The Sony Zeiss Planar T* FE 50mm F1.4 ZA ($1,499.99) carries the premium price you get with a lens endorsed by Zeiss, but its performance more than backs it up. The f/1.4 standard angle prime, compatible with Sony's mirrorless camera system, delivers crisp imaging right up to the edge of the frame, even at f/1.4, and without any noticeable distortion. It's a stellar performer that's worthy of being named Editors' Choice, but its high asking price and heavy build may turn some photographers off. If you can live with an f/1.8, the Zeiss Sonnar T* FE 55mm F1.8 ZA ($998.00 at Amazon) is a solid option, but one that doesn't capture as much light. Design The Planar T* ($1,498.00 at Amazon) is a big, heavy lens, but it balances well on a full-frame Sony mirrorless body. It measures 4.3 by 3.3 inches (HD), weighs 1.7 pounds, and has a big front element that accommodates 72mm filters. It dwarfs the smaller FE 55mm (2.8 by 2.5 inches, 11.2 ounces), but captures more light when shot at its ...
The Sony Zeiss Planar T* FE 50mm F1.4 ZA lens captures incredibly sharp images with no distortion, even when working at f/1.4.
Superb sharpness; No distortion; Solid, weather-sealed build; Physical aperture control; Bright f/1.4 aperture
Pricey; Omits optical stabilization; Dim corners at wide apertures; Heavy