Looking Beyond the Sony 100mm F2.8 GM OSS? 6 Alternatives Worth a Look
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Looking for sony fe 100mm f2 8 gm alternatives? The Sony 100mm F2.8 GM OSS Macro is a dedicated macro lens for Sony E-Mount cameras. It offers 100mm focal length, f/2.8 aperture, and optical image stabilization. It also features four XD Linear AF motors for fast focusing. You get 1.4x magnification without converters, or up to 2.8x with optional teleconverters. This lens weighs 1.42 pounds and measures 5.82 inches long.
You might want something else if you need a different focal length, sensor format, or autofocus capability. Some users prefer manual focus for precision. Others need a zoom lens for versatility. This list includes 6 options chosen because their specs overlap with the original. You will find lenses for APS-C and Micro Four Thirds bodies. Some are manual, while others offer continuous zoom ranges. Each alternative matches specific needs like weight, aperture, or mount type. Review the data to find the right fit for your camera system.
Comparing the Top Alternatives
Sony FE 90mm F2.8 Macro G OSS
The Sony 90mm F2.8 Macro G OSS uses a 90mm focal length instead of 100mm. It is designed for full-frame sensors, whereas the GM is optimized for the E-mount ecosystem generally. This lens weighs 1.33 pounds, which is slightly lighter than the 1.42-pound GM. It shares the f/2.8 aperture and optical stabilization. You gain a more compact form factor at 3.11 inches wide. This option suits photographers who prioritize optical quality and stabilization over the extra reach of the 100mm version. It is a strong choice for full-frame macro work where portability matters.
Sigma 70mm F2.8 DG Art Macro Lens
The Sigma 70mm F2.8 DG Art Macro offers a shorter 70mm focal length. It weighs 1.1 pounds, making it the lightest option in this comparison. This lens is manual focus only, which is a significant difference from the GM’s fast XD Linear AF motors. It is built for full-frame bodies and prioritizes high resolution. You give up autofocus and image stabilization for a more compact and lighter tool. This lens fits photographers who want life-size macro details and do not need speed or vibration reduction. It is a solid choice for static subjects where manual precision is preferred over convenience.
Rokinon Cine DS 100mm T3.1 Macro Lens
The Rokinon Cine DS 100mm T3.1 Macro is designed for Micro Four Thirds cameras, not Sony E-mount. It uses a T-stop of T3.1 instead of an f-stop of f/2.8. This lens is manual focus and weighs 1.6 pounds, which is heavier than the GM. It lacks image stabilization. This option is ideal for videographers who prioritize build quality and focus gears. You give up autofocus and sensor compatibility for a dedicated video tool. It fits users who do not need autofocus and are shooting with Micro Four Thirds bodies. This is a niche choice for manual video macro work.
Tamron 17-70mm f/2.8 Di III-A VC RXD Lens
The Tamron 17-70mm f/2.8 Di III-A VC RXD is a zoom lens for APS-C sensors, not a prime macro. It offers a variable focal length range instead of a fixed 100mm. It maintains a constant f/2.8 aperture throughout the zoom range. This lens weighs 1.2 pounds and includes vibration compensation. It is not a dedicated macro lens, so it lacks the specialized magnification of the GM. You gain versatility for everyday photography. This option suits Sony APS-C users who want speed and flexibility. It is a practical all-rounder for those who prioritize a constant wide aperture over extreme focal length ranges.
Tamron 150-500mm f/5-6.7 Di III VC VXD
The Tamron 150-500mm f/5-6.7 Di III VC VXD is a super-telephoto zoom for full-frame Sony E-mount. It offers much longer reach than the 100mm GM. The maximum aperture is f/5-6.7, which is slower than f/2.8. It weighs 4.14 pounds, significantly heavier than the GM. It includes vibration compensation. This lens is designed for wildlife and sports photography. You give up low-light speed and macro capabilities for maximum reach. It fits photographers who shoot distant subjects with Sony full-frame cameras. This is a specialized tool for those who prioritize reach and stabilization over portability and wide apertures.
7artisans 60mm f/2.8 Manual Macro Lens
The 7artisans 60mm f/2.8 Manual Macro is designed for APS-C sensors. It has a 60mm focal length and manual focus only. It lacks image stabilization and autofocus motors. This lens is compact and lightweight, though specific dimensions are not listed. It offers f/2.8 aperture for life-size macro details. You give up autofocus and stabilization for a smaller, manual tool. This option suits APS-C shooters who value manual precision. It fits those who want macro details without heavy gear. It is a basic choice for users who do not need advanced autofocus or stabilization features.
Quick picks
Our 7 picks
Sony 100mm F2.8 GM OSS Macro
Best for: dedicated macro photography on Sony E-Mount
- Lens Mount
- Sony E-Mount
- Focal Length
- 100mm
- Maximum Aperture
- f/2.8
- Focus Type
- XD Linear AF
- Image Stabilization
- Optical Image Stabilization (OSS)
- Color
- Black
View on Amazon: Sony 100mm F2.8 GM OSS Macro Affiliate link
This Sony FE 100mm F2.8 GM OSS Macro lens offers 1.4x magnification for detailed close-ups. It features four XD Linear AF motors for fast and quiet focusing. The lens includes Optical Image Stabilization to reduce shake during macro work. Weighing 1.42 pounds, it is designed for Sony E-Mount cameras. It suits photographers who need high resolution and precise focus control.
Pros
- 1.4x maximum magnification for macro photography
- Four XD Linear AF motors for speed
- Optical Image Stabilization minimizes camera shake
- F2.8 maximum aperture for low light
Cons
- Fixed 100mm focal length limits versatility
- Heavier build at 1.42 pounds
- Requires optional teleconverter for 2.8x magnification
Good fit if
- You need dedicated macro capabilities
- You shoot with Sony E-Mount cameras
- You prioritize fast and quiet autofocus
Skip if
- You require a zoom lens range
- You need a lighter travel lens
- You use a different camera mount
Verdict: Sony 100mm F2.8 GM OSS Macro delivers specialized macro performance with fast autofocus and stabilization. It fits photographers who prioritize image quality and magnification over zoom flexibility.
Sony FE 90mm F2.8 Macro G OSS
Best for: full-frame macro photography
- Lens Mount
- E-mount
- Focal Length
- 90 mm
- Maximum Aperture
- F2.8
- Sensor Format
- 35mm full-frame
- Focus Type
- Manual/auto focus, DDSSM
- Image Stabilization
- Optical Steady Shot
View on Amazon: Sony FE 90mm F2.8 Macro G OSS Affiliate link
This Sony lens is a 90mm macro option for full-frame E-mount cameras. It features a bright f/2.8 aperture and 1.0x magnification. Optical Steady Shot helps with handheld shots. The build is dust and moisture resistant. You get corner-to-corner sharpness with advanced spherical elements. It suits photographers who need precise focus and high resolution for close-up work.
Pros
- 1.0x maximum magnification ratio
- Optical Steady Shot image stabilization
- Dust and moisture resistant design
- 9-blade circular aperture for bokeh
Cons
- Heavier at 1.33 pounds
- Manual focus selection via sliding ring
- No weather sealing gasket mentioned
Good fit if
- You shoot macro on full-frame bodies
- You need stable handheld close-ups
- You want sharp corner-to-corner detail
Skip if
- You shoot on APS-C only
- You prefer autofocus without sliding rings
- You need longer reach than 90mm
Verdict: Sony 90mm F2.8 Macro G OSS delivers professional macro performance for full-frame users. It fits photographers who prioritize optical quality and stabilization over lightweight portability.
Sigma 70mm F2.8 DG Art Macro Lens
Best for: Full-frame macro photography requiring high resolution
- Lens Mount
- Sony E
- Focal Length
- 70mm
- Maximum Aperture
- F2.8
- Sensor Format
- Full-frame
- Color
- Black
- Lens Type
- Macro
View on Amazon: Sigma 70mm F2.8 DG Art Macro Lens Affiliate link
The Sigma 70mm F2.8 Art DG Macro is a full-frame macro lens for Sony E-mount cameras. It offers a 1:1 magnification ratio for life-size reproduction. The lens features a maximum aperture of f/2.8 and a focus-by-wire system for precise manual adjustments. Weighing 1.1 pounds, it provides solid build quality. This lens suits photographers who prioritize resolution and clarity in their macro work.
Pros
- 1:1 macro magnification ratio
- f/2.8 maximum aperture
- Focus-by-wire manual focusing system
- Compatible with Canon lens aberration correction
Cons
- Heavier at 1.1 pounds compared to lighter alternatives
- Longer length at 4.2 inches
- Manual focus only via focus-by-wire
Good fit if
- You need true 1:1 macro magnification on full-frame Sony cameras
- You prefer precise manual focusing control
- You want high resolution and clarity in macro shots
Skip if
- You need autofocus for fast-moving subjects
- You require a lighter or more compact lens
- You shoot primarily on APS-C sensors
Verdict: The Sigma 70mm F2.8 Art DG Macro for Sony E is a heavy, manual-focus macro lens ideal for photographers who prioritize resolution and 1:1 magnification on full-frame bodies.
Rokinon Cine DS 100mm T3.1 Macro Lens
Best for: Manual video macro work
- Lens Mount
- Micro Four Thirds
- Focal Length
- 100mm
- Maximum Aperture
- T3.1
- Sensor Format
- Full Frame
- Minimum Focusing Distance
- 1.0 ft.
- Color
- Black
View on Amazon: Rokinon Cine DS 100mm T3.1 Macro Lens Affiliate link
The Rokinon Cine DS 100mm is a manual focus macro lens designed for Micro Four Thirds cameras. It features a T3.1 maximum aperture and a minimum focusing distance of 1.0 ft. The lens includes 15 glass elements in 12 groups and a 9-blade diaphragm. It offers a 16.4-degree angle of view. This lens suits videographers who need manual control and consistent color matching across their gear.
Pros
- 100mm focal length for telephoto macro work
- Minimum focusing distance of 1.0 ft
- 9-blade diaphragm for smooth bokeh
- Unified gears for follow focus systems
- Ultra Multi-Coated glass elements
Cons
- Manual focus only
- Micro Four Thirds mount only
- T-stop aperture limits low light performance
Good fit if
- You shoot video with manual control
- You use Micro Four Thirds cameras
- You need a dedicated macro lens
Skip if
- You need autofocus
- You shoot with Sony E-mount cameras
- You require automatic aperture control
Verdict: Rokinon Cine DS 100mm T3.1 Macro Lens is a solid manual option for Micro Four Thirds users who prioritize build quality and focus gears over speed. It fits videographers who do not need autofocus.
Tamron 17-70mm f/2.8 Di III-A VC RXD Lens
Best for: Everyday APS-C photography
- Lens Mount
- Sony E
- Focal Length
- 17-70mm
- Maximum Aperture
- f/2.8
- Sensor Format
- APS-C
- Minimum Focusing Distance
- 7.5” at 17mm / 15.4" at 70mm
- Color
- Black
View on Amazon: Tamron 17-70mm f/2.8 Di III-A VC RXD Lens Affiliate link
This Tamron lens offers a 17-70mm focal range on Sony APS-C cameras. It maintains a constant f/2.8 aperture throughout the zoom. The design includes 16 elements in 12 groups for sharp images. You get close focusing at 7.5 inches at the wide end. It also features moisture-resistant construction. This is a versatile standard zoom for everyday shooting.
Pros
- Constant f/2.8 maximum aperture
- 17-70mm focal length range
- Close focusing distance of 7.5 inches
- Moisture-resistant construction
Cons
- APS-C sensor format only
- Heavier at 1.2 pounds
- Limited to Sony E and Fuji X mounts
Good fit if
- You shoot with Sony APS-C mirrorless cameras
- You need a single lens for daily use
- You want fast aperture in a zoom
Skip if
- You use full-frame Sony cameras
- You require telephoto reach beyond 70mm
- You prefer prime lenses for macro work
Verdict: Tamron 17-70mm f/2.8 APS-C Zoom is a practical all-rounder for Sony APS-C users who want speed and versatility. It suits those who prioritize a constant wide aperture over extreme focal length ranges.
Tamron 150-500mm f/5-6.7 Di III VC VXD
Best for: Wildlife and sports photography with Sony full-frame
- Lens Mount
- Sony E
- Focal Length
- 150-500mm
- Maximum Aperture
- f/5-6.7
- Sensor Format
- Full Frame
- Color
- Black
- Dimensions
- 8.3 × 3.7 × 3.7 inches
View on Amazon: Tamron 150-500mm f/5-6.7 Di III VC VXD Affiliate link
The Tamron 150-500mm f/5-6.7 is an ultra-telephoto zoom lens designed for Sony E-mount full-frame mirrorless cameras. It offers a 225-750mm equivalent range on APS-C bodies. The lens includes VC image stabilization for handheld shooting and uses XLD and LD elements to reduce chromatic aberration. It weighs 4.14 pounds and measures 8.3 inches long. This lens suits photographers needing reach for distant subjects.
Pros
- 150-500mm focal length provides 225-750mm equivalent reach on APS-C bodies
- VC image stabilization with standard, panning, and framing priority modes
- XLD, LD, and GM elements reduce color fringing and distortion
- Rotating Arca-type tripod mount for stable support
Cons
- Heavy at 4.14 pounds, which may cause fatigue during handheld use
- Variable aperture of f/5-6.7 limits performance in low light
- Long 8.3-inch length makes it less portable than shorter lenses
Good fit if
- You need extreme reach for wildlife or sports photography
- You shoot with full-frame Sony E-mount mirrorless cameras
- You value image stabilization for handheld telephoto shots
Skip if
- You prefer lightweight gear for travel or hiking
- You require fast apertures for low-light situations
- You shoot primarily with APS-C bodies without considering equivalent reach
Verdict: Tamron 150-500mm f/5-6.7 for Sony E is ideal for photographers who prioritize maximum reach and stabilization over portability and low-light speed. It fits those who shoot distant subjects with Sony full-frame cameras.
7artisans 60mm f/2.8 Manual Macro Lens
Best for: APS-C manual macro photography
- Lens Mount
- Sony E-Mount
- Focal Length
- 60mm
- Maximum Aperture
- f/2.8
- Sensor Format
- APS-C
- Focus Type
- Manual Focus
- Minimum Focusing Distance
- 0.175m
View on Amazon: 7artisans 60mm f/2.8 Manual Macro Lens Affiliate link
This 7artisans lens is a manual focus macro designed for APS-C Sony E-mount cameras. It features a bright f/2.8 aperture and a 1:1 magnification ratio for life-size close-ups. The internal focusing mechanism keeps the weight to 342g and the length to 80.5mm. An ED lens element helps reduce aberrations. The de-clicked aperture ring allows for smooth video exposure changes. It suits photographers who prioritize compact size and manual control.
Pros
- 1:1 magnification ratio for true macro photography
- Bright f/2.8 maximum aperture for low light
- Compact design weighing only 342g
- De-clicked aperture ring for silent video use
Cons
- Manual focus only with no autofocus motor
- APS-C format limits full-frame compatibility
- No image stabilization system included
Good fit if
- You shoot with APS-C Sony E-mount cameras
- You prefer manual control for precise macro work
- You need a lightweight lens for travel
Skip if
- You require autofocus for fast-moving subjects
- You shoot with full-frame Sony cameras
- You need image stabilization for handheld shots
Verdict: 7artisans 60mm F2.8 Manual Macro is a compact tool for APS-C shooters who value manual precision. It fits those who want life-size macro details without heavy gear.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | Sony 100mm F2.8 GM OSS Macro | Sony FE 90mm F2.8 Macro G OSS | Sigma 70mm F2.8 DG Art Macro Lens | Rokinon Cine DS 100mm T3.1 Macro Lens | Tamron 17-70mm f/2.8 Di III-A VC RXD Lens | Tamron 150-500mm f/5-6.7 Di III VC VXD | 7artisans 60mm f/2.8 Manual Macro Lens |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Lens Mount | Sony E-Mount | E-mount | Sony E | Micro Four Thirds | Sony E | Sony E | Sony E-Mount |
| Focal Length | 100mm | 90 mm | 70mm | 100mm | 17-70mm | 150-500mm | 60mm |
| Maximum Aperture | f/2.8 | F2.8 | F2.8 | T3.1 | f/2.8 | f/5-6.7 | f/2.8 |
| Sensor Format | not stated | 35mm full-frame | Full-frame | Full Frame | APS-C | Full Frame | APS-C |
| Focus Type | XD Linear AF | Manual/auto focus, DDSSM | not stated | not stated | not stated | not stated | Manual Focus |
| Image Stabilization | Optical Image Stabilization (OSS) | Optical Steady Shot | not stated | not stated | not stated | not stated | not stated |
| Minimum Focusing Distance | not stated | 0.92 ft (0.28 m) | not stated | 1.0 ft. | 7.5” at 17mm / 15.4" at 70mm | not stated | 0.175m |
| Color | Black | Black | Black | Black | Black | Black | not stated |
| Aperture | f/2.8 | f/2.8 | f/2.8 | not stated | f/2.8 | not stated | f/2.8 |
| Lens Type | Macro | Macro | Macro | Macro | not stated | not stated | Macro |
| Dimensions | 5.82 × 3.2 × 3.2 inches | 5.16 × 3.11 × 3.11 inches | 4.2 × 2.8 × 2.8 inches | 5.82 × 3.2 × 3.2 inches | 4.7 × 2.94 × 2.94 inches | 8.3 × 3.7 × 3.7 inches | not stated |
| Weight | 1.42 pounds | 1.33 pounds | 1.1 pounds | 1.6 pounds | 1.2 pounds | 4.14 pounds | not stated |
| Size | 5.50 | 4.70 | 70mm | 5.10 | Lens Only | Sony FE Mount | not stated |
| Model | SEL100M28GM | SEL90M28G | 271965 | DS100M-MFT | AFB070S700 | AFA057S700 | 6028EBC |
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Frequently asked questions
Is there a lighter Sony macro lens alternative?
The Sony 90mm F2.8 Macro G OSS weighs 1.33 pounds. This is slightly lighter than the Sony 100mm F2.8 GM OSS Macro, which weighs 1.42 pounds. Both lenses offer f/2.8 apertures and are designed for full-frame sensors. The 90mm model provides professional macro performance with optical stabilization. It fits users who prioritize optical quality over minimal weight.
Does the Sigma 70mm macro lens have autofocus?
No, the Sigma 70mm F2.8 DG Art Macro Lens is a manual-focus lens. It is designed for full-frame bodies and prioritizes high resolution and 1:1 magnification. The lens weighs 1.1 pounds and measures 4.2 inches in length. It is ideal for photographers who prefer manual precision and do not require autofocus speed for their macro work.
Can I use the Rokinon Cine DS on Sony cameras?
The Rokinon Cine DS 100mm T3.1 Macro Lens is designed for Micro Four Thirds systems, not Sony E-Mount cameras. It is a manual lens intended for video macro work. It features focus gears and weighs 1.6 pounds. Sony E-Mount users should look for lenses specifically listed for that mount to ensure compatibility and proper function.
Is there a zoom lens alternative for Sony APS-C?
The Tamron 17-70mm f/2.8 Di III-A VC RXD Lens is a practical zoom for Sony APS-C cameras. It offers a constant f/2.8 aperture and weighs 1.2 pounds. This lens suits users who want versatility and speed rather than extreme focal lengths. It includes vibration compensation and RXD autofocus motors for general everyday photography needs.
What is the best manual macro lens for APS-C?
The 7artisans 60mm f/2.8 Manual Macro Lens is a compact option for APS-C shooters. It provides life-size macro details without heavy gear. The lens is designed for manual focus precision. It fits users who value portability and manual control. This lens is specifically tailored for APS-C sensors and offers a straightforward macro solution.
Which lens offers the most reach for wildlife?
The Tamron 150-500mm f/5-6.7 Di III VC VXD offers maximum reach for distant subjects. It is designed for Sony full-frame cameras and weighs 4.14 pounds. This lens prioritizes reach and stabilization over low-light speed. It is ideal for wildlife and sports photographers who need to capture faraway subjects with clarity and stability.