Sony FE 100-400mm f/4.5 GM OSS
Announced June 1, 2026
PixelMeter The PixelMeter is our 1–100 aggregate of reviewer scores from trusted publications and creators. Weighted by source tier — not a raw average, and not PetaPixel’s own review.
Reviewer Consensus
Strong
The Sony FE 100-400mm f/4.5 GM OSS is a professional-grade telephoto zoom that delivers exceptional image quality and fast, reliable autofocus performance. Its constant aperture and internal zoom design make it a versatile, highly capable tool for wildlife and action photographers who prioritize handling and consistency.
Weighted from 13 reviewer scores
Pros
- Fast, accurate, and consistent autofocus system
- Robust build quality with weather sealing and internal zoom
- Excellent image sharpness and contrast across the entire focal range
- Lightweight, ergonomic, and well-balanced design
- Constant f/4.5 aperture providing consistent exposure and bokeh
Cons
- High financial cost
- Increased size and weight compared to previous models
- Tripod collar lacks Arca-Swiss compatibility
- Susceptible to zoom creep when pointed downward
- Minor corner softness at maximum aperture
- Launch price $4,299.99 (USD)
- Focal length & aperture 100-400mm f/4.5-5.6
- Mount & coverage Sony E Full-Frame
- Stabilization Optical IS
- Close focus 98 cm (0.35x)
- Filter thread 77mm
- Autofocus motor Direct Drive SSM
- Weight & size 1842.73g · 94 x 205 mm (3.70 x 8.07 in)
What the Reviewers Say
All 13 expert reviews, weighted into the PixelMeter score.
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- PetaPixel 9/10
If you shoot closer in and want less to carry around, this is the wildlife lens for you.
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This professional-grade, full-featured, image-stabilized, moderately wide-aperture lens delivers impressive wide-open image quality, with Quad XD Linear AF ensuring that it is obtained.
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It’s a rare privilege to get to review a lens that completely upends a segment, but such is the case with Sony’s new 100-400mm F4.5 GM OSS lens.
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[I]f you've got a lot of cash to spend and you need telephoto for almost any application, then this is easily one of the best options to go for and it comes highly recommended.
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For me, this lens isn't about one dramatic advantage. It's about a bunch of little things that add up to a shooting experience and photos I really enjoyed.
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At the end of the day, I think Sony did a great job producing this lens.
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[I]f you can handle the cost and don't mind carrying a big lens, the FE 100-400mm F4.5 GM OSS is an exemplary performer that's worth the money.
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To me, this is the kind of lens that you just enjoy taking with you. African safari, Arctic expedition, the local wetland at dawn, you know it will perform.
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After a first hour with the Sony FE 100-400mm F4.5 GM OSS at Mercedes World, this lens makes a strong impression.
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The newer model provides several key advantages over the original, which make it better suited to professional use. If you frequently have to get specific shots, or work trackside or behind a fence during motorsports, it will provide a better chance of capturing what you need.
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[...] I was very happy with the lens and I think objectively there is really not much you can complain about.
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The Sony FE 100-400mm F4.5 GM OSS looks like a very promising addition to Sony’s telephoto line-up. Rather than simply refreshing the original 100-400mm, Sony appears to have concentrated on the areas that matter most to wildlife and action photographers [...]
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[I]f you want something small, compact that does the job, that you will actually bring on your trips, you will come a long way with this lens and this focal range.
