Sony FE 70-200mm F4 Macro G OSS II Lens
The second generation FE 70-200mm F4 Macro G OSS II combines a versatile telephoto range with 0.5x magnification throughout the zoom, fast four-motor autofocus and teleconverter support in a compact 794g design.
We Love
- 0.5x magnification throughout the zoom opens up far more than conventional telephoto shooting
- Excellent working distance for small subjects, helping avoid shadows or getting unnecessarily close
- Remarkably fine detail, including when paired with high-resolution 60+MP bodies
- Four XD Linear Motors provide fast tracking for wildlife, sport and other moving subjects
- Teleconverter support extends reach and enables life-size 1.0x reproduction with the 2.0x TC
Key Features
- Popular zoom with constant F4 full-frame zoom
- 0.5x maximum magnification throughout the range
- 0.26m minimum focus at 70mm and 0.42m at 200mm
- Four XD Linear Motors with AF tracking while zooming
- Compatible with 1.4x and 2.0x teleconverters
- Up to 1.0x magnification with the 2.0x TC
- Three-mode Optical SteadyShot
- Breathing Compensation support on compatible bodies
- Three focus hold buttons and focus limiter
- De-clickable aperture ring and Full-time DMF
- 794g with retracting zoom construction
- 72mm filter thread
Product Summary
The Sony FE 70-200mm F4 Macro G OSS II Lens takes one of the most useful telephoto ranges and adds unusually strong close-up capabilities. Wildlife, sport, portraits, landscapes and travel are natural territory, but 0.5x magnification throughout the zoom also brings flowers, insects, wedding details and other small subjects comfortably within reach.
It’s substantially more portable than an F2.8 alternative, weighing 794g and retracting to just 149mm at 70mm. That makes a noticeable difference when carrying it for a day, while the constant F4 aperture still provides plenty of separation where light levels allow. Four XD Linear Motors handle focusing, with tracking maintained while zooming for subjects moving unpredictably through the frame.
Close-up performance is one of the biggest reasons to consider this second generation model. Minimum focus is 0.26m at 70mm and 0.42m at 200mm, while compatibility with Sony’s E-mount teleconverters can extend the range to 400mm and increase maximum magnification to 1.0x with the 2.0x TC.
Enhanced image quality
Resolution for high-megapixel bodies
The optical construction uses 19 elements in 13 groups, including one Advanced Aspherical element, one aspherical element, one Super ED and three ED elements. A floating focus system uses two independently driven groups to maintain resolution from normal shooting distances through to close-ups.
In use, centre sharpness is extraordinary. Very fine details resolve cleanly even on a 60+MP sensor, which is reassuring for photographers pairing it with one of Sony’s higher-resolution bodies. The nine-blade rounded aperture also produces smooth out-of-focus areas when you want to isolate a portrait, animal or smaller detail.
Fast autofocus for moving subjects
Four XD Linear Motors drive the two focus groups, providing fast, quiet AF for stills and video. Performance is around 20% faster than the previous generation, with tracking supported while zooming and during high-speed continuous shooting on compatible bodies.
That combination broadens its usefulness considerably. A butterfly or flower at close range may be followed moments later by a bird or animal further away, without changing equipment or giving up the responsive focusing expected from a modern telephoto.
Half-size macro throughout the zoom
Maximum magnification reaches 0.5x at any focal length from 70mm to 200mm, rather than being confined to one end of the range. Minimum focus changes from 0.26m at 70mm to 0.42m at 200mm, so you can choose perspective and working distance as well as magnification.
The longer end is particularly useful with small subjects. You can fill the frame while leaving enough space to avoid getting unnecessarily close, casting a shadow or disturbing something that might move. That makes the close-focusing ability genuinely useful outdoors rather than simply an impressive specification.
More reach with a teleconverter
Both the 1.4x and 2.0x E-mount teleconverters are supported, extending the maximum focal length to 280mm or 400mm respectively. The 2.0x TC also raises maximum magnification from 0.5x to life-size 1.0x throughout the resulting zoom range.
On an APS-C body such as the A6700, the 1.5x crop factor provides a field of view equivalent to 105-300mm before adding a teleconverter. Combining APS-C with the 2.0x TC therefore provides framing equivalent to a 210-600mm range on full-frame, although the physical focal length remains 140-400mm.
Strong video capabilities
Focus breathing is suppressed optically, with Breathing Compensation also supported on compatible Sony mirrorless cameras. Quiet XD Linear Motors, AF tracking while zooming and a de-clickable aperture ring further support video recording when smooth changes in focus and exposure are important.
Controls for handheld and supported shooting
Optical SteadyShot provides three stabilisation modes, including Mode 3 for easier framing of unpredictable movement. Three customisable focus hold buttons sit around the barrel, alongside a focus limiter, AF/MF control, Full-time DMF and zoom lock.
A removable tripod collar supports use on a tripod or monopod, while the 72mm filter thread accepts commonly available filters without requiring unusually large accessories.
794g and easy to carry
At 794g, this generation is lighter than its predecessor and considerably lighter than the FE 70-200mm F2.8 GM OSS II. The barrel retracts to 149mm at the wide end, making it particularly convenient to stow when walking or travelling between locations.
The F2.8 GM II remains the stronger choice when you need the extra stop of light or shallower depth of field, but F4 becomes extremely compelling when those advantages aren’t essential. For daylight wildlife, landscapes, travel, close-ups and many outdoor sports, carrying less weight can be the more useful trade-off.
Dust and moisture-resistant construction and a Fluorine-coated front element provide additional protection outdoors. I would remove the existing UV filter and polariser sales paragraph entirely rather than replacing it with other accessory recommendations.
Read our Sony FE 70-200mm F4 Macro G OSS II review for a closer look at its features and performance.
Sample images

Sample 1 @135mm. Settings: 1/1000 sec. f/4.0. ISO 2000

Sample 2 @200mm. Settings: 1/160 sec. f/4.0. ISO 640

Sample 3 @174mm. Settings: 1/400 sec. f/4.0. ISO 500
Frequently Asked Questions
Is 0.5x magnification available at every focal length?
Yes. Maximum magnification remains 0.5x throughout the 70-200mm range, so you can choose your framing and working distance rather than having to use one specific focal length to achieve the highest reproduction ratio.
What do I gain and lose by adding a teleconverter?
The 1.4x extends the range to 98-280mm with a maximum aperture of f/5.6 and increases magnification to 0.7x. The 2.0x provides 140-400mm, f/8 and life-size 1.0x reproduction. Both provide extra reach without increasing the minimum focus distance, but the narrower maximum aperture means less light reaches the sensor.
Should I choose this or the 70-200mm F2.8 GM II?
Choose the F4 if lower weight and stronger close-up performance are priorities. At 794g it is around 250g lighter and provides 0.5x magnification compared with 0.3x from the F2.8 GM II. The GM II gains a full stop of light at f/2.8, making it more attractive for low-light shooting and stronger background separation.
Does autofocus continue working while I zoom?
Yes. Four XD Linear Motors drive two floating focus groups, and AF tracking continues while the focal length is being changed. That’s particularly useful when a bird, athlete or other moving subject rapidly changes its distance or position in the frame.
What happens when I use it on an APS-C body?
The physical focal length remains 70-200mm, but the 1.5x crop provides the same field of view as approximately 105-300mm on full-frame. That narrower framing can be useful for wildlife and sport while retaining the same 0.5x maximum reproduction ratio.
Does the barrel extend when zooming?
Yes. This generation uses an extending rather than internal zoom mechanism, which helps reduce its stored length to 149mm. A zoom lock prevents the barrel from extending while you’re carrying it.
SEL70200G2 Specifications
|
Mount |
Sony E-mount |
|
Format |
35mm full frame |
|
Focal-Length (mm) |
70-200 |
|
35mm equivalent focal-length (APS-C) |
105-300 |
|
Lens Groups / Elements |
13/19 |
|
Angle of view (APS-C) |
23°-8° |
|
Angle of View (35mm) |
34°-12°30’ |
|
Maximum aperture (F) |
4.0 |
|
Minimum Aperture (F) |
22 |
|
Aperture Blades |
9 |
|
Circular Aperture |
Yes |
|
Minimum Focus Distance |
0.26-0.42m |
|
Minimum Focus Distance |
0.86-1.38m |
|
Maximum Magnification ratio (x) |
0.5 |
|
Filter Diameter |
72mm |
|
Image stabilisation (SteadyShot) |
Optical SteadyShot |
|
Zoom system |
Manual |
|
Teleconverter compatibility (x1.4) |
SEL14TC |
|
Teleconverter compatibility (x2.0) |
SEL20TC |
|
Hood Type |
Petal shape, bayonet type |
|
Dimensions (Diameter x Length) |
82.2 x 149.0mm |
|
Weight |
794g (Without tripod mount) |
What's in the Box
- Sony FE 70-200mm f/4 G OSS II Lens for E-mount
- ALC-SH176 Petal shape, bayonet type lens hood
- ALC-F72S front cap
- ALC-R1EM rear cap
- Tripod mount
| Offers: N/A |
| Offer Category: N/A |
| Offer Product Type: N/A |
| Autofocus: N/A |
| Aperture ring: N/A |
| Constant Aperture: Yes |
| Lens CIPA Image stabilization rating: N/A |
| Colour: N/A |
| Diameter (mm): N/A |
| Length (mm): N/A |
| Weight (g): N/A |
| Distance scale: N/A |
| DoF scale: N/A |
| Elements: N/A |
| Environmental Sealing: N/A |
| Focus distance limiter: N/A |
| Focal length: 70-200 mm |
| Focus method: N/A |
| Filter Thread: N/A |
| Full time manual: N/A |
| Groups: N/A |
| Hood supplied: N/A |
| Lens Image stabilization: N/A |
| Lens mount: N/A |
| Lens Materials: N/A |
| Maximum focal length: 200 |
| Maximum magnification: N/A |
| Maximum aperture (number): 4 |
| Maximum aperture (text): N/A |
| Max Format size: N/A |
| Minimum focal length: 70 |
| Lens Minimum focus distance (m): N/A |
| Minimum aperture (number): N/A |
| Minimum aperture (text): N/A |
| Motor type: N/A |
| Number of diaphragm blades: N/A |
| Power zoom: N/A |
| Special elements / coatings: N/A |
| Tripod collar: N/A |
| Lens type: N/A |
| Wide/Tele: N/A |
| Level: N/A |
| Year Of Release: N/A |
| Best For: N/A |
| Best For Holiday and Landscape: Yes |
| Best For Interior and Architecture: N/A |
| Best For Fashion and Portrait: Yes |
| Best For Macro and Still Life: N/A |
| Best For Astro: N/A |
| Best For Street: N/A |
| Best For Wildlife and Sport: Yes |
| Zoom lock: N/A |
| Zoom method: N/A |
| Notes: N/A |
Thinking of choosing finance?
Finance is a great way to spread the cost of your purchase. To make it easy we have teamed up with Omni, one of the UK’s leading finance specialists, so that you can apply for and complete a loan application quickly, easily and informatively.
Omni Capital Retail Finance Ltd which is a credit provider/ lender regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority whose finance options are best suited for you and your purchase.
Simply add the items you love to your basket. Once you are at the checkout select the finance option that suits you and choose Omni. The quick application form is simple and should take no more than a couple of minutes to complete and you will receive a decision instantly. Easy!
Use our finance calculator to check the impact of various loan values, terms and interest rates on the total amount you need to pay and the monthly repayments.
Representative example:
Buy a £1,200.00 camera and pay a 10% deposit of £120. You'll borrow £1,080 over 24 months with an annual interest rate of 14.9% (fixed) with a first payment of £52.04 followed by 23 monthly repayments of £51.83. The total amount payable will be £1,244.13 14.9% APR Representative.
Finance available See options |
|
|
Check your eligibility
To be considered for finance, you will need to meet all of the following criteria:
- Are at least 18 years old
- Are in regular full or part-time employment (minimum 1 hour per week or £10,000 income per annum), unless you are retired and receiving a private or company pension, or you are in receipt of disability living allowance
- Are a permanent UK resident and have lived in the UK for at least 3 years
- Have a UK bank account capable of accepting Direct Debits
- Have a good credit history with no late payments, Debt Relief Orders, County Court Judgments or bankruptcies.

Please note that, due to calculations, your monthly repayment may differ very slightly from what you were expecting. Please check your monthly repayment figure before proceeding
Missed or late payments will result in fees and additional interest on your loan and can also affect your credit file and your ability to obtain credit in the future.
Credit is subject to status, UK only, 18+
Park Cameras Limited is a credit broker, not a lender and is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority (FRN 680161). We do not charge you for credit broking services. We will introduce you exclusively to finance products provided by Omni Capital Retail Finance Ltd.
Omni Capital Retail Finance Ltd which is a credit provider/ lender regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority, Firm Reference Number: 720279. For more information please go to www.omnicapitalretailfinance.co.uk/contact/customer or visit www.omnicapitalretailfinance.co.uk.
Find out more about paying with finance here and Omni Capital Retail Finance Ltd terms here
Our Verdict
This second generation 70-200mm has become much more than a lighter alternative to an F2.8 telephoto. The combination of excellent resolution, fast four-motor autofocus and 0.5x magnification throughout the range makes it equally convincing when photographing distant action or something small directly in front of you.
The close-up performance is particularly impressive in practice. At 200mm there’s enough working distance to fill the frame with small subjects without crowding them or repeatedly casting your own shadow across the scene, while the level of fine detail stands up extremely well on a 60+MP sensor.
Its 794g weight is another major advantage. Compared with the 70-200mm F2.8 GM II, it’s an easier proposition to carry for long periods and a very appealing choice whenever you don’t need the extra stop of light or the strongest possible background separation.
Add teleconverter compatibility, life-size reproduction with the 2.0x TC, three-mode stabilisation and strong video support, and this is an unusually broad interpretation of the classic 70-200mm. It can cover portraits, sport and wildlife one day and dedicated close-up photography the next without feeling compromised towards either.
If you’re upgrading or have unused equipment to sell, get a free trade-in quote to see what you could put towards your purchase.
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Condition guide
Our used products are subject to wear and tear in comparison to brand new products. This also applies to accessories that are supplied with the camera including batteries which may have a lower optimum performance level/life expectancy.
- Like New – The equipment is in a condition as if you have just bought it from the manufacturer. The item is still considered to be ‘Like New’ even without the original packaging and accessories. The product has been fully tested and is in perfect working order. Lenses are optically clear. There may be light dust present that will not effect the imagery.
- Excellent – The equipment should be close to being ‘Like New’ but there may be some small cosmetic blemishes that lower its grade. The product has been fully tested and is in perfect excellent order.
- Cameras – Should have no marks on the LCD screen
- Lenses – Should have no marks on the elements and optically clear. There may be light dust present that will not effect the imagery.
- Very Good – The equipment may have some slight cosmetic wear to the paintwork and cosmetic blemishes with only light signs of use and the product has been fully tested and is in great working order.
- Cameras – The LCD screen may have small signs of wear that does not affect its display
- Lenses – The mount of the lens will start to show signs of wear
- Good – The equipment is showing more obvious signs of cosmetic wear and blemishes, but the product has been fully tested and is in great working order.
- Cameras – LCD screen may have scratches or wear that is starting to affect the display.
- Lenses – May have slight dust inside that does not affect images. The mount shows signs of use.
- Well Used – The equipment will show significant signs of wear. The paintwork will be coming away in large areas exposing the metal work, but the product has been fully tested and is in great working order.
- Cameras – LCD screen is heavily worn either by de-lamination or has scratches to it. Rubber grips are starting to come away from the body.
- Lenses – The lens has dust inside that may affect images. The rubber zoom/focus ring is coming away from the barrel of the lens.
*All of our used items are listed with the accessories that are included. If they are not listed, then they will not be supplied at the point of purchase.
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