24mm vs. 28mm: At f/2, both lenses were extremely sharp, with the zoom even producing more pleasing background blur due to focal length compression. At f/2.8, the differences became minimal, with both performing at a very high level. Wide open, the 24mm f/1.4 had the advantage in subject isolation, but the zoom was still remarkably close.
35mm comparison: The prime lens had slightly rounder bokeh balls and a hair more sharpness, but the differences were small enough that most viewers wouldn’t notice without pixel-peeping.
50mm comparison: The 50mm f/1.4 GM is one of the sharpest primes Alex has used, and while it retained a small edge wide open, the zoom held up incredibly well — particularly when stopped down.
70mm vs. 85mm: Here, the prime’s extra focal length and faster aperture made a big difference. The 85mm f/1.4 GM delivered superior compression, bokeh, and sharpness, making it the clear winner in this range.
Alex concluded that the Sony 28-70mm f/2 G Master is so good that it could replace multiple prime lenses for many photographers, especially event shooters, thanks to its image quality, versatility, and the convenience of not having to swap lenses during a shoot.
While the $3,000 price tag is steep, the value proposition of condensing four premium primes into one high-performing zoom is compelling. Alex plans more real-world portrait tests soon, so stay tuned for further impressions.
–
Sony 28-70mm f/2.0 GM at BHphoto, Amazon, Adorama, BestBuy, FotoErhardt, Fotokoch, Calumet, WexUK.