If you’re a skilled photographer you may know already how difficult it is to see the perfect scene, have an image in your head how the shot is going to turn out but the camera lens won’t bring your imagination to life. This is why it’s very important that you have a variety of lenses to give you the ability to translate your imagination into reality.
Whilst there’s no hiding the fact that Sony has a limited variety of lenses for those who aren’t willing to spend a lot of money, we have embarked on a journey to provide you a range of models to choose from. We have spent many hours to pick only the best options for you as we thoroughly believe that you don’t have to go broke for your passion.
If you’re the person who is switching from DSLR and Canon to Sony APS-C, you need specific lenses which will give you the possibility of flexibility. Therefore, with a good mount and adapter, you will make the transition with ease. This will reduce further costs whilst allowing you to be the true artist that you desire to be. By trusting us, you will purchase a model that fits your specific needs whilst remaining durable over the years.
Quick Comparison
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Important Features to Consider
- Maximum Aperture – As you may be aware, these lenses don’t have a standard aperture. If you’re a beginner, you need to understand what they are and we are here to help. The numbers refer to how much light the lens can gather. Therefore, the higher the number, the more light gathered.
- Top Tip: If you’re looking for a lens that you can use in lower light conditions, we recommend a lens that has a lower aperture.
- Focal Length – You already know that this depends on your preferences and uses. If you believe that you need a high zoom, we recommend that you look for a lens with a bigger focal point. Those with a low focal length are usually used for wide shots.
- Mount adapters – As we will mention third party lenses, it’s important that you look for mount adapters. They are the electronic connectors that will allow aperture control. Without the adapters, you will find it difficult to operate AF and SSD lenses. Please bear in mind that Sony lenses do not need this.
- Aspherical Lens Elements – Only the best Sony E Mount Lenses have this design as it dramatically reduces spherical aberration. In addition to this, it also reduces the size of the lens for better portability.
Our Top 5 Best E Mount Lenses
1. Sigma Contemporary DC DN Sony E Mount Camera
This kit is specifically designed for those who are interested in investing in their photography passion. Inside of the package, you will find a Sigma 30mm DC DN lens, a camera sling backpack, a DSLR mirrorless camera monopod, and a 52mm filter kit with filter pouch. In addition to this, you will also receive a care pack to eliminate the possibility of damaging the lens.
The maximum aperture f/1.4 therefore, you can use it in low light conditions and in beaming sun rays. This means that you can use it during night time or indoors. The lens itself is designed for APS-C format Sony E-mount mirrorless cameras and it provides a 45mm focal length. This is the same as a Sony lens that is much more expensive.
The accurate autofocus is extremely useful for videos. You can also create a superior depth of field which means that it doesn’t measure as much as the other models. As well as, the model is designed with 3 aspherical surfaces.
2. Sony FE 50mm
This is undoubtedly one of the best Sony E Mount lenses. The model is capable of offering a large focal point of f/1.8. Therefore, you will find it suitable to use it for portraiture. Furthermore, it has also been created with a 7-blade circular aperture and aspherical element in order to deliver incredible image quality with a defocused background. The main subject in the picture will stand out against a smooth background.
You will be thoroughly pleased to know that it has been designed with built-in image stabilization. Thus, you don’t have to manually adjust it in dark scenes or environments. If you feel like the automatic feature isn’t enough, you can use the high ISO sensitivity. Additionally, it also has an optical design in order to ensure minimized image distortion.
The DC motor has been recently upgraded for automatic fast focus for a precise and speedy shot. Therefore, you will enjoy the fact that you can use it in the wild or car races. The metal mount will add a sophisticated feel to the lens.
3. Neewer 35mm for Sony E Mount
This lens is compatible with a range of Sony E-Mount Digital Mirrorless Cameras that range from NEX 3 to A6500 A9. You will be able to use it for pictures and images as it has a smooth focusing operation. Regardless of how many times you request it to do it, the automatic motor will not let you down. Additionally, there are no reports that it makes sounds when doing so. Furthermore, the metal mount will add stability when you need it. Thus, you can use it on a range of cameras, not just Sony.
Even though the company has highlighted that you can use it for videos, we strongly suggest that you use it for landscape shooting and portraits. The reason we are highlighting this is due to the fact that it has a focal length of 35mm. This is the same as many Sony lenses. Also, you will find that it has been created with a maximum aperture of f/1.7. Even though it’s a third-party lens, you will find that you can still use it in low light conditions.
As well as, it also features a multi-coated technique for superior image quality. Thus, you will be able to capture wonderful sceneries and people at the touch of a button. If you want to bring your imagination to reality, you should consider this as one of the best e mount lenses.
4. Sony SEL-20F28 E-Mount 20mm
If you’re looking for the best Sony E Mount Lenses, this is another model that you should consider. Its high efficiency can provide a superior image quality so you never have to worry about blurry pictures. It has a maximum aperture of f/2.8 and an equivalent of 35mm focal length. The wide angle will allow you to develop your skills as a photographer as you can broaden your view. The wider your view is through the lens, the more you can capture.
The 20mm lens is capable of offering you an extraordinary resolution in order to satisfy your specific needs. Capture anything from a large cliff to a stretch of a sandy beach. By purchasing this model, you will feel like every scene is possible to capture. The 3 aspheric elements are integrated into its design to ensure a high-quality contrast so you don’t have to waste a long time editing photos.
When you look at it, you will notice that it has a different design than the other models mentioned as we put a high value on diversity. This item is in fact designed as a “pancake” which will make it more portable. It also allows you to maneuver it much easier with the compact cameras. Thus, we recommend this model for those who are no longer beginners, but they still want to experiment.
5. Sony E 55-210mm
Measuring at only 12 ounces this model is another lens that it’s simply the best for those with tight budgets. It has an all-metal construction and zoom rings. This means that you can easily adjust the focus when you need to. The product is designed for APS-C cameras but you can also mount it on an Alpha 7 II. The lens will automatically crop its sensor to fit the camera that you are using.
The maximum aperture is of f/4.5. This means that it’s best that you use it outdoors or where there’s a lot of light. It’s not necessarily useful at night time. Regardless, the distortion is well controlled so you don’t have to spend a long period of time to manually focus it in the right position.
The famous OSS optical image stabilization will keep the image still even if the camera gets aggressively shaken. Therefore, you will find that with the right camera, you will be able to create picture-perfect movies. As well as, the low dispersion glass elements will considerably reduce aberrations and color fringing.
Frequently Asked Questions [FAQ’S]
Q: If I purchase a third-party lens, will it only work on Canon?
A: You have to be careful and look thoroughly through the description or on the official website. Some models will work and some will not. For example, Sigma Contemporary DC DN will work on Canon but you need to fit it with a Canon mount. Otherwise, it won’t fit on the camera. Additionally, the Sony lenses are specifically designed for Sony. Thus, it’s very unlikely that you can use it on any other brands.
Q: The noise from the automatic focusing is normal?
A: Yes. The focus on these lenses is normally louder than on the others. This happens due to the fact that they are automatic so they use a mini motor. The mechanical focus will not create as much noise. When it comes to the noise, you have to bear in mind your needs. If you want to use it for cinematography purposes, it’s best that you use a mechanical system as it won’t create as much noise. If you’re into action shots, an automatic focus feature will do you a world of good.
Q: Are the lenses waterproof?
A: In the user manual, it clearly states that they are resistant to humidity but they are not water-resistant. This means that you can use it outdoors when it’s raining or when the humidity is high. However, we do not recommend that you submerge it under water as you will not be covered by the warranty. Therefore, you will have to pay to fix it out of your own pocket.
Q: Can I use these lenses for astrophotography?
A: If you’re taking pictures of the stars during the night time, you need a lens that has a maximum aperture of at least f/1.8. Some of these lenses will allow you to do so but some do not gather enough light to ensure the perfect shot. Nonetheless, you can use the Sony FE 50mm. The main idea is that you stay away from the high maximum aperture.
Q: Are these lenses compatible with the latest Sony cameras?
A: Unfortunately, they aren’t. These lenses are specifically designed for the APS-C cameras. They aren’t capable of fitting full frames. As a reminder, you will find these lenses useful for the cameras that you can use them as an E-mount. In some cases, it doesn’t matter if they are the latest Sony or not.