Sony Announces FE 100–400mm F4.5 GM OSS: A Faster, Lighter Super‑Telephoto for Alpha Shooters
In addition to the new a7R powerhouse, Sony has added a new heavyweight—well, technically a lightweight—to its G Master lineup with the announcement of the FE 100–400mm F4.5 GM OSS, a constant‑aperture super‑telephoto built for wildlife, birding, sports, and photojournalism. The company describes it as delivering “autofocus up to approximately 3x faster” than the existing 100–400mm GM when paired with the Alpha 9 III.
This new version keeps the same reach but brings a constant F4.5 aperture, internal zoom, and a redesigned optical formula aimed at higher resolution and cleaner bokeh across the entire range.
G Master Optics, Updated for 2026
Sony rebuilt the optical design with a mix of ED XA, XA, Super ED, and ED elements to control chromatic and spherical aberrations. According to the press release, it “resolves fine detail across the full 100–400 mm zoom range, even wide open at F4.5.”
Other optical touches:
- Nano AR Coating II for better flare resistance
- 11‑blade circular aperture for classic GM bokeh
- Teleconverter support up to 800mm (full‑frame) or 1,200mm in APS‑C mode with the 2× TC
Autofocus Built for the A9 III Era
Sony’s latest super‑telephoto is clearly tuned for the A9 III’s stacked‑sensor speed. The lens uses four XD Linear Motors, a floating focus system, and updated AF algorithms to deliver the headline 3× AF speed improvement and “approximately 50% improved subject tracking” compared to the previous model.
It also supports 120 fps continuous shooting with full AF/AE tracking on the A9 III.
Mobility: The Big Upgrade
The original 100–400mm GM was already a favorite for its size‑to‑reach ratio. This new version pushes that further:
- 65 oz (1,840 g)
- Internal zoom for consistent balance
- Magnesium alloy construction
- Improved XD motor efficiency
Sony says the design “maintains constant length and stable center of gravity throughout the zoom range,” which is a big deal for handheld tracking and gimbal work.
Video‑Friendly Features
Sony continues to build hybrid‑friendly lenses, and this one includes:
- Built‑in optical stabilization with support for Active Mode
- Breathing compensation compatibility
- Four focus‑hold buttons and a function ring
- Dust and moisture resistance with fluorine coating on the front element
Pricing and Availability
The FE 100–400mm F4.5 GM OSS ships June 2026 for $4,299.99 USD. It will be available through Sony and authorized dealers across North America.
…My daily shooter is Sony A1 with a vertical grip and various Sony lenses attached like the FE 20mm F1.8. Find more gear recommendations in our shop. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
