This topic is in the 2020 archive. You can read it and like its posts here. It is read only.
Archive 2020Back On Sale: Sony FE 20mm f/1.8 G lens for only $798 ($100 off)
p.8 #1Back On Sale: Sony FE 20mm f/1.8 G lens for only $798 ($100 off)
Fred Miranda wrote:
I wonder why Sony didn't go with a FE 18/1.8 G instead to complement their FE 24/1.4 GM with a longer gap.
Perhaps at 18mm, the lens could be designed even smaller...
As someone wrote, perhaps Sony is trying to match the competition for now but eventually we will probably get all the focal lengths covered to death..
Holding space for a 18GM.
Feb 25, 2020 at 09:14 PM
p.8 #2Back On Sale: Sony FE 20mm f/1.8 G lens for only $798 ($100 off)
A few landscape and night sky shots by Nate Luebbe on his blog. Spoiler alert: He likes it.
https://www.nateluebbe.com/journal/sony-20mm
https://www.nateluebbe.com/journal/sony-20mm
Feb 25, 2020 at 10:51 PM
p.8 #3Back On Sale: Sony FE 20mm f/1.8 G lens for only $798 ($100 off)
bjornthun wrote:
Don't know if one needs AF at 14mm and not sure manual focus is Sony's forte. But give me a light 200 2.8 and 300 f4 with fabulous AF and I'm happy.Yes AF is needed, AF 14/1.8 GM. Then 200/4 Macro, 300/2.8, 500/4, 800/5.6 all GM. Maybe Sony will throw in a 300/4 or 400/5.6 with the G label for good meassure.---------------------------------------------
It does not seem like much but yes, at this focal length it makes a difference in blur, especially if the background is further way from your subject.The Zeiss Batis 18mm f/2.8 is as the name says an f/2.8 lens. 
The filter thread of the Batis 18/2.8 is 77mm compared to a more manageable 67mm for the Sony 20/1.8 G. Add to that an aperture ring and a linear focus feel with the new Sony lens. I’d take the Sony lens.
The other advantage of the Sony is it doesn’t have the white LED of the Batis, which is quite annoying in dark sky Astro conditions. Thanks for correcting my brain blip - f/2.8, of course, not f/2.
bjornthun wrote
chez wrote
bjornthun wrote
Good move from Sony, now they cover all focal lengths ftom 20mm to 135mm with a prime lens. Maybe there will be more tele photos, 200mm, 300mm, 500mm and then maybe 800mm and a 14mm wide angle?Fred Miranda wrote
PhilthePhrame wrote
The Batis 18/2 has been discounted significantly lately. Is there a case for preferring this new Sony 20/1.8 to it? I wouldn’t think that 2mm/.2 would make much difference.The filter thread of the Batis 18/2.8 is 77mm compared to a more manageable 67mm for the Sony 20/1.8 G. Add to that an aperture ring and a linear focus feel with the new Sony lens. I’d take the Sony lens.
The other advantage of the Sony is it doesn’t have the white LED of the Batis, which is quite annoying in dark sky Astro conditions. Thanks for correcting my brain blip - f/2.8, of course, not f/2.
Feb 26, 2020 at 01:04 AM
p.8 #4Back On Sale: Sony FE 20mm f/1.8 G lens for only $798 ($100 off)
Fred Miranda wrote:
Yes AF is needed, AF 14/1.8 GM. Then 200/4 Macro, 300/2.8, 500/4, 800/5.6 all GM. Maybe Sony will throw in a 300/4 or 400/5.6 with the G label for good meassure.What would you be using a 14mm where AF is required? If you focus at 8', the DOF at 1.8 goes from less than 5' right to almost 24'. I'd preset to focus and treat it like a p&s.Because DOF does not replace critical focus when shooting with a high megapixel sensor.Maybe true for close focus, but for landscapes and most everything else I much prefer to set a focus point via manual focus ring with focus distance markingsStill may need to focus stack with today's high MP sensors.
Which would just give me more reason to use a manual focus lens with an engraved distance scale...
pdmphoto wrote
Fred Miranda wrote
chez wrote
bjornthun wrote
chez wrote
Don't know if one needs AF at 14mm and not sure manual focus is Sony's forte. But give me a light 200 2.8 and 300 f4 with fabulous AF and I'm happy.Which would just give me more reason to use a manual focus lens with an engraved distance scale...
Feb 26, 2020 at 01:06 AM
p.8 #5Back On Sale: Sony FE 20mm f/1.8 G lens for only $798 ($100 off)
My first CZ was the mighty D21 that also drove me into the Contax RTS system (film SLR for you millennials). The 20 G looks ready to wipe the floor optically with that old classic—and that's not even considering the 1⅓ stop advantage and AF. Unlike the 24 GM, this lens appears to have color aberrations completely under control. Amazing.
Feb 26, 2020 at 01:10 AM
p.8 #6Back On Sale: Sony FE 20mm f/1.8 G lens for only $798 ($100 off)
thaddak wrote:
A few landscape and night sky shots by Nate Luebbe on his blog. Spoiler alert: He likes it.
https://www.nateluebbe.com/journal/sony-20mm
Most shows were done with 42mp, except for the night shots which are 24mp
A few landscape and night sky shots by Nate Luebbe on his blog. Spoiler alert: He likes it.
https://www.nateluebbe.com/journal/sony-20mm
Most shows were done with 42mp, except for the night shots which are 24mp
Feb 26, 2020 at 01:15 AM
p.8 #7Back On Sale: Sony FE 20mm f/1.8 G lens for only $798 ($100 off)
Holger wrote:
(but we don't know about field curvature so far)
Check this video: https://youtu.be/1-QM9WMzwUE
(but we don't know about field curvature so far)
Check this video: https://youtu.be/1-QM9WMzwUE
Feb 26, 2020 at 01:34 AM
p.8 #8Back On Sale: Sony FE 20mm f/1.8 G lens for only $798 ($100 off)
OK, I'm intrigued. It's fairly small. I can see a small kit of the 20 1.8, CV50 APO, and 90 Contax G. The latter two have proved capable on an R4. Today I went to a new location with a full kit, not knowing what to expect. At least I took a monopod rather than a tripod...I contemplated bringing just the 50. That would have been the right decision. Less schlepping and lens changing and more photography. My first professional job was only 55 years ago so I can still learn...
OK, I hope I learn.....
OK, I hope I learn.....
Feb 26, 2020 at 01:34 AM
p.8 #9Back On Sale: Sony FE 20mm f/1.8 G lens for only $798 ($100 off)
PhilthePhrame wrote:
Don't know if one needs AF at 14mm and not sure manual focus is Sony's forte. But give me a light 200 2.8 and 300 f4 with fabulous AF and I'm happy.Yes AF is needed, AF 14/1.8 GM. Then 200/4 Macro, 300/2.8, 500/4, 800/5.6 all GM. Maybe Sony will throw in a 300/4 or 400/5.6 with the G label for good meassure.---------------------------------------------
It does not seem like much but yes, at this focal length it makes a difference in blur, especially if the background is further way from your subject.The Zeiss Batis 18mm f/2.8 is as the name says an f/2.8 lens.
The filter thread of the Batis 18/2.8 is 77mm compared to a more manageable 67mm for the Sony 20/1.8 G. Add to that an aperture ring and a linear focus feel with the new Sony lens. I’d take the Sony lens.The other advantage of the Sony is it doesn’t have the white LED of the Batis, which is quite annoying in dark sky Astro conditions. Thanks for correcting my brain blip - f/2.8, of course, not f/2.
The white LED can be switched off, I think. Check out the manual.
bjornthun wrote
bjornthun wrote
chez wrote
bjornthun wrote
Good move from Sony, now they cover all focal lengths ftom 20mm to 135mm with a prime lens. Maybe there will be more tele photos, 200mm, 300mm, 500mm and then maybe 800mm and a 14mm wide angle?Fred Miranda wrote
PhilthePhrame wrote
The Batis 18/2 has been discounted significantly lately. Is there a case for preferring this new Sony 20/1.8 to it? I wouldn’t think that 2mm/.2 would make much difference.The filter thread of the Batis 18/2.8 is 77mm compared to a more manageable 67mm for the Sony 20/1.8 G. Add to that an aperture ring and a linear focus feel with the new Sony lens. I’d take the Sony lens.
The white LED can be switched off, I think. Check out the manual.
Feb 26, 2020 at 01:50 AM
p.8 #10Back On Sale: Sony FE 20mm f/1.8 G lens for only $798 ($100 off)
bjornthun wrote:
Don't know if one needs AF at 14mm and not sure manual focus is Sony's forte. But give me a light 200 2.8 and 300 f4 with fabulous AF and I'm happy.Yes AF is needed, AF 14/1.8 GM. Then 200/4 Macro, 300/2.8, 500/4, 800/5.6 all GM. Maybe Sony will throw in a 300/4 or 400/5.6 with the G label for good meassure.---------------------------------------------
It does not seem like much but yes, at this focal length it makes a difference in blur, especially if the background is further way from your subject.The Zeiss Batis 18mm f/2.8 is as the name says an f/2.8 lens.
The filter thread of the Batis 18/2.8 is 77mm compared to a more manageable 67mm for the Sony 20/1.8 G. Add to that an aperture ring and a linear focus feel with the new Sony lens. I’d take the Sony lens.
On the other hand, the difference 24 to 20 is not large. I would have preferred a larger difference, e.g. to 18mm, lets say a 18/2. The 20mm looks great, nevertheless. Vloggers like the 20mm, since the 4k crop makes the 20mm more suitable, they say, than a 24mm
bjornthun wrote
chez wrote
bjornthun wrote
Good move from Sony, now they cover all focal lengths ftom 20mm to 135mm with a prime lens. Maybe there will be more tele photos, 200mm, 300mm, 500mm and then maybe 800mm and a 14mm wide angle?Fred Miranda wrote
PhilthePhrame wrote
The Batis 18/2 has been discounted significantly lately. Is there a case for preferring this new Sony 20/1.8 to it? I wouldn’t think that 2mm/.2 would make much difference.The filter thread of the Batis 18/2.8 is 77mm compared to a more manageable 67mm for the Sony 20/1.8 G. Add to that an aperture ring and a linear focus feel with the new Sony lens. I’d take the Sony lens.
On the other hand, the difference 24 to 20 is not large. I would have preferred a larger difference, e.g. to 18mm, lets say a 18/2. The 20mm looks great, nevertheless. Vloggers like the 20mm, since the 4k crop makes the 20mm more suitable, they say, than a 24mm
Feb 26, 2020 at 03:31 AM
p.8 #11Back On Sale: Sony FE 20mm f/1.8 G lens for only $798 ($100 off)
Well for those that didn't buy the 24 GM, 20 looks quite a good spot.... 
Feb 26, 2020 at 05:22 AM
p.8 #12Back On Sale: Sony FE 20mm f/1.8 G lens for only $798 ($100 off)
Regarding why this isn't a GM, it does have a plastic filter thread, not sure if the 24 GM has a metal one or not?
Similarly when the 200-600 G came out vs the 100-400 GM, there is apparently differences in construction materials, so I suspect that is also probably the case here as well.
Similarly when the 200-600 G came out vs the 100-400 GM, there is apparently differences in construction materials, so I suspect that is also probably the case here as well.
Feb 26, 2020 at 05:24 AM
p.8 #13Back On Sale: Sony FE 20mm f/1.8 G lens for only $798 ($100 off)
Seriously after owning the Sigma 14-24 in the wide wide AF lens, I have lost interest in all of these latest batches of primes with AF. I have found nothing better yet. Now that comment does not include the small MF primes which are more the travel lenses I like to have. At least my copy of the 14-24 is as good as any Sony 24 1.4. Where I really see where this lens will shine is in a group of lenses that you want AF small and light. Go 20,35,85 Sony 1.8 . Now that’s a compelling combo of 3 small , light lens . Maybe not the best rendering but still very compelling. I sold my home and moved so I sold a bunch of glass To support all of that as I was not prepared to sell but my daughter needed a new home so we decided to downsize, I’m thrilled about it but we put out a lot of money to do it, all new furniture and such.When I finally get my equity from the house, I have to reorganize. I still have my Sigma 14-24, Sony 35 which I’m thinking of selling , my CV 21 f3.5 is for sale and I still have my Sony 135. I’ll never sell that one. All I know is it’s good to see this class of lenses as not everyone wants to buy 1,000 dollar lenses. I m thinking my work lenses will be Sigma 14-24, sigma 24-70 and my 135. Than add a bunch of CV lenses for Guys personal collection and call it a day.
Feb 26, 2020 at 06:55 AM
p.8 #14Back On Sale: Sony FE 20mm f/1.8 G lens for only $798 ($100 off)
I'm the same way, Guy. My 14-24/2.8 is as sharp as any wide prime I've ever used in it's range (Including the Loxia 21), and better than any 14mm lens I've ever used. And it has virtually no CA, and decent flare performance, and good looking bokeh (when available), etc.
I am keeping my CV15 because it's so small, pretty good (though the Sigma is better) and takes small screw in filters, for times I don't want to deal with the big filter system.
I am keeping my CV15 because it's so small, pretty good (though the Sigma is better) and takes small screw in filters, for times I don't want to deal with the big filter system.
Feb 26, 2020 at 07:33 AM
p.8 #15Back On Sale: Sony FE 20mm f/1.8 G lens for only $798 ($100 off)
Yes I still want a small kit. I’ll rebuild my Cv lenses. I had a bad situation. Lost a lens on shipping have to put 1100 out to recover from it. I spaced out insuring the shipment and I think it got stolen at the post office or it’s lost in there system. Had all the return and where to info on it outside the label and such too. It’s my fault, was in a hurry.
Feb 26, 2020 at 07:40 AM
p.8 #16Back On Sale: Sony FE 20mm f/1.8 G lens for only $798 ($100 off)
Photos + review (in polish so please help yourself to Google translate) :
https://www.fotopolis.pl/testy/obiektywy/33238-sony-fe-20-mm-f-1-8-g-test-obiektywu/strona/11
https://www.fotopolis.pl/testy/obiektywy/33238-sony-fe-20-mm-f-1-8-g-test-obiektywu/strona/11
Feb 26, 2020 at 08:07 AM
p.8 #17Back On Sale: Sony FE 20mm f/1.8 G lens for only $798 ($100 off)
Just completed my pre-order. Adorama states they should ship March 6th
Feb 26, 2020 at 09:03 AM
p.8 #18Back On Sale: Sony FE 20mm f/1.8 G lens for only $798 ($100 off)
Another review from Ken Rockwell:
Feb 26, 2020 at 09:13 AM
p.8 #20Back On Sale: Sony FE 20mm f/1.8 G lens for only $798 ($100 off)
I like this lens but I think I will pick up 24mm TSE from Canon. Why Sony/Fuji have no TSE lenses.
Feb 26, 2020 at 09:57 AM