The expansion of Sony’s FE lens range continues with the introduction of its latest zoom lens, but how well will the Alpha 7 cameras cope with such a wideangle view? Richard Sibley finds out

Sony 16-35mm f4 Zeiss Vario-Tessar T* OSS Lens (SEL1635Z)
Highlights
- Lens is suitable for: Sony APS-C E-Mount Only
- Fitting: Sony E-Mount (APS-C & Full Frame)
- ZOOM
- Wide ZOOM
- Filter Size: 72mm
- Lens/Image Stabilisation: Yes
Product code: 230256 (4905524989212)
Sony 16-35mm f4 Zeiss Vario-Tessar T* OSS Lens (SEL1635Z)
£999.00
No used versions available
Product Details
Key Specifications:
- E-Mount Lens/Full-Frame Format
- ZEISS 35mm Full Frame wide-angle zoom lens
- Constant F4 maximum aperture throughout the zoom range
- ZEISS T* anti-reflective coating minimises flare
- Built-in OSS (Optical SteadyShot) image stabilisation
- Dust and moisture resistant design
Wide-angle impact over a useful zoom range
A 16mm to 35mm wide-angle zoom range coupled with effective built-in optical image stabilization makes this lens an excellent choice for snapshots, indoor scenes, group shots, landscapes, and more, especially with a full-frame α-series body. The ZEISS Vario-Tessar configuration offers outstanding performance in a compact, lightweight design.
Refined optics deliver stunning images
Superior clarity and minimum distortion are achieved by an advanced optical design that includes one large AA element and three ED elements. The legendary ZEISS T* (T-star) coating enhances performance even further by effectively suppressing reflections so that crisp, natural contrast is maintained, especially when shooting landscapes.
Constant exposure at any zoom setting
Constant aperture at all focal lengths means that the user can zoom and shoot at any aperture without having to worry about changes in exposure settings or depth of field, concentrating on the image rather than technical details. Maximum aperture is F4 through the zoom range.
Sharp and clear in any situation
Built-in Optical SteadyShot image stabilization compensates for camera shake that can blur images when shooting handheld. Sharp, clear night scenes or indoor shots in dim lighting can be captured without the need to boost ISO sensitivity and risk increased noise.
Sharp and clear from corner to corner
Aspherical lens technology maximises portability without sacrificing imaging power. The lens combines five aspherical elements (including one AA - advanced aspherical lens), with 3 ED (Extra-low Dispersion) glass elements to deliver high-precision shots and breathtaking rendering – without the bulky design usually associated with similar DSLR lenses.
Reliable and easy in any conditions
Reliable operation in a variety of conditions is ensured by a design that prevents dust and moisture from entering the lens.
Product Reviews
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Non-interal zooming is a disappointment and you should note 35mm is most compact while 16mm extend the lens from the barrel. I was a little surprised by this and disappointed as I primarily use it at the 16mm end for landscapes.While the all black all metal feels premium, I find this is no exception...
The Sony Vario-Tessar T* FE 16-35mm F4 ZA OSS shows some distortion, which is typical for a lens of its type, but it's one of the best full-frame ultra-wide angle zooms that we've tested.
What we learned in the Sony FE 16-35mm f/4 ZA OSS Lens review: avoid 35mm f/4. Perhaps Sony should have stopped short of the 35mm focal length, or at least made f/5.6 the max aperture at that setting. Also, you are going to want lateral CA correction enabled when using this lens.
The Sony Zeiss 16-35mm Vario-Tessar f/4 is the ultimate travel lens for photographers looking to shoot landscapes and other compositions that are best suited for a wide angle perspectives. The build quality and performance are top notch, and the image quality is on the same level.
In the first six months following the release of the Sony A7 and A7r, many users were complaining about the lack of native lenses for the system. One year and three months later, I must praise Sony for the effort it has put into releasing more lenses for the system.
The Carl-Zeiss Vario Tessar T* FE 16-35mm f/4 OSS ZA may not be able to convince completely but we actually like it quite a bit. It is capable of delivering sharp results at medium apertures.
This lens has always produced excellent image quality, very sharp even on the A7RIV (I've only used it stopped down), with only very slight softness in the corners. It's nice and light so not a chore to carry on long treks. Weather sealing appears to be very good.
I shoot surf photography and sharks and this is actually a great lens because I'm shooting higher apertures I don't need it to be super low, but the focal length it perfect for me as I love 35mm but the 16mm gives me a view that really opens up making it great for up close sharks or up close...
I shoot surf photography and sharks and this is actually a great lens because I'm shooting higher apertures I don't need it to be super low, but the focal length it perfect for me as I love 35mm but the 16mm gives me a view that really opens up making it great for up close sharks or up close...
Whilst it is a pricey lens, it is significantly cheaper than the newer G Master f2.8 version, and this f4 version does compare very well against its bigger brother. It does, of course, lose out a stop against the GM, but the 16-35mm f4 is smaller, lighter, cheaper, and image quality is superb, and...
I shoot surf photography and sharks and this is actually a great lens because I’m shooting higher apertures I don’t need it to be super low, but the focal length it perfect for me as I love 35mm but the 16mm gives me a view that really opens up making it great for up close sharks or up close...
This lens has always produced excellent image quality, very sharp even on the A7RIV (I've only used it stopped down), with only very slight softness in the corners. It's nice and light so not a chore to carry on long treks. Weather sealing appears to be very good.
This lens has always produced excellent image quality, very sharp even on the A7RIV (I've only used it stopped down), with only very slight softness in the corners. It's nice and light so not a chore to carry on long treks. Weather sealing appears to be very good.
I changed from Nikon to Sony because I wanted to go mirrorless and the Sony fitted the bill. I'm using the Sony a7111 with the Vario-Tessar T* FE 16-35mm F4 ZA. It would be an understatement to say that I love this lens! It's sharp, and I mean SHARP!
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