Superb optics and AF in a superlative super-tele zoom

Superb resolution from 100 mm to 400 mm

100–400 mm is an ideal zoom range for wildlife, birds, sports, photojournalism, and much more. An optional teleconverter¹ can extend focal length to 800 mm for even greater reach. An ED XA (Extra-low Dispersion extreme aspherical) element plus XA, Super ED, and ED elements minimise chromatic and spherical aberration for high resolution throughout the zoom range.

Minimal ghosting and stunning close-ups

Sony's original Nano AR Coating II suppresses flare and ghosting for outstanding clarity and contrast even in difficult light. Floating focus ensures that full resolution is maintained throughout the image area even when shooting close-ups at 0.25x magnification and minimum focus distance.

Constant F4.5 maximum aperture

Maximum aperture is a constant F4.5 throughout the zoom range. There is no need to readjust shutter speed or sensitivity to maintain optimum exposure when zooming, so you can concentrate fully on composition and shooting.

A great choice for movies

State-of-the-art lens technology ensures that focus breathing and zoom related focus and axial shifts are effectively suppressed for smooth, professional looking streams and movies. The XD Linear Motor drive system is exceptionally quiet too, so movie audio won't be spoiled by lens noise or vibration.

Fast, precise AF and tracking

Advanced algorithms and four of Sony's XD Linear Motors drive the floating focus groups for up to 3x faster AF.² Tracking performance has been improved by up to 50%.² With the α9 III body, reliable AF tracking is achieved at bursts of up to 120fps.³

Exquisite G Master™ bokeh

An 11-blade circular aperture unit and two XA elements including one ED XA (Extra-low Dispersion extreme aspherical) element contribute to exquisite G Master bokeh. The XA elements effectively suppress distracting onion-ring bokeh. Bokeh quality is further enhanced by careful adjustment of each individual lens, while ED and Super ED (Extra-low Dispersion) glass elements minimise colour bleeding.

Customisable for any shooting style

Four focus hold buttons allow easy access. A function ring can be assigned to control Preset Focus⁴ for quick registration and recall of a specific focus point, APS-C/Full Frame switching that allows quick shifts to the equivalent of 1.5x zoom, or Power Focus.⁵ A zoom smoothness switch and security slot are also provided.

High-performance optical stabilisation

Advanced optical stabilisation works in concert with α in-body stabilisation to achieve outstanding results. Switchable MODE 2 and MODE 3 modes provide optimum stabilisation for panned shots and moving subjects. The system also supports α body Active Mode stabilisation, providing superior stabilisation for movies as well as stills.

Lightweight for stress-free shooting

Magnesium alloy parts and painstaking design result in a remarkably low overall weight of just 1,840 g for a 100–400 mm super-telephoto zoom. Inner zoom minimises centre-of-gravity shift when zooming, further enhancing handling and reducing stress on the user. Even the zoom torque has been optimised to ensure smooth operation.