Sony's budget A-mount portrait prime — 85mm f/2.8 with SAM motor at an affordable price.
The Sony 85mm f/2.8 SAM (SAL85F28) launched in 2010 as an affordable portrait prime for Sony A-mount. The SAM (Smooth Autofocus Motor) provides built-in AF motor, enabling autofocus on all Sony A-mount bodies including those without screw-drive.
Optically good — sharp from f/4 with decent performance at f/2.8. The 85mm perspective provides classic portrait compression. SAM motor is quiet and functional. The f/2.8 aperture provides less subject separation than f/1.4 or f/1.8 alternatives.
Sony A-mount with 55mm filter thread. Approximately 175g — very compact. Full-frame coverage. SAM built-in motor. No weather sealing. 9 aperture blades. Minimum focus distance 60cm.
Available used very cheaply. A-mount is discontinued. The slow f/2.8 limits subject separation compared to f/1.4 or f/1.8 portrait primes. The compact size is the main advantage. For A-mount users wanting a budget portrait option with built-in motor.