Sony’s Upgraded 28-70mm f/3.5-5.6 Zoom Lens

credits: Sony

Sony has refreshed one of its most basic full-frame zooms, introducing the FE 28-70mm f/3.5-5.6 OSS II. On paper, it looks almost identical to the original kit zoom from 2013, but the update brings faster communications and autofocus performance to better match Sony’s modern bodies. Sony says the lens can now keep up with AF/AE tracking at up to 120 fps (something the old version couldn’t do) though it is obviously not a natural companion for a flagship like the a9 III. Beyond that, the core optical design remains unchanged, still nine elements in eight groups with one ED and three asphericals, along with a seven-blade aperture.

Physically, the OSS II version mirrors the original almost exactly. Weight is basically the same at 293 grams (10.3 ounces), the 83 mm length is unchanged, and it retains the same 55 mm filter thread. Sony also didn’t revise the stabilisation hardware, though the built-in OSS is still compatible with the company’s in-body Active Mode. Minimum focus distance stays at 30 centimeters (11.8 inches) with a 0.19x magnification ratio. Weather sealing is present but remains a lighter implementation compared to Sony’s G or GM lenses.

While Sony positions the FE 28-70mm f/3.5-5.6 OSS II as a general-purpose zoom for landscapes, travel, and everyday shooting, early reactions from the community are… not exactly enthusiastic. Many users hoped for a more meaningful optical refresh, something closer to a constant f/4 design or sharper edge performance. Some people even say their past copies of the original lens were among the weakest kit zooms on the market, with soft corners on high-resolution bodies and inconsistent performance between units. The lens arrives in February for $449.

You can see full details on Sony’s website here