Sony FE 85mm f/1.4 GM II.
Half a pound lighter than the original GM with faster, quieter AF. The portrait prime that shows up at every wedding and headshot session.
The Verdict.
Gavler Meta-Score
“The GM II is what the original 85mm GM should have been: light enough to use all day, fast enough to track faces reliably, and optically flawless at f/1.4. For Sony portrait photographers, there is no better option. The weight reduction alone makes this an essential upgrade from the Mark I.”
The Gavler Verdict
Precision Engineering
GM Optical Formula
Tack-sharp at f/1.4 with smooth, three-dimensional bokeh — the rendering that defines Sony's G Master portrait look.
585g Lightweight Body
Nearly half a pound lighter than the original GM — comfortable for full-day wedding and event shoots.
Silent XD Linear AF
Two XD linear motors deliver fast, precise, and virtually silent autofocus for both stills and video.
Technical Specifications
The Scoreboard
Experts and community agree: the weight reduction and improved AF make the GM II a transformative upgrade. The $1,798 price is considered fair for the optical quality, though some photographers prefer the more affordable Sony 85mm f/1.8.
Cast Your Vote
Do you think Sony FE 85mm f/1.4 GM II deserves the #6 spot in Best Camera Lenses?
Best Price Availability.
Prices checked April 2026
Global Critique
“The GM II is the portrait lens Sony shooters have been dreaming of. Half the weight, twice the AF speed, same legendary rendering.”
“At 585 grams, this is the first 85mm f/1.4 you can shoot all day without fatigue. And the images are gorgeous.”
“Sony solved every problem with the original GM. The Mark II is lighter, faster, and just as optically brilliant.”
More from Best Camera Lenses.
See how other top picks compare in this category.
