Fast F2.8 APS-C standard zoom

Sony’s first 16–55-mm (24–82.5 mm full-frame equiv.) APS-C zoom with a constant F2.8 aperture is remarkably compact while offering performance befitting the G Lens series. A new optical design delivers excellent corner-to-corner resolution, and beautiful bokeh is available when needed. It is compact, lightweight, and ideal for a wide range of subjects.

Compact F2.8 APS-C standard zoom G lens 

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APS-C E-mount

Coupled with α E-mount cameras from Sony, APS-C E-mount lenses deliver big camera performance.

E 16–55 mm F2.8 G Photo Gallery
High resolution throughout the zoom range, even at F2.8
High resolution throughout the zoom range, even at F2.8

Two AA (advanced aspherical) and two aspherical elements suppress aberration for outstanding corner-to-corner G Lens resolution, while three ED (Extra-low Dispersion) glass elements reduce color bleeding to a minimum. Sony’s original Nano AR Coating adds superior resistance to flare and ghosting for crisp contrast. Precise spherical aberration control and a 9-blade circular aperture contribute to smooth bokeh.

Compact, lightweight, and bright
Compact, lightweight, and bright

Optimized mechanical and optical design achieve a weight of just 494 grams (17.5 oz) in a compact, constant F2.8 16–55-mm (24–82.5 mm full-frame equiv.) zoom lens. This fine lens is ideal for everything from portraits to everyday snapshots, combining with compact E-mount bodies to form a highly mobile, manageable system for a wide range of photographic applications.

XD Linear Motor for fast, precise AF and tracking
XD Linear Motor for fast, precise AF and tracking

The same type of advanced XD (eXtreme Dynamic) linear motor that maximizes focus performance in G Master series lenses is employed in this APS-C lens. The XD Linear Motor fully utilizes the speed potential of the camera body, focusing on and tracking even fast-moving subjects with outstanding speed and precision. Operation is also quiet, allowing videographers to take advantage of the constant F2.8 aperture.

Product image indicating focus mode switch and illustration describing dust- and moisture- resistant design
Professional control and reliability

A customizable focus hold button, AF/MF mode switch, and Linear Response MF add control versatility and precision that can help get the shot even in difficult, changing conditions. The front lens element is fluorine coated to repel water and grime, and the lens is dust and moisture resistant so that that it can be used with confidence in challenging outdoor environments.

Illustration of lens configuration
Lens Configuration

Impeccable Sony G Lens design emphasizes a graceful balance between high resolution and gorgeous background bokeh that can enhance the artist’s vision.

[1] Advanced aspherical lens (AA lens) [2] Aspherical lens [3] ED (extra-low dispersion) glass

Modulation Transfer Function of SEL1655G
MTF Chart

MTF (Modulation Transfer Function) describes how well a lens can reproduce fine details, measured as the degree of contrast achieved between finely spaced lines.

[1] Contrast (%)  [2] Distance from optical center of lens (mm)  [3] At 16 mm / Max. aperture  [4] At 16 mm / F8 aperture  [5] At 55 mm / Max. aperture  [6] At 55 mm / F8 aperture  [7] Spatial frequency  [8] 10 line pairs/mm  [9] 30 line pairs/mm  [10] Radial values  [11] Tangential values

Close-up photo of the FX6 being used to film
Advantages of Sony’s lenses for video shooting

Learn the four unique advantages of using Sony's E-mount lens for video shooting. The combination of Sony's lenses and cameras will enhance your video creation experience.

Lens Controls

1. Focusing ring 2. Focus hold button 3. Focus mode switch 4. Zooming ring

E 16–55 mm F2.8 G compatibility

Some camera bodies may require soft update for full functionality.

Specifications and Features

  • Compact, high resolution F2.8 APS-C standard zoom G lens

  • XD Linear Motor offering excellent response and low vibration for fast, precise, quiet AF

  • Two AA lens, two aspherical elements, and three ED glasses for high resolution throughout the zoom range

  • Sony Nano AR Coating to eliminate flare and ghosting

  • Dust- and moisture-resistant design

Minimum Focus Distance
0.33 m (1.09 ft)
Maximum Magnification ratio (x)
0.2
Filter Diameter (mm)
67
Weight
494 g (17.5 oz)

What's in the Box

Hood (model): ALC-SH161, Lens front cap: ALC-F67S, Lens rear cap: ALC-R1EM, Soft case

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