85mm SAM f/2.8 vs 80-200mm f/2.8 HS

Hi,
I'm currently shooting with A99, and I'm in search for a portrait lens. I was going to get old Minolta 80-200mm f/2.8 APO HS, but I've found a nice offer for a Sony 85mm f/2.8 SAM. I know there is a huge size difference between them, but I wonder how those two lenses compare for IQ and AF? What can I expect from them if I upgrade to A99II?

Like Marius I have both. I use them mainly on an A99ii.

They are both very good, for taking portraits. The 85/2.8 will do a very nice job with a little better IQ than the zoom and give you all the extra focus points etc with the A99ii. But the 80-200 HS is a superb zoom, takes beautiful portraits and is far more flexible.

The focus speed difference is minimal, not enough to make a difference for portraiture.

The extra focus modes are not that important to me, so I'd be selecting on the basis of weight v versatility more than the slight difference in IQ.

If I could only have one it would be the zoom, it's just such a nice lens for so many uses (provided you get one in good optical condition).

To be honest, since I got an 85/1.4 the 85/2.8 hasn't seen much use.

How big is your studio? I also have both and use an a99. The Minolta 80-200 HS has a MFD 3X the MFD of the SAL85F28. If it's a formal portrait session the smaller lens is quite nice. Informal, candid portraits the reach and speed of the HS shines.

I also have the 85/2.8 and the older, black Minolta 80-200/2.8. Overall, I certainly think the zoom is the better lens for all-around use. However, I have grown very fond of the little 2.8/85mm SAM adapted to the a7Rii with the la-ea3. Really nice results on the 42mp sensor, AF speeds are fine with all but the fastest moving subjects, and size and balance is definitely a plus.

Likely not as big a deal on the a99. That's where I tend to use the 2.8/80-200 the most.