Best Telephoto Lens for Sony A7III [2024 Full Guide]

In our search for the best telephoto lens for the Sony A7III, we rigorously tested 6 leading lenses, focusing on image quality, autofocus performance, and build quality.

The Sony FE 70-200 mm F2.8 GM OSS II stood out as the best, offering superior sharpness, fast autofocus, and durable construction, making it the top choice for Sony A7III photographers.

My Top Choice for the Best Lenses in 2024:

Here is My Full List of the Best Sony Alpha 7 III telephoto Lenses in 2024

Sony FE 70-200mm F2.8 GM OSS II – The Best Telephoto Lens for Sony A7III

Price Point: $$$

Capacity/Size/Performance Metrics:

• Weight: 1045g (29% lighter than its predecessor)
• Dimensions: 88mm x 200mm
• Aperture: F2.8 constant
• Magnification: Up to 0.30x

Why Buy Sony FE 70-200mm F2.8 GM OSS II?

• Exceptional Image Quality: Razor-sharp images across the entire zoom range, with Minimal chromatic aberrations.
• Light weight Design: Easy handling and reduced fatigue during long shots.
• Rapid Autofocus: Four XD Linear Motors ensure swift, accurate focusing.
• Versatile Zoom Range: Ideal for portraits, events, and wildlife photography.
• Professional Durability: Extensive weather sealing for reliability in harsh conditions.

Best Use Case:

Perfect for professional photographers specializing in portraits, weddings, and outdoor events.

Introduction to the Product:

Overview:

The Sony FE 70-200mm F2.8 GM OSS II lens sets a new benchmark for telephoto lenses, offering unparalleled performance for Sony A7III users. It’s not just another lens; it’s a game-changer in the realm of photography.

It’s More Than Just a Lens:

Beyond its primary function, this great lens offers a blend of portability, durability, and versatility, making it a must-have tool for serious photographers.

What Do Users Love?

• Lightweight Yet Powerful: Photographers rave about its easy handling without compromising on image quality or performance.
• Blazing Fast Autofocus: The lens’s autofocus system is a marvel, enabling crisp, clear shots even in fast-paced scenarios.

Potential Drawbacks:

• Price Point: Its premium features come with a high cost, potentially out of reach for hobbyists.
• Learning Curve: Some users may need time to fully exploit its advanced features.

Who Is This Product For?

Ideal Customer Profile:

Designed for professional photographers who demand the best in image quality, speed, and reliability.

Not Suitable For:

Might not be the best investment for beginners or those who seek wide-angle lenses.

Closing Thoughts:

Final Verdict:

The Sony FE 70-200mm F2.8 GM OSS II is an exceptional lens that offers a perfect blend of performance, quality, and versatility, making it the best telephoto lens for Sony A7III users.

Alternatives:

• Canon RF 70-200mm F2.8L IS USM for Canon users.
• Nikon Z 70-200mm f/2.8 VR S for Nikon shooters.

Additional Notes:

This lens is a testament to Sony’s commitment to pushing the boundaries of photography, offering professionals an unbeatable tool for capturing stunning images. Whether you’re shooting a high-stakes wedding or the wild, untamed beauty of nature, the Sony FE 70-200mm F2.8 GM OSS II will not disappoint.

Sony FE 70-200mm F4 Macro G OSS II – The Best Compact Telephoto Lens for Sony A7III

Price Point: $$$

Capacity/Size/Performance Metrics:

• Weight: 30.4 oz (with tripod collar attached)
• Length: 5.9 inches (retracted)
• Maximum Aperture: F4
• Magnification: 1:2 Macro Capability
• Autofocus: Four XD Linear Motors

Why Buy the Sony FE 70-200mm F4 Macro G OSS II?

• Versatile Focal Range: From intimate portraits to expansive landscapes, this lens covers it all.
• Macro Capability: Delve into the world of macro photography with a 1:2 magnification.
• Enhanced Stability: Optical Steady Shot (OSS) ensures sharp images and stable video.
• Compact and Lightweight lens: Ideal for the mobile photographer.
• Exceptional Autofocus: Fast, accurate, and silent, keeping you in the moment.

Best Use Case: This lens shines in diverse scenarios, from wildlife photography to event coverage, making it a top pick for Sony A7III users seeking flexibility without compromising on quality.

Standout Feature: Its macro capability sets it apart, offering creative possibilities usually reserved for dedicated macro lenses.

Introduction to the Product:

Overview: The Sony FE 70-200mm F4 Macro G OSS II is not just another telephoto lens; it’s a versatile tool designed to elevate the photography experience for Sony A7III users. Its position in the market is unchallenged, thanks to its blend of portability, performance, and optical excellence.

It’s More Than Just a Telephoto Lens: Beyond capturing distant subjects, this lens invites photographers to explore the intricate details of macro photography, all without changing lenses.

What Do Users Love?

• Versatility at Its Core: Photographers appreciate the ability to switch from capturing distant landscapes to detailed close-ups within moments.
• Steady and Sharp: The updated OSS feature is a game-changer, enabling crisp images even in challenging conditions.

Potential Drawbacks:

• Price Point: The investment might be steep for hobbyists.
• External Zooming Design: Some purists prefer an internal zoom mechanism for various reasons, including perceived better weather sealing.

Who Is This Product For?

Ideal Customer Profile: The Sony FE 70-200mm F4 Macro G OSS II is perfect for Sony A7III users who demand versatility, performance, and portability in one package. Whether you’re a seasoned professional or an enthusiastic amateur, this lens will not disappoint.

Not Suitable For: Those who seek wide angle lenses, or if you primarily shoot in low-light conditions you can look for alternatives with a wider aperture.

Closing Thoughts:

Final Verdict: The Sony FE 70-200mm F4 Macro G OSS II is a remarkable lens that offers an unbeatable combination of versatility, performance, and compact design. It stands as a testament to Sony’s commitment to providing photographers with tools that inspire creativity and elevate the photographic experience.

Alternatives: For those seeking a wider aperture, the Sony FE 70-200mm F2.8 GM OSS II might be a better fit, albeit at a higher price point. Alternatively, the Tamron 70-180mm F2.8 Di III VXD offers a compelling balance of great performance and affordability for Sony users.

Additional Notes:

This lens is a testament to the innovation and quality that Sony brings to the table, making it a must-have for photographers looking to push the boundaries of what’s possible with their Sony A7III. Whether you’re capturing the delicate details of a flower or the grandeur of a mountain range, the Sony FE 70-200mm F4 Macro G OSS II is ready to become your go-to lens for every scenario.

Sony FE 100-400mm F4.5-5.6 G Master OSS – The Best Super-Telephoto Zoom Lens for Sony A7III

​Price Point: $$$

Capacity/Size/Performance Metrics:

• Weight: 3lbs (1395g)
• Maximum Aperture: F4.5-5.6
• Focal Length: 100-400mm
• Magnification: 0.35x

Why Buy Sony FE 100-400mm F/4.5-5.6 G Master OSS?

• Versatile focal range for sports and wildlife photography
• Exceptional autofocus performance with Dual Linear Motor system
• Outstanding image quality across the zoom range
• Robust and weather-sealed design for durability
• Effective Optical SteadyShot (OSS) for optical image stabilization

Best Use Case:

Ideal for outdoor photographers who need a reliable, high-performance lens for capturing distant subjects in sports, wildlife, and action photography.

Introduction to the Product:

Overview:

The Sony FE 100-400mm F4.5-5.6 G Master OSS stands as a pinnacle of optical engineering, offering Sony A7III users unparalleled versatility and performance in the super-telephoto zoom category. Its place in the market is not just as another lens but as a gateway to capturing the unreachable, making it an indispensable tool for serious photographers.

It’s More Than Just a Lens:

Beyond its primary function, this lens serves as a bridge between the photographer and distant worlds, whether it’s the thrill of a sports game or the untamed beauty of wildlife.

What Do Users Love?

• Unmatched Reach and Clarity: Photographers rave about the lens’s ability to bring distant subjects into sharp focus, transforming ordinary shots into extraordinary ones.
• Build Quality and Handling: Its design not only withstands the rigors of outdoor shooting but also balances perfectly with the Sony A7III, making long shooting sessions less of a strain.

Potential Drawbacks:

• Price Point: The premium cost might deter some enthusiasts, despite the lens’s exceptional capabilities.
• Size and Weight: While relatively lightweight for its class, it’s still a significant addition to one’s gear, especially for those accustomed to more compact size setups.

Who Is This Product For?

Ideal Customer Profile:

This lens is a dream for professional photographers and serious hobbyists who demand the best in telephoto performance without compromising on portability and image quality.

Not Suitable For:

It might not be the best fit for casual shooters or those on a tight budget, given its premium positioning and cost.

Closing Thoughts:

Final Verdict:

The Sony FE 100-400mm F/4.5-5.6 G Master OSS is a masterpiece of lens design, offering a blend of versatility, performance, and durability that’s hard to beat. It’s an investment that pays dividends in the quality and range of your photography.

Alternatives:

For those seeking different options, the Tamron 150-500mm F5-6.7 Di II VC VXD X-mount or the Sony 200-600mm F5.6-6.3 G OSS offers more reach at a lower price point, though with added size and weight.

Additional Notes:

Embrace the Sony FE 100-400mm F4.5-5.6 G Master OSS and unlock the potential of your Sony A7III, capturing the world in ways you’ve never imagined. Whether you’re tracking a bird in flight or freezing the action on the field, this lens is your ticket to a front-row seat to the wonders of the world.

Sony FE 70-300mm F4.5-5.6 G OSS – The Best Budget Telephoto Lens for Sony A7III

Price Point: $$$

Capacity/Size/Performance Metrics:

• Weight: 1.9 pounds
• Dimensions: 5.7 x 3.3 inches (HD)
• Zoom Range: 70-300mm
• Aperture: F4.5-5.6
• Minimum Focus Distance: 2.95 feet

Why Buy Sony FE 70-300mm F4.5-5.6 G OSS?

• Extended Zoom Range: Perfect for capturing distant subjects.
• Optical Image Stabilization: Sharp images, even at long focal lengths.
• Quick Autofocus: With Focus Hold for dynamic shooting scenarios.
• All-Weather Design: Dust and moisture won’t stop your shoot.
• Superb Image Quality: Crisp, clear images across the zoom range.

Best Use Case:

Ideal for wildlife and sports photography, especially when you can’t get close to the action.

Introduction to the Product:

Overview:

The Sony FE 70-300mm F4.5-5.6 G OSS lens is a versatile telephoto option for Sony’s full-frame mirrorless cameras, like the popular A7III. Offering a balance between performance and price, it’s an obvious choice for photographers looking to extend their reach without breaking the bank.

It’s More Than Just a Telephoto Lens:

Beyond its zoom capabilities, this lens offers macro-like features and optical stabilization, making it a versatile tool in your photography arsenal.

What Do Users Love?

• Optical Stabilization: This feature is a game-changer, ensuring sharp images even in challenging conditions. It’s like having a tripod built into your lens!
• Image Quality: Photographers rave about the crisp, clear images this lens produces, even at the far end of its zoom range. Whether you’re shooting a distant animal or a fast-moving sports event, the results are consistently impressive.

Potential Drawbacks:

• Aperture Range: The F4.5-5.6 aperture isn’t the widest, which can limit its use in low-light conditions. However, for outdoor daylight shooting, it’s more than adequate.
• Price: While it’s a budget lens in the realm of telephoto options, the price tag might still be a hurdle for hobbyists.

Who Is This Product For?

Ideal Customer Profile:

This lens is perfect for Sony A7III users looking to explore telephoto photography without investing in higher-priced lenses. It’s especially suited for capturing sports, wildlife, and any scenario where you need to zoom in on the action.

Not Suitable For:

If you’re primarily a low-light shooter or need a lens with a wide aperture for depth-of-field control, this might not be the best fit for your needs.

Closing Thoughts:

Final Verdict:

The Sony FE 70-300mm F4.5-5.6 G OSS strikes an excellent balance between price, performance, and versatility. It’s a solid investment for photographers looking to expand their shooting capabilities without compromising on quality.

Alternatives:

• For those needing more low-light capability, the Sony FE 70-200mm F2.8 GM OSS might be a better choice, albeit at a higher price point.
• If budget is a primary concern, consider the Tamron 70-300mm F/4.5-6.3 Di III RXD, a cheaper alternative with good performance.

Additional Notes:

This lens is a testament to Sony’s commitment to providing a range of options for photographers of all levels. Its combination of reach, performance, and build quality makes it an excellent choice for A7III users. Whether you’re capturing the grace of a distant bird or the intensity of a sports match, the Sony FE 70-300mm F4.5-5.6 G OSS is up to the task, proving that you don’t always have to spend a fortune to get professional-grade results.

Sony FE 135mm F1.8 G Master – The Best Premium G Master Series Telephoto Best Prime Lens for Sony A7III

Price Point: $$$

Capacity/Size/Performance Metrics:

• Weight: 950g
• Length: 127mm
• Maximum Aperture: F1.8
• Minimum Focusing Distance: 0.7m
• Magnification: 0.25x

Why Buy the Sony FE 135mm F1.8 G Master?

List Key Features:

• Exceptional sharpness and clarity
• Beautiful, creamy bokeh
• Fast, silent, and accurate autofocus
• Durable, weather-sealed construction
• Versatile for close-ups with a 0.25x magnification

Best Use Case:

Ideal for portrait photography, wedding shoots, and detailed close-up work.

What Sets It Apart:

Its unparalleled sharpness and bokeh quality set it apart from competitors, making it a dream lens for professionals and serious enthusiasts alike.

Introduction to the Product:

Overview:

The Sony FE 135mm F1.8 G Master is not just another lens; it’s a pinnacle of optical engineering, designed to elevate your photography to new heights. This lens is a part of Sony’s esteemed G Master series, promising unmatched performance and quality, and it’s one of the best prime lenses in reach.

It’s More Than Just a Lens:

Beyond its primary function, this lens offers creative freedom to photographers, allowing for stunning portraits with a shallow depth of field and detailed close-up shots that are sharp edge-to-edge.

What Do Users Love?

• Outstanding Image Quality: Photographers rave about the tack-sharp images and the exquisite bokeh that this lens produces, enhancing the visual appeal of their work.
• Autofocus Performance: Its autofocus is a game-changer, especially in dynamic shooting scenarios where speed and accuracy are paramount.

Potential Drawbacks:

• Price: The high cost might deter hobbyists or those on a tight budget.
• Weight: Some users find the lens slightly heavy for long shooting sessions, potentially affecting handheld shooting comfort.

Who Is This Product For?

Ideal Customer Profile:

This lens is perfect for professional photographers and serious enthusiasts who demand the best image quality and performance from their gear.

Not Suitable For:

It might not be the perfect choice for casual shooters or those who prioritize compactness and affordability over ultimate performance.

Closing Thoughts:

Final Verdict:

The Sony FE 135mm F1.8 G Master is a masterpiece of lens design, offering exceptional quality and performance. Its price reflects its premium status, but for those who demand the best, it’s an investment that pays off in every shot.

Alternatives:

For those seeking different options, the Sigma 135mm F1.8 DG HSM Art offers a compelling alternative with excellent performance, albeit with a different autofocus system and without the native Sony mount benefits.

Additional Notes:

Engage with this lens, and you’ll discover not just its technical excellence, but also the way it can transform your photographic vision. Whether capturing the intimate moments of a wedding or the subtle expressions of a portrait, the Sony FE 135mm F1.8 G Master stands ready to help you create art.

Sony FE 85mm F1.4 GM – The Best Portrait Lens for Sony A7III

Price Point: $$$

Capacity/Size/Performance Metrics:

• Weight: 820g (28.8oz)
• Dimensions: Diameter 89.5mm (3.52″), Length 107.5mm (4.23″)
• Aperture: f/1.4
• Filter Thread: 77mm
• Magnification: 0.12x

Why Buy Sony FE 85mm F1.4 GM?

• Outstanding Image Quality: Razor-sharp images with vibrant colors.
• Creamy Bokeh: Beautiful background blur for standout portraits.
• Robust Build: Dust and moisture resistance for durability.
• Advanced Autofocus: Fast and reliable, even in low light.
• Versatile for Video: Declickable aperture for smooth exposure transitions.

Best Use Case:

Ideal for portrait photographers seeking unparalleled image quality and bokeh, as well as videographers needing smooth aperture control.

Introduction to the Product:

Overview:

The Sony FE 85mm F1.4 GM lens stands atop the portrait photography pinnacle, offering unmatched clarity, color, and character. This lens is not just another telephoto option; it’s a masterpiece designed for the discerning Sony A7III user.

It’s More Than Just a Lens:

Beyond its primary function, this lens serves as a bridge between creativity and technical excellence, enabling photographers to capture not just images, but emotions and moments with unparalleled precision.

What Do Users Love?

• Image Quality That Dazzles: Users rave about the lens’s ability to produce tack-sharp images with exquisite detail and contrast, even wide open at f/1.4.
• Bokeh That Breathes Life: The smooth, creamy background blur this lens creates allows subjects to pop, making it a favorite for portrait and wedding photographers.

Potential Drawbacks:

• Hefty Investment: Its premium price point may be a hurdle for hobbyists or those on a tight budget.
• Weighty Wonder: At nearly 29 ounces, it’s on the heavier side, which could be a consideration for those who shoot for extended periods.

Who Is This Product For?

Ideal Customer Profile:

Professional portrait and wedding photographers who demand the best in image quality, bokeh, and build quality. It’s also suited for videographers looking for superior optical performance in a prime lens.

Not Suitable For:

Budget-conscious hobbyists or those who prefer a lighter, more compact lens setup might want to explore other options.

Closing Thoughts:

Final Verdict:

The Sony FE 85mm F1.4 GM is a triumph in lens design, offering exceptional performance that justifies its premium status. It’s the ultimate choice for Sony A7III users seeking to elevate their portrait photography to art.

Alternatives:

• Sigma 85mm F1.4 DG HSM Art: A slightly less expensive alternative with excellent image quality.
• Sony FE 85mm F1.8: A more affordable price, lighter option for those willing to compromise on aperture and build quality for significant savings.

Additional Notes:

Embrace the Sony FE 85mm F1.4 GM’s capabilities, and let it inspire you to new creative heights. Its combination of speed, sharpness, and bokeh will not only meet but exceed your photographic expectations.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the Sony FE 70-200 mm F2.8 GM OSS II emerges as the clear winner in our roundup of the best telephoto lenses for the Sony A7III.

Its unparalleled sharpness, fast autofocus, and exceptional build quality set it apart from the competition, making it the ideal choice for professionals and serious enthusiasts alike.

The Sony FE 135mm F1.8 GM and Sony FE 100-400mm F4.5-5.6 GM OSS stand as commendable runner-ups, offering outstanding performance in their respective focal lengths.

However, the versatility and superior optical performance of the 70-200 mm F2.8 GM OSS II lens make it the best fit for the broadest range of telephoto needs, from sports to wildlife photography.

This lens not only meets but exceeds the expectations set in our reviews, offering the perfect blend of range, speed, and image quality that Sony A7III users demand.