Sony continued its series of top-tier lens quick releases for its full-frame cameras with the new and incredibly compact FE 14mm f/1.8 GM. The ultra-wide lens, which Sony says is designed for everything from astrophotography to landscapes to architectural shots, bears the GM (or ``G Master'') badge, meaning it's pretty uncompromising in terms of design and price. From a design standpoint, what's most intriguing about the FE 14mm f/1.8 GM is its relatively compact size: it weighs just 460g and measures just under 100mm long, at 99,8mm. This means it's considerably lighter than competitors like the Sigma 14mm f/1.8 DG HSM Art lens, which weighs 1170g and is also around a third shorter. For still photographers, this is certainly another very tempting addition to the camera bag, and Sony suggests that its edge-to-edge sharpness would be a huge improvement over its Sigma rival. Apparently the lens will be particularly good for astrophotographers, thanks to the inclusion of two XA (extreme aspherical) elements, which should help keep stars sharp and well rounded. But it should also be a relatively versatile lens, as you'd expect for the price, thanks to a 25cm minimum focusing distance and dual XD linear motors, which promise to deliver fast and quiet autofocus.
(Image credit: Sony)
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Film shooters are also compatible with the 14mm f/1.8 GM, which has a clickable aperture ring and design compared to the front light. This should make it particularly suitable for use on gimbals, which are used by viewers to keep their footage super smooth. The lens is also dust and moisture proof and includes Sony's usual fluorine coating to help keep oil and moisture at bay. In addition to a focus hold button on the side, it also has an external aperture ring and a built-in lens hood. So how much will the GM 14mm f/1.8 cost? Surprisingly, given its size and 'G Master' badge, the price isn't too steep: it'll be available for €1,600/€1,400 (around AU$2,510) when it goes on sale in May. While it's still a big change for most photographers, it's not much more than its bigger and heavier rival, the Sigma. We are currently testing the 14mm f/1.8 GM and will give you our final verdict very soon.