Zeiss Ultra Prime 8R T2.8 vs Sony FE 16-35mm F2.8 GM
Zeiss Ultra Prime 8R T2.8 vs Sony FE 16-35mm F2.8 GM
When comparing Sony FE 16-35mm F2.8 GM and Zeiss Ultra Prime 8R T2.8, which one is better?
1. Lens Weight Comparison
Regarding the weight of the lenses, Sony FE 16-35mm F2.8 GM is the winner with a weight of 680 g compared to the 2000 g that Zeiss Ultra Prime 8R T2.8 weighs.
Winner: Sony FE 16-35mm F2.8 GM
Regarding weight: The weight of a lens is something you need to consider, since you have to carry it around on the camera as long as you're shooting. It adds to the total weight of your camera and it's important to keep the weight low if you get tired in your arms when taking photographs or filming.
2. Largest Aperture Comparison
Both lenses share the same aperture of 2.8 — this means that you may buy both Zeiss Ultra Prime 8R T2.8 and Sony FE 16-35mm F2.8 GM in this regard; they''re the same.
Winner: Tied
Regarding largest aperture: A lower aperture number means that the widest aperture on the lens is larger. This means that more light will hit the sensor and also that the depth of field will be shallower, better separating your subject from the background.
3. Focus Distance Comparison
Sony FE 16-35mm F2.8 GM features a minimum focus distance of 28 cm while Zeiss Ultra Prime 8R T2.8 has a minimum focus distance of 35 cm. Depending on your shooting style, the Sony FE 16-35mm F2.8 GM might be a better choice.
Winner: Sony FE 16-35mm F2.8 GM
Regarding minimum focus distance: The minimum focus distance of a lens is the smallest distance from the lens to the subject you want to be in focus; subjects closer than the lens' minimum focus distance will not be in focus. Whether or not this is important to you is up for you to decide, but some want to take close photos and videos and in those cases it's important to have a lens with a low minimum focus distance.
4. Lens Type Comparison
The Zeiss Ultra Prime 8R T2.8 is a Prime lens while the Sony FE 16-35mm F2.8 GM is a Zoom lens. Whether or not a zoom lens or a prime lens is what you need, is up to you to decide; they both have their respective strengths and weaknesses.
Winner: Tied — It depends on your gear
Regarding type: There are two types of lenses; zoom lenses and prime lenses. Prime lenses have a fixed focal length and cannot be zoomed, while zoom lenses have a focal length range and can be zoomed in to get closer to the subject. Prime lenses are usually lighter, cheaper and let in more light. Zoom lenses are more versatile but are more expensive since they require a more advanced lens design.
Specifications
Full specifications table of Zeiss Ultra Prime 8R T2.8 and Sony FE 16-35mm F2.8 GM:
| Zeiss Ultra Prime 8R T2.8 | Sony FE 16-35mm F2.8 GM | |
 |  | |
| Brand | Zeiss | Sony |
| Weight | 2000 g | 680 g |
| Lens Mount | Missing | Sony E |
| Focal Length | 8 mm | 16 - 35 mm |
| Largest Aperture | 2.8 | 2.8 |
| Anamorphic | Missing | No |
| Minimum Focus Distance | 35 cm | 28 cm |
| Type | Prime | Zoom |
| Aperture Range | 2.8 - 22 | 2.8 - 22 |
| Filter Thread Diameter | Missing | 82 |
| Lens Front Diameter (Not Filter Thread) | 134 mm | Missing |
| Aperture Blades | Missing | 11 |
| Lens Groups | Missing | 13 |
| Lens Elements | Missing | 16 |
| Autofocus | Missing | Evet |
| Weather Seal | Missing | Yes |
| Full Frame Coverage | Missing | Yes |
| Lens Hood Included | Missing | Yes |