Sony FE 40mm f/2.5 G
Announced March 23, 2021
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 40mm f/2.5 G is a compact, lightweight prime that balances portability with a full set of physical controls, making it a versatile choice for travel and general use. Although the lens delivers sharp center images and quick, silent autofocus, it suffers from noticeable focus breathing and edge softness that may deter those seeking perfect corner-to-corner clarity.
Weighted from 20 reviewer scores
Pros
- Fast, quiet, and accurate autofocus performance
- Excellent center sharpness and overall image quality
- Comprehensive physical controls including an aperture ring and function button
- Compact, lightweight, and portable design
- Durable build with weather-resistant construction
Cons
- Significant focus breathing during operation
- Noticeable vignetting and chromatic aberration
- High price point relative to competing options
- Challenging ergonomics with cramped rings and switches
- Softness in corners and edges
- Launch price $599 (USD)
- Focal length & aperture 40mm f/2.5
- Mount & coverage Sony E Full-Frame
- Stabilization None
- Close focus 25 cm (0.23x)
- Filter thread 49mm
- Autofocus motor Linear motor
- Weight & size 173g (6.1 oz) · 68 x 45 mm (2.68 x 1.77 in)
What the Reviewers Say
All 20 expert reviews, weighted into the PixelMeter score.
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I’ve rarely shot at this focal length before but found it immediately appealing and surprisingly refreshing, ideal for anyone who finds 50mm a bit too long for general use but feels 35mm is either too wide or not wide enough.
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The choice of a 40mm focal length lens is an unusual one, but it is one that I personally like, as I often find that 50mm is just a little too narrow.
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The 40mm focal length is useful, and the f/2.5 aperture is ready to tackle the low light venues and create a nicely blurred background.
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I was very pleased with the autofocus performance and general handling of the lens, though the miniaturized rings, buttons, and switches may prove challenging to operate when wearing gloves in colder weather.
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I really enjoyed this little lens. [...] It definitely comes recommended.
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One glance at the pros and cons list and you know that you deal where with a well-put-together, efficient lens.
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I also really like that Sony decided to give this lens the full feature set of a higher end lens, something other manufacturers often like to cheap out on with their compact lenses.
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Wide standard lens that performs impeccably and is a joy to use. What a delightful lens this is to use.
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[T]he FE 40mm F2.5 G is our favourite out of the three small, retro lenses that Sony released all at the same time.
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For anyone fed up of the front-heavy feel of Sony’s big, heavy zooms, its perfect, completely changing the balance and feel of the camera.
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The Sony FE 40mm F2.5 G is a moderately wide prime that nets great photos without cutting corners in construction, placing it among our favorite small lenses for the Sony system.
- Photo Review 90%
[I]deal for use on gimbals and with drone cameras.
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This is a great little lens. It could be the only normal lens you ever need.
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So what I can tell you is that at 600mm this is an incredibly competent lens, and if 40mm is the desired focal length that you're going for, you won't be upset with this.
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[T]his is a great general use lens for most every user.
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Excellent center sharpness, poor corners and no more than adequate edges. Users expecting tack-sharp results across the whole frame will not be satisfied.
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Optically, it takes a bit of a hit, but that is often the case with these smaller lenses. Keep in mind that optical superiority most often comes at a higher cost and heft.
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I think this lens is for me the best of the trio in this line, and I do enjoy the natural 40 millimeter focal length.
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I think it's actually a great lens. I think it performs really good, and if you see what I was talking about about the bokeh, it's very nice.
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I really, really like this lens. I'm excited about it.
