Sony Announces the FE 100–400mm F5.6–8 OSS
Sony Announces the FE 100–400mm F5.6–8 OSS: A Lightweight Super‑Telephoto for Hobbyists
Sony dropped a new long‑reach zoom this morning: the SEL100400 – FE 100–400mm F5.6–8 OSS. It’s a compact super‑telephoto aimed squarely at hobbyists who want big reach without big weight. Further, the lens comes in at 654 grams, which is unusually light for a 100–400mm—closer to travel‑zoom territory than traditional wildlife glass.
Sony positions it as “the perfect hobbyist’s super‑telephoto zoom lens” and says they built it with birders, parents, and casual wildlife shooters in mind. For that usage, also see the RX10.
Optics and Image Quality
The optical formula includes two ED elements and two aspherical elements. They are designed to keep color fringing and distortion under control throughout the zoom range. The press release notes that straightaway the lens maintains “excellent image quality and clear rendering across the entire zoom range no matter how far away the subject is.”
A 9‑blade circular aperture and tuned spherical aberration aim to deliver softer, more natural bokeh—something Sony has been emphasizing across recent releases.
Close‑up performance is surprisingly strong: 0.86 m minimum focus at 400mm and 0.41× magnification, making this a pseudo‑macro option for flowers, insects, and detail shots.
Autofocus and Stabilization
Sony’s linear motor drives AF, promising fast, quiet tracking. On the α9 III, the lens supports up to ~120 fps continuous shooting with AF/AE tracking. Built‑in optical stabilization works alongside the camera’s Active Mode and coordinated stabilization, plus breathing compensation for video.
Handling and Build
Despite the budget price point, Sony includes the expected controls: focus hold button, focus mode/range switch, and a zoom lock. The barrel is dust‑ and moisture‑resistant (not fully sealed). The hood is included.
Teleconverter Support
Significantly, with the SEL20TC 2× teleconverter, the lens reaches 800mm, or 1200mm in APS‑C mode—a notable range for a lens this small.
Price and Availability
Lastly, the FE 100–400mm F5.6–8 OSS ships September 2026 for $849.99 USD. Preorder now from our friends at B&H.