Quick answer
The second version of Sony's Zeiss wide zoom for A-mount, with a constant f/2.8 aperture and SSM focusing. It weighs about 873 g and takes 77mm filters.
Pros
- Constant f/2.8 aperture
- SSM autofocus
- Revised optics over the first version
- Close focus of 0.28 m
Cons
- Heavy at about 873 g
- No stabilization (camera-based only)
Verdict
A high-end wide zoom for A-mount users who want f/2.8. It is the sensible choice if you shoot interiors or events.
About this lens
Sony Carl Zeiss Vario-Sonnar T* 16-35mm f/2.8 ZA SSM II (SAL1635Z2): a fast wide-angle zoom lens with a 16-35mm focal length and a maximum aperture of f/2.8, made for Sony A mount cameras. It covers wide angles for landscapes, interiors and architecture.
Sony Carl Zeiss Vario-Sonnar T* 16-35mm f/2.8 ZA SSM II (SAL1635Z2) specifications
- Brand
- Sony
- Mount
- Sony A
- Focal length
- 16-35mm
- Maximum aperture
- f/2.8
- Lens type
- Wide Zoom
- Format coverage
- full-frame
- Released
- 2015
- Optical construction
- 17 elements in 13 groups
- Aperture blades
- 9
- Autofocus motor
- SSM
- Minimum focus distance
- 0.28 m
- Maximum magnification
- 0.24x
- Filter thread
- 77 mm
- Weight
- 873 g
- Length
- 114 mm
Specification source: dyxum.com
What can you shoot with the Sony Carl Zeiss Vario-Sonnar T* 16-35mm f/2.8 ZA SSM II (SAL1635Z2)?
- Landscapes and architecture
- Real estate interiors
- Event and wedding wide shots
Its bright maximum aperture handles indoor and evening light reasonably well.
Full-frame equivalent and field of view
Calculated from the focal length and crop factor. Not measured.
| Sensor | Crop | Equivalent | Horizontal FOV | Diagonal FOV |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Full frame | 1.0x | 16–35mm | 54.4–96.7° | 63.4–107° |
| APS-C | 1.5x | 24–53mm | 37.8–73.7° | 44.8–84.1° |
Frequently asked questions
How does the 16-35mm ZA SSM II differ from the original?
The II is a later revision with improved optics and coatings. Both cover 16-35mm at constant f/2.8.
Does this wide zoom accept screw-in filters?
Yes, it takes 77mm filters, which is unusual for an f/2.8 wide zoom and means ordinary polarizers and ND filters work.
What focus motor does the Zeiss 16-35mm f/2.8 ZA SSM II use?
It has an SSM motor in the lens, so it autofocuses quietly and still works through A-mount adapters on E-mount cameras.
Alternatives for Sony A from other brands
All Sony A lensesSame mount, overlapping focal range, closest maximum aperture first.
More Sony lenses for Sony A
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