I adore the Sony FE 20mm F1.8 G lens, yet for close-up framing where object distortion can be a concern, I want a more versatile option. One of the solutions is using narrower focal lengths, as provided by Sony FE 20-70mm F4 G.
When travelling and restricted to just one lens, for example, during my Camino de Santiago walk, the 24 G and 40 G lenses were an eye-opener. Constantly switching between the two, especially in varied weather conditions like rain, proved tiring. Therefore, I was in search for an ideal travel lens. Reflecting on this, I initially leaned towards the Tamron 20-40mm for its f/2.8 aperture. However, I ultimately opted for the Sony FE 20-70mm F4 G despite its maximum aperture at f/4. Its extended wide and telephoto focal lengths won me over, promising versatility for future adventures.
After a year of using the Sony FE 20mm F1.8 G lens, I’ve added this telephoto lens to my kit to complement my flows. Its compact size and lightweight build were a major draw for me; strong factors to count when considering replacing the bulkier Sony FE 24-70mm F2.8 GM lens.
Since my documentary-style running gun typically involves shooting at f/6.3 and narrower, the 20-70G’s smaller footprint perfectly suits my needs. I also require a lens with the flexibility to zoom in closer to my subjects. This lens also stands out for its lightweight build and ergonomic design, making it ideal for handheld shooting, ensuring a comfortable and steady grip during recording sessions.
| Minimum Focus Distance | Weight | |
| Sony FE 20-70mm F4 G | Wide: 30 cm, Tele: 25 cm | 488 g |
| Sony FE 20mm F1.8 G | 19 cm | 375 g |
| Sony FE 24-70mm F2.8 GM | 38 cm | 890 g |
| Sony FE 24-70mm F2.8 GM II | Wide: 21 cm, Tele: 30 cm | 695 g |
It seems the 20-70G lens will become a staple on my Sony ZV-E1 for documentary-style videography projects, and undoubtedly going to accompany me on travels; (1) if I can bring two camera bodies, this one will be on ZV-E1 and something else on Sony α7 IV, or (2) if I am restricted by weight, it will be the only lens to be paired with Sony α7 IV,.
In essence, while I appreciate the flexibility offered by this zoom lens in terms of focal length, I remain committed to prime lenses for their exceptional wider apertures (f/1.2, f/1.4 or f/1.8), which deliver exquisite bokeh. Despite having focal length “duplication”, I am keeping the Sony 20mm F1.8 G because it proves invaluable when a place is tight and it has low-light; and also for the astrophotography. Moreover, their nearly identical sizes make them equally convenient options to carry around when alternating and storing in the bag 1When these lenses share similar appearance, then they can alternately share one slot of storage space in the camera bag.
Sony α7 IV + Sony FE 20mm F1.8 G
f/1.8 30 sec ISO 500
Sony α7 IV + Sony FE 20-70mm F4 G
f/5.6 1/250 sec ISO 3200 70mm
Sony α7 IV + Sony FE 20-70mm F4 G
f/11 1/250 sec ISO 640 38mm
Sony α7 IV + Sony FE 20-70mm F4 G
f/4 1/250 sec ISO 500 70mm
I look forward to updating my workflow process by adding this zoom lens from its ability to do a close-up and the shaved weight (as opposed to 24-70GM).
Key Features
Aperture range: f/4 to f/22
The angle of view: 94° – 34º
Minimum focus distance: 30 cm (wide) to 25 cm (tele)
Maximum magnification ratio: 0.39×
Filter thread: 72 mm
Dimensions (⌀ × L): 79 × 104.5 mm
Weight: 488 g