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93% positive over last 12 months
80% positive over lifetime
Sony SEL1670Z Vario-Tessar T E 16-70mm F4 ZA OSS
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Purchase options and add-ons
Brand | Sony |
Focal Length Description | 16-70 millimeters |
Lens Type | Standard |
Compatible Mountings | Sony E |
Camera Lens Description | 70 month |
About this item
- Carl Zeiss mid-range zoom lens; Compatible with E-mount Full Frame cameras and E-mount APS-C cameras
- Minimum Focus Distance : 1.15 feet (0.35 m), Maximum Magnification ratio : 0.23x, Focal Length : 16-70 mm
- High lens technology in a compact body. Filter Diameter (mm) - 55 mm
- Optical Steady Shot image stabilization. Zeiss T anti-reflective coating
- When using a flash, always remove the lens hood and shoot at least 1 m (3.3 feet) away from your subject. Angle of View (APS-C): 83°-23°
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This Item Sony SEL1670Z Vario-Tessar T E 16-70mm F4 ZA OSS | Recommendations | dummy | dummy | dummy | dummy | |
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Price | $798.00$798.00 | $539.00$539.00 | -37% $499.00$499.00 New Price: $798.00 | $798.00$798.00 | -16% $548.00$548.00 List: $649.99 | $284.00$284.00 |
Delivery | Get it as soon as Tuesday, Apr 2 | Get it as soon as Tuesday, Apr 2 | Get it as soon as Tomorrow, Mar 29 | — | Get it as soon as Tuesday, Apr 2 | Get it as soon as Tuesday, Apr 2 |
Customer Ratings | ||||||
Image stabilization | 5.0 | 3.2 | — | — | 4.5 | 3.9 |
Auto focus | 5.0 | 4.7 | — | — | 4.3 | 4.4 |
Picture quality | 4.2 | 4.8 | — | — | 4.2 | 4.7 |
Quality of material | 4.0 | — | — | — | 4.4 | 4.8 |
Sold By | Amazon.com | Digital Goja | Minty Gadgets (we track serial numbers) | AVC Photo Store & Studio | Amazon.com | Digital Goja |
lens type | Standard | Standard | Telephoto | zoom | Wide Angle, Telephoto | Wide Angle |
compatible mountings | Sony E | Sony E | Sony E | Sony E | Sony E | Sony E |
lens design | Zoom | Prime | Zoom | Zoom | Zoom | Prime |
focus type | Auto Focus | Auto Focus | Stepper motor | Auto/Manual | Stepper motor | Auto Focus |
minimum focal length | 16 millimeters | — | 16 millimeters | 13.78 millimeters | 18 millimeters | 30 millimeters |
max focal length | 70 millimeters | — | 70 millimeters | 70 millimeters | 105 millimeters | 30 millimeters |
fixed focal length | 70 millimeters | 50 millimeters | 70 millimeters | 105 millimeters | 105 millimeters | 1 millimeters |
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Product information
Product Dimensions | 2.95 x 2.64 x 2.64 inches |
---|---|
Item Weight | 10.9 ounces |
ASIN | B00ENZRPG0 |
Item model number | SEL1670Z |
Customer Reviews |
4.1 out of 5 stars |
Best Sellers Rank | #1,395 in SLR Camera Lenses |
Is Discontinued By Manufacturer | No |
Date First Available | August 26, 2013 |
Manufacturer | Sony |
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Product Description
Product Description
Outstanding contrast and resolution throughout the image area at all zoom settings are the hallmark of this high-performance Carl Zeiss mid-range zoom lens The latest advances in optical design technology have made it possible to deliver prized Carl Zeiss contrast and clarity in a high-performance mid-range zoom. Four aspherical elements combine with one ED glass element to bring you breathtaking rendering. When changing your aperture to defocus the background, the light sources appear blurred. This ‘bokeh’ effect of the blurred background can be enhanced with circular aperture blades used in this lens. Conventional aperture blades have flat sides creating unappealing polygonal shaped defocussed points of light. α lenses overcome this problem through a unique design that keeps the aperture almost perfectly circular from its wide-open setting to when it is closed by 2 stops. Smoother, more natural defocusing can be obtained as a result. As focal lengths get longer, lenses built with conventional optical glass have difficulties with chromatic aberration, and as a result images suffer from lower contrast, lower color quality, and lower resolution. ED glass dramatically reduces chromatic aberration at telephoto ranges, and provides superior contrast across the entire image, even at large aperture settings. Super ED glass provides enhanced compensation for chromatic aberration. Aspherical lens design dramatically reduces spherical aberration while also reducing lens size and weight. Spherical aberration is a slight misalignment of the light rays projected on the image plane. This is caused by differences in refraction at different points on conventional spherical lenses which degrade image quality in large-aperture lenses. Specially shaped “aspherical” elements near the diaphragm restore alignment of light rays at the image plane, maintaining high sharpness and contrast even at maximum aperture and can also be used at other points in the optical path to reduce distortion. Well-designed aspherical elements can reduce the total number of elements required in the lens, thus reducing overall size and weight. Advanced Aspherical (AA) elements are an evolved variant, featuring an extremely high thickness ratio between the center and periphery. AA elements are exceedingly difficult to produce, relying on the most advanced molding technology to consistently and precisely achieve the required shape and surface accuracy, resulting in significantly improved image accuracy and quality. Coated optics were pioneered by Carl Zeiss - and this superb lens features the Carl Zeiss T* (T-Star) coating that virtually eliminates lens flare, internal reflection and light scattering that can otherwise occur at glass-to-air surfaces. The T* coating contributes to outstanding image quality, with high contrast and uniformly excellent resolution right out to the image edges. Not simply applied to any lens - the T* symbol only appears on multi-element lenses in which the required performance has been achieved throughout the entire optical path, therefore guaranteeing the highest quality. Gyro sensors built into the lens detect even the slightest movement, and the stabilization lens is precisely shifted to counteract any image blur that might occur. The use of precision, quiet linear motors and technology inherited from high-end Sony professional camcorders results in exceptionally quiet, effective image stabilization that contributes to high-quality movies as well as stills. Only the middle groups of the optical system move to achieve focus, so the overall length of the lens does not change. Other important benefits include fast autofocusing and a short minimum focusing distance. Also, the filter thread at the front of the lens does not rotate, which is convenient if you’re using a polarizing filter. 2013 Sony Electronics All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part without written permission is prohibited. Sony is not responsible for typographical and photographic errors. Features and specifications are subject to change without notice. All rights reserved. Sony, the Sony logo, Alpha, (a) and Super SteadyShot are trademarks of Sony. All other trademarks are trademarks of their respective owners.
From the Manufacturer
Vario-Tessar T* E 16-70mm F4 ZA OSS Lens
The latest advances in optical design technology have made it possible to deliver prized Carl Zeiss contrast and clarity in a high-performance mid-range zoom. Four aspherical elements combine with one ED glass element to bring you breathtaking rendering.
Technology
Circular Aperture
When changing your aperture to defocus the background, the light sources appear blurred. This ‘bokeh’ effect of the blurred background can be enhanced with circular aperture blades used in this lens. Conventional aperture blades have flat sides creating unappealing polygonal shaped defocussed points of light. α lenses overcome this problem through a unique design that keeps the aperture almost perfectly circular from its wide-open setting to when it is closed by 2 stops. Smoother, more natural defocusing can be obtained as a result.
ED (Extra-low Dispersion) glass
As focal lengths get longer, lenses built with conventional optical glass have difficulties with chromatic aberration, and as a result images suffer from lower contrast, lower color quality, and lower resolution. ED glass dramatically reduces chromatic aberration at telephoto ranges, and provides superior contrast across the entire image, even at large aperture settings. Super ED glass provides enhanced compensation for chromatic aberration.
Aspherical lens elements
Aspherical lens design dramatically reduces spherical aberration while also reducing lens size and weight. Spherical aberration is a slight misalignment of the light rays projected on the image plane. This is caused by differences in refraction at different points on conventional spherical lenses which degrade image quality in large-aperture lenses. Specially shaped “aspherical” elements near the diaphragm restore alignment of light rays at the image plane, maintaining high sharpness and contrast even at maximum aperture and can also be used at other points in the optical path to reduce distortion. Well-designed aspherical elements can reduce the total number of elements required in the lens, thus reducing overall size and weight. Advanced Aspherical (AA) elements are an evolved variant, featuring an extremely high thickness ratio between the center and periphery. AA elements are exceedingly difficult to produce, relying on the most advanced molding technology to consistently and precisely achieve the required shape and surface accuracy, resulting in significantly improved image accuracy and quality.
Carl Zeiss T* (T-star) coating
Coated optics were pioneered by Carl Zeiss - and this superb lens features the Carl Zeiss T* (T-Star) coating that virtually eliminates lens flare, internal reflection and light scattering that can otherwise occur at glass-to-air surfaces. The T* coating contributes to outstanding image quality, with high contrast and uniformly excellent resolution right out to the image edges. Not simply applied to any lens - the T* symbol only appears on multi-element lenses in which the required performance has been achieved throughout the entire optical path, therefore guaranteeing the highest quality.
Lens-based optical image stabilization
Gyro sensors built into the lens detect even the slightest movement, and the stabilization lens is precisely shifted to counteract any image blur that might occur. The use of precision, quiet linear motors and technology inherited from high-end Sony professional camcorders results in exceptionally quiet, effective image stabilization that contributes to high-quality movies as well as stills.
Additional Features
Internal focusing
Only the middle groups of the optical system move to achieve focus, so the overall length of the lens does not change. Other important benefits include fast autofocusing and a short minimum focusing distance. Also, the filter thread at the front of the lens does not rotate, which is convenient if you’re using a polarizing filter.
2013 Sony Electronics Inc. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part without written permission is prohibited. Sony is not responsible for typographical and photographic errors. Features and specifications are subject to change without notice. All rights reserved. Sony, the Sony logo, Alpha, (a) and Super SteadyShot are trademarks of Sony. All other trademarks are trademarks of their respective owners.
Customer reviews
Customer Reviews, including Product Star Ratings help customers to learn more about the product and decide whether it is the right product for them.
To calculate the overall star rating and percentage breakdown by star, we don’t use a simple average. Instead, our system considers things like how recent a review is and if the reviewer bought the item on Amazon. It also analyzed reviews to verify trustworthiness.
Learn more how customers reviews work on AmazonCustomers say
Customers like the sharpness, color rendering, and contrast of the lens. They mention that it produces much more saturated colors, and that it's a pleasant lens to work with. Customers also appreciate the zoom range, and build quality. However, some customers differ on value.
AI-generated from the text of customer reviews
Customers like the sharpness of the lens. They mention that the center sharpness was superb, and the lens is sharp optically and mechanically very smooth to operate. They also say that the image is sharp and the corners and edges tend to sharpen up nicely by stopping down just to f.
"...like the pixel count on the camera, rest assured that this lens is very sharp and provides extremely detailed pictures that are utterly crisp and..." Read more
"...Too bad as this one was very sharp and I am left to wonder if the replacement will be as least as good.." Read more
"...Now onto the positives: the center is extremely sharp even at f/4.0, bokeh is very pleasant, it is ultra light compared to similar f/4 zoom lenses,..." Read more
"...Lens it's delightfully sharp, and way sharper than you would expect from a 24-105 equivalent zoom lens...." Read more
Customers like the quality of the camera lens. They mention it's an excellent lens, works great, and is pleasant to work with. Some say that the lens is lightweight and handles well. Overall, most are satisfied with the quality and functionality of the lens.
"...Don't get me wrong, this is an excellent lens, it really feels good in the hand and is not too heavy or large...." Read more
"...If price matters to you, the kit lens is pretty darn good (90%) and a bargain when purchased with a NEX body...." Read more
"...cons: First the pros; this is a lightweight lens that compliments the NEX system well...." Read more
"...I’ll update this if I notice any problems, but so far I think the lens is great. And again, looks like I got lucky in getting a good copy." Read more
Customers are satisfied with the color rendering and contrast of the lens. They mention that it produces much more saturated colors than the other two kit lenses, and that the images are crisp and clear. The glass resolves colors sufficient enough for the price. Some say that the lens is very sharp and provides extremely detailed pictures that are utterly crisp. Overall, most are happy with the purchase and recommend it to others.
"...camera, rest assured that this lens is very sharp and provides extremely detailed pictures that are utterly crisp and have absolute stunning colors..." Read more
"...I used it a great deal, liking its compactness, light weight, and inconspicuity, but I also recognized its limitations, such as its slow-and-slower..." Read more
"...the positives: the center is extremely sharp even at f/4.0, bokeh is very pleasant, it is ultra light compared to similar f/4 zoom lenses, and the..." Read more
"...The best part are the Zeiss characteristics of this lens. The color is great, and realistic, not oversaturated...." Read more
Customers like the zoom of the camera lens. They say it has an excellent zoom range and size. Some customers also say it's a great walk-around zoom lens with a wonderful useful focal length range. The zoom action is smooth and silky, making it great for all-around shooting.
"...And fortunately, this is exactly what you get - superior optical performance in the areas of contrast, color rendition, vignetting, and distortion...." Read more
"...The zoom action is very smooth but the manual focus ring is a little narrow and you don't have to turn it much to overshoot your focus, I am spoiled..." Read more
"...f/4 zoom lenses, and the range covered makes it in theory a fantastic travel lens. You also get a nice blue Zeiss logo on the lens...." Read more
"...Both have Optical Image Stabilization. The Zeiss has a slightly longer zoom range and a constant f4 aperture at any focal length, whereas the kit..." Read more
Customers like the size of the lens. They mention it's clear, sharp, and compact for the focal range. Some say that it'll be the perfect size and weight lens for their camera. Overall, most are satisfied with the size and quality of the product.
"...I used it a great deal, liking its compactness, light weight, and inconspicuity, but I also recognized its limitations, such as its slow-and-slower..." Read more
"...I liked the focal range, the constant f4 aperture, the somewhat compact size, the chance for high quality contrast, color and images from Zeiss...." Read more
"...The size of the lens is good and feels solid, but not L class solid...." Read more
"...The lens is not too large and handles well." Read more
Customers are satisfied with the build quality of the lens. They mention that it is well-made, above the quality described, and a solid performing lens. The size of the camera lens is good and feels solid. Overall, it is a good choice for quality Sony a6xxx mid zoom lenses.
"...as the kit zoom and weighs 3-1/2 times as much because it's solid metal and glass. It isn't stealthy...." Read more
"...If you are a genuine photography enthusiast who wants a well built regular zoom lens that won't hold you back and will allow you to get the most..." Read more
"...the Zeiss lens is built with better materials, metal barrel, precision manufacture. Of course it's image quality that counts most...." Read more
"...The quality of the optics is definitely great, you get a lot more sharpness/contrast/chrome aberration than the standard kit lenses...." Read more
Customers like the weight of the lens. They mention it's lightweight, compact, and has a great balance.
"...is an excellent lens, it really feels good in the hand and is not too heavy or large. It has very good close focus and the OSS works well...." Read more
"...I used it a great deal, liking its compactness, light weight, and inconspicuity, but I also recognized its limitations, such as its slow-and-slower..." Read more
"...is extremely sharp even at f/4.0, bokeh is very pleasant, it is ultra light compared to similar f/4 zoom lenses, and the range covered makes it in..." Read more
"...The build quality is as good as a $1k lens should be. The weight is a great balance on the a6000. Second, the image quality is excellent!..." Read more
Customers are mixed about the value of the lens. Some mention that it's well worth the cost, with reliable focus and fast in single shot. However, others say that it was a waste of money buying this lens. They say that the lens is expensive and is F4 at best.
"...The lens fussed a bit at first, it wouldn't focus and made a few 'interesting' whirring noises...." Read more
"...So, in summary, is this lens worth the hefty price tag? In my opinion, it is worth every penny of it...." Read more
"...It is not cheap. I probably couldn't afford it, but I'd buy it again, and recommend it to you...." Read more
"...I was a bit offended by the high price, which I believe takes advantage of the customer who expects miracles from Zeiss...." Read more
Reviews with images
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So, in summary, is this lens worth the hefty price tag? In my opinion, it is worth every penny of it. I own virtually every E-mount lens there is (with the exception of the 18-200mm), and this is the best, both in regards to its useful zoom range and constant aperture, and also in regards of the superior picture quality it generates.
The zoom action is very smooth but the manual focus ring is a little narrow and you don't have to turn it much to overshoot your focus, I am spoiled by the huge focus ring of the 24!
Don't get me wrong, this is an excellent lens, it really feels good in the hand and is not too heavy or large. It has very good close focus and the OSS works well. In fact this lens and the 24F18 make the perfect kit, as far as i am concerned and I recommend it.
I will keep an eye on any quality issues and update this review but with the contact cleaning I am hoping that only good images lie ahead.
CZR
11/3/13 Update
Today I had a similar issue with a different lens on the camera. So I have to conclude that the 1670Z lens was not at fault, which actually ticks me off since it was a very sharp lens! If I could do everything over again, I would just get the Nex 6 body and this 1670 lens as it covered all my needs very well.
10/6/13 Update
After a second failure, I cleaned the contacts and the pins in the camera with a cotton swab and some alcohol, so far so good, have not had any problems since.
Lens performs like a champ and is on par in every way with the high end CaNikon f4 zooms. Very Pleased.
10/12/13 Update
After a trip to the local farmers market this morning I have started the return process, the lens failed several times and I will have to get an exchange. Too bad as this one was very sharp and I am left to wonder if the replacement will be as least as good..
This Mighty Zeiss is a 4X zoom, but it's 3X as long as the kit zoom and weighs 3-1/2 times as much because it's solid metal and glass. It isn't stealthy. It has a crisp no-nonsense professional look, as it should, being Zeiss badged and producing professional image quality. It also holds f/4.0 throughout its 4X range, equivalent to 24-105mm (full-frame).
It is not cheap. I probably couldn't afford it, but I'd buy it again, and recommend it to you.
I carefully read many reviews and saw complaints, especially about the lenses arriving decentered. At unboxing, I tested and found no flaws at all. I've been using it almost daily for 3 months now and it is my walkabout lens, often paired with my new-to-me Sony SEL1018 10-18mm Wide-Angle Zoom Lens (Renewed). Together they give a really useful range from 15mm to 105mm, but if I go out with just one lens, it will be the 16-70 f/4 Zeiss.
Reviewed in the United States on July 1, 2021
This Mighty Zeiss is a 4X zoom, but it's 3X as long as the kit zoom and weighs 3-1/2 times as much because it's solid metal and glass. It isn't stealthy. It has a crisp no-nonsense professional look, as it should, being Zeiss badged and producing professional image quality. It also holds f/4.0 throughout its 4X range, equivalent to 24-105mm (full-frame).
It is not cheap. I probably couldn't afford it, but I'd buy it again, and recommend it to you.
I carefully read many reviews and saw complaints, especially about the lenses arriving decentered. At unboxing, I tested and found no flaws at all. I've been using it almost daily for 3 months now and it is my walkabout lens, often paired with my new-to-me Sony SEL1018 10-18mm Wide-Angle Zoom Lens (Renewed). Together they give a really useful range from 15mm to 105mm, but if I go out with just one lens, it will be the 16-70 f/4 Zeiss.