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Sony FE 100mm F 2 8 STF GM OSS Review | 54 Data compared

Avg. price: ~£1,070
Lens mount: Sony E
Maximum focal length: 100 mm
Maximum aperture (telephoto end): 2.8
Optical image stabilization: yes
Maximum angle of view: 24 °

Sony FE 100mm F 2 8 STF GM OSS review. Compare 54 technical specifications and user reviews to see how it ranks among camera lenses and if it is worth buying.

8.0

Excellent

8.2

Excellent

7.5

Very good

9.9
Low-light photography
Score components:
70.0%
9.8
Maximum aperture (telephoto end)
30.0%
10
Optical image stabilization
8.7
Travel
Score components:
30.0%
8.1
Lens length
25.0%
7.1
Lens diameter
25.0%
10
Weather sealing (splashproof)
20.0%
10
Optical image stabilization

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#33 in Best Sony Lenses
#135 in Best Camera Lenses

Verdict

The Sony FE 100mm f/2.8 STF GM OSS is a specialised full-frame portrait prime featuring an innovative apodization element and 11-blade circular aperture designed for exceptionally smooth 'Smooth Trans Focus' (STF) bokeh. Key specifications include built-in Optical SteadyShot, a Direct Drive SSM (DDSSM) autofocus system, and a macro switching ring providing up to 0.25x magnification with a minimum focus distance of 0.57m. Its primary pros are its world-class background rendering that eliminates 'onion ring' bokeh, professional G Master-grade sharpness, and robust weather-sealed construction. Main cons include a significant light-gathering penalty where the f/2.8 aperture effectively transmits light at T5.6 due to the APD filter, making it less ideal for low-light environments, along with notable focus breathing and a relatively bulky 730g frame.

Technical Specifications of Sony FE 100mm F 2 8 STF GM OSS

Overall score

8.0

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Popularity

What it is: An indicator based on the number of reviews received by the camera lens.

When it matters: When you want to see which camera lenses attract the most buyer attention and review activity.

Mount & Format

1.0

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Lens type

What it is: The optical category that indicates whether the lens is a prime, zoom, macro, fisheye, or another design.

When it matters: When you are choosing between a prime, zoom, macro, or specialty lens for the kind of subjects you shoot.

Importance: LOW

telephoto prime

Lens mount

What it is: The mechanical and electronic interface that determines which cameras the lens can be attached to.

When it matters: When camera compatibility and access to the right lens ecosystem are central to your buying decision.

Importance: LOW

Sony E

Sensor format coverage

What it is: The largest sensor size the lens is designed to cover without severe vignetting.

When it matters: When you need the lens to fully cover your camera sensor without heavy corner darkening.

Importance: LOW

Full-frame

Filter thread size

What it is: The diameter of the front filter thread used for screw-in filters and compatible accessories.

When it matters: When you plan to use screw-in filters such as polarizers, ND filters, or protective glass.

Importance: LOW

72 mm

Teleconverter compatibility

What it is: Whether the lens can be used with compatible teleconverters to extend focal length.

When it matters: When you want to extend reach for wildlife or sports without changing to a different long lens.

Importance: HIGH

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Optics & Aperture

8.3

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Minimum focal length

What it is: The shortest focal length the lens can provide, which determines its widest framing.

When it matters: When wide framing matters for landscapes, interiors, architecture, or travel shots.

Importance: LOW

100 mm

Maximum focal length

What it is: The longest focal length the lens can reach, which determines its telephoto reach.

When it matters: When you need more reach for wildlife, sports, stage events, or distant details.

Importance: LOW

100 mm

Optical zoom

What it is: The ratio between the longest and shortest focal lengths available in the lens zoom range.

When it matters: When you want one lens to cover a broader range of compositions without swapping glass.

Importance: LOW

?

Maximum angle of view

What it is: The widest scene the lens can capture at its shortest focal length.

When it matters: When you need to fit more of a room, skyline, or landscape into the frame.

Importance: LOW

24 °

Minimum angle of view

What it is: The narrowest scene the lens captures at its longest focal length.

When it matters: When you want tighter framing on faraway subjects without moving closer.

Importance: LOW

24 °

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Focus & Controls

8.4

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Focus motor

What it is: The autofocus drive system responsible for moving lens elements into focus.

When it matters: When fast, quiet autofocus matters for video, wildlife, street shots, or moving subjects.

Importance: LOW

DDSSM

Minimum focus distance

What it is: The shortest distance at which the lens can focus on a subject.

When it matters: When you like shooting details, food, flowers, or products from a very short distance.

Importance: MEDIUM

Maximum reproduction ratio

What it is: The highest magnification the lens can achieve when focusing at its closest distance.

When it matters: When close-up magnification matters for macro work, textures, or small product details.

Importance: MEDIUM

Full-time manual focus

What it is: The ability to adjust focus manually without leaving autofocus mode.

When it matters: When you want to fine-tune focus instantly without switching out of autofocus.

Importance: HIGH

Internal focusing

What it is: A focusing design in which internal elements move while the outer barrel length stays unchanged.

When it matters: When you use polarizers, gimbals, or close-up setups that benefit from a lens that does not extend while focusing.

Importance: HIGH

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Stabilization

9.6

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Optical image stabilization

What it is: A hardware system that shifts optical elements to counteract camera shake and reduce blur.

When it matters: When you want steadier handheld shots and less blur, especially in low light or at longer focal lengths.

Importance: HIGH

Stabilization effectiveness (CIPA stops)

What it is: The rated stabilizer benefit, measured in stops, under CIPA testing standards.

When it matters: When you are comparing stabilized lenses and want to know how much handheld shutter-speed advantage they offer.

Importance: HIGH

?

Build & Handling

8.4

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Weight

What it is: The total mass of the lens, affecting portability and handling balance on the camera body.

When it matters: When you carry a lens all day for travel, hiking, or event coverage and want to keep your kit manageable.

Importance: HIGH

Lens length

What it is: The physical length of the lens body from mount to front edge.

When it matters: When bag space, balance, or front clearance matters in a compact travel or video setup.

Importance: HIGH

Lens diameter

What it is: The widest outer diameter of the lens barrel.

When it matters: When grip comfort, filter size, or fit inside a tight camera bag matters to you.

Importance: MEDIUM

Weather sealing (splashproof)

What it is: Protective sealing intended to resist splashes, dust, and light environmental exposure.

When it matters: When you often shoot outdoors in light rain, dust, or changing conditions.

Importance: HIGH

Metal mount

What it is: A lens mount made of metal rather than plastic for greater durability at the camera connection point.

When it matters: When durability matters because you change lenses often or use heavier gear for work.

Importance: HIGH

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Lab Scores

7.9

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DxOMark overall score

What it is: The combined DxOMark lens rating based on lab-tested optical performance.

When it matters: When you want a quick lab-based summary of overall optical performance before comparing lenses in detail.

Importance: HIGH

DxOMark sharpness score

What it is: The DxOMark subscore that reflects how much detail the lens can resolve across the frame.

When it matters: When fine detail matters for landscapes, product work, or high-resolution cameras.

Importance: HIGH

?

DxOMark transmission

What it is: The measured light transmission of the lens, expressed as T-stop rather than nominal f-number.

When it matters: When real light loss matters for exposure consistency in studio, cinema, or mixed-lens shoots.

Importance: MEDIUM

DxOMark distortion

What it is: The DxOMark metric that measures how much the lens bends straight lines away from their true shape.

When it matters: When straight lines matter in architecture, interiors, copy work, or product photography.

Importance: MEDIUM

?

DxOMark vignetting

What it is: The DxOMark measurement of corner darkening relative to the center of the image.

When it matters: When even corner brightness matters for skies, studio backdrops, or clean product shots.

Importance: MEDIUM

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Sony FE 100mm F 2 8 STF GM OSS vs the average camera lens

Why is Sony FE 100mm F 2 8 STF GM OSS better than the average camera lens?

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Has optical image stabilization
Sony FE 100mm F 2 8 STF GM OSS has optical image stabilization, the average camera lens does not. 29% of camera lenses include optical image stabilization.
What it is: A hardware system that shifts optical elements to counteract camera shake and reduce blur.
When it matters: When you want steadier handheld shots and less blur, especially in low light or at longer focal lengths.
Importance: HIGH
Sony FE 100mm F 2 8 STF GM OSS has optical image stabilization, the average camera lens does not. 29% of camera lenses include optical image stabilization.
Has focus hold button
Sony FE 100mm F 2 8 STF GM OSS has a focus hold button, the average camera lens does not. 16.5% of camera lenses include a focus hold button.
What it is: A button on the lens barrel used to lock focus temporarily during shooting.
When it matters: When you want to lock focus quickly during sports, wildlife, or recomposed portraits.
Importance: MEDIUM
Sony FE 100mm F 2 8 STF GM OSS has a focus hold button, the average camera lens does not. 16.5% of camera lenses include a focus hold button.
Has aperture ring
Sony FE 100mm F 2 8 STF GM OSS has an aperture ring, the average camera lens does not. 31.2% of camera lenses include an aperture ring.
What it is: A dedicated ring on the lens used to control the aperture directly.
When it matters: When you want direct tactile control over exposure while shooting photos or video.
Importance: MEDIUM
Sony FE 100mm F 2 8 STF GM OSS has an aperture ring, the average camera lens does not. 31.2% of camera lenses include an aperture ring.
Has de-clickable aperture ring
Sony FE 100mm F 2 8 STF GM OSS has a de-clickable aperture ring, the average camera lens does not. 18.4% of camera lenses support a de-clickable aperture ring.
What it is: An aperture ring that can switch from stepped clicks to smooth rotation for video work.
When it matters: When you shoot video and need smooth aperture changes without audible or visible click steps.
Importance: MEDIUM
Sony FE 100mm F 2 8 STF GM OSS has a de-clickable aperture ring, the average camera lens does not. 18.4% of camera lenses support a de-clickable aperture ring.
2 more aperture blades
Sony FE 100mm F 2 8 STF GM OSS has more aperture blades than the average camera lens (11 vs 9). The average lens has 9 aperture blades.
What it is: The number of diaphragm blades that shape the aperture opening and influence blur rendering.
When it matters: When the look of out-of-focus highlights matters in portraits, close-ups, or cinematic video.
Importance: HIGH
Sony FE 100mm F 2 8 STF GM OSS has more aperture blades than the average camera lens (11 vs 9). The average lens has 9 aperture blades.11 vs 9
Has focus limiter switch
Sony FE 100mm F 2 8 STF GM OSS has a focus limiter switch, the average camera lens does not. 16.4% of camera lenses include a focus limiter switch.
What it is: A control that restricts the focus range to improve autofocus speed and reduce hunting.
When it matters: When autofocus speed matters and you want to stop the lens from hunting through its full focus range.
Importance: LOW
Sony FE 100mm F 2 8 STF GM OSS has a focus limiter switch, the average camera lens does not. 16.4% of camera lenses include a focus limiter switch.
0.7 EV less vignetting
Sony FE 100mm F 2 8 STF GM OSS has less vignetting than the average camera lens (0.5 EV vs 1.2 EV). The average lens has vignetting of 1.2 EV.
What it is: The DxOMark measurement of corner darkening relative to the center of the image.
When it matters: When even corner brightness matters for skies, studio backdrops, or clean product shots.
Importance: MEDIUM
Sony FE 100mm F 2 8 STF GM OSS has less vignetting than the average camera lens (0.5 EV vs 1.2 EV). The average lens has vignetting of 1.2 EV.0.500 EV vs 1.2 EV
8 points higher DxOMark score
Sony FE 100mm F 2 8 STF GM OSS has a higher DxOMark overall score than the average camera lens (34 vs 26). The average lens has a DxOMark overall score of 26.
What it is: The combined DxOMark lens rating based on lab-tested optical performance.
When it matters: When you want a quick lab-based summary of overall optical performance before comparing lenses in detail.
Importance: HIGH
Sony FE 100mm F 2 8 STF GM OSS has a higher DxOMark overall score than the average camera lens (34 vs 26). The average lens has a DxOMark overall score of 26.34 vs 26
2 more aperture blades
Sony FE 100mm F 2 8 STF GM OSS has more aperture blades than the average camera lens (11 vs 9). The average lens has 9 aperture blades.
Has focus hold button
Sony FE 100mm F 2 8 STF GM OSS has a focus hold button, the average camera lens does not. 16.5% of camera lenses include a focus hold button.
Has aperture ring
Sony FE 100mm F 2 8 STF GM OSS has an aperture ring, the average camera lens does not. 31.2% of camera lenses include an aperture ring.
Has de-clickable aperture ring
Sony FE 100mm F 2 8 STF GM OSS has a de-clickable aperture ring, the average camera lens does not. 18.4% of camera lenses support a de-clickable aperture ring.
Has focus limiter switch
Sony FE 100mm F 2 8 STF GM OSS has a focus limiter switch, the average camera lens does not. 16.4% of camera lenses include a focus limiter switch.
Has optical image stabilization
Sony FE 100mm F 2 8 STF GM OSS has optical image stabilization, the average camera lens does not. 29% of camera lenses include optical image stabilization.
0.7 EV less vignetting
Sony FE 100mm F 2 8 STF GM OSS has less vignetting than the average camera lens (0.5 EV vs 1.2 EV). The average lens has vignetting of 1.2 EV.
8 points higher DxOMark score
Sony FE 100mm F 2 8 STF GM OSS has a higher DxOMark overall score than the average camera lens (34 vs 26). The average lens has a DxOMark overall score of 26.

Optics & Aperture

Focus & Controls

Why is Sony FE 100mm F 2 8 STF GM OSS worse than the average camera lens?

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1 fewer low-dispersion elements
Sony FE 100mm F 2 8 STF GM OSS has fewer low-dispersion elements than the average camera lens (1 vs 2). The average lens has 2 low-dispersion elements.
1 fewer aspherical elements
Sony FE 100mm F 2 8 STF GM OSS has fewer aspherical elements than the average camera lens (1 vs 2). The average lens has 2 aspherical elements.
0.27 m longer minimum focus distance
Sony FE 100mm F 2 8 STF GM OSS has a higher minimum focus distance than the average camera lens (0.6 m vs 0.3 m). The average lens has a minimum focus distance of 0.3 m.
0.85 m in standard mode.
26.1 mm longer lens
Sony FE 100mm F 2 8 STF GM OSS is longer than the average camera lens (118.1 mm vs 92 mm). The average lens has a length of 92 mm.
174.6 g heavier
Sony FE 100mm F 2 8 STF GM OSS is heavier than the average camera lens (700 g vs 525.4 g). The average lens weighs 525.4 g.
8.2 mm wider lens barrel
Sony FE 100mm F 2 8 STF GM OSS is wider than the average camera lens (85.2 mm vs 77 mm). The average lens has a diameter of 77 mm.
2.5 T-stop higher transmission value
Sony FE 100mm F 2 8 STF GM OSS has a higher T-stop value than the average camera lens (5.6 T-stop vs 3.1 T-stop). The average lens has a T-stop value of 3.1 T-stop.
2.5 T-stop higher transmission value
Sony FE 100mm F 2 8 STF GM OSS has a higher T-stop value than the average camera lens (5.6 T-stop vs 3.1 T-stop). The average lens has a T-stop value of 3.1 T-stop.
What it is: The measured light transmission of the lens, expressed as T-stop rather than nominal f-number.
When it matters: When real light loss matters for exposure consistency in studio, cinema, or mixed-lens shoots.
Importance: MEDIUM
Sony FE 100mm F 2 8 STF GM OSS has a higher T-stop value than the average camera lens (5.6 T-stop vs 3.1 T-stop). The average lens has a T-stop value of 3.1 T-stop.5.6 T-stop vs 3.1 T-stop
26.1 mm longer lens
Sony FE 100mm F 2 8 STF GM OSS is longer than the average camera lens (118.1 mm vs 92 mm). The average lens has a length of 92 mm.
What it is: The physical length of the lens body from mount to front edge.
When it matters: When bag space, balance, or front clearance matters in a compact travel or video setup.
Importance: HIGH
Sony FE 100mm F 2 8 STF GM OSS is longer than the average camera lens (118.1 mm vs 92 mm). The average lens has a length of 92 mm.118.1 mm vs 92 mm
174.6 g heavier
Sony FE 100mm F 2 8 STF GM OSS is heavier than the average camera lens (700 g vs 525.4 g). The average lens weighs 525.4 g.
What it is: The total mass of the lens, affecting portability and handling balance on the camera body.
When it matters: When you carry a lens all day for travel, hiking, or event coverage and want to keep your kit manageable.
Importance: HIGH
Sony FE 100mm F 2 8 STF GM OSS is heavier than the average camera lens (700 g vs 525.4 g). The average lens weighs 525.4 g.700 g vs 525.4 g
8.2 mm wider lens barrel
Sony FE 100mm F 2 8 STF GM OSS is wider than the average camera lens (85.2 mm vs 77 mm). The average lens has a diameter of 77 mm.
What it is: The widest outer diameter of the lens barrel.
When it matters: When grip comfort, filter size, or fit inside a tight camera bag matters to you.
Importance: MEDIUM
Sony FE 100mm F 2 8 STF GM OSS is wider than the average camera lens (85.2 mm vs 77 mm). The average lens has a diameter of 77 mm.85.2 mm vs 77 mm
0.27 m longer minimum focus distance
Sony FE 100mm F 2 8 STF GM OSS has a higher minimum focus distance than the average camera lens (0.6 m vs 0.3 m). The average lens has a minimum focus distance of 0.3 m.
0.85 m in standard mode.
What it is: The shortest distance at which the lens can focus on a subject.
When it matters: When you like shooting details, food, flowers, or products from a very short distance.
Importance: MEDIUM
Sony FE 100mm F 2 8 STF GM OSS has a higher minimum focus distance than the average camera lens (0.6 m vs 0.3 m). The average lens has a minimum focus distance of 0.3 m.0.57 m vs 0.3 m
1 fewer low-dispersion elements
Sony FE 100mm F 2 8 STF GM OSS has fewer low-dispersion elements than the average camera lens (1 vs 2). The average lens has 2 low-dispersion elements.
What it is: Optical elements designed to reduce color fringing by controlling how different wavelengths focus.
When it matters: When you want cleaner edges and less color fringing in high-contrast scenes.
Importance: MEDIUM
Sony FE 100mm F 2 8 STF GM OSS has fewer low-dispersion elements than the average camera lens (1 vs 2). The average lens has 2 low-dispersion elements.1 vs 2
1 fewer aspherical elements
Sony FE 100mm F 2 8 STF GM OSS has fewer aspherical elements than the average camera lens (1 vs 2). The average lens has 2 aspherical elements.
What it is: Specially shaped lens elements used to reduce distortion and improve sharpness with fewer optical compromises.
When it matters: When edge sharpness and lower distortion matter in wide-angle, travel, or everyday shooting.
Importance: MEDIUM
Sony FE 100mm F 2 8 STF GM OSS has fewer aspherical elements than the average camera lens (1 vs 2). The average lens has 2 aspherical elements.1 vs 2
2.02x more expensive
Sony FE 100mm F 2 8 STF GM OSS is more expensive than the average camera lens (£1,070 vs £530).
Sony FE 100mm F 2 8 STF GM OSS is more expensive than the average camera lens (£1,070 vs £530).£1,070 vs £530

Optics & Aperture

Focus & Controls

Build & Handling

Graphic comparison of Sony FE 100mm F 2 8 STF GM OSS and

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Third-party reviews

United Kingdom

United States

(Reviews last updated: July 2026)

What customers like about Sony FE 100mm F 2 8 STF GM OSS?

Incomparable, smooth bokeh quality due to the apodization (APD) filter
Exceptional center sharpness and high resolution consistent with the G Master line
Fast, quiet, and precise Direct Drive SSM (DDSSM) autofocus system
Effective built-in Optical SteadyShot (OSS) image stabilization
Professional-grade, weather-sealed construction with a dedicated aperture ring
Near-macro capabilities with 0.25x magnification

What customers dislike about Sony FE 100mm F 2 8 STF GM OSS?

APD element reduces light transmission significantly (T5.6 effective brightness)
Autofocus performance can hunt or struggle in low-light conditions
Strong focus breathing can be problematic for videographers
Bulky and substantial size/weight compared to standard primes
Steeper learning curve to master the unique look and T-stop limitations
Moderate color blur and lack of an aperture ring lock

Expert reviews

ephotozine.com

16/05/2017

Summary of the review

Sony FE 100mm f/2.8 STF GM OSS Review | ePHOTOzine

The ePHOTOzine review highlights the Sony FE 100mm f/2.8 STF GM OSS as a lens delivering incredible sharpness, zero distortion, and exceptional, smooth background bokeh due to its integrated Apodization (APD) element. The 700g lens is praised for its robust build, effective Optical SteadyShot (OSS), and fast, quiet autofocus, making it a stellar performer for close-up and portrait work. Conversely, the specialized design results in a T5.6 rating, creating a 75% light loss compared to a standard f/2.8 aperture, which limits low-light performance. Other cons include noticeable focus breathing, lack of an aperture ring lock, and a focus-by-wire system deemed less precise than mechanical alternatives.

kenrockwell.com

19/12/2017

Summary of the review

Sony 100mm STF Review - Ken Rockwell

The Ken Rockwell review highlights the Sony 100mm STF as a specialized portrait lens, featuring an internal "apodization" filter that produces exceptionally smooth, soft-edged out-of-focus bokeh. Pros include ultra-sharp in-focus performance, a silent DDSSM autofocus motor, and a macro-switching ring that reduces minimum focus distance. However, the lens has a significant drawback: the apodization element limits light transmission to T5.6, despite having f/2.8 depth of field, making it inefficient for low-light scenarios. Additional cons noted in the review include a lack of traditional, physical distance indicators and a plastic, rather than metal, filter thread.

digitalcameraworld.com

27/01/2023

Summary of the review

Sony FE 100mm F2.8 STF G Master OSSGo to product viewer dialogue for this item. review | Digital Camera World

in english language, be very specific, mention pros and cons inside You sent: 1 tab and said: 2 paragraphs summary of this review in english language, be very specific, mention pros and cons inside Sony FE 100mm F2.8 STF G Master OSS review | Digital Camera World 2 paragraphs summary of this review in english language, be very specific, mention pros and cons inside

dpreview.com

09/05/2017

Summary of the review

Sony FE 100mm F2.8 STF gallery and first impressions | DPReview

The DPReview sample gallery and analysis for the Sony FE 100mm F2.8 STF GM OSS highlights a specialized portrait lens offering exceptional sharpness, even on high-resolution sensors, and a unique, smooth background bokeh produced by its built-in apodization (STF) filter. Key advantages include rapid direct-drive SSM autofocus and a useful 0.25x macro switching feature for close-up work. However, the specialized design introduces notable cons, most significantly a light transmission penalty that drops the effective aperture from f/2.8 to T5.6, severely limiting low-light capabilities. The review further notes that this T-stop limitation, combined with the extreme smoothing, can cause autofocus to struggle in dim, backlit conditions, and may not suit photographers looking for more defined, traditional bokeh highlights.

dxomark.com

30/05/2017

Summary of the review

Sony FE 100mm F2.8 STF GM OSS lens review: solid choice

in english language, be very specific, mention pros and cons inside You sent: 1 tab and said: 2 paragraphs summary of this review in english language, be very specific, mention pros and cons inside Sony FE 100mm F2.8 STF GM OSS lens review: solid choice - DXOMARK 2 paragraphs summary of this review in english language, be very specific, mention pros and cons inside

au.pcmag.com

08/06/2017

Summary of the review

Sony FE 100mm F2.8 STF GM OSS Review

The Sony FE 100mm F2.8 STF GM OSS is a specialized, high-performance G Master prime lens designed for full-frame mirrorless cameras, making it highly appealing to serious portrait and wedding photographers. Its standout feature is an internal apodization (APD) element that acts like a graduated neutral density filter, smoothing out-of-focus highlights to deliver exceptionally clean, circular edge-to-edge bokeh without "cat-eye" distortion. Built to withstand the elements with dust and moisture resistance, the lens features optical image stabilization, a versatile close-focus ring that provides 1:4 macro magnification, and a de-clickable physical aperture ring favored by videographers. In lab testing, it displays outstanding optical sharpness, recording an incredible 4,290 lines at its widest setting. However, this unique design introduces notable trade-offs, primarily regarding light transmission and cost. The primary con is that the APD filter significantly compromises its light-gathering capability; while wide open at f/2.8 for depth-of-field purposes, it only transmits as much light as a standard f/5.6 lens (T5.6), making it a poor choice for dim or low-light environments without a flash. Additionally, at $1,499.99, the lens is quite expensive, large...

opticallimits.com

05/08/2017

Summary of the review

Sony FE 100mm f/2.8 STF GM OSS (SEL100F28GM) Review

The Sony FE 100mm f/2.8 STF GM OSS is a specialized, weather-sealed G-Master lens that delivers an unmatched bokeh quality due to its unique Smooth Trans Focus (STF) apodization (APD) element. This APD element acts as a graduated filter that smoothly dissolves the edges of out-of-focus highlights and eliminates the "cat-eyes" distortion near image borders. Optically, the lens provides outstanding center sharpness and very good border resolution starting immediately at its maximum aperture, alongside negligible vignetting and highly effective optical image stabilization (OSS) that offers 3 to 4 stops of compensation. Furthermore, its robust build quality includes a dedicated physical aperture ring, a focus-lock button, and a dual-range focus limiter that allows for a helpful 1:4 maximum close-up magnification. However, this specialized design introduces several distinct drawbacks, most notably a severe 2-stop light loss caused by the APD element. While the lens maintains the depth-of-field of an f/2.8 aperture, its actual light transmission is reduced to T/5.6, and the signature ultra-smooth bokeh effect disappears rapidly if the lens is stopped down by even 1/3 of a stop. Additionally, the lens...

the-digital-picture.com

26/01/2024

Summary of the review

Sony FE 100mm F2.8 STF GM OSS Lens Review

The Sony FE 100mm f/2.8 STF GM OSS lens is a professional-grade optic, noted for its exceptional sharpness, built-in optical image stabilization, and superior, soft-edged bokeh produced by an optical apodization (APD) element. The lens features a robust design with a smooth, quiet DDSSM autofocus system and an integrated aperture ring. The-Digital-Picture.com However, the specialized APD element restricts light transmission to a T5.6 rating, significantly reducing its low-light capability compared to its f/2.8 aperture designation. Other drawbacks include moderate focus breathing, some color fringing, and the lack of a lock switch for the aperture ring.

casualphotophile.com

07/07/2020

Summary of the review

Sony FE 100mm F/2.8 STF (Smooth Trans Focus) Lens Review

The Sony FE 100mm F/2.8 STF GM OSS is an exceptional full-frame short telephoto portrait lens built with a specialized internal apodization (APO) filter. This graduated, neutral-grey tinted element smooths out-of-focus edges to produce incredibly refined, perfectly round highlight bokeh blobs in both the foreground and background. Crucially, unlike soft-focus lenses, the STF design achieves this dreamy blur without sacrificing tack-sharp image quality at the exact plane of focus. Key pros of this meticulously built, weather-sealed G Master lens include its remarkable versatility for portraits, landscapes, macro photography, and action shots, alongside an ultra-sharp optical profile with virtually zero distortion, vignetting, or chromatic aberration. Furthermore, its silent and highly responsive Direct Drive SSM autofocus system handles fast-moving subjects effortlessly. The primary drawback of the lens is its limited light transmission due to the tinted APO element, which drops its maximum light collecting ability to a T/5.6 stop despite having a shallow F/2.8 depth-of-field. While built-in Optical Steady Shot (OSS) image stabilization helps offset this, the lens is still less than ideal for extreme low-light environments. Additionally, at a premium price...

sony-asia.com

No specific date listed

Summary of the review

Sony's SEL100F28GM Review | α Professional Photographers Professor Hines

The Sony FE 100mm F2.8 STF GM OSS (SEL100F28GM) lens is praised for its high-end optical engineering, versatility, and unique, ultra-smooth background bokeh. Key pros include the ability to shoot wide open for flattering portraits with smooth skin tones, a 0.57m minimum focus distance for macro capability, and a relatively light 700g weight that makes it a practical, high-quality alternative to bulky 70-200mm zooms for event photography. A primary trade-off, or con, inherent to the Smooth Trans Focus (STF) system is that the internal apodization element acts as a neutral density filter, reducing light transmission. While the depth of field matches an f/2.8 lens, the actual light hitting the sensor is equivalent to a T5.6 lens, making it less ideal for extremely dark, low-light environments without boosting ISO.

digitalkamera.de

14/12/2017

Summary of the review

Review: Sony FE 100mm f/2.8 STF GM OSS (SEL-100F28GM)

The digitalkamera.de review highlights the Sony FE 100mm F2.8i STF GM OSS as a professional-grade portrait lens delivering exceptional, uniform image sharpness and virtually zero distortion, while featuring weather-sealed construction and effective Optical SteadyShot. Its defining feature, an apodization (APD) element, produces incredibly smooth bokeh (STF), complemented by responsive autofocus and versatile, customizable, and de-clickable aperture controls. Conversely, the lens is noted for being heavy (700g), resulting in a front-heavy setup, and surprisingly features plastic construction for the filter thread and lens hood mount, despite its premium price point. Furthermore, the review highlights that the APD element causes a significant drop in light transmission, resulting in a T5.6 rating despite the f/2.8 depth-of-field, making it less suitable for low-light scenarios.

photoscala.de

17/02/2017

Summary of the review

Hands-on: Sony FE 100mm F2.8 STF GM OSS

The Sony FE 100mm F2.8 STF GM OSS is a specialized E-mount lens praised for its innovative Smooth Trans Focus (STF) technology which uses an internal apodization (APD) filter to deliver uniquely soft and uniform background bokeh. The reviewer notes that the lens achieves remarkably sharp, high-resolution in-focus rendering while completely eliminating harsh edges or "onion-ring" artifacts in out-of-focus highlights. Built to a premium standard, it features an advanced piezoelectronic linear autofocus mechanism, integrated optical image stabilization (OSS), a de-clickable aperture ring for video use, and a dedicated macro switching ring that achieves a useful 1:4 magnification ratio. According to the review, it delivers distinctively beautiful results for still-life product photography—especially with sparkling or metallic elements—and for smoothly isolated portraits. However, this specialized optical design introduces a major trade-off in light-gathering capability. While the physical depth-of-field matches a wide-open f/2.8 lens, the APD filter reduces light transmission down to a dark T5.6 rating, forcing photographers to shoot at significantly elevated ISO levels in dimly lit venues. Additionally, the review points out that this ultra-smooth, heavily filtered bokeh effect only operates...

zielfoto.com

11/03/2024

Summary of the review

Sony FE 100mm F/2.8 GM FE STF - Special, almost too special

The Sony FE 100mm F/2.8 STF GM OSS lens is highly regarded by users as an exceptional and heavily underrated portrait lens, earning an overall rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars. Reviewers praise its incredibly smooth background bokeh, which delivers beautifully soft transitions and perfectly circular bokeh balls thanks to its built-in Smooth Trans Focus (STF) filter. The lens delivers sharp, detailed, and color-neutral images that flatter human subjects without appearing over-sharpened. Additionally, users appreciate its undocumented macro feature, which allows photographers to adjust the lens ring to shorten the minimum focusing distance from 85cm down to 57cm. Its optical steady shot (OSS) system also works flawlessly alongside in-body image stabilization (IBIS) to enable long, sharp handheld exposures. Despite its stellar optical performance, the lens exhibits notable drawbacks regarding low-light usability and speed. The primary concern is the poor light transmission caused by the STF filter, which effectively restricts it to a "fair-weather" or studio lens that struggles without direct sunlight or powerful artificial lighting. This low light transmission also seems to drag down the autofocus performance, making it...

digitalphoto.de

26/03/2026

Summary of the review

Sony FE 100mm 2.8 Macro GM OSS Review: Highly Versatile

The Sony FE 100mm 2.8 Makro GM OSS is a highly versatile, professional-grade macro lens that achieved a "SUPER" overall rating of 95.4% in testing. Breaking away from the standard 1:1 macro reproduction ratio, this model delivers an impressive 1.4:1 maximum magnification ratio, which can be further boosted to 2.8:1 when paired with an optional Sony teleconverter. Designed to handle macro, portrait, and wedding photography, the lens excels in usability by offering three distinct focus control features: Full-Time Direct Manual Focus (DMF), an instant AF/MF toggle switch, and a sliding focus ring equipped with built-in distance and magnification scales. Performance Breakdown High sharpness and optical resolution (scoring 92.1%). Top-tier build and features (scoring a perfect 100%). Excellent autofocus performance (scoring 98.7%). Sony teleconverter compatibility for extreme close-up work. Premium lens quality (scoring 96.8%). The Bottom Line The primary drawback of this lens is its high retail price of €1,599, making it a steep investment targeted primarily at professionals rather than hobbyists. For amateur photographers looking for a more budget-friendly alternative, the older Sony FE 90mm f2.8 Macro G OSS remains...

lesnumeriques.com

05/06/2017

Summary of the review

Sony FE 100mm f/2.8 STF GM OSS review: the bokeh expert

in english language, be very specific, mention pros and cons inside You sent: 1 tab and said: 2 paragraphs summary of this review in english language, be very specific, mention pros and cons inside Test Sony FE 100 mm f/2,8 STF GM OSS: expert en bokeh - Les Numériques 2 paragraphs summary of this review in english language, be very specific, mention pros and cons inside

lesnumeriques.com

19/04/2017

Summary of the review

Sony FE 100mm f/2.8 STF GM OSS Review

The Sony FE 100 mm f/2.8 STF GM OSS is a highly specialized G Master portrait lens that excels in optical quality but comes with unique compromises. Its standout feature is Smooth Trans Focus (STF) technology utilizing an Apodization (APD) filter, which produces exceptionally smooth, circular, and artistic bokeh transitions. Laboratory testing reveals excellent overall sharpness and a robust, weather-sealed build quality with zero distortion or vignetting. Additional benefits include excellent ergonomics, a clickable or continuous physical aperture ring perfect for video, and a macro-switching mechanism providing a 0.25x magnification ratio. However, the lens has notable limitations, primarily its poor low-light performance, where the APD filter reduces light transmission to an effective T5.6, despite the f/2.8 aperture label. Furthermore, the optical stabilization is underwhelming, offering only a 1 to 1.5 EV gain, and the sharpness is inconsistent, with the extreme edges falling behind the, otherwise, excellent, sharp center.

dxomark.com

30/05/2017

Summary of the review

Sony FE 100mm F2.8 STF GM OSS lens review: a solid choice

The Sony FE 100mm F2.8 STF GM OSS is a highly specialized full-frame portrait lens that delivers exceptional optical quality, highlighted by superb edge-to-edge sharpness exceeding 80% acutance wide-open. A key feature is its built-in apodization (APD) element, which functions like a graduated neutral density filter to smooth out foreground and background blur while eliminating harsh edges on out-of-focus highlights. Additional pros include an impressively close minimum focus distance of 57cm, highly effective optical image stabilization (OSS) to aid daytime shooting, and very low levels of both vignetting and lateral chromatic aberration. The lens also features a robust, dust- and splash-resistant build and a quiet Direct Drive SSM autofocus motor. However, the specialized APD element introduces notable drawbacks, most significantly reducing light transmission to a maximum of T5.6 despite the physical F2.8 aperture. This heavy light loss results in degraded autofocus performance in low-light environments, limiting the lens's versatility outside of well-lit settings. Other cons include a higher amount of pincushion distortion than typically expected for a lens of this calibre, though it is minor enough to remain mostly unnoticeable...

sonycam.es

13/12/2025

Summary of the review

Sony FE 100mm f/2.8 Macro GM OSS

The forum review showcases the Sony FE 100mm f/2.8 Macro GM OSS, a premium G Master lens that offers impressive versatility beyond traditional macro photography due to its fast autofocus speeds. A major highlight is its official compatibility with Sony's 1.4x and 2.0x teleconverters, allowing photographers to extend their reach to 140mm (2:1 magnification at f/4) or 200mm (2:8:1 magnification at f/5.6) while maintaining excellent MTF chart quality. Initial hands-on testing on a high-resolution Sony ILCE-7RM5 camera yields sharp images with smooth, high-quality background blur and highly precise manual focusing via a smoothly dampened focus ring. On the downside, the lens represents a significant financial investment, with users noting that it is undeniably expensive and likely to exhaust a photographer's annual gear budget. While its autofocus is rated as 1.9 times faster than the older Sony 90mm macro lens, real-world tracking stability during handheld shooting remains a concern due to natural photographer camera shake at high magnifications. Additionally, the ongoing forum debate highlights that the lens may experience minor operation lag under specific single-shot manual modes, and full autofocus burst...

xatakafoto.com

16/02/2017

Summary of the review

Sony 100mm f2.8 STF G Master and FE 85mm f1.8: Hands-on and sample photos

The Sony FE 100mm f/2.8 STF GM OSS is a highly specialized G Master lens praised for delivering an exceptional, smooth bokeh due to its advanced apodisation optics (STF system). It features premium build quality, including an 11-blade diaphragm, optical image stabilization, and comprehensive dust and water resistance. Furthermore, it retains the elite sharpness and resolution characteristic of the G Master line even at its maximum aperture. However, a significant drawback is its steep price tag of around 2,000 euros. Additionally, the apodisation filter causes a substantial loss of light, reducing the effective light transmission at maximum aperture from f/2.8 down to a much dimmer T5.6 equivalency. In contrast, the Sony FE 85mm f/1.8 serves as an affordable alternative targeted at a wider consumer audience with its budget-friendly price of approximately 600 euros. Its primary pros include decent bokeh performance and a functional, straightforward design equipped with an AF/MF switch and a focus hold button. On the downside, the 85mm lens suffers from noticeable cons, specifically displaying much lower resolution and evident chromatic aberration when compared directly to the high-end...

sony.es

07/04/2017

Summary of the review

Lens Profile | 100mm f/2.8 STF GM OSS - Sony Alpha Universe

The Sony FE 100mm f/2.8 STF GM OSS is a specialized G Master short-telephoto lens designed for exceptional sharpness and unique, ultra-smooth "melt-away" bokeh, achieved through an integrated apodization (STF) filter that eliminates harsh out-of-focus highlights. Pros include this superior rendering, along with macro switching capabilities, built-in Optical SteadyShot, and a de-clickable aperture ring for video, providing high versatility for portraiture. Conversely, the primary trade-off is the apodization filter's 75% light reduction, resulting in a T5.6 transmission value at its maximum f/2.8 depth-of-field, which limits low-light performance. Additional cons include moderate autofocus speeds, potential hunting in low light, minor pincushion distortion, and a substantial 700-gram weight.

tuttodigitale.it

07/04/2017

Summary of the review

Sony FE 100mm F2.8 STF GM OSS Lens - Tutto Digitale

The Sony FE 100mm F2.8 STF GM OSS is a highly specialized G Master portrait lens renowned for its exceptional bokeh, achieved through a unique optical system featuring a neutral gray concave apodization (APD) element. This technology perfectly rounds and softens out-of-focus highlights and smooths transitions between focal planes. Built to elite standards with premium materials and weather sealing, the lens integrates physical controls, an 11-blade circular diaphragm, Optical Steady Shot (OSS) stabilization, and a Direct Drive SSM autofocus system. Optically, it delivers elite sharpness across the frame with zero vignetting at any aperture, virtually no chromatic aberration, and minimum breathing, which makes it highly effective for video applications. Additionally, it features a dual-position macro switching ring that shortens the minimum focus distance to 57 cm, yielding a near-macro 0.25x magnification ratio.

ultrasony.com

23/01/2018

Summary of the review

SONY FE 100mm f/2.8 STF GM OSS: the happiness machine

📸 Pure Bokeh Magic This premium Sony G Master prime uses a unique internal apodisation element that acts like a built-in ND filter, tapering in opacity toward the edges to melt away distracting background lines and keep out-of-focus light points perfectly circular everywhere in the frame. It delivers razor-sharp resolution at the focus point while creating a "liquid" smoothness in unfocused areas that traditional lenses cannot replicate. Mechanically, it boasts top-tier build quality, rapid autofocus, built-in optical stabilization, and a highly versatile close-up macro switch that drops the minimum focusing distance down to 0.57 metres. ⚠️ The Two-Stop Light Tax The primary drawback of this optical design is a significant loss of light, as the apodisation element absorbs two full stops of light, reducing its effective brightness to a T5.6 exposure rating while maintaining an f/2.8 depth of field. This heavy light tax makes it a poor choice for low-light situations and forces the camera's EXIF data to display T-stops instead of geometric f-stops. Additionally, the specialized lens carries a very high price tag, and unlike some older legacy lenses,...

fotografidigitali.it

16/02/2017

Summary of the review

Sony FE 100mm F2.8 STF e FE 85mm F1.8 - due sorprese per Sony A7: primo contatto

The Sony FE 100mm F2.8 STF GM OSS stands out for its high corner-to-corner sharpness at maximum aperture and an exceptionally smooth bokeh, achieved through an apodization element that uses a radially variable ND filter. Additional pros include built-in Optical SteadyShot image stabilisation, robust weather-sealed construction, and a versatile close-up macro mode with a 0.25x magnification allowing focus down to 57cm. However, its primary drawbacks are its steep price tag of €1,850 and reduced light transmittance; while it maintains the depth of field of an F2.8 lens, the apodization filter restricts the physical light gathering capabilities to that of an F5.6 lens. The Sony FE 85mm F1.8 Prime serves as a highly efficient and compact alternative, offering outstanding sharpness at wide apertures and rapid, accurate autofocus driven by a dual linear motor system. Its lightweight and balanced ergonomics make it highly suitable for travel photography without throwing off the balance of mirrorless camera bodies. On the downside, its out-of-focus background rendering (bokeh) is noticeably harsher and less refined compared to the smooth transition of its premium 100mm sibling. Despite this,...

dday.it

16/02/2017

Summary of the review

Tried the new Sony E-mount lenses: incredible bokeh and great sharpness

The Sony FE 100mm F2.8 STF GM OSS stands out for its spectacular image definition and incredibly soft, smooth bokeh, which is achieved through a specialized internal apodisation (APD) element and an 11-blade circular aperture. Tested on a Sony A7, this G Master lens feels very solid and provides a fantastic level of detail while ensuring high-quality, perfectly controllable background defocus. On the downside, the lens is relatively heavy at around 700 grams, and its premium features command a steep retail price of 1,850 euros. The Sony FE 85mm F1.8 is presented as a highly accessible alternative, priced at a much more affordable 650 euros. Its main advantages include a fast, bright aperture, a lightweight build, an absence of chromatic aberrations, and a very smooth bokeh powered by a 9-blade circular mechanism. However, it does not belong to the elite G Master lineup and lacks its advanced feature set. Additionally, its image quality can "muddy" or blend slightly when shooting at particularly high ISO settings, and its bokeh is noticeably harder compared to the ultra-smooth 100mm lens.

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