nabreu review date: November-18-09
	tested on film camera: tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP: tested on full frame:24MP
compared to:	Sony 18-70 Minolta 70-210 F4 Minolta 75-300 Minolta 28-105 Sigma 400 5.6 Tamron 24-135 Tamron 90 2.8 Macro Minolta 50 1.7 Minolta 135 2.8
price paid:	1170€ (new)
positive:	All
negative:	The AF could be faster but it´s very good
comment:	Nearly perfect lens for range and IQ. Was undecided between this lens or Sigma 50-500. Got this one because it can capture more detail at 400mm than the sigma at 500. Sold the 75-300, 70-200, and the 400 for this. AF could be faster but it´s fast enough for me. Was abot to buy the 70-200 but this one is cheaper, as the same good IQ and a more usefull range. ps. Love the Silver finish. Another way to distinguish myself from the Canikons!

sharpness: 5 color: 5 build: 4 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:	Sony 70-300G
price paid:	1599 USD
positive:	Sharpness, focus, and build quality
negative:	Hood feels cheap for a lens at this price
comment:	This lens is sharper than 70-300G in entire range, although it is significantly heavier. I went out photograph cranes last weekend with this lens and A900. I did not have one single blur picture among 300+ pictures I took. The keep rate is much higher than my 70-300G + A700 combination. I know the new camera body is also a contributing factor. You can find my recent pictures with this lens at http://photocreation.zenfolio.com/p716760595

sharpness: 5 color: 5 build: 5 distortion: 5 flare control: 5	user: Shearwater 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:	Bigma
price paid:	1599 USD
positive:	Sharp Fast focus close focusing
negative:	It could be lighter
comment:	I have had good luck with the Bigma but noted softness at longer focal lengths. I was torn between buying the Tamron 200-500 and this lens but finally broke down and bought the Sony. I am very happy with my choice. Others have commented on the silver color of the lens and the design of the lens hood - these things don't bother me because I am more concerned with function and this lens really does that.

sharpness: 5 color: 5 build: 5 distortion: 5 flare control: 5	user: Davemj98 review date: October-25-09
	tested on film camera: tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP: tested on full frame:24MP
compared to:	Sony 70-200 2.8 Sony 16-31 2.8 Sony 24-75 2.8 Sony 500/8 Sony 16-105 DT Sony 18-75 Sony 50-1.4
price paid:	1600 usd
positive:	Super resolution at distance.
negative:	BIG
comment:	Shot a cross country quad race with this yesterday and it was awesome. Put it on your list.

sharpness: 5 color: 5 build: 4 distortion: 4 flare control: 4	user: Rex review date: October-10-09
	tested on film camera: tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP: tested on full frame:24MP
compared to:	Minolta 100-300mm
price paid:	1420 euro new
positive:	Very good range from 70-400mm Tripot collar,SSM
negative:	Very heavy for hand hold and walk around lens. You need practice especially when you follow birth in fly or small object.
comment:	Excelent build quality very sharp at all focal lenth also even wide open at 400mm. For somebody that he need the 400mm and he doesnt want to spend too much money is the best in the class. Update Mai 2012: Excellent results with 24MP FF. Very easy to use it with teleconverter 1.4X & 2X on a77 with focus peacking colore.Even at 800mm you get very good results thanks to the focus peacking

sharpness: 5 color: 5 build: 5 distortion: 5 flare control: 5	user: tommyrider review date: October-08-09
	tested on film camera: tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP: tested on full frame:24MP
compared to:	Sal AF75-300 sal AF 70-300 G SSM Min AF 70-210/4 Sal AF 500/8 SAl af 18-250
positive:	- The sharpest zoom i´ve ever tested. -Prime like IQ -Unique and versatile range. -Unexpectidly sharp wide open at the long end,even in 100% crops. -Brilliant, eye catching colors. -Far superior to its competitors. -Not as heavy. -Silent AF (THX to SSM) -Nice "macro" capability -Pleassant bokeh.
negative:	-Hard to lock AF in moving subjects. -The copy I owned tended to overexpose +0.3 to +0.7 ev -Hood seems too fragile,but yet effective.
comment:	This lens is a serious lens.Its incredibly sharp and contrasty all over the way from 70 to 400mm even wide open.Its solid,nicely made.I didn find it too heavy for everyday use.Its very usable handheld with available daylaight.I never needed to mount it on a tripod. Personally i found it highly superior in terms of IQ compared to his little brother 70-300G.It worth its double price and weight, and definitelly deserves with honour the "G" badge. Another serious reason for considering the Alpha System.

sharpness: 5 color: 5 build: 4 distortion: 5 flare control: 5	user: molta review date: September-21-09
	tested on film camera: tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP: tested on full frame:24MP
compared to:	minolta 2.8 80-200mm
price paid:	1339 euro
positive:	sharp silent af min focus distans good balans
negative:	the hood silver look
comment:	I use the lens as walk around with a blackrapid belt that is very good you slip your haed tru the belt and hold the camera with lens next to you. when walking around the bad thing is the hood fals constant of the lens that is something that must not happen with a G pro lens now i tape the hood on the lens SONY DO SOMETHING ABOUT THE HOOD ITS A VERY BAD DESIGN!!!!!!!!!!!!!!. beside this it is a very good lens you can use it as macro birding aircraft spotting ect .

sharpness: 5 color: 5 build: 5 distortion: 5 flare control: 5	user: Leike1 review date: August-28-09
	tested on film camera: tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP: tested on full frame:24MP
compared to:	Sigma 70-300 4-5,6 APO macro Tamron 200-500
price paid:	€ 1375
positive:	Sharpnes Silence when foces Focusranche
negative:	Price Weight
comment:	What doe one expect when you buy such a lens? One thing: great pictures. Good colors, sharp, versatile. I primarily shoot as hobby in zoo's, and it fits the ranche I want to use. Great close-ups but when the big cats get close, you can get it all in to the foto. First considering a 75-300 G or Tamron 200-500, but no regretts. Fired test shots with the Tamron and the Sony side by side in a store and the Sony wins. Simple. Negative? It draws attention of al those people using P&S cams or white Canikon lenses. Especially when the hood is attached. Plus get a very good protectionfilter. I detach the filter and use only the lenscap to protect the front element. The foto's without filter are sharper then with the cheap UV-protectionfilter. On my new A500 the results look better then on my "old" A100.

sharpness: 5 color: 5 build: 5 distortion: 5 flare control: 4	user: kankushok 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:	18-70mm 50mm 1.7 Tokina 400mm f5.6 SD Sigma 400mm 5.6 APO
price paid:	1500 USD (new)
positive:	Sharp Versatile Lack of CA MFD
negative:	Flare at 70mm Conspicuous Busy Bokeh
comment:	It kills all the other lenses for sharpness especially from 70-300mm. It's even sharper than my 50mm stopped down. However, the sharpness does drop off a little at 400mm, but not too much and it improves stopped down a little. That might have more to do with the long focal length and camera shake along with low DOF than the lens though. The color rendering is also my favorite out of all the lenses. It also lacks any CA that I can see, even at 400mm wide open. However, the bokeh is a little busy on this lens; more so than my tokina 400mm. AF speed is nothing incredible, but it is quiet and acceptably fast. The AF limiter definitely helps in this regard. I also love the telemacro ability of this lens.

sharpness: 5 color: 5 build: 4 distortion: 5 flare control: 5	user: acinonyx12345 review date: August-24-09
	tested on film camera: tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP: tested on full frame:24MP
compared to:	sony 70-200 2.8 Sony Zeiss 24-70 2.8 Minolta 400 HS G 4.5
price paid:	1090 €
positive:	Sharp Versatile (huge focus range) Very performant at 70 mm Minimum focus distance short Vivid colours Silent Auto-focus
negative:	Build (Hood is a bad joke) Inversion of focus-zoom rings Metallic grey colour
comment:	Thanks to its optical performances from 70 to 400, the "G" label is fully justified. AF quick and extremely silent on Alpha 900. The cheap plastic hood and the grey colour are very bad choices to me. Bokeh and I.Q at 400 mm of course better with Minolta 400 G 4.5, but colours are more vivid with the zoom. Very performant at 70 mm. Minimum focus distance is quite short, so the lens can even be used for macro. Versatile lens, worth the price ;-)

sharpness: 5 color: 5 build: 5 distortion: 5 flare control: 5	user: ianb review date: August-16-09
	tested on film camera: tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP: tested on full frame:24MP
compared to:	Minolta 100-300mm APO
price paid:	L1156 new
positive:	Good focal length range Cood colour rendition Superb sharpness. Silent, quick focus, no zoom creep.
negative:	Heavy, but who cares! Can't turn dull days into bright ones!....but it has a damn good try.
comment:	I wondered about the advantages of this lens compared with my trusty 100-300mm APO, which has produced some stunning images. This lens has a more useful range and wider aperture at longer focal length. The lens is a joy to use, positive silent focusing, and gives a greater percentage of hits in difficult situations..... and I don't even mind the plastic hood. Shooting through a dirty glass window today.. this lens is unbelievably forgiving. It is a joy to own and I know now that it will bring a whole new dimension to my photography. I cannot recommend this lens enough... if the price point is not a problem... buy it.

sharpness: 5 color: 5 build: 4 distortion: 5 flare control: 5	user: Rhansen review date: August-07-09
	tested on film camera: tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP: tested on full frame:24MP
compared to:	Minolta AF 300 f2.8 APO G Sony AF 70-200 SSM G
price paid:	1,700 CDN (new)
positive:	Extremely sharp Well balanced on A700 Moderate to fast and very accurate AF Great colour Almost silent SSM Compact for the range covered Almost half the weight of my Minolta AF 300 f2.8 APO G
negative:	The same problem as my 70-200 f2.8 - when hood is reversed for storage the lens is basically useless - the old Minolta 200 and 300 lens with the integral sliding hood would have made this the perfect lens. That is why the 4 for build.
comment:	I read many early comments about the flimsy hood and cheap looking silver colour. The hood is light but quite strong and flexible. The Sony Silver colour and finish is elegant. In the first couple days that I had the lens I received several comments about it: great looking lens, nice color, awesome lens, classy lens. I went to a local pro photo shop for a Think Tank bag for the lens and the shop pros were queuing up to take turns trying it out and loving it and this was a Canon and Nikon shop. I shot over six hundred test shots between my Minolta 300 f2.8, Sony 70-200 F2.8 and the Sony 70-400 f4-5.6 and then viewed them at 1:1 in Lightroom at default settings. Result = I sold the Minolta 300 f2.8. The 70-400 was slightly sharper than the 300 and the 300 with 1.4TC through the full range of the 70-400. There was virtually no CA and little or no purple fringing in the bright contrast shots while the 25 year old 300 suffered with purple fringing possibly because it doesn't have the digital coatings. The colour fidelity between the three lenses was virtually identical. Interestingly, the AF was as quick and accurate on all three lenses but much noisier on the 300. In low light all three hunted and the 70-200 was the only one to never fail in locking into focus. On paper I lost 1.5 stops at 300 mm versus the 300 f2.8 but in testing it was only 1 stop. This lens is handsome, sharp, well built, silent, accurate and lightweight for the range. Do I like it? You bet I do. Other than the hood it is every bit the equal of my Zeiss 16-35, Zeiss 24-70 and Sony 70-200 G and with warmer colours than either of the Zeiss lenses which tend to be cooler. One note - it does suffer with a rather busy bokeh but for where and what I shoot it will seldom if every be noticed.

sharpness: 5 color: 5 build: 4 distortion: 5 flare control: 5	user: gm4jjj review date: August-05-09
	tested on film camera: tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP: tested on full frame:24MP
compared to:	80-200HS-G 70-300G SSM
positive:	Very sharp, lovely colours.
negative:	Zoom ring at front of lens, using different convention to the norm.
comment:	I am most impressed by this lens, even wide open at 400mm it is excellent. Seems to be a better match to the A900 than my 70-300G was, though of course a lot bigger, heavier and noticeable. This lens appears as sharp or sharper than my 80-200G at 200mm. Wish they hadn't put the zoom ring at the front as you cannot use the lens with the lens hood reversed. Some slight zoom creep if carrying with the lens pointing straight down, why can't Sony put a simple lock switch on their zooms? More to be added after further use.

sharpness: 5 color: 5 build: 4 distortion: 5 flare control: 5	user: boomer607 review date: July-29-09
	tested on film camera: tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP: tested on full frame:24MP
compared to:	Tamron 70-200mm Tamron 200-500mm
price paid:	1600.00 USD (new)
positive:	Tack sharp, fast focus
negative:	None.
comment:	Great all around lens, very sharp, nice colors. Buy it you won't be sorry

sharpness: 5 color: 4 build: 3 distortion: 5 flare control: 5	user: BrownJenkin review date: June-13-09
	tested on film camera: tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP: tested on full frame:24MP
compared to:	Sony 70-200 G SSM 2.8 Beercan Tamron 200-500
price paid:	just tested
positive:	Sharpness Quick AF Range
negative:	Build
comment:	I had the chance to test this glass for a short time. At the first time the silver color looks very strange, i've always seen black or white lenses so the first thought was "uh... what's that?". Anyway... I was soon impressed by the sharpness of this lens. Even at wide open it offers a good bokeh and a great sharpness on the main subject. The SSM motor works perfectly, so the AF is the most silent and efficient I've ever seen. The range, too, is great. I'm very disappointed with the build of this lens. Placing the focus ring near the tripod mount means you can't use this lens in manual focus.

sharpness: 5 color: 5 build: 4 distortion: 5 flare control: 5	user: caporip review date: June-09-09
	tested on film camera: tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP: tested on full frame:24MP
compared to:
price paid:	L925
positive:	A truly great versatile lens.
negative:	weight after a long day's shoot!
comment:	Got this two weeks ago and am thoroughly impressed (i even like the silver colour) i have the 70-300g and am thinking whether i need both as on the a900 there seems to be none of of the drop off at the corners. It is however a heavy lens and that needs to be taken into consideration if intending to use it long periods as hand held.

sharpness: 5 color: 5 build: 4 distortion: 5 flare control: 5	user: Sydney2 review date: May-08-09
	tested on film camera: tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP: tested on full frame:24MP
compared to:	100mm macro F1.4 50mm 18-250
price paid:	L1249
positive:	Sharp, Fast & quiet AF.
negative:	none
comment:	This lens has taken me to a new dimension in photography. Superb even when hand held. Great for wildlife. I like the silver colour. lens hood seems quite strong & light. It's heavy but that's because of quality. The super steady shot seems to work better than with my other lenses.

sharpness: 5 color: 5 build: 3 distortion: 4 flare control: 5	user: PaulinUK99999 review date: May-08-09
	tested on film camera: tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP: tested on full frame:24MP
compared to:	SAL-70300G
price paid:	L1150
positive:	Sharpness Colours TC compatible (MF Sony x1.4) Pol. filter hatch in lens hood
negative:	AF failed, returning to Sony
comment:	Beautiful lens, at all focal lengths including close-up the images have been very sharp. The lens is heavy and the silver is handsome, if not particularly practical for wildlife. I haven't felt the lens hood is particularly bad - it seems lightweight to give a better balance - and has a very useful small trap-door so can turn polarizing filters. Sadly, after only a few hours of use the AF has failed and after a week of trying to resolve and test on another camera, the lens is being returned to Sony for repair. I will update my review on return and further use. PDL

sharpness: 5 color: 5 build: 4 distortion: 5 flare control: 5	user: Michael Ogle 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:	70/200 g and teleconverters
price paid:	1350.00 usd new
positive:	sharp!!! compact to carry in pack
negative:	unbalanced when extended zoom ring stiff zoom ring covered by hood
comment:	This lens is one sharp cookie. I haven't used my 70/200 since I acquired this lens. It's focusing speed is moderate compared to the smaller zoom, but seems to be spot on when it gets the target. I have gotten used to the silver color, but birds haven't; they really shy away when they spot it. The large hood presents a problem when reversed, the zoom can not be operated, so it must be stored or mounted when hiking. My shooting style is spontaneous and this is a major annoyance to me. All in all I can highly recommend this lens to anyone that wants or needs a super zoom.

sharpness: 5 color: 5 build: 4 distortion: 4 flare control: 4	user: eccles review date: April-26-09
	tested on film camera: tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP: tested on full frame:24MP
compared to:	Sony 500mm Reflex Sigma 100-300 F4 EX
price paid:	L1038 UK (new)
positive:	Very, very sharp
negative:	Tacky feel to hood. Heavy. Bokeh could be better sometimes.
comment:	The lens seems to be solidly built, and the SSM motor is very quiet.It's not as fast as some of the screw driven lenses I have but it can track birds in flight. Perhaps silver isn't an ideal colour for blending in with the background when stalking wildlife so buyers might want to seek out some sort of camouflage cover for it. Make no bones about it, this lens is big around and heavy. It is 120 grams heavier than the Canon 100-400mm and 160 grams heavier than the Nikon 80-400mm. Although possible to hand hold it, handling this lens for any significant time will require a monopod at least. The zoom extends the lens by a long way to get to 400mm, and with the hood attached it's pretty imposing. The zoom and focus rings are smooth, and in my copy there is no zoom creep. The hood can only be described as 'tacky'. It has a cheap brittle feel when handling it, and if mounted in reverse for storage it's difficult to remove the lens from the camera, and I wonder how long the hood will last. A flexible hood would have been better. Having said that, it fits ok and does its job with effective anti-reflective coating inside, and I've had no significant flare. Once attached it looks ok but I couldn't help feeling that a soft rubberised compound rather than plastic would have been better. The supplied soft case is of fairly decent quality with zip and velcro fastening but the carry strap is thinner than I would have liked. But, what about the optics? Quite simply, the answer is that pictures taken with this lens are stunning. In my opinion, it is peerless in any mount and sufficient to sway new DSLR buyers towards Alpha mount. With optical detail and sharpness comparable to a prime even wide open, the only reason to stop it down is because of the wafer-thin depth of field. It focusses down to just under 1.5m giving a magnification of about 1:3 at 400mm, and image detail is high at all distances and focal lengths. There is a very small amount of red/cyan CA at the corners at 400mm, but it is by no means excessive, and tweaking the CA correction tool in Adobe Raw by 12 units is sufficient to get rid of it. To be able to photograph butterflies and birds with the same lens is very impressive. It must be one of the best all-round wildlife lenses on the market. The Sony 1.4x TC will work with this lens but apparently it will not autofocus. However, the Sigma EX APO 1.4x TC will also fit, and because the TC isn't chipped it will autofocus, at least in good light. There is some edge fall off when using the TC, but centre resolution is still quite good and gives a highly useful 560mm maximum focal length. Using a TC that doesn't pass corrected focal length information to the camera limits the effectiveness of Steady-Shot so a tripod would be required if you use one. I have submitted a couple of images in the examples thread that illustrate how flexible a tool for wildlife this lens can be.

sharpness: 5 color: 5 build: 3 distortion: 5 flare control: 5	user: silversurfer review date: April-25-09
	tested on film camera: tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP: tested on full frame:24MP
compared to:	Sony 70-200 F2.8 SSM G Minolta 300 F4 HS APO G Minolta 500 F8 Reflex Minolta 75-300 F4.5-5.6 Big Beercan
positive:	Excellent IQ Nice FL range Quiet
negative:	Build Price Slow AF
comment:	This lens is definitely one of a kind. The optical quality is simply outstanding for a zoom of this range. Even at 400mm images are crisp. I haven't pixel peeped the corners, but from what I can see, the center is still sharp at this FL. Although heavy, this lens is handholde-able to me. Fully retracted, it balances well on the A700 with VG. Fully extended there's imbalance, but this is a big lens. No big deal. The zoom ring is stiff, but hopefully it'll loosen up a bit with use. Focus ring is smooth. The outside build leaves MUCH to be desired. The material used (plastic?) is lightweight. In a way this could be good, because the lens still weighs alot. But I'd rather have a heavier lens. Dents, knicks etc are all a high possibility when using this lens. The hood is even more ridiculous. The hood material doesn't even qualify as plastic IMO and the sliding door (used for polarizer adjustment) will be the first to go. Not smooth and uniform when opening and closing it. The hood, however, does fit snuggly and I haven't experienced some of what others have regarding this. This lens is one of a kind because the build doesn't come close to the optical quality. First lens I've seen like this.

sharpness: 5 color: 5 build: 4 distortion: 5 flare control: 5	user: TrueBlue review date: April-23-09
	tested on film camera: tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP: tested on full frame:24MP
compared to:	Sony 70-200G Sony 70-300G Sigma 150-500
price paid:	1500 Euro (new)
positive:	image quality colors focal lengths range coverage
negative:	Weight Silver Color Hood Bokeh
comment:	Excellent image quality, excellent colors, excellent focal length coverage. Overall a G lens with doubt only for its bokeh which sometimes could be better. I don't like the silver color and its weight could be a problem when shooting for long periods. The hood is not on par with the lens build and the strap included is ridiculous for the weight of the lens.

sharpness: 4.5 color: 5 build: 4 distortion: 4 flare control: 5	user: thePiRaTE!! review date: March-19-09
	tested on film camera: tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP: tested on full frame:24MP
compared to:	A long list of primes through its range.
price paid:	1650CAD+tax.
positive:	IQ - prime-like. SSM - silent, accurate. Size/build - well optimized. Reach - ultra-tele. Close-focus @ 400mm of 1:3.7
negative:	Light Fall-off at 70mm, wide open.
comment:	I'll start by saying that I value image quality. I've shot primes exclusively for specific reasons, with image quality being of high consideration. While many primes are ideal for individual tasks, a zoom is more about having the convenience of a range of coverage. When that focal versatility became the main reason I needed a lens, the consensus lead me here. Based on this positivity and a lot of sample image viewing, I opted to make this my first multi-purpose zoom lens purchase. I noted immediately that everyones comments as to the sharpness of this lens are spot on. Going to a zoom, one automatically gives up some light gathering capability next to a prime of similar size and generally IQ as well, but thats the best thing about this lens so far. Its sharp, plain and simple from 70-400, from MFD to infinity. The fact this lens can cover the range it does with IQ comparable to good primes renders its relative bulk an acceptable trade-off for the convenience in my books. I would expect no less from a zoom to have justified the expense, and I am pleased. In its other optical attributes - color is brimming and bold, typical of higher quality modern lenses. Distortion hasn't leapt off the page at me as a concern especially considering its generous range. I rate distortion mild at worst, totally acceptable for my uses of this lens. I haven't intentionally induced flare, but shooting without the hood (which is too large for my camera bag) hasn't posed a problem. Certainly, I can say flare control is not a weakness of this lens. I did note a visible light fall-off around the edge of the frame at 70mm on the A900. I wouldn't classify this as a caveat however. While visible, its mild and correctable with software (if so desired). Again, I accept that with the lofty goals this lens sets out to accomplish, there must be some give, and the total package is solid. Further to achieving a balance, the mix of materials seems well thought out to instill confidence in its solidity while acheiving a good weight balance on-camera. To this end, the base of the lens is a quite heavy, all-metal affair. Tapping my finger nail around the distance window gives an almost heavy iron tinking report. From the focus ring (located back of the zoom) forth, the lens is dense plastic, save for the attractive dark metal band just behind the filter bayonet - which seems as protective as it is showy. Nothing rattles or creaks, solidity is a positive. The end result is an ultra-tele zoom that is both handholdable and rugged feeling. While my pool of comparison in this class of lens isn't deep, I'm satisfied that the build choices were designed to enable this result. Finally, regarding the strengths of 70-400/4-5.6 generally, I'd say what you have here is a great general nature/outdoor or outdoor event/sport bag of tricks. With a magnification power of 1:3.7 at its closest MFD at 400mm, very good sharpness and smooth OOF rendering, the SAL70400G could fill-in as a nice flower/critter shooter as well, though I wouldn't assign its bulk to that task specifically. The 135STF for example would do this better all around in a much lighter package. On the same token, that 1.5m MFD at 70/4 is unspectacular for typical portrait applications. It would be no match for a good 85/1.4 or even the 70-200/2.8 in these regards, but is fine for holiday pics or longer distance requirments. In conclusion, I'd call this lens a winner, worth the price I paid. It covers the tele side very thoroughly and very well and will make a great one-lens option for those not specialized enough to warrant a spread of primes in this field. Kelly Sereda.

sharpness: 5 color: 5 build: 2 distortion: 5 flare control: 5	user: momchilcha review date: March-17-09
	tested on film camera: tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP: tested on full frame:24MP
compared to:
positive:	Great optical quality!
negative:	Build quality..
comment:	The lens is GREAT optically - sharp at all apertures and focal lengths - really excellent at 400mm f5.6! My copy has almost no CA even in the worst scenarios. Excellent contrast and punchy color. The AF is OK when using the focus limiter. A little slow to lock focus in difficult conditions, but tracks very well - better than Sigma 70-200mm f2.8. Silent and accurate. Build quality is nowhere near the price tag. Lots of plastic is used and the plastic itself feels cheap to me. The zoom ring is stiff and not easy to use..

sharpness: 5 color: 5 build: 3 distortion: 5 flare control: 5	user: Hans Toom review date: March-14-09
	tested on film camera: tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP: tested on full frame:24MP
compared to:	Canon 100-400mm
price paid:	1649C(Cdn$)
positive:	Sharp at all focal lengths, excellent colour, and compact. Fits nicely in my Lowepro hip pack with the Sony A900 camera body attached. Silent autofocus.
negative:	Zoom always goes to 400mm when the lens is carried, an irritating occurance. Autofocus has failed on three seperate copies of this lens. Focus speed is so slow the lens is near to useless for birds in flight.
comment:	I've used the lens in the field for two years and am delighted with the overall performance. It cuts back on the number of lenses a fella has to carry into the bush when doing nature photography. The focus failure problems and slow focus limit its usefullness in nature photography although it is superb as the ultimate walk-around lens.

sharpness: 5 color: 5 build: 5 distortion: 5 flare control: 5	user: Kayzer review date: March-11-09
	tested on film camera: tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP: tested on full frame:24MP
compared to:	Minolta 200 f/2,8 G APO HS
price paid:	L1100
positive:
negative:
comment:	This lens is sharper at 400mm wide open than the prime Minolta 200 f/2,8 G APO HS is at any aperture. The first I recognize with this lens was the rich colour. The OOF is amazing and so shallow that the focus point needs to be spot on. This lens is focusing so quick and correct that I’m shaking my head. If I focus on the body of a small bird (sparrow) the eye will be OOF. The lens is very solid build. I believe Sony has done what ever was possible to keep the weight down and the light hood is a reason thereof. The lens is big and I can not say she is easy to handle. However if this is what it take to make such a outstanding performer its fine with me

sharpness: 5 color: 5 build: 5 distortion: 5 flare control: 5	user: hemigossipol review date: March-11-09
	tested on film camera: tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP: tested on full frame:24MP
compared to:	Beercan Big Beercan Tamron 200-400
price paid:	1499
positive:	Sharp Colors Range
negative:	none
comment:	This lens performs much better than any 400 zoom. The hood was made of polymer to lighten the package I bet. The build is great and is a G product.

sharpness: 5 color: 4 build: 4 distortion: 4 flare control: 4	user: mekinalli review date: March-10-09
	tested on film camera: tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP: tested on full frame:24MP
compared to:	Sigma 50-500mm
positive:	- fast and silent focus - nice color - not too heavy - good to handle
negative:	- no zoom lock - cheap hood - cheap tripod mount
comment:	I just received the lens today and I tried only a few shots at home. I m looking forward to test the lens on an outdoor event. Compared to the Sigma Lens i m really suprised how silent the focus is working. As well the speed it amazing. Color and Sharpness I cant rate right now. It s good fitting in my hand and not too heavy. Compared to the rest of the lens the tripodmount plate and hood is really cheap. But the hood has a little lid, where you can access and turn anytime the Polfilter without unmounting the hood. Nice feature... Unlike Sigma, I cannot lock the zoom but from a practical test the lens stays in its zoom position even when hanging around a shoulder. But all in all I would say a Best Buy :-)

sharpness: 5 color: 5 build: 5 distortion: 5 flare control: 5	user: Jamesb-59 review date: March-10-09
	tested on film camera: tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP: tested on full frame:24MP
compared to:	Minolta 70-200/2.8 APO G D SSM
price paid:	$1499 USD
positive:	Extremely fast focusing. Easy to use hand held.
negative:	Lens hood is very flimsy. I would have expected a metal one, not plastic.
comment:	Shooting at higher ISO (1600 to 3200) in low light sports arena, I have found this lens to be superb. Cannot wait to use it at an Air Show.

sharpness: 5 color: 5 build: 4 distortion: 5 flare control: 5	user: Pochmahone review date: February-24-09
	tested on film camera: tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP: tested on full frame:24MP
compared to:	70-200, 70-300
price paid:	1100GBP
positive:	G quality lens, sharp at all apertures.
negative:	Heavy and solid, but lens hood is flimsy plastic and won't withstand a knock. Horrible silver finish.
comment:	Heavy, but usable handheld. Not had time yet to test properly due to bad weather, but so far, test shots have been what I would expect from a G lens. The SSS works well enough to hand hold at 400mm in poor light. AF is a bit slow for tracking BIF, but not overly slow. It uses a bit of juice so spare batteries always.

sharpness: 5 color: 5 build: 5 distortion: 5 flare control: 5	user: petesidewalk review date: February-19-09
	tested on film camera: tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP: tested on full frame:24MP
compared to:	K/M 75-300 Big Beercan K/M 35-70 4 Sony 18-70 Kit Lens K/M 50 1.7 K/M 70-210 4.5-5.6 K/M 70-210 4 Beercan K/M 28 2.8 K/M 28-80xi K/M 28-135 4-4.5 K/M 35-70 3.5-4.5 Tamron 200-400 5.6 LD NEW Sigma 75-200 2.8-3.5 Deitz 28-200 Tamron 20-35 3.5-4.5 KM 100-400 4.5-6.7 Tamron 28-75 2.8 KM 50 3.5 Macro KM 35-105 3.5-4.5 KM 24-105 3.5-4.5 Sigma 18 3.5
price paid:	1499.99 USD
positive:	Sharpest Zoom in it's class Nice Bokeh Range! IQ SSM Polymer hood
negative:	Heavy
comment:	Where do I start? This lens is definitely a G level product. On the A900 and Maxxum 7 it focuses very quickly and accurately, not as fast as the 80-200 HS G, but close. The A100 is a little slower to focus, but not much. I have been suprised by it's long end performance already.It is a star performer at F8 through the zoom range. It, unlike the KM 100-400 APO, is large and is challenging to handle in the wind. The 100-400 also seems to be building steam at F11, the 70-400 is finishing up. It is nearly silent in action and very attractive to look at (to me), though I had my doubts about the color. I have shot waterfowl ( excuse the expression) with it and as rewarded with amazing colorful stop-motion photos, but the light was ideal. Confirmed by a Sony represenative, the hood is polymeric to keep the weight down, it is not made of "cheap" plastic, as a matter of fact the grade of polymer in the plastic is anything but cheap, a fact only important to a polymer chemist.It can be used indoors at halide-lit ceremonies very effectively and will probably never leave my collection, the good Lord willing. Amazing lens, I'm going to have to sell my plasma now, J/K!

sharpness: 4.5 color: 5 build: 5 distortion: 5 flare control: 5	user: rmscustom review date: February-18-09
	tested on film camera: tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP: tested on full frame:24MP
compared to:	Sigma 50-500 EX APO Minolta 100-400 APO
price paid:	1499 USD
positive:	Build seems solid Feels well balanced on camera Quiet auto focus Smooth zoom
negative:	Hood very flimsy feel Auto focus not lightening fast
comment:	I received this lens yesterday and only took a few shots as I did not have much time. My first inpression was the lens was a "G" and worked like a quality lens should. The zoom works very nice with just enough friction to keep it from moving on it's own but very smooth with little effort needed to operate. The feel of the lens is solid but it seems lighter than I expected and is well balanced when at full zoom with no heavy forward feel. I think some of that is do to the extreemely light build of the hood, almost feels flimsy like it may easily break. Also the bulk of the weight is to the rear of the lens and I think it will be considerably easier to carry during a long session than the Bigma.The overall appearance of the lens is quality and as for the color, it's not ugly at all, as a matter of fact I think it looks elegant. The size of the lens compared to the Bigma, is it's overall length with the hood reversed is exactly that of the Bigma but much larger than the Min. 100-400 APO. The biggest difference betweeen it and the Bigma is the noticablly larger diameter of the "G" lens. Anyone with small hands will have a hard time holding this lens by the barrel. One of my size complaints might be that the tripod mount is somewhat small and unlike the Bigma's larger mount will not act as a handle when rotated to the top of the lens which I really like about the bigma tripod mount. As far as image quality goes I have been very dissappointed today with not really sharp pics taken. I use center spot focus and all the shots were not sharp and I could not figure out why. I spent quite some time checking the focus and discovered my A700 has a definite back focus issue, something I never noticed before but really shows up with this lens. I poped the "G" onto my 5D and did some test shots and it seems to be spot on and after a few test shots, the results seem to back that up. I will do some serious shots with the 5D and "G" when I have time in a few days and I may update the sharpness rating as a result. In any case I will have to send my a700 in for service or try the DIY fix found here in DYXUM as soon as I get up the courage. I did not notice any flare, but when I shot some birds in a large bush I did get some pretty serious gosting of some of the branches that were highlighted against the sky. I do not have a UV filter on the lens, but I don't think that matters as far as that is concerened. The gosting was kind of a grey color not purple, and that part of the image was somewhat blown out as well so that may have affected the image. The zoom is totally quiet but not overely fast, but with the limit switch set the speed is acceptable to me but not really faster than my Bigma. I did not find the lens hunting except when there was very little light present and then it just would not lock focus at all, which is normal. Overall I am pleased with the lens and look forward to doing some better testing and will post some pics with the lens when I get some worth posting. 2-20-09 Noticed a thread and someone wanted to know at what points the f/stops changed and this is my results. f/4 70-110mm f/4.5 110-230mm f/5.6 230-400mm 3-11-09 Updated my review today as I have had some time with the lens and I upgraded the distortion rating and the sharpness to reflect my testing. I also did the FYI backfocus adjustment on my a700 and focus is now where it should be so I could update my review. 8-5-09 Not really happy with the hood, so I purchased a rubber screw on collapsable hood and love it. It is now easier to store in my backpack and easy to deploy with the hood collapsed. I have not noticed any flare problems with the rubber hood, so anyone having problems with the factory hood may want to consider this option. RMS

sharpness: 4.5 color: 5 build: 4 distortion: 5 flare control: 5	user: jkp1 review date: February-04-09
	tested on film camera: tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP: tested on full frame:24MP
compared to:	400/4.5 HS/G
price paid:	-
positive:	A fine range of focal lenght. Fine tuning of the manual focus very easy due to "long travel". Minimum distance to subject judged to around 60-80cm
negative:	Zoom handling, the zoom is not that smooth. Silver color and surface finish. The hood is/feels very cheap, no match of the rest of the lens. Autofocus speed at long end very slow in cloudy/dull weather. F4-5.6.
comment:	I tested the lens on A700 on a very bad day. Dark weather, heavy clouds, misty, a little rain now and then, typically using ISO 800. About ratings: I couldnt test the flare due to weather, so i put in a 5 because i dont know anything else at the moment. Sharpness - based on this short tryout - seems to be quite good. Compared to 400/4.5 setting the 400/4.5 as a clear 5 in rating, the 70-400 seems more like 4 or 4.5. I might rewrite the review when i have made some more pixel peeping/post processing, so dont take this review for more than it is.

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Summary ratings

sharpness: 4.89

color: 4.91

build: 4.57

distortion: 4.85

flare control: 4.83

overall: 4.81

total reviews: 114

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AF 70-400 F4-5.6 G SSM lens details

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Sony - AF 70-400 F4-5.6 G SSM II