Sony's latest GM 70-200mm f/2.8 — dramatically lighter with faster AF than the original, a new class leader.
The Sony FE 70-200mm f/2.8 GM OSS II (SEL70200GM2) was released in 2021 as the second-generation G Master telephoto zoom, reducing the original's 1,480g to 1,045g — 435g lighter — with a redesigned 17-element/14-group optical formula (down from 23 elements). Eleven rounded aperture blades. 77mm filter thread. 0.40m MFD at 70mm. Four XD linear motors.
The optical design uses 17 elements in 14 groups (reduced from the original's 23 elements in 18 groups). Eleven rounded aperture blades. The 77mm filter thread. At 1,045g the Mk II is substantially lighter than the original (1,480g). Minimum focus distance of 0.40m (at 70mm) / 0.82m (at 200mm). Four XD linear motors for fast, quiet AF. OSS built-in. f/2.8 constant aperture.
The 435g weight reduction (from 1,480g to 1,045g) was achieved primarily by reducing the element count from 23 to 17 while maintaining optical performance. The OSS is retained from the original. The XD linear motors enable faster, more reliable subject tracking at telephoto focal lengths. The new 0.40m MFD at 70mm versus the original's 0.96m at 70mm is a significant close-focus improvement.
On the used market the Sony FE 70-200mm f/2.8 GM OSS II is available at G Master telephoto zoom pricing. Condition checks: XD linear AF response, OSS engagement, 77mm front element for marks, zoom ring smoothness. Compatible with all Sony FE-mount full-frame and APS-C bodies.