Sony SAL-50M28 Normal AF D 50mm f/2.8 Macro Autofocus Lens

In this summary it would be better if we compared the Sony 2.8/50 with a Canon EF-S 2.8/60 Macro or a Sigma 2.8/50 Macro. Unfortunately neither of these instruments have been tested yet so out of necessity the tested device is being compared to the Sigma 2.8/70 Macro and the Tamron 2.8/90 Macro.

• +

  very good image quality starting up from the maximum relative aperture,, negligible distortion,, well-corrected coma and astigmatism,, exemplary work against bright light,, correct work of autofocus,, good quality of barrel.

• -

  a bit too high vignetting by f/2.8,, chromatic aberration at the maximum relative aperture could have been lower.

The Sony 50mm f/2.8 macro is certainly a very good lens but it does not really stand out from the crowd - macro lenses simply tend to be top performers. The resolution potential of the lens is very high straight from f/2.8.

This lens produces very sharp images regardless if you're in macro or limiter mode. It also doubles up great as a portrait lens if you're on a crop sensor camera (bringing you up to 75mm). It's built quite well, feels solid in the hand, and isn't too heavy or light.

• +

  Pretty much everything you'd expect from the lens

• -

  Little bit of play in the focus ring

I have been a Minolta/Sony user for years. Over the years I have preferred fixed focal length lenses to zooms. This lens reinforces that preference. The lens is constructed really well, from the built in hood to the metal lens mount. It has great weight and balance.

I have been able to capture great images with this lens. Great focus and range.