Sony FE 100-400mm f/5.6-8 OSS
Announced September 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/5.6-8 OSS is a lightweight and affordable telephoto zoom that offers impressive portability and close-up capabilities for photographers. While its variable aperture and build quality reflect its accessible price point, it remains a highly capable and usable option for those prioritizing a compact setup.
Weighted from 8 reviewer scores
Pros
- Compact, lightweight, and highly portable design
- Good optical quality and sharpness
- Fast and responsive autofocus performance
- Strong close-up performance and magnification
- Affordable and budget-friendly pricing
Cons
- Slow variable maximum aperture limits low-light performance
- Suboptimal sharpness and corner softness
- Build quality concerns including plastic construction and handling
- Limited reach for specific wildlife or birding applications
- Inconsistent autofocus and stabilization performance
- Launch price $849.99 (USD)
- Focal length & aperture 100-400mm f/5.6-8
- Mount & coverage Sony E Full-Frame
- Stabilization Optical IS
- Close focus (0.41x)
- Filter thread 67mm
- Autofocus motor Dual XD linear
- Weight & size 654g (1 lb 7.1 oz) · 78 x 165 mm (3.07 x 6.50 in)
What the Reviewers Say
All 8 expert reviews, weighted into the PixelMeter score.
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- PetaPixel 7/10
The Sony 100-400mm f/5.6-8 OSS gives Sony owners an affordable way to get more telephoto reach and capture good-quality photos with all the perks of a native Sony lens. That could be enough for the right photographer.
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The Sony FE 100-400mm F5.6-8 OSS Lens is an excellent choice for those seeking a compact, lightweight, low-priced, entry-level telephoto zoom lens.
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[I]f you own a lower resolution Sony camera, like 24 or 33 megapixel, then you'll be reasonably happy.
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I think the lens is very usable.
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After spending a lot of time with the lens, I think the biggest surprise is actually how capable it is despite its limitations.
- Photo Review 9.0/10
Sony’s lightweight super-telephoto zoom lens is feature-rich and includes integrated IS, an assignable focus hold button, a zoom lock and teleconverter compatibility.
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Ultimately, if you want a small, light lens with this focal range, this lens is very hard to beat.
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I actually think that this is a perfect lens for someone who wants a nice telephoto zoom, but maybe doesn't want to break the bank.
