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Small max. aperture but this allows a relatively compact size and low weight, making this a practical carry lens and easy to hand-hold. The viewfinder image is still bright in my A850. Focusing is very fast despite this being the original, not the SSM II, version. The slim barrel extends when zooming which in combination with the incredibly deep lens hood combines to create the deeply unfashionable "drain-pipe" look at the 300mm mark, however this is more than mitigated by excellent image quality at any aperture. Very good build quality. Good Handling. A great combination of practicality and performance for a zoom lens with this range and reach. Recommended.
Verified purchase: Yes | Condition: Pre-owned
Lens externally is in great visual condition. Upon rotating the focus ring you can tell there is a small granular/gritty sound inside the focus ring itself which is unfortunate and was not stated in the details nor commented on when asked about the operation of the focus ring. When the servo is driving the lens it's not audible otherwise I'd be getting rid of it.
Verified purchase: Yes | Condition: Pre-owned
Although the 70-300 is larger and heavier than the Minolta 100-300 f4.5-5.6 APO, the extra size and weight are justified by the superior image sharpness and build quality that one obtains from a G lens. I have measured the sharpness of both the 70-300 and the 100-300 using the Imatest lens test software. The 70-300 is sharper than the 100-300, particularly at f4.5 and f5.6. However, the 70-300 does exhibit a minor amount of chromatic aberration, whereas the 100-300 does not. The 70-300 makes a great travel companion for the Zeiss 24-70 f2.8. The SSM focusing motor is fast and quiet. My only minor complaint about this lens is that I would have preferred to see all metal construction instead of plastic, and for this reason I've awarded it 4 stars instead of 5.
I've owned Nikon, Canon, Sigma and Tamron lenses of this zoom range before (Still do in Nikon). This Sony lens exceded my expectations and has produced excetional images on my A77 II. If you're looking for this range to get closer this will perform well but I would expect you'll need some stabilization. It is a bit hefty in weight but worth it.
Verified purchase: Yes | Condition: Pre-owned
IQ is great compared to the minolta 75-300mm lens I was using since film days. Size is a little larger than the minolta lens but well worth it for the better IQ. Auto focus almost silent and is fast compared to the 75-300, but that is the reason I purchased it, doing video. Thought about getting the tamron 70-300mm as it also has an almost silent auto focus and a lot cheaper. Reason for buying this over that, the "G" lens will hold its resale value much better if I decide to up grade to the 70-400 later. If you can afford it get this lens it is really worth it.