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8 Best Wide Angle Zoom Lenses for Sony in 2024

Last updated: March 20, 2024 - 11 min read
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In the world of photography, finding the right wide-angle zoom lenses for Sony can make a big difference in capturing stunning landscapes and architectural marvels. This article dives into the eight best options available, helping photographers of all levels improve their shots with lenses designed specifically for Sony cameras.

Our top pick, the Sony FE 16-35mm f/4 G PZ, stands out for its sharpness and lightweight design, making it perfect for travel and outdoor photography. Alongside this top choice, we also explore seven other lenses, offering a variety of options to suit different photography needs and preferences.

Our Top 3 Wide Angle Zoom Lenses for Sony
Sony FE 16-35mm F/4 G PZ SELP1635G
Sony FE 16-35mm F/4 G PZ SELP1635G
Sony FE 16-35mm F/4 G PZ SELP1635G
Sony FE 12-24mm F/2.8 GM SEL1224GM
Sony FE 12-24mm F/2.8 GM SEL1224GM
Sony FE 12-24mm F/2.8 GM SEL1224GM
Sony E 10-18mm F/4 OSS SEL1018
Sony E 10-18mm F/4 OSS SEL1018
Sony E 10-18mm F/4 OSS SEL1018

What Is the Best Wide-Angle Zoom Lens for Sony?

Selecting the best wide-angle zoom lens for Sony involves considering sharpness, low-light performance, and versatility. Our list includes Sony and Sigma lenses, chosen for their exceptional image quality and ability to capture expansive scenes. These lenses stand out for their minimal distortion, making them perfect for landscape and architectural photography.

Our Top Pick
Sony FE 16-35mm F/4 G PZ SELP1635G
Sony FE 16-35mm F/4 G PZ SELP1635G
Sony FE 16-35mm F/4 G PZ SELP1635G
  • Versatile 16-35mm zoom for dynamic compositions
  • Constant f/4 aperture across zoom range
  • Lightweight design enhances portability
  • Weather-sealed for outdoor reliability
  • Sharp images with minimal aberration
Best Ultra-Wide Zoom
Sony FE 12-24mm F/2.8 GM SEL1224GM
Sony FE 12-24mm F/2.8 GM SEL1224GM
Sony FE 12-24mm F/2.8 GM SEL1224GM
  • Ultra-wide 12-24mm range for expansive shots
  • Constant f/2.8 aperture for low light
  • G Master quality ensures sharp, clear images
  • Weather-sealed build for outdoor reliability
  • Fast, silent autofocus perfect for video
Best Compact Wide-Angle Zoom
Sony E 10-18mm F/4 OSS SEL1018
Sony E 10-18mm F/4 OSS SEL1018
Sony E 10-18mm F/4 OSS SEL1018
  • Ultra-wide 10-18mm range for expansive views
  • Constant f/4 aperture for consistent exposure
  • Built-in OSS for steady handheld shots
  • Compact and lightweight for easy travel
  • Ideal for landscapes and architectural photography
Best for Low-Light Landscapes
Sigma 14-24mm F/2.8 DG DN | A for Sony E
Sigma 14-24mm F/2.8 DG DN | A for Sony E
Sigma 14-24mm F/2.8 DG DN | A for Sony E
  • Ultra-wide 14-24mm for expansive landscape shots
  • Bright f/2.8 aperture enhances low-light performance
  • Art series quality ensures exceptional sharpness
  • Weather-sealed construction for rugged use
  • Fast autofocus, ideal for dynamic shooting scenarios
Best Lightweight Wide-Angle Zoom
Sigma 16-28mm F/2.8 DG DN | C for Sony E
Sigma 16-28mm F/2.8 DG DN | C for Sony E
Sigma 16-28mm F/2.8 DG DN | C for Sony E
  • Wide 16-28mm zoom for versatile shooting scenarios
  • Bright f/2.8 aperture across entire zoom range
  • Compact, lightweight design for easy portability
  • Excellent sharpness and optical quality
  • Fast, accurate autofocus system for stills and video
Best Versatile APS-C Zoom
Sony E 16-55mm F/2.8 G SEL1655G
Sony E 16-55mm F/2.8 G SEL1655G
Sony E 16-55mm F/2.8 G SEL1655G
  • Constant f/2.8 aperture for superior low-light performance
  • Versatile 16-55mm range, perfect for everyday shooting
  • G Series optical quality ensures stunning image clarity
  • Fast, precise autofocus ideal for dynamic subjects
  • Durable, weather-sealed construction for reliable outdoor use
Best Professional Wide-Angle Zoom
Sony FE 16-35mm F/2.8 GM II SEL1635GM2
Sony FE 16-35mm F/2.8 GM II SEL1635GM2
Sony FE 16-35mm F/2.8 GM II SEL1635GM2
  • Ultra-wide 16-35mm range for versatile compositions
  • Bright f/2.8 aperture for excellent low-light performance
  • Second-generation G Master optical quality
  • Fast, precise autofocus ideal for dynamic scenes
  • Robust, weather-sealed construction for outdoor reliability
Best Ultra-Wide for APS-C
Tokina atx-m 11-18mm F/2.8 E
Tokina atx-m 11-18mm F/2.8 E
Tokina atx-m 11-18mm F/2.8 E
  • Ultra-wide 11-18mm range for expansive shots
  • Constant f/2.8 aperture for low-light excellence
  • Compact and lightweight design enhances portability
  • Sharp, high-quality optics across the zoom range
  • Designed specifically for Sony E-mount APS-C cameras
 

Our Favorite Wide Angle Zoom Lenses for Sony

Let’s take a closer look at our favorite wide-angle zoom lenses for Sony. From sweeping landscapes to intricate architectural details, there’s a lens here to enhance every shot. With options ranging from ultra-wide to versatile zooms, photographers can find the perfect tool to capture their vision with precision and ease.

1. Sony FE 16-35mm f/4 G PZ

Our Top Pick
Sony FE 16-35mm F/4 G PZ SELP1635G
Brand
Brand
Sony
Lens Weight
Lens Weight
353 g
Maximum Aperture
Maximum Aperture
f/ 4.0
Focal Length Range
Focal Length Range
16-35 mm
Image Stabilization
Image Stabilization
No
The Sony FE 16-35mm f/4 G PZ lens is a top pick for photographers who need versatility in their wide-angle shots. Its focal length range from 16mm to 35mm is perfect for capturing everything from vast landscapes to detailed architectural scenes. The constant f/4 aperture, while not the widest, strikes a good balance between size and performance, allowing for decent low-light shooting and some background blur.

Sharpness across the frame is a key strength of this lens, ensuring that every detail is captured with clarity, from center to edge. This is especially important for landscape and architectural photography where fine details matter. The lens also features minimal distortion, which is a common issue with wide-angle lenses, making it a good option for architectural shots where straight lines need to stay straight.

However, the lens does not include built-in image stabilization, which means photographers using Sony camera bodies without IBIS might need to rely more on tripods in low light. Despite this, its lightweight design, at just over 12 ounces (353 g), makes it easy to carry around for long periods, a big advantage for travel and outdoor photography.

 

2. Sony FE 12-24mm f/2.8 GM

Best Ultra-Wide Zoom
Sony FE 12-24mm F/2.8 GM SEL1224GM
Brand
Brand
Sony
Lens Weight
Lens Weight
847 g
Maximum Aperture
Maximum Aperture
f/ 2.8
Focal Length Range
Focal Length Range
12-24 mm
Image Stabilization
Image Stabilization
No
The Sony FE 12-24mm f/2.8 GM lens is a top choice for those who need to capture wide scenes. Its range from 12mm to 24mm lets photographers take in vast landscapes or tight indoor spaces without changing lenses. This is great for quickly adjusting to different scenes. The constant f/2.8 aperture helps in low light and allows for some background blur, making it versatile for various lighting conditions.

This lens is robustly built, and ready for outdoor shoots. Weighing 1.8 lbs (847 g), it’s light for its class, making it easier to handle during long days of shooting. Its design is balanced, ensuring it doesn’t feel too heavy on the camera. The weather sealing is a big plus, letting photographers shoot in less-than-ideal conditions without worry.

Sharpness is a particular feature of this lens, with details clear from center to edge. This is crucial for professional work where every detail counts. The lens controls distortion well, important for architectural shots where straight lines matter. While it lacks built-in stabilization, the wide angle reduces the impact of camera shake, and many Sony cameras have stabilization to help.

In short, the Sony FE 12-24mm f/2.8 GM is very useful for professionals in landscape, architecture, and real estate photography. Its build and optical quality make it a reliable tool for capturing wide scenes with great detail.

 

3. Sony E 10-18mm f/4 OSS

Best Compact Wide-Angle Zoom
Sony E 10-18mm F/4 OSS SEL1018
Brand
Brand
Sony
Lens Weight
Lens Weight
225 g
Maximum Aperture
Maximum Aperture
f/ 4.0
Focal Length Range
Focal Length Range
10-18 mm
Image Stabilization
Image Stabilization
Yes
The Sony E 10-18mm f/4 OSS is a versatile ultra-wide zoom lens, perfect for those who capture landscapes, architecture, and interiors. Its range from 10mm to 18mm (15mm to 27mm full frame equivalent) allows photographers to include vast scenes in a single frame, making it invaluable for creating immersive images. Despite its constant f/4 aperture not being the widest, the inclusion of Optical SteadyShot (OSS) helps mitigate camera shake, making it easier to shoot in lower light conditions without a tripod.

Weighing just 7.8 ounces (225 g), this lens is very light, enhancing its appeal for travel and extended shooting sessions. Its optical design, featuring aspherical elements and one Super ED element, effectively reduces aberrations, ensuring images are sharp and colors are true. However, the lack of weather sealing might limit its use in adverse conditions, something to consider for outdoor photographers.

In essence, the Sony E 10-18mm f/4 OSS is a good option for APS-C camera users seeking a wide-angle perspective. Its compact size, effective stabilization, and solid optical performance make it a very useful tool for capturing expansive views, even if it’s not the best fit for low-light photography or situations requiring weather resistance.

 

4. Sigma 14-24mm f/2.8 DG DN | A for Sony E

Best for Low-Light Landscapes
Sigma 14-24mm F/2.8 DG DN | A for Sony E
Brand
Brand
Sigma
Lens Weight
Lens Weight
795 g
Maximum Aperture
Maximum Aperture
f/ 2.8
Focal Length Range
Focal Length Range
14-24 mm
Image Stabilization
Image Stabilization
No
The Sigma 14-24mm f/2.8 DG DN | A is a great value lens for Sony E-mount users looking for wide-angle versatility. Its focal range from 14mm to 24mm is perfect for capturing everything from sweeping landscapes to detailed architectural scenes. The constant f/2.8 aperture is a big plus, allowing for excellent low-light performance and a bit of background blur, which is not always common in wide-angle lenses.

Built to last, this lens combines metal and high-quality plastics, making it both durable and relatively light at 1.7 lbs (795 g). It’s designed to handle tough conditions, thanks to its dust- and splash-proof construction. Optically, it impresses with sharpness across the frame and minimal chromatic aberration, thanks to its advanced element design.

In essence, the Sigma 14-24mm f/2.8 DG DN | A is very useful for photographers and videographers who demand high-quality wide-angle shots. Its build quality, optical performance, and autofocus reliability make it a good option for those looking to expand their creative possibilities.

 

5. Sigma 16-28mm f/2.8 DG DN | C for Sony E

Best Lightweight Wide-Angle Zoom
Sigma 16-28mm F/2.8 DG DN | C for Sony E
Brand
Brand
Sigma
Lens Weight
Lens Weight
450 g
Maximum Aperture
Maximum Aperture
f/ 2.8
Focal Length Range
Focal Length Range
16-28 mm
Image Stabilization
Image Stabilization
No
The Sigma 16-28mm f/2.8 DG DN | C offers a versatile zoom range that’s perfect for photographers keen on capturing wide landscapes and architectural marvels. Its constant f/2.8 aperture ensures it performs well in low light, making it a reliable tool for various shooting conditions. This lens is particularly useful for those who value the ability to quickly adjust compositions without swapping lenses, a common need in dynamic shooting environments.

Weighing just 1 lb (450 g), this lens is notably light for its class, enhancing its appeal for travel and extended handheld use. Its construction balances durability with ease of handling, featuring a mix of metal and Thermally Stable Composite materials. Despite its lack of image stabilization, the wide angle of view and potential use of camera body stabilization systems help to keep images sharp in most situations.

The Sigma 16-28mm f/2.8 DG DN | C is a good option for landscape and architectural photographers looking for quality and versatility. Its sharpness, combined with minimal chromatic aberration and distortion, makes it a valuable addition to any gear bag, especially for those who frequently shoot in varying light conditions.

 

6. Sony E 16-55mm f/2.8 G

Best Versatile APS-C Zoom
Sony E 16-55mm F/2.8 G SEL1655G
Brand
Brand
Sony
Lens Weight
Lens Weight
494 g
Maximum Aperture
Maximum Aperture
f/ 2.8
Focal Length Range
Focal Length Range
16-55 mm
Image Stabilization
Image Stabilization
No
The Sony E 16-55mm f/2.8 G lens is a versatile tool for APS-C cameras, perfect for photographers who demand flexibility and quality. Its wide-to-short telephoto range makes it ideal for capturing everything from expansive landscapes to detailed portraits. The constant f/2.8 aperture ensures excellent performance in various lighting conditions, allowing for creative depth-of-field effects.

This lens weighs 1.1 lbs (494 g), and is surprisingly light for its capabilities, making it a great companion for day-long shoots or travel. Its construction is robust, featuring weather sealing for reliability in challenging conditions. Optically, it delivers sharp, clear images across the zoom range, with minimal distortion and chromatic aberration, thanks to its advanced element design.

The Sony E 16-55mm f/2.8 G is a very useful lens for serious enthusiasts and professionals using Sony’s APS-C system. Its combination of versatility, optical performance, and build quality makes it a good option for a wide range of photographic needs, from street photography to portraits.

 

7. Sony FE 16-35mm f/2.8 GM II

Best Professional Wide-Angle Zoom
Sony FE 16-35mm F/2.8 GM II SEL1635GM2
Brand
Brand
Sony
Lens Weight
Lens Weight
547 g
Maximum Aperture
Maximum Aperture
f/ 2.8
Focal Length Range
Focal Length Range
16-35 mm
Image Stabilization
Image Stabilization
No
The Sony FE 16-35mm f/2.8 GM II stands as a testament to Sony’s commitment to high-quality optics and versatility. This lens, with its wide-angle zoom range, is perfect for photographers who aim to capture everything from sprawling landscapes to intricate architectural details. Its constant f/2.8 aperture not only allows for consistent exposure settings across the zoom range but also excels in low-light conditions, providing the flexibility needed for a wide array of shooting scenarios.

Weighing in at just over 1 lb (454 g), this lens is surprisingly light for its capabilities, making it an excellent choice for photographers on the move. Its robust build, complete with weather sealing, ensures it can withstand the rigors of outdoor shooting. Optically, the lens delivers sharp, clear images with minimal distortion, a testament to Sony’s advanced lens technology.

The Sony FE 16-35mm f/2.8 GM II is a very useful tool for professionals and serious enthusiasts alike. Its combination of wide aperture, focal range versatility, and portability makes it a valuable addition to any camera bag, especially for those who frequently shoot landscapes, cityscapes, or interiors.

 

8. Tokina atx-m 11-18mm f/2.8 E

Best Ultra-Wide for APS-C
Tokina atx-m 11-18mm F/2.8 E
Brand
Brand
Tokina
Lens Weight
Lens Weight
335 g
Maximum Aperture
Maximum Aperture
f/ 2.8
Focal Length Range
Focal Length Range
11-18 mm
Image Stabilization
Image Stabilization
No
The Tokina atx-m 11-18mm f/2.8 E lens offers a dynamic range for photographers looking to capture wide expanses or detailed architectural scenes. Its constant f/2.8 aperture across the zoom range ensures solid performance in various lighting conditions, making it a versatile tool for landscape and interior photography. The ability to quickly adjust from 11mm to 18mm without changing lenses is particularly useful in environments where space and time are limited.

Constructed with a focus on portability, this lens weighs just 11.7 ounces (335 g), making it an easy addition to any travel bag. Despite its plastic housing, it feels sturdy and well-built. Optically, the lens delivers sharp images with minimal distortion, a testament to Tokina’s commitment to quality. The inclusion of aspherical and super-low dispersion elements helps maintain clarity and color accuracy across the frame.

The Tokina atx-m 11-18mm f/2.8 E is a very useful option for photographers and videographers who prioritize wide-angle capabilities and low-light performance. While it lacks weather sealing and built-in stabilization, its optical performance and compact design make it a valuable tool for capturing expansive views and intricate details in a variety of settings.

 

Conclusion: The Best Wide Angle Zoom Lenses for Sony

If you’re looking for the best wide-angle zoom lenses for Sony, we think these are excellent options for various needs and budgets. Having looked at key features such as focal range, aperture, and additional lens characteristics, it should be easier for you to choose the right lens for your work.

Our top choice, the Sony FE 16-35mm f/4 G PZ, stands out for its sharpness and versatility. This makes it the best pick for wide-angle photography. Then there are seven other lenses listed, if this one isn’t quite right for you.

Our Top 3 Wide Angle Zoom Lenses for Sony
Sony FE 16-35mm F/4 G PZ SELP1635G
Sony FE 16-35mm F/4 G PZ SELP1635G
Sony FE 16-35mm F/4 G PZ SELP1635G
Sony FE 12-24mm F/2.8 GM SEL1224GM
Sony FE 12-24mm F/2.8 GM SEL1224GM
Sony FE 12-24mm F/2.8 GM SEL1224GM
Sony E 10-18mm F/4 OSS SEL1018
Sony E 10-18mm F/4 OSS SEL1018
Sony E 10-18mm F/4 OSS SEL1018