When Sony introduced its pro-grade G Master lens series in early 2016, it promised the optics were capable of capturing stunning images on not just current cameras, but on future ones as well. Skeptics may ask then why Sony is refreshing one of the first GM lenses just a few years later. The truth is that there's a lot more to the new FE 24-70mm F2.8 GM II ($2,299.99) than a refined optical formula—it's also noticeably smaller than the original and sports several new on-barrel controls, for instance. The original FE 24-70mm F2.8 GM, which remains on sale for around $2,000, didn't earn our Editors' Choice award, but the new version clearly deserves that distinction. Size as a Feature If you're accustomed to the heft of the original FE 24-70mm F2.8 GM, the size of the new GM II is sure to impress. It's apparent just how much work Sony has done to make the lens easier to carry by looking at the two side by side. The GM II comes in at 4.7 by 3.5 inches (HD) and 1.5 pounds, noticeably ...

The Sony FE 24-70mm F2.8 GM II lens packs phenomenal optics into a slim, carry-friendly package, but its high price is in line with its performance.

Attractive carry weight and size; Superb optical performance; Snappy autofocus response; Zoom tension control and linear manual focus; Useful on-barrel controls; 1:3.1 macro reproduction

Pricey; Some focus breathing

The Sony FE 24-70mm f2.8 GM II is an outstanding lens, addressing the few shortfalls of its predecessor to become the best quality general-purpose zoom for the e-mount system to date.

Sony FE 24-70mm F2.8 GM II is a Fixed aperture Auto Focus (AF) Standard Zoom lens with 35mm FF max sensor coverage, and it is designed to be used with E Mount cameras. Sony replaced the older Sony FE 24-70mm F2.8 GM with this model.

Weather-sealed, Autofocus, Zoom Smoothness Switch on Lens, AF/MF Switch on Lens, Aperture Ring, Focus Hold Button, Iris Lock, Breathing Correction with Supported Cameras, De-click Switch, Hood supplied, Filter Adjustment Window on the hood, Full-time Manual Focusing, Fast Aperture at Wide end, Fast...

Weather-sealed, Autofocus, Zoom Smoothness Switch on Lens, AF/MF Switch on Lens, Aperture Ring, Focus Hold Button, Iris Lock, Breathing Correction with Supported Cameras, De-click Switch, Hood supplied, Filter Adjustment Window on the hood, Full-time Manual Focusing, Fast Aperture at Wide end, Fast...

I have always loved the Sony 24-70 GM because of its versatility and image quality. It was always my go-to lens on elopements and adventures in the mountains but the portability needed an upgrade. The new version takes the quality of the old lens and somehow makes it better, lighter, and smaller.

This fast standard zoom for full-frame cameras is designed for photographers and filmmakers alike. It offers very high image quality with beautiful bokeh, along with four fast and reliably controlled XD Linear Motors for autofocus.

What does this mean ?

The Apple iPhone 14 isn’t a huge upgrade on the iPhone 13, yet it still is a great phone with a top camera, good battery life and all the iOS benefits.

Clever safety features, Very good battery life, Reliable camera, Fun colours, You’ve got an ageing iPhone: If you’re on an iPhone 11 or older, then the changes here will make a notable difference.

Stuck on a 60Hz display, Minimal differences to the iPhone 13, You’ve got an iPhone 13: The changes from Apple’s previous phone aren’t enough to warrant an upgrade this year.

While it's a shame that picture and sound quality haven't been upgraded, the iPhone 13 was great in these regards and the iPhone 14 is, too Excellent display Admirable headphone performance Solid build quality No upgrades to picture or sound Familiar design Notch is still present

The Apple iPhone 14 is no match for the just-released iPhone 14 Pro, but if you ignore that, it’s one of the most effective phones around.

Great cameras, front and back, Fast performance, Good battery life, Innovative safety features

Design too familiar, Some average features