Published: August 12, 2015
Sony a7RII’s back-illuminated sensor is the world’s first fullframe sensor with an on-sensor Phase Detection AF system capable of fast autofocus using SSM and SAM DSLR lenses. Sony A-mount lenses include motorized SSM and SAM lenses as well as non-motorized Screw Drive lenses.
Fastest AF is achieved using a7 II, a7R II, a7 III, a7R III, a9, a6300, a6400, a6500 which allow PDAF AF-C and AF-S with third-party lenses in still photography mode.
I tested out every lens I could get many hands on and here’s a breakdown of which adapters worked best on each. All testing was done under indoor lighting either at B& H Photo, the Sony Store in NYC or at Photoshop World. In all cases testing was performed in less-than-bright testing conditions.
SONY A-MOUNT SSM & SAM LENSES
Sony LA-EA3 Lens Adapter allow Sony SSM and SAM lenses to achieve fast autofocus using a7RII’s entire 399-point PDAF and 25-point Contrast AF system in both AF-C and AF-S modes.
SONY A-MOUNT SCREW-DRIVE LENSES
Sony and Minolta Screw-drive Lenses have no focus motor in the lens so for AF, they need an lens adapter with its own focus motor like the Sony LA-EA4 Lens Adapter to provide AF with screw drive lenses. But because the LA-EA4 adapter uses it’s focus system – not the cameras – A-mount lenses won’t benefit from the a7RII’s large focus area or increased focus speed. Screw-drive lenses can also be used with a Sony LA-EA3 Lens Adapter but it will only work in manual focus mode.
Sony LA-EA3 & Sony LA-EA4 Lens Adapters
Order Sony LA-EA3 from B&H Photo | Amazon | Sony
Order Sony LA-EA4 from B&H Photo | Amazon | Sony
| Lens Adapters | Sony LA-EA3 | Sony LA-EA4 |
|---|---|---|
| Focus Points | 399 Phase Detection / 25 Contrast AF Points | 15 Phase Detection AF Points |
| Focus Modes | AF-C, AF-S, Manual Focus | AF-C, AF-A, AF-S, DMF, Manual Focus |
| Focus Areas | Wide, Center, Flexible Spot | Wide, Center, Flexible Spot, Lock-On AF |
| Face Detection | Yes | Yes |
| Eye-AF | No | No |
| Video AF | No | Yes |
| Center Lock-On AF | No | Yes |
| Light loss | None | Approx 1/2 Stop |
AF System Selection using LA-EA3
This is actually the most important new setting on Sony a7RII cameras. It allows users to select between 399-point Phase Detection AF or 25-point Contrast AF when an A-Mount lens is used with a LA-EA3 adapter (but not a LA-EA4) or when using third-party AF-capable Smart Lens Adapters.
The Phase Detection AF setting allows you to finally shoot in continuous AF-C mode with choices of Wide, Center or Flexible Spot Focus Areas. I’ve tested both AF-C and AF-S with a wide range of Sony A-mount lenses using a Sony LA-EA3 Adapter and in all my tests I found best performance was achieved using the default setting of Phase Detection AF.
Please note that Face Detection works when Sony A-Mount lenses are used with a Sony LA-EA3 adapter, but Eye-AF and Center Lock-On AF are not compatible. While the performance of many third-party lenses like Sony A-Mount and Canon EF lenses on a7RII is greatly improved, you still get the best performance and most AF features using native FE lenses.
Here’s a look at how Sony A-Mount lenses perform on Sony a7RII using the camera’s on-sensor Phase Detection AF system with Sony smart adapters.
SONY A-MOUNT ZOOMS
Sony a7RII + Sony 24-70mm f/2.8 ZA SSM II lens
Sony 16-35mm f/2.8 ZA Lens
RECOMMENDED ADAPTER:
Sony LA-EA3 offers fast and accurate AF-C and AF-S with Wide, Center and Flexible Spot Focus Areas.
Sony LA-EA4 can also be used but it uses it’s own focus system that does not take advantage of a7RII’s 399 Phase Detection and 25 Contrast AF points.
Sony 16-35mm f/2.8 ZA SSM II Lens
RECOMMENDED ADAPTER:
Sony LA-EA3 offers fast and accurate AF-C and AF-S with Wide, Center and Flexible Spot Focus Areas.
Sony LA-EA4 can also be used but it uses it’s own focus system that does not take advantage of a7RII’s 399 Phase Detection and 25 Contrast AF points.
Sony 24-70mm f/2.8 ZA Lens (Discontinued)
RECOMMENDED ADAPTER:
Sony LA-EA3 offers fast and accurate AF-C and AF-S with Wide, Center and Flexible Spot Focus Areas.
Sony LA-EA4 can also be used but it uses it’s own focus system that does not take advantage of a7RII’s 399 Phase Detection and 25 Contrast AF points.
Sony 24-70mm f/2.8 ZA SSM II Lens
RECOMMENDED ADAPTER:
Sony LA-EA3 offers fast and accurate AF-C and AF-S with Wide, Center and Flexible Spot Focus Areas.
Sony LA-EA4 can also be used but it uses it’s own focus system that does not take advantage of a7RII’s 399 Phase Detection and 25 Contrast AF points.
Sony 28-75mm f/2.8 SAM Lens
RECOMMENDED ADAPTER:
Sony LA-EA3 offers fast and accurate AF-C and AF-S with Wide, Center and Flexible Spot Focus Areas.
Sony LA-EA4 can also be used but it uses it’s own focus system that does not take advantage of a7RII’s 399 Phase Detection and 25 Contrast AF points.
Sony 70-200mm f/2.8 G Lens (Discontinued)
RECOMMENDED ADAPTER:
Sony LA-EA3 offers fast and accurate AF-C and AF-S with Wide, Center and Flexible Spot Focus Areas.
Sony LA-EA4 can also be used but it uses it’s own focus system that does not take advantage of a7RII’s 399 Phase Detection and 25 Contrast AF points.
Sony 70-200mm F2.8 G II Lens
RECOMMENDED ADAPTER:
Sony LA-EA3 offers fast and accurate AF-C and AF-S with Wide, Center and Flexible Spot Focus Areas.
Sony LA-EA4 can also be used but it uses it’s own focus system that does not take advantage of a7RII’s 399 Phase Detection and 25 Contrast AF points.
Sony 70-300 f/4.5-5.6 G Lens
RECOMMENDED ADAPTER:
Sony LA-EA3 offers fast and accurate AF-C and AF-S with Wide, Center and Flexible Spot Focus Areas.
Sony LA-EA4 can also be used but it uses it’s own focus system that does not take advantage of a7RII’s 399 Phase Detection and 25 Contrast AF points.
Sony 70-300mm f/4.5-5.6 G SSM II Lens
RECOMMENDED ADAPTER:
Sony LA-EA3 offers fast and accurate AF-C and AF-S with Wide, Center and Flexible Spot Focus Areas.
Sony LA-EA4 can also be used but it uses it’s own focus system that does not take advantage of a7RII’s 399 Phase Detection and 25 Contrast AF points.
Sony 70-400mm f/4-5.6 G lens (Discontinued)
RECOMMENDED ADAPTER:
Sony LA-EA3 offers fast and accurate AF-C and AF-S with Wide, Center and Flexible Spot Focus Areas.
Sony LA-EA4 can also be used but it uses it’s own focus system that does not take advantage of a7RII’s 399 Phase Detection and 25 Contrast AF points.
Sony 70-400mm f/4-5.6 G II Lens
RECOMMENDED ADAPTER:
Sony LA-EA3 offers fast and accurate AF-C and AF-S with Wide, Center and Flexible Spot Focus Areas.
Sony LA-EA4 can also be used but it uses it’s own focus system that does not take advantage of a7RII’s 399 Phase Detection and 25 Contrast AF points.
SONY A-MOUNT PRIMES
Sony a7RII + Sony 500mm/F4 G lens
Sony 16mm f/2.8 Fisheye Lens
RECOMMENDED ADAPTER:
Sony LA-EA3 can be used for manual focus.
Sony 20mm f/2.8 Lens
RECOMMENDED ADAPTER:
LA-EA4 This is a screw-drive focus lens so only LA-EA4 provides fast AF-C and AF-S using it’s own focus system that does not take advantage of a7RII’s 399 Phase Detection and 25 Contrast AF points.
Sony LA-EA3 can be used for manual focus.
Sony 24mm f/2 ZA Lens
RECOMMENDED ADAPTER:
Sony LA-EA3 offers fast and accurate AF-C and AF-S with Wide, Center and Flexible Spot Focus Areas.
Sony LA-EA4 can also be used but it uses it’s own focus system that does not take advantage of a7RII’s 399 Phase Detection and 25 Contrast AF points.
Sony 35mm f/1.4 G Lens
RECOMMENDED ADAPTER:
Sony LA-EA3 can be used for manual focus.
Sony 50mm f/1.4 Lens
RECOMMENDED ADAPTER:
Sony LA-EA3 can be used for manual focus.
Sony 50mm f/1.4 ZA Lens
RECOMMENDED ADAPTER:
Sony LA-EA3 offers fast and accurate AF-C and AF-S with Wide, Center and Flexible Spot Focus Areas.
Sony LA-EA4 can also be used but it uses it’s own focus system that does not take advantage of a7RII’s 399 Phase Detection and 25 Contrast AF points.
Sony 50mm f/2.8 Macro Lens
RECOMMENDED ADAPTER:
Sony LA-EA4 This is a screw-drive focus lens so only LA-EA4 provides fast AF-C and AF-S using it’s own focus system that does not take advantage of a7RII’s 399 Phase Detection and 25 Contrast AF points.
Sony LA-EA3 can be used for manual focus.
Sony 85mm f/1.4 ZA Lens
RECOMMENDED ADAPTER:
Sony LA-EA4 This is a screw-drive focus lens so only LA-EA4 provides fast AF-C and AF-S using it’s own focus system that does not take advantage of a7RII’s 399 Phase Detection and 25 Contrast AF points.
Sony LA-EA3 can be used for manual focus.
Sony 85mm f/2.8 SAM
RECOMMENDED ADAPTER:
Sony LA-EA3 offers fast and accurate AF-C and AF-S with Wide, Center and Flexible Spot Focus Areas.
Sony LA-EA4 can also be used but it uses it’s own focus system that does not take advantage of a7RII’s 399 Phase Detection and 25 Contrast AF points.
Sony 100mm f/2.8 Macro Lens
RECOMMENDED ADAPTER:
Sony LA-EA4 This is a screw-drive focus lens so only LA-EA4 provides fast AF-C and AF-S using it’s own focus system that does not take advantage of a7RII’s 399 Phase Detection and 25 Contrast AF points.
Sony LA-EA3 can be used for manual focus.
Sony 135mm f/1.8 ZA Lens
RECOMMENDED ADAPTER:
Sony LA-EA3 can be used for manual focus.
Sony 135mm f/2.8 STF Manual Focus Lens
RECOMMENDED ADAPTER:
Sony LA-EA3 As the name implies, this is a manual focus lens and no adapter will change that, so you might was well use the less expensive adapter.
Sony 300mm f/2.8 G II Lens
RECOMMENDED ADAPTER:
Sony LA-EA3 offers fast and accurate AF-C and AF-S with Wide, Center and Flexible Spot Focus Areas.
Sony LA-EA4 can also be used but it uses it’s own focus system that does not take advantage of a7RII’s 399 Phase Detection and 25 Contrast AF points.
Sony 500mm f/4 G Lens
RECOMMENDED ADAPTER:
Sony LA-EA3 offers fast and accurate AF-C and AF-S with Wide, Center and Flexible Spot Focus Areas.
Sony LA-EA4 can also be used but it uses it’s own focus system that does not take advantage of a7RII’s 399 Phase Detection and 25 Contrast AF points.
MINOLTA MAXXUM A-MOUNT LENSES
With the exception of the Minolta 70-200mm f/2 8 D APO G SSM and Minolta 300mm f/2 8 D APO G SSM, all other Minolta Maxxum A-mount lenses are screw drive and only Sony LA-EA4 provides AF-C and AF-S with screw drives lenses using it’s own focus system that does not take advantage of a7RII’s 399 Phase Detection and 25 Contrast AF points.
Sony LA-EA3 can be used for manual focus.
SIGMA A-MOUNT LENSES
I’ll add results from tests of third party A-mount lenses whenever I can get my hands on them. Here are a few that I’ve tried so far.
Sigma 12-24mm f/4.5-5.6 DG HSM II A-mount
RECOMMENDED ADAPTER:
Sony LA-EA4 provides fast AF-C and AF-S using it’s own focus system that does not take advantage of a7RII’s 399 Phase Detection and 25 Contrast AF points.
Sony LA-EA3 can be used for manual focus.
Sigma 24-70mm f/2.8 IF EX DG HSM A-mount
RECOMMENDED ADAPTER:
Sony LA-EA3 offers fast and accurate AF-C and AF-S with Wide, Center and Flexible Spot Focus Areas.
Sony LA-EA4 can also be used but it uses it’s own focus system that does not take advantage of a7RII’s 399 Phase Detection and 25 Contrast AF points.
Sigma 35mm f/1.4 DG HSM Art Lens A-mount
RECOMMENDED ADAPTER:
Sony LA-EA3 offers fast and accurate AF-C and AF-S with Wide, Center and Flexible Spot Focus Areas.
Sony LA-EA4 can also be used but it uses it’s own focus system that does not take advantage of a7RII’s 399 Phase Detection and 25 Contrast AF points.
Sigma 50mm f/1.4 EX DG HSM Lens A-mount
RECOMMENDED ADAPTER:
Sony LA-EA3 offers fast and accurate AF-C and AF-S with Wide, Center and Flexible Spot Focus Areas.
Sony LA-EA4 can also be used but it uses it’s own focus system that does not take advantage of a7RII’s 399 Phase Detection and 25 Contrast AF points.
Sigma 85mm f/1.4 EX DG HSM Lens A-mount
RECOMMENDED ADAPTER:
Sony LA-EA3 offers fast and accurate AF-C and AF-S with Wide, Center and Flexible Spot Focus Areas.
Sony LA-EA4 can also be used but it uses it’s own focus system that does not take advantage of a7RII’s 399 Phase Detection and 25 Contrast AF points.
Sigma 150mm f/2.8 EX DG OS HSM APO Macro Lens A-mount
RECOMMENDED ADAPTER:
Sony LA-EA3 offers fast and accurate AF-C and AF-S with Wide, Center and Flexible Spot Focus Areas.
Sony LA-EA4 can also be used but it uses it’s own focus system that does not take advantage of a7RII’s 399 Phase Detection and 25 Contrast AF points.
TAMRON A-MOUNT LENSES
Tamron SP 150-600mm f/5-6.3 Di A-mount
RECOMMENDED ADAPTER:
Sony LA-EA3 offers fast and accurate AF-C and AF-S with Wide, Center and Flexible Spot Focus Areas.
Sony LA-EA4 can also be used but it uses it’s own focus system that does not take advantage of a7RII’s 399 Phase Detection and 25 Contrast AF points. Note: This A-mount version performs much better than Tamron or Sigma’s Canon EF 150-600 which are virtually worthless for AF.
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228 thoughts on “Guide to Using Sony A-Mount Lenses on Sony a7R II”
Great article sir. You have already sold my on getting an a7R II vs a7 II. However, my next question I have is should I keep my canon telephotos (I have the L version of both the 27/70mm f2.8, and 70-200mm f2.8) and use a Metabones IV? Or should I sell them and get the A-mount versions and an LA-EA3?
I know both are vastly improved over previous A7 cameras, but is one pairing faster than the other?
I know these telephoto lengths are available in EF mount, but I don’t think I can go from f2.8 to f4.
Thanks again!
Hey Rick, are the Canon lenses version 1 or II?
Sorry, had a BUSY day. They are version 1.
Hi Brian, just picked up the a7rii and have been using the canon 70-200 2.8 II on it with w fotodiox adapter. What do you think the performance difference in speed ( I shoot a lot of hockey) and quality to the 70-200mm f/2.8 SP Di USD for Sony on LA-E3 (already have the adapter)? Trying to just have one A mount adapter and rest to be native if I can.
Thanks
Dmitri
AF Speed and image quality is fairly close between the two. I’d stick with what you got for now.
HI Brian, sorry for late response but i have the latest canon 70-200mm 2.8 (MKii) does that work ok with the A7ii or A7Rii? I know the A7Rii will be slightly better but just got confused on which canon lens works with the LA-EA3.
LA-EA3 is an adapter for Sony A-mount to E-mount. Canon EF lenses will not work with it. You need a Canon EF to E-mount adapter.
Ive been so tired of seeing all the Canon lens coverage with the a7rII – What about those of use smart enough to leave Canon years ago?! Haha. This is exactly what Ive been looking for – great coverage Brian!
Cheers JJ!
Great article. But if you measured it, I missed it: While the LA-EA3 appears preferable in most situations where it is compatible with the lens’ autofocus system, because of the increase in the number and type of autofocus points, is that preference because of the SPEED of the autofocus, or the ACCURACY, or the FLEXIBILITY?
From the few user reports that break down these criteria, it sounds like:
1. The LA-EA3 wins for FLEXIBILITY.
2. The LA-EA3 and LA-EA4 are equivalent for ACCURACY when shooting a subject covered by their autofocus points (though of course the 3 wins when the subject is outside the coverage of the 4 but within the coverage of the 3.)
3. The LA-EA4 wins for SPEED.
What did your testing determine?
With compatible lenses (meaning SSM and SAM) LA-EA3 is best for speed, accuracy and most focus points.
Brian,
Thanks for this post. I have an A7II and i’m using the Tamron 150-600mm with the LA-EA4 adaptor with fairly successful results. Would there be any benefit of using the LA-EA3 instead or would it not be compatible with the Tamron or force me to use only Manual Focus. All these adaptors still confuse me a bit 😉
hello Brian,
thank you for this , i have the sony SAL500mm and also the LA-EA3 and LA-EA4
i,m not sure which adapter is the more presice for this lens , when you photograph a bird on a branch
if you use the LA-EA4 with this lens you need micro-adjustment.
do you think the LA-EA3 is more accurate ??????
Yes, LA-EA3 is more accurate because it can access multiple AF points within the same focus area.
Thank you for the detailed guide. I was using LA-EA4 coupled with 135 1.8 on my A7II. Unfortunately the AF was so unconsistent with this adapter. I did lots of micro focus adjustments. This worked well for the very same distance, ie. If I did the micro adjustment with a chart placed 10 meters away, I was having a perfect focus for objects ~8-12 meters away. But if I was to shoot something 20 meters away, boom!, front focusing all the time. Therefore I sold LAEA4 and switched to LA-EA3 and now I’m using manual focus only. LA-EA4 was a sad story for me.
If I have the choice between buying a Tamron 150-600mm for either Sony A-mount or Canon EF-mount for use on an A7rII, which should I choose?
I’ll try to test that out for you. Probably as a separate post.
Awesome! Thanks!
I was wondering the same thing about which mount for the Tamron 150-600. Definitely let us know what you find and suggest, Brian. Great work with all the gear testing!
Hi Brian
I think this is a question of common interest. Great that you will look into it.
Many thanks Dieter
Sigma lenses are reverse-engineered so many of their lenses do not perform as well as native Sony-Amount and Canon EF lenses.
Does any of these adapters work with 1.4x or 2.0x teleconverters?
Yes – but manual focus only.
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Hi Brian!
thanks – this is super-helpful in choosing what lens to pair my A7Rii with.
On to 70-400mm lenses, You say the old lens AF-speed is acceptable and the new on is fast. I would really appreciate it if You could elaborate a little bit more. If You remember those two tests, is the new one “birds-in flight”-fast and the old one “hunts but eventually gets there in a second or two fast” – or how would You describe the difference? (trying to find out if the old one is fast enough for a possible safari-trip; it’s quite a bit cheaper (used) than a new G2 lens
thanks, Staffan
Version II focussed at twice the speed of first version, but v1 is fine for landscapes and other stationary subjects.
Thanks for all of your info on this, and replying to everyone. I am a little lost as to what the two of you are referring to here? Verson I and II of what? A mount lenses? I had asked about Canon AF speed with a Metabones IV vs Sony A-mount with the LA-EA3, but this adds a new wrinkle. If I did get the a7R II over the a7 II, I probably wouldn’t be able to fork over the money to get the version II 24-70mm and 70-200mm 2.8’s. I would be getting Version I. Also, may canon versions are also version I. So does that mean I’m gonna get crappy AF with both the a7 II and a7R II with the aforementioned adapters? Just maybe slightly less crappy with and a7R II? Uhg! I really don’t want to have to slow down to f4 just to get the same AF speed I’m getting with my Canon setup.
BTW, I mostly use single-point auto-focus (usually focused on one of the subject’s eyes). I’m not sure if that makes a difference in your recommendation? Here is my portrait/headshot portfolio for refference:
http://romeobravophoto.zenfolio.com/p777368638
Staffan asked a question about the difference in focus speed between Sony 70-400 F4 version I and II. This is a post about a7RII AF speed of Sony A-Mount lenses.
Thanks Brian!
Thank you. Great information here. At first i didn’t realize I needed both adapters for all my A mount lenses
You don’t actually “need” both but since LA-EA3 works better with SSM and SAM lenses on a7RII and LA-EA4 works best with screw drive lenses, you may want both…
yes. I want both, so I can get the best out of each lens I have.
That’s what I was thinking too! But I’m curious about light loss of the two. There’s only a 9mm difference in thickness between the 3 and the 4. Why does the 3 have no light loss and the 4 carry 1/2 stop?
There’s no difference in thickness. LA-EA4 has a SLT mirror that eats up 1/2 stop of light and LA-EA3 does not.
Thank you again, Brian! Makes sense.
Except now I can’t call it a mirror-less system! (boohoo) (Until I decide to invest in native E-mount lenses, that I THOUGHT I was smartly avoiding (on Sony’s advice!) when I spent a bunch of extra cash on 4 full frame A-mounts for my a77M2.)
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Brian,
Thanks so much for this review. As a thus far A-mount only shooter it is very helpful. I found your comments regarding the telephoto A-mount lenses most interesting, particularly the two versions of the 70-400 and the 500/4. It is a bit disappointing to hear that the AF speed with the 500 is only “acceptable,” but it is not all that surprising. A Canon shooting friend recently got the A7R II and was able to test one previously with his Canon 200-400/4 (with the built-in 1.4x converter). His finding were that the lens would not AF on the A7R II in anything but good light. It seems that the camera’s AF system may have some issues in focusing super-telephoto lenses, and also that the maximum aperture of the lens will impact the AF speed (or at least can). There are many reports that the camera has issues focusing in low light, but there also is a video from dpreview showing that with the E-mount 35/1.4 it does about as well in low light as the Nikon D750 and latest Canon body. I don’t know to what extent you do much low light shooting, other than perhaps in the studio, but for us event shooters it would be interesting to know how well lenses like the 24-70/2.8 and 70-200/2.8 do in low light levels. From your above review it appears they do quite well, at least in “normal” light levels.
As an A-mount shooter, and with all the questions about whether Sony will do an A99 II or similar level camera, the A7R II may be the only way to “upgrade” from the A99, which then presents the quandary of which A-mount lenses to use with the camera, and which E-mount lenses to perhaps add. Assuming Sony does not do an A99 successor, and the A-mount cameras have come to the end of the road (I personally hope not), then moving to a 7 series camera plus adapters will be the only recourse for dedicated A-mount shooters (other than switching systems). Thus, overall performance with A-mount lenses and adapters is a serious issue and concern for many of us, and your review is at least a first step in helping us figure out what may make the most sense. Were I to go with the A7R II as my A99 “upgrade,” I could see selling my screw mount lenses (including the 85/1.4 and 135/1.8), and moving to something like the Batis 85mm (though loss of the 135/1.8 would be hard to deal with given how great that lens is). Also, the “acceptable” AF with the 500/4 (which I have) is another concern for my wildlife shooting. I guess time will tell what Sony has in store for the A-mount system going forward.
The only other question I would pose is whether you have noticed any degradation of optical performance with the LA-E3 adapter (due to possible alignment discrepancies).
Thanks again for your pretty thorough review of your impressions of the A-mount lenses on the A7R II.
Hello Mark, I actually rated Sony 70-400mm f/4-5.6 G II Lens as excellent AF. It was the silver version 1 of that lens that I listed as “acceptable AF” – which I also find to be the case when using on A-mount cameras.
I easily could have called the 500 F4 G “good but less than excellent” it simply has to move larger lens elements than the 300 F2.8 G II which was extremely fast. All testing was done under indoor lighting either at B&H Photo, the Sony Store in NYC or at Photoshop World which in all cases was less than bright testing conditions.
There is absolutely no image degradation using LA-EA3. It offers better image quality than using LA-EA4 (or a99, a77 or a77II) because there is no SLT mirror.
Thanks much Brian. I agree that the 70-400 II has improved AF over the v.I lens (which I have), and I did notice that you rated the v.II lens as having excellent AF. A significant reason why I’ve contemplated upgrading my lens but have not yet pulled the trigger. (I also have considered upgrading my Minolta version of the 70-200/2.8 SSM G lens, but the ridiculous price of the v.II Sony lens is a deal-killer at this point, particularly given that the optics are basically the same, save for the lens coatings. From your review I gather that the AF performance of the original 70-200/2.8 is fine.)
Based on your comments, I suspect the 500/4 AF performance on the A7R II would improve in outdoor, better light situations, hopefully even the magic light hours when the “best” wildlife opportunities usually occur (with certain exceptions). Unfortunately, low light situations seem to still be a weakness for the mirrorless AF systems, even if it is (much) improved on the A7R II, and that slower maximum aperture lenses exacerbate the issue.
I expect to spend quite a bit of time playing with the A7R II at Photo Plus this year (and hope to see you there), and will then make some decisions.
I only have the Sony APS-C A-Mount lenses. Any comment for using these lenses with the new Sony format (A7R II)?
Well you can, but personally I wouldn’t…
A7RII is a badass cameras. It deserves badass glass.
Dear Mr. Smith. 1) Thank you so much for providing accurate information in a calm and polite voice.
2) I wonder if you have information about *image quality* (IQ) in comparing:
2.1) LA-EA3+Sony A 16-35mm f/2.8 ZA SSM II Lens
vs Sony FE 16-35mm f/4 ZA
2.2) Sony FE 70-200mm f/4 G vs
LA-EA3+Sony A 70-200mm f/2.8 II Lens vs
LA-EA3+Sony A 70-400mm II Lens
2.3) LA-EA3+Sony A 24-70mm f/2.8 ZA SSM II Lens
vs Sony FE 24-70mm f/4 ZA
2.4) LA-EA3+Sony A mount macro vs
90 FE macro.
Context to define my standards, and my guesses so far.
I have an A7R and an A7RII since August 6 (June order at B&H)
with the Sony FE 24-70 and
Fotodiox adapter + 5 Hasselblad V lenses: 40, 50, 80, 120f5.6, and 250.
I rarely use the 24-70 due to disappointing IQ.
I “inherited” the Hasselblad lens and related equipment from myself,
due to working my way through college as a photographer.
For many years I printed Ektacolor 16″x20″ at home (and developed own film).
I now print 16×20 color on my Canon IPF5100 (using photoshop CS6).
I bought an Imacon 848 and scanned my non-commerical negatives and some transparencies, and am slowly re-printing the faded Ektacolor, and many others.
I would love the Batis lenses (but only 2 of 6 or more that are needed are available)
with the LED hyperfocal distance display (would love to have that everywhere),
but naturally would prefer a zoom if the choice does not sacrifice too much IQ.
I do expect to buy the 90 2.8 FE macro to replace the function of my Hasselblad 120 macro,
and am optimistic it will satisfy me on IQ.
I want a super telephoto, and plan to test the Sigma 150-600S or C to see if I can accept the IQ. The Sigma 300-800 5.6 has tremendous appeal. The price, even used, is a hard nut to swallow, but every reviewer claims it competes with prime lenses in IQ.
Sincerely yours,
Keith
Hello Keith,
Let me try to answer all those questions.
According to DxO Lens Tests:
Sony FE 16-35mm f/4 ZA is sharper than Sony 16-35mm f/2.8 ZA SSM II Lens (same for version 1)
Sony FE 70-200mm f/4 G is sharper than Sony A 70-200mm f/2.8 G II Lens which is sharper than Sony A 70-400mm G II Lens
Sony 24-70mm f/2.8 ZA SSM II Lens is sharper than Sony FE 24-70mm f/4 ZA (same for version 1)
Sony FE 90mm macro is MUCH SHARPER than Sony 100mm macro A-mount (In fact Sony FE 90mm is Best-in-Class)
If AF is important, stay clear of the Sigma 150-600 C or S in Canon EF-mount it won’t autofocus past 250mm.
1) Thank you very much.
I’m glad to know you find the DxO tests credible, and consistent with your personal experience (reflecting previous postings) with some of the pairs on my list.
2) Does the comment
“If AF is important, stay clear of the Sigma 150-600 C or S in Canon EF-mount it won’t autofocus past 250mm”
hold for the A7RII? I was aware of the limitations with A7R (which I plan to sell).
3) Information for your adapter listing concerning the Hasselblad Lenses, and perhaps other heavy lenses. The tripod foot on the Fotodiox loosened soon (few weeks) after I purchased the adapter, which was scary. The design (two tiny screws + butt joint) seems likely to make that a chronic problem. Hence I purchased a Vello tripod collar AZ0813 (best guess by telephone with B&H; one may find a better choice by tryouts in a camera store). Carefully adding 2 wraps of 3/4″ Dymo label tape to the Fotodiox allows the tripod clamp to snugly grab the adapter. Works great and provides camera rotation on a tripod. Over months of use, the screws holding adapter together loosened. Diagnosed by disappointingly soft images, then physical wobble. Just added Loctite Threadlocker and a bead of metal-epoxy on outside. The other adapter seems to have a similar design (6 screws holding 2 thinwall tubes together).
I am grateful to have the adapter as a way to anchor my evaluations of the A7R and A7RII to my previous work.
4) My A7RII wish list that may be firmware upgrades:
a) lossless raw
b) custom menus allowing eliminating or pushing down all movie and custom processing modes
c) Depth of field preview button (separate from live view), push-push or push and hold “spring loaded” like the old days
5) My future camera wishes:
a) More high IQ lenses
b) 16 bits, based on my experience with film, and now scanned negatives and positives and the related mathematics and reality of Dmax.
c) more resolution (I do landscape and art; no more journalism, weddings, or commercial work)
d) LED display of focus and DOF like on Batis for all lenses
e) change battery compartment fiddly small buttons (gloves, cold weather…)
1) DxO is accurate in terms of sharpness though the one criteria they fail to measure is the “look” of the lens which is why most Zeiss glass actually deserves a higher rating – but when measuring Zeiss to Zeiss their findings are accurate.
2) Sony a7RII adds AF-C and faster AF to compatible third-party glass but the Canon mount version of that lens doesn’t AF past 20-250mm no matter which Sony body you use. Same is true of the Tamron 150-600 EF mount.
Hi,
Based on your review, all SSM lenses should be used with the lae3 adapter. Would those lenses require any micro focus adjustment when using this adapter? I suppose not since final focussing is done on the sensor. Can you confirm this?
Regards
I didn’t have any need for micro-focus with LA-EA3. If the focus points light up green, focus is dead-0n.
Do you have any experience with non-sony lenses but in sony A mount (tamron, sigma etc) ? Will LA-EA3 work if they have internal motors?
Thirty party A-mount glass is on my list to test when I can get my hands on them.
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Will the LA-EA3 work better than the LA-EA4 with Minolta AF lenses?
There is a section on Minota A-mount in this post.
I read that section, but I am not 100% clear that I fully understood it! My take out is that Minolta AF lenses will work using the 399 point phase detection, with the LA-EA3 adapter, but only in manual focus mode. I would very much appreciate if you could confirm whether I am right or wrong.
Aside from the Minolta 70-200 2.8 SSM and 300 2.8 SSM all other Minolta lenses are drew drive so if you want AF you need the LA-EA4 or you can use the LA-EA3 with manual focus. As the name implies, there is no AF in manual focus.
Thank you for your very helpful response.
Minolta 80-200/f2.8 HSM has AF in body motor
http://www.mhohner.de/sony-minolta/onelens.php?id=af80-200f28g
Brian,
Do you know if the newer version of the Tamron 90mm Macro Sp with VR will autofocus with the LAE3 adapter?
THanks
James
I haven’t had a chance to test that lens yet.
Thanks for this article Brian!
I especially appreciate that you outline the fact that Eye AF, and by extension continuous Eye AF, do NOT work with adapted A-Mount lenses, SSM, SAM, or otherwise. Yours is the first article on the web that I’ve found that mentions that! And I’m not going to lie, it’s a disappointment, cause Eye AF is the main reason that I’m looking at moving to mirrorless over my Sony DSLRs.
Also… when you say “There is absolutely no image degradation using LA-EA3. It offers better image quality than using LA-EA4 (or a99, a77 or a77II) because there is no SLT mirror.”
… are you refrain only to the light loss that the pellicle mirror introduces? Or are there ANY other types of image degradation that you have noticed with the a99, a77, or a77II? I’ve always wondered if there’s the possibility of any ghosting, or flare, or softness, or really any other kind of annomoly that I haven’t listed being introduced by the SLT camera design. And it’s one of the reasons why I still shoot all my work with an a900.
The high ISO performance of the A7rII would be really nice to have, but only 10% of my images need to be shot at 1600 ISO, and 1% at 3200 ISO, and with a bit of noise reduction in Lightroom (and accurate exposure ensuring that I don’t have to brighten the exposure AT ALL in Lightroom) I’m satisfied with the a900 and so are my clients. Clients don’t pixel peep, photographers do!
I have a lot of screw drive Minolta Lenses, but until I can adapt with continuous Eye AF my Sony/Zeiss Planar 50mm F1.4 SSM, my Sony/Zeiss Planar 85mm F1.4, my Sony/Zeiss Vario-Sonnar 24-70mm F2.8 SSM v1, and ideally some of my favourite Minolta lenses like the 35mm F2 RS, and the 50mm Macro F2.8 RS, I’ll probably stick with my beloved a900 cameras.
That said, do you think the release of an LA-EA5 or LA-EA6 could offer the AF features for A-Mount glass that the native FE lenses enjoy? Or do you think that an A9 (or an a99II) could offer both screw drive lens support and on-sensor phase detection AF? With Eye AF working maybe just for the A-Mount SSM and SAM lenses… I doubt the screw drive lenses could move their glass in small enough and precise enough increments for Continuous Eye AF to work, though I have high hopes that at the very least Continuous Eye AF will be possible with my rather “newly released” Sony/Zeiss Planar 50mm F1.4 SSM on a future A-Mount camera or A-Mount adapter on an A7 series or A9 series camera. That lens is what I shoot 80% of my work with. And I don’t find the almost clinical look of the Sony/Zeiss 55mm F1.8 FE lens to my liking. Plus I like the extra light transmission of the A-Mount Planar, and the slightly shallower depth of field too much to ever let that lens go!
Sony could probably hook me if they released an E-Mount 50mm F1.2, or F1.0 Autofocus FE lens (or if ZEISS released a Batis with a similar focal length and F-stop). I’d be all in. Cause at 85mm, the subject to background separation of the BATIS looks to be good enough for me to let my 85mm Planar go. And at 35mm, the Sony/Zeiss 35mm Distagon F1.4 FE lens looks to be much better than my Minolta 35mm F2 RS and also MUCH better than the A-Mount 35mm F1.4 lenses by Minolta and rebranded by Sony.
A lot of thoughts here. And a lot of questions… But I just dropped my 85mm Planar at Saturday’s shoot, and it’ll be the second time I’ve had to send it to Sony for repairs (due to dropping it) so I expect it’ll be anywhere from $600-2000 dollars to fix it, so I always weigh my options of selling all the incompatible stuff and moving away from the a900 A-Mount cameras everytime I have to make any gear replacement purchase.
Here’s a link to view my work in case you’re curious. http://clients.byfieldpitman.com
As you’ll undoubtedly notice I’m a 35mm, 50mm, 85mm prime lens shooter. And the A-Moutn options that I use are, well, stunning, for what I’m looking to do with them!
Cheers,
Ben
“Eye AF” is a new feature that debuted on Sony a7 series cameras. It is a refinement of Face detection that tracks focus on the eye of the subject. I don’t believe a900 has that. Maybe you are thinking of something different.
As far as I know, it’s only compatible with native E-mount lenses.
Hi Brian, thank you for doing all the heavy lifting on these compatibility tests. It’s very much appreciated. I know you’ve mentioned some Sigma A-mount glass, but I’d really appreciate a view on the Sigma 150mm f2.8 EX DG OS Macro compatibility. Can we use the LA-EA3 to get continuous focus? I’d also appreciate a view on speed of focusing (which I know isn’t a key strength of Macro lenses – but with continuous mode a possibility, can it keep up with moving objects – i.e. use it as a prime lens for sports?).
Many thanks
Gareth
Hi Brian – thanks for putting this together. Question on LA-EA3 for video on A7Rii… I’m still confused whether or not it supports AF with SSM glass? I have the 16-35/24-70 and longer zooms and wondering if I can use LA-EA3 to AF in video on A7Rii? Thanks!
My comments regarding AF-C apply to both video and stills
Oh wow, ok, so yes on AF-C for video with LA-EA3 then! Ordering via your B&H link right now. Thanks!
Be sure to read this post on new settings in a7RII: https://briansmith.com/ten-great-new-settings-on-sony-a7rii/
There are new settings that allow you to slow down or speed up video AF tracking and increase or decrease video AF tracking speed. Sometimes slower is smoother…
Hi Brian – so I received the LA-EA3 today. No AF in video using Sony’s A-mount SSM zooms (I tried with 16-35 F2.8 and 24-70 F2.8) on A7Rii. Works ok for stills but nothing in video. I think I’m pretty familiar with the focus modes on the A7Rii by now and I’ve tried a variety of settings just to see if anything tricks it, but no luck.
Thoughts?
Though it sounds rather counter-intuitive, AF is done by pressing the shutter release after pressing the Movie button. This can be done with a wired remote if you prefer.
Hm, tried that, just retested – still nothing. Once I hit the Movie button and then hit (and hold!) the shutter release the only thing that happens is AF motors start to hunt very slowly (as if it’s trying to use contrast detection) and finally locks on after several seconds of hunting. Then as soon as I release the shutter any AF function stops. No matter what combination of focus settings or movie mode I choose no AF. Works perfectly fine with native FE glass, of course, and I know AF works with these lenses on my A-mount bodies in video as well, so I’m quite sure I don’t have a defect or anything.
BTW, I’m using Mark 1 lenses, not the Mark 2 that just came out.
Hi Brian. I also cannot get PDAF to work with the LA-EA3 in video mode. Using the Zeiss 24-70 2.8 SSM I not the version II. Did Sony disable this feature?
Video AF requires much more processor power so video AF results may not match stills.
Hey Brian,
Thanks for sharing. This also holds true for the Sony A6000 correct?. I have a bunch of SAM lenses and was thinking of using it with the A6000. So is the LA-EA3 sufficient?.
No. AF results with a7RII do not apply to any other current E-mount cameras (unless you replace words like “Fast” with “Slow”.)
Hi Brian
Are there any cropping (or vignetting) done “in camera” when using any of the adapters? In other words, do I still get the benefit of the 42MP or is it scaled down? Thanks for a great review.
You get all the pixels…
quick question. if purchasing only 1 lens to start for the a7rii, would there be one you would recommend? both for vid/photo…looking to stay around the $1000 or less for this first lens…Thank you.
Do you want AF with video or manual focus?
Hi Brian,
Question.
With a version 1 70-200 2,8 and the 24-70 2,8, using the LA3 adapter, will I LOSE anything, that i have using the FE glass..Lock on?, Eye Focus?/
That’s is what i have a hard time getting my head around.
My A7ll is great…but mounting th A mount glass, leaves me sad I only have the cross point to focus.
Having the constant eye focus, etc. would be terrific.
I await your input. Or perhaps share link where i can learn more. Perhaps I have overlook the answer to my questions, elsewhere.
Cheers,
Ken
As I mention at the start of this post, no eye AF and no lock-on AF either.
auto focus would be great 🙂 Thank you!
For AF with video you’re best bet is to sticking with native FE lenses. The FE 24-70mm F4 ZA OSS is probably you’re best choice in that range.
Hello Brian, I heard from a video review of A7R2, that when using a third party adapter, the “reduced format APS-C” or in other words : “Crop factor mode from Full frame to APS-C” which is normally available to select in the menu of A7R2, will be lost (No longer available functionality with a third-party adapter)
Would this possibility with A7R2 body, be still available with Sony LA-EA3 adapter ?
Thank you for your site
Kind regards
Jean-Philippe
Using the Crop factor mode of the sensor of A7R2 body (FF to APS-C) when shooting with a lens attached to with Sony LA-EA3 adapter ?
thank you for your answer! 🙂 I’ve been looking at the Sony Sonnar T* FE 55mm f/1.8 ZA Lens for its slightly lower price. Would this also be a good first lens for the a7rii’s or would you highly recommend pushing the +300 to the FE 24-70mm F4 ZA OSS and get a far superior lens? Thank you for your honest follow up answer! 🙂
Brian, I’m interested in getting a wide angle zoom for my Sony a7rII and saw your comments that the Sony 24-70 2.8 ZA SSMII was your new favorite lens and that AF is fast and accurate when used with the LE-AE3 adapter, which I own. Do you think that’s a better camera/lens combo than the Sony/Ziess FE 24-70 4.0 in terms of image quality? Will Lock-on AF work with that combo? Thanks.
Yes, in terms of image quality it is better. But no lock-0n AF or Eye AF.
Brian – One more question for you, how would the Sony a7rII and Sony 24-70 2.8 ZA SSMII combo compare to the Sony FE 16-35 lens in terms of image quality?
They’re both exceptional lenses.
Hi Brian, I ‘ve just got my LA-EA3 after reading your articles on the adapters and I was excited to test my Sigma A-mount lenses on my A7R ii. However except the SIgma 35mm f1.4 ART, the 50mm f1.4 ART and 80-200 f2.8 DG both cannot focus.
With the 50mm ART it is never able to land with one focal point and it just keep hunting.
with the 80-200mm it does stop at a point but it’s out of focus.
Would you know the cause? Would it be the camera problem? Is there anything I could do to fix the problems? I am getting a bit desperate here. Thanks very much!
Both Art lenses focus fast and accurately on a7RII using the settings I described. Be certain AF System is set to Phase Detection AF. I did not test the 80-200 but it sounds like a Sigma lens made for Minolta A-mount which I doubt would not be compatible with AF on LA-EA3.
Hi Brian
Got the Tamron 150-600 for my A7r MKII, it’s focus is pretty good but I have had problems getting tack sharp images, despite using tripod and or 1/1000 and OS when no tripod and various apertures. I have taken several 100 shots and most are soft when viewed at 50-100%. Any ideas? Recommended setting appreciated, it was mainly lions and tigers I tested it on.
Thanks in advance
Ian
To narrow this down a bit, can you tell if the softness appears to be from motion, mis-focus (front or back focus) or just softness in the lens? Are you seeing this at all focal lengths or just when racked out to 600mm?
I was just trying my new Sony 135mm STF on my LA-EA4. The lens has dual aperture, but the best that I can tell, the primary aperture only stays wide open. I can manipulate the aperture by hand when the lens is off the adapter. Any hints or tips as to how to proceed? I would like to have more control. I didn’t buy the adapter solely for this lens, I just didn’t want to make extra purchases. Do I need an adapter like the novoflex or Fotodiox that has an aperture ring?
The aperture ring on that lens allows you to set the Aperture to ‘A’ where the camera controls the aperture – but without STF. Or you can select STF with manual aperture settings of 4.5-6.7 T-stops using the aperture ring.
hi Brian, heard good thing about the Sony 500mm f8 reflex lens (discontinued), what are my options if using this lens with the a7Rll in term of adapter and focusing capability?, thanks in advance
I have not found one to test, but I believe that lens would be manual focus with LA-EA3 or AF with LA-EA4.
Can you mount a Minolta 300mm f4 with a 1.4 extender to an LA-EA4 on Sony A7RII?
Yes, but that combination will likely be manual focus.
Hi Brian, great information and website.
I know this post is for the A7RIi, but having just seen J Lanier’s post on NFL the question of adapters on an A6000 came up. With that camera the autofocus is still only going to work with the la ea4 adaptor and not the 3? Or have I missed something. Is the use of PDAF with the laea3 only on the A7rIi or does it work on other A7 models too?
Yes, this post is specifically about a7RII AF performance using Sony lens adapters. LA-EA3 will provide AF on a6000 with SSM and SAM Sony A-mount lenses – just slower and no PDAF.
Hi. Great work. I used your tutorials and guides to choose the right camera for me. I choose the A7II camera because the A7RII body was too expansive for me. I had a A77 and a lot of great quality motorized lens. So reading this guide I bought both camera and La-EA3 adapter. When the camera arrived and I connected lens to the camera with the LA-EA3 adapter I noticed, with horror, that to get the focus the camera needs two seconds! So you should write that LA-EA3 write well only with A7RII cameras and not with A7II one. So now I have to sell away that adapter and buy the LA-EA4 adapter.
As the headline and opening paragraph states, this post is specifically about AF performance of A-mount lenses on a7RII.
Hi, thanks for the nice overview! But there is one bug: the Sigma 12-24 mm is a full-frame lens. Cheers L
… sorry, but I forgot to ask what do you think is the reason why the Sigma 12-24 HSM II does not work with the LA-EA3 adapter (but other Sigmas do well)?
Take care, L
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Hi Brian,
Excellent read. Pretty simple question here, I have an A7R2, using it with native FE lenses (primarily 24-70mm F4) in very low light situations (mainly gigs). I have transitioned from Canon and miss the 2.8 tbh. If I were to purchase an A mount 24-70mm 2.8 with an LA-EA3 adapter, would the focussing be comparable to the native FE lens?
Cheers, all help appreciated!
g
Focusing is not 100% identical as it is with native lenses, but that combination is quite good in my opinion.
Ta muchly!
I found the LA-EA4 vastly helped my Tamron XR Aspherical LD (IF) 28-300mm Macro Model A06 zoom lens to focus sharply and faster on the Sony A7r DSLM camera.
Great article 🙂 i do have one question though regarding the 24-70mm 2.8 version 1 and 2.. im thinking of getting either one coz in australia the ver. 2 is almost 1000 more.. so a few questions:
1. just wondering if its worth that much? in terms of using the a7rII i mean with the laea 3.. i know youre getting weather resistance but that’ll basically be useless because the laea 3 is not weather resistant..
2. and also i saw in dxo mark, using the ver. 2 in the a77 has a significant decrease in performance (especially in sharpess) vs the ver. 1. i have the a77 mark II and unfortunately they dont have tests for that camera.. just wondering if you saw any decrease in photo quality using your a mount crop cameras with the version 2..
thanks 🙂
If you can get them for close to the same price buy version II, but I wouldn’t pay an extra $1000
Hey Brian, great article. I did have a question. I attempted to try a few of my SSM Zeiss lenses on an a7rii yesterday (with ae3 adapter) but was only getting 169 AF points rather than the 399. Any idea why?
Also tried on an a7sii and while the LA-EA3 adapter did work., the focusing was terribly slow. Any word on it being compatible as the 7rii?
This post is specifically about a7RII as it’s the only Sony mirrorless camera with on sensor PDAF capable of focusing DSLR lenses.
I understand that, but WITH the a7RII I was only getting 169 focus points in phase detection mode. While in contrast it was open to 399. Any reason for the smaller allowable selection in phase detection. I would like to be able to speak intelligently about them when hosting workshops or speaking to its features.
Thanks!
Nope. A7RII has 399 point PDAF and 25 point Contrast AF.
A7RII has 399 point PDAF and 25 point contrast AF. This shows the difference between a7RII and a7II: https://briansmith.com/sony-a7ii-firmware-update-adds-af-system-selection/
Thoughts on the A7sII with the ea-3? Trying to decide between the two (7rII & 7sII) and auto focus with my Zeiss am mount primes is a factor….future post on this? Thanks mate
A7SII is Contrast AF only – so it won’t come close to the AF speed of a7RII with LA-EA3.
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Thanks for the info. Does the La ea3 perform better in general than the metabones iv?
At most focal lengths, they’re petty comparable, but LS-EA3 seems to do better with Tele Zooms over 300mm.
With the new A7ii firmware is something like the Tamron AF 70-200mm f/2.8 Di with la-ea3 now a good combo?
Nice article and guide, so much helpful indeed, I have a question thou, will the Sony sal 16-105 will work with one of these adaptors?
I did not test Sony SAL 16-105mm f/3.5-5.6 DT on a7RII because it’s an APS lens.
Any word as to why Sony has crippled the autofocus speed of a lens when using laea3 to shoot video? Native lenses are able to autofocus quickly when shooting video so there really is no reason for non-native lenses to be crippled. Will Sony ever fix this via firmware or a new adapter? At least for alpha lenses, since there are so few full frame e-mount options right now.
Unlike stills, video is only able to access Contrast AF. Which is as you’ve noticed slooooower. I’m not certain if there is a way to fix this with a firmware update or this is hardware-related.
Hello Brian,
Fantastic reading…
With the 500 Minolta F8 mirror do you you suggest a specific adapter with the A7RII?
Thank you
Do you mean the MD Rokkor-X version or the AF A-mount lens?
The AF-A mount.
Aside for the Minolta 70-200/2.8 SSM and 300/2.8 SSM, Minolta lenses require LA-EA4 for AF – BUT – I haven’t tested that particular lens. Because it’s an F8 lens I can’t promise you’ll get AF even with LA-EA4.
Thank you for the great article. Do you know if this applies to A7 ii? I am getting front focus sometimes with LA-EA3, A7m2 and Sigma 24-70 EX DG HSM (I could correct focusing with LA-EA4 but AF micro adjust will not work for ea3). The sigma 105/2.8 HSM Macro does not focus at all. Weirdly all 1.4 lenses I tried the 3 sigma lenses you listed the 50mm Zeiss work very well
I was wondering if the AF with A7m2 and A mount lenses after the update has some considerable drawback relative to a7r2 apart from the coverage and total number of AF points
I don’t own any Sigma glass so it will probably be a while til I have a chance to test Sigma lenses on a7II.
Hello Brian!
2 weeks ago I bought: SONY ALFA 7RII with interchangeable adapter that will assist me to use previous lenses that I have for the previous camera SONY ALFA 77V. For some reason the 42MB function works apparently only when the camera is attached to the lenss without adapter. My question is whether SONY lens 24-240 is the kind that will allow me to run my 42MB function in the SONY ALFA 7RII or what will you advise?
Thank you
Yehskeal
First off, yes, Sony FE 24-70mm F4 ZA OSS is a fullframe lens.
Full-frame A-mount lenses will also allow you to shoot fullframe on a7RII – but APS-crop A-mount lenses will not. Since Sony a77 is an APS camera, is it possible the A-mount lens you’re trying to adapt is made for APS?
Hi Brien!
Firstly thanks for the wise answer.
Unfortunately, I asked about the lens Sony FE 24-240mm f/3.5-6.3 OSS and you refer to 24-70. So sorry if I’m confusing your brain, can you write me your opinion about this lens? Whether it is suitable for photography with the camera in pictures size 42MP that means’ to run the camera with this lens.
Thanks for the attention.
Yes. Sony FE 24-240 F3.5-6.3 OSS is a fullframe lens.
FE is Sony’s designation for fullframe E-mount lenses.
Hi I want to buy Sony A7rii but confused in lenses please recommend me one lens that is good for recording 4k reviews/unboxing and gadgets and good for protatit photography if one lens is not possible kindly suggest to
Thanks.
Sony FE 55mm F1.8 ZA should fit that need quite well.
Hi. I have confusion about cropping using adaptors. I have scoured the articles to get confirmation but am still none the wiser.
I have the A7rII and both the LA-EA3 adaptor and a Metabones EF-E Mount. When using either my 24-70mm Canon 2.8L or the Zeiss 24-70mm ZA SSM II lens, I am getting cropping of the lens. What I can see through the viewfinder at 24mm no where near as wide as 24mm on my 5DII.
Am I totally missing something here?
Thanks for all the in-depth articles on here, it’s really helped with the Canon to Sony transition I’m slowly making.
The ONLY way that will happen is if your a7RII is set to APS crop mode. Otherwise the view will be exactly the same with those lenses.
Blimey. So simple. Thanks Brian. I couldn’t see the woods for the trees on this. I don’t even know how that would have got turned on. Phew. Merry Christmas.
Hi Smith
I am beginner to digital cams, I have Sony Alpha a7R II Mirrorless Digital Cam by mistake I have brought A mount lens (Sony 24-70mm f/2.8 Carl Zeiss T* Alpha A-Mount Standard Zoom Lens) so I am trying to get adapter to make use of it.
while using the adaptor is there any difference in photography?
First off, if you purchased it at a retailer, will they allow you to return the lens and purchase one of the FE versions instead?
If not, the adapter you want is the Sony LA-EA5
Could you please confirm that I won’t get any better low light AF with A7RII over A7?
using the LA-EA4
Complete the sentence next time, please! LA-EA4 has its own AF system so it function the same in all cameras.
sorry, I did complete the sentence in a reply 1 min later but you are very fast. OK thank you.
No I cannot, because you will.
is this mentioned anywhere in your post? Could you clarify what the gain is otherwise?
Thanks for your reply and great post!
Hi Brian…Thank you so much for the MOST comprehensive Sony coverage I have found. Very easy to read, and packed full of solid information. I have used your page a lot since purchasing my Sony A7ii.
Question though…I would like to know if there’s an adapter that will allow me to use my old Minolta MD 135 mm lens for the A7ii. It seems that many work with the A7 but not the Mark 11.
Any suggestions? Many Thanks…Cecile
I’ve got a FotodioX Adapter for Minolta MD/MC to Sony E-Mount and it works fine on a7II and other a7 series Mark II cameras.
I’ve heard of issues with Fotga and other cheap adapters – which is among the reasons they’re not on my list of recommended adapters.
Hi Brian,
I’m looking to upgrade from the Sony A57 to the Sony A7RII.
Currently I have the Tamron 70-200 2.8 (which I really love) and the Tamron 17-50 2.8 lens.
Should I keep either of these and invest in an adapter, or will they not do the A7RII justice? Any idea if Sony is coming out with a 70-200 2.8 fairly soony? I hate the idea of having to get the 70-200 f4. Also, my other concern is that while shooting events I cannot use a flash on the A7RII if I use an adapter with the Tamron 70-200 on it, which I really need to be able to use a flash. Any idea around this? Or would I just need to suck it up and get the 70-200 f4?
Thank you!
2016 FE lenses have not yet been announced so keep your fingers crossed. Then again don’t forget the high ISO performance on a7RII beats a57 by 4-5 stops so F2.8 isn’t as important as you may think
Very true, I didn’t think of it in that aspect. Do you think either of my Tamron lenses are worth keeping and just investing in an adapter to use them on the a7RII? Thank you for the reply!
Hi Brian, I would buy the Zeiss Sony 135mm f1.8, but I’m not interested autofocus, there is a Fotodiox adapter $ 30 that says serves to move the diaphragm aperture and nothing else, you think this combination works well with my a7rii or would have some additional problem the lack of electronic communication ??
thank you!!
I’d recommend LA-EA3 if you do not need AF with that lens.
the Fotodiox costs 8 times less, this adapter would problems ??
Get the LA-EA3.
Hi Brian,
Great website and great resource. Question: since DXO tests A-Mount lenses with the 24MP A99 and not on the 42MP A7RII, do you think it’s viable to multiply the DXO sharpness rating by 1.75 (42/24=1.75) to get a proxy of how the A-Mount lens might perform on the A7RII with an LA-EA3 adapter?
I can’t find resources anywhere that assess how well adapted lenses will resolve on the A7RII new sensor.
Thanks,
Arthur
Nope. They’ll likely perform better on a7RII but there is no mathematical formula.
Great review bryan. I have a question though. Which adapter will work for sony a7rii if i want to use sigma EX AF 50-500 for sony a-mount. Thanks
That lens was not available when I tested.
Hi Brian. I learned already a lot from you. Thanks.
I owned a Nikon D810 with good lenses.
Because i make more and more video’s, and the Nikon was not the best in that case.
Then i bought the 7Rmk2. Nice camera, and technical perfect.
Lenses, 16-35 + 24-70 + 70-200 and since yesterday the 70-400 + LA-EA3.
Works great. But when i make video ‘s AF-C does not work.
When you press the foto relaese button, he starts sharpening.
But when you lose that button, and start pannig f.i., the AF-C does not follow.
When you press the function button, the screen says, This lens will not work.
Do i something wrong? Arew my settings not correct. Or does ‘nt it work.
In fotosetting all works. But AF-C is not very quick.
Must you update the LA-EA3. I don ‘t think so. The 7R mk2 is updated.
Thanks for your answer and greetings from Giethoorn (Dutch Vienna) in Holland.
Tjardi
DSLR lenses are not designed for video AF. That lens will do a decent job of video AF using a Sony LA-EA4 adapter, but other than that, native E-mount lenses provide the best video AF.
Brian.
Please can you tell me, or the AF-C of the 7Rmk2 + 70-400 + LA-AE4, will be very slow? You better don ‘t use?
It will work, i reed. But how quick?
It’s pretty fast though I prefer using LA-EA3 Lens Mount Adapter with that combination in order to be able to take advantage of a7RII’s 399-point PDAF instead of the 15 points used by LA-EA4.
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Hey Brian
I’ve been looking true all of the questions and answers and couldn’t find the answer.. So
After the Firmware 2.0 AF update for A7ii does it handle A-mount lenses with LA-EA3 adapter well ? fast focus and so ?
thanks for your help and a great site..
Firmware Update 2.00 is really a “must” for a7II owners using third-party lenses on smart adapters because it offers improvements similar to this – though over a smaller PDAF focus area than a7RII.
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Hi
Does the new Tamron 150-600 G2 A-mount work well with LAEA3 and Sony A6500?Any known issues?Need a long focal range for Kite-Surf and not shure what to buy….Is the Tamron 150-600 G1 enough for that matter?
Thx
I haven’t tested version 2. It wasn’t available the last time I tested adapters, but I suspect AF is as good if not better than version 1 and the optical design is definitely improved.
Brian
This may be a silly question, but I will send it anyway. Does the LA-EA3 works with the first Sony A7? the basic one?
I have a 70-200 F/2.8 A-Mount lens that I use with te LA-EA4 but the weight and 1/3 of light lost for my concert shooting are negative factors.
Any recommendations?
Thanks so much
Alfredo
Yes, That’s a SSM lens so it will get AF for stills with LA-EA3
thanks
Hello Brian, i was wondering if you knew whether my Sigma 18-250mm f/3.5-6.3 DC Macro HSM would work with the LA-EA3 on my a6300 and retain the ability to use it’s 425 af points?
Thanks in advance!
If it’s a SSM lens, yes. If it’s not, no.
Hi Brian,
I have a A7R2 and am looking at the Sigma 100-400mm. Do you have an opinion of how they work together? Any imput would be appreciated!
Thanks Greg
Hi Greg, everything I’ve tested is listed here. I’m doing less adapted lens testing now that Sony is filling out there FE lens line. The FE 100-400 GM is one of the best lenses in the line.
a7 and a7ii has diferent result
Sony a7II will perform the same with firmware 2.00 or later (albeit with 30% PDAF coverage compared to 60% on a7RII.)
Sony a7 does not have PDAF with adapted lenses so these test results do not refer to a7, a7R, a7S or a7SII.
Hi Brian,
I have bought an a9 recent and want to ask if I can still use my old APS-C lens, SAL50F14, on it? If so, which adapter should I use?
And what will be the consequences if I use this APS-C lens on my new camera?
The good new is that SAL50F14 is a fukkframe lens – not APS-C.
The bad news is that it’s based on an old Minolta design – so it is not a SSM lens which menas that if you want AF you’ll need to use Sony LA-EA4 Lens Mount Adapter and I’m not sure that lens is worth the cost of adapting.
Will sigma 50mm 2.8 macro work.
Any idea if the Sony 55-300mm F/4.5-5.6 DT A-Mount Zoom Lens, with the Sony LA-EA4 Lens Adapter, works well with the Sony A6500? Is the auto-focus fully functional? Thanks.
LA-EA4 is limited to 15 AF points so the answer is no.
Brian,
I have the Sigma 70-300mm OS For Sony. It’s not a screw drive but has the low end internal focus motor. Which adapter, the LAEA4 or Laea3, should I use on my A7, the original A7.
Thanks!
Steve
I haven’t tested that lens, however if it’s SSM then LA-EA3 is the way to go.
Also, rather than dropping $349 on LA-EA4, you should seriously consider purchasing Sony FE 70-300mm f/4.5-5.6 G OSS.
Brian, this is an exhaustive test and answered a lot of my questions. Long time A-mount user with some of the best glass that Minolta and Sony ever produced. Right now I own only SSM glass. I recently got the A7RIII and love it and have used it with the SAL300 f2.8 and SAL70200G2 and it works fine with the limitations you described. Do you see a A7RIII firmware update in the future that would allow one to get Eye-AF and Center Lock-On AF with the LA-EA3? That seems to be possible on the MC-11 and MB IV. Logically, it would seem that they could make this work with the A-Mount SSM glass and LA-EA3
That wouldn’t be a camera firmware it would be LA-EA3 firmware I know there was one when a9 was released but I don’t believe it added either of those things
Shot with the LA-EA3 and the Tamron SP 15-30mm f/2.8 Di VC USD on the A7RIII this morning and I would describe the performance as lacking, It would hunt a lot before finding focus and was very predictable in how it worked. First far and then close and then far and then found focus. Not a combo that I will use again. The USD does not seem to perform like a native SSD lense at all.
Shot with the LA-EA3 and the Tamron SP 15-30mm f/2.8 Di VC USD on the A7RIII this morning and I would describe the performance as lacking, It would hunt a lot before finding focus and was very predictable in how it worked. First far and then close and then far and then found focus. Not a combo that I will use again. The USD does not seem to perform like a native SSD lens at all.
Brian, I have an a7R3 and a collection of older A mount lenses from my A77ii. My 18250SAL lens will not autofocus when used with EA3 adapter. Any idea why? I believe the lens uses an ultrasonic motor as SAM and SSM lenses do. Is there a workaround other than using an EA4 adapter (or manual focus).
1. Nope. SAL 18-250 is a screw drive lens so it needs LA-EA4 for AF…. but…
2. Like all 18mm-XXX Zoom lenses, SAL 18-250 is an APS-C lens.
3. Because of 1 & 2 it’s not well suited to fullframe cameras like a7R III.
4. Sell it. Don’t adapt it.
Brian, I am curious your opinion. I am upgrading from an Alpha57 and looking at either the 99 or 7Rii. All my mounts are A-mount and yes they are APS-C lenses. I shoot a lot of low light, action and landscape pics. I am planning over time (a long time mind you) to convert to everything full frame but I can’t decide on going to the E-mount and using the adapter or staying with the A-mount. Picture quality wise the 99 is worse due to the mirror as we all know, but I stopped shooting professionally a long time before the digital era took over. (Medium format guy here.) I could probably live with the 99 so trying to compare the difference between the two is difficult for making a final decision. I am leaning towards the A7r but concerned the adapter will make shooting in low light and action difficult. The lenses I have now are Sigma 17-50mm f/2.8 EX HSM, Tamron SP 70-200mm f/2.8 Di USD, Tokina 11-16mm f2.8 (IF) DX, Rokinon 8mm CS II
I shot a wedding for my nephew and rented the A99 while using the above mentioned lenses and it worked great. I loved the results considering the limitations I had, but at lower light levels during the reception I wasn’t very happy with the noise level. I used more flash than I would have liked to prevent shooting any higher than ISO800. Thus I would love to go mirror-less but to do so brings about the adapter and focusing issues..if any. Plus, is my current set even fully compatible with the LA-EA3 because if not I would not buy two adapters and probably stay with the 99….maybe?
Between those two cameras, a7R II no question.
Adapt the fullframe lenses you have and sell the APS-C glass.
Consider buying al all-around native lens like the Sony FE 24-105mm F4 G OSS and gradually replacing the adapted lenses you use most.
One last question. F4 isn’t very low for my taste, but with the mirrorless I would have the ability to shoot at much higher ISO numbers. Plus since there is less loss of light it should help compensate for inability to drop to 2.8 don’t you think? The only thing I will lose is depth of field and honestly who shoots at 2.8 for that anyway. There is generally a loss of image quality shooting that low in the corners.
At the moment E Mount is fairly high in price for a 2.8 from Sony. I am hoping over time Sigma and others will begin making a zoom 2.8 lense.
Ok, maybe I am answering my own question. I shouldn’t worry about the lack of a 2.8 in my price point right now. Just sit back and use an F4 and maybe eventually a cheaper 2.8 will roll around. You agree?
I suggested Sony FE 24-105mm F4 G OSS since it’s better than anything on your current list, but if the Sony FE 24-70mm f/2.8 G Master is within your budget – grab it by all means! Much better image quality than Sigma’s 24-70 – and it’s designed for fast AF on mirrorless which Sigma hasn’t figured out yet…
Thanks for taking the time out to help! Much much appreciated! I think I know what I will do now.
I have the Sony A6000 and the La-ea4 to use with old Minolta lens. I also have a Sigma 150-500 and Tamron 24-70mm 2.8 both with Hypersonic motors, can i use and will it help to get the La-ea3 adapter for these lens? Will i get more focus points? Thanks Mike
SSM or HSM lenses do not require LA-EA4. You’ll get more AF points with LA-EA3 .
Thank you for the great info on the various lenses and Sony adapters.
I purchased a Sony 16-35 F2.8 SSM and a LA-EA4 adapter and I am having a lot of problems in low light and sunrise and sunset photos, the settings for the picture change from normal for the shot to 10 stops darker, but the display does not change. I turned off live view, though that did not help all the time, shooting manual worked fine. would I have the same issue with a LA-EA3 adapter?
LA-EA3 is the adapter I recommend for that lens, but I don’t believe that’s the issue. Check to see if Live View Setting Effect is Off.
THANKS! Great article, I’m about to just from my A900 to the A7RIII, with your information and the right adaptor, I’ll be OK to save all my A-Mount lens…. and also be ready for the newer Sony glass… cheers!
Yup. But…you might want to consider updating your workhorse lens to the FE version. A-mount lenses are compatible but focus is not as fast and image quality doesn’t match native Sony FE lenses.
Do you know if the Tamron 24-70 2.8 lens for sonyA would work with the LA-EA3 adapter. Very useful article thank you
If you mean the Tamron SP 24-70mm f/2.8 Di USD Lens, that’s a Ultrasonic Silent Drive (Tamron’s version of SSM) so in theory, it should work. Just bear in mind that’s an older lens design compared to the current Tamron SP 24-70mm f/2.8 Di VC USD G2 Lens which unfortunately is not available in A-mount.
Hi, Brian.
Just a couple qx… first, want to double check one thing on compatibility. I have a selection of Sony A-mount SAM lenses, but a few of them are DT lenses that I use on my a77ii. I just bought a nice used a7ii and was considering the values of adapting some of my existing glass. Are all SAM lenses compatible or will the DTs among them vignette or produce other unpredictable results in full frame? Lastly, do you think the a7ii still has a place in the a7 lineup? Just seems like such a tremendous value right now… low light performance may be a bit of an Achilles, but a used a7iii at $1000+ more seems like a lot to me. I shoot mostly street. Thoughts?
I never advise adapting APS-C lenses for still photography on fullframe a7 Series cameras. First off, the quality of Sony DT lenses simply aren’t up to the quality of the sensor. Second, you’ll be throwing away over half the pixels – Sony a7 cameras end up as just 10mp in crop mode.
Have you found any setting that allows the newer a7 series cameras to autofocus continuously in video mode?
LA-EA4???
Hello, i have Tokina 100-300mm F4 AT-X 340 AF-II and i will use it on Sony a7rii, what adapter would you recommended? La-ea4? Thanks for answear.
If it’s the A-mount version, yes.
Hi Brian
I am in the market for an upgrade and Sony is doing wonderful things at the moment.
I have an old A200 still, coupled with a Sigma 50 to 500. This works wonders for me in nature photography.
Sigma does not intend doing a 60 to 600 for the E mount system and Sony does not seem to get their act together for this type of combination. (Not that I can find)
I am looking at A7riii or iv or A99ii
They all have their own problems. The 99 seems good but it cannot do video AF with the slow, superzoom lenses. The still AF also seem to suffer as well as tracking.
At this stage, I cannot find a combination where I can make full use of all these wonderful features, Am I missing a point or two ?
I am rather loyal to Sony and I think they do exceptionally well at this stage, but they cannot give me the combination I need and it does not seem like they are going to fix this in a hurry.
If I must change lens and camera it seems like I must rather go to Nikon or Cannon that seems to have fewer issues?
The 99ii seems the closest fit?
What will I lose?
Low light is important. Good AF with eye-tracking where possible all with my lens seems to be a big ask?
I will appreciate any practical comments that you can think of.
Kind regards
Pieter (From Africa)
Hi Pieter, Sony FE 200-600mm F5.6-6.3 G OSS is considerably sharper & faster focus than any of the Sigma options. Great lens!
Hi Brian,
I have been following your site for some time now and I found it really interesting because I have picked up some good recommendations and learned some technical know how.
I have recently bought a Sony SAL1635Z2 (Sony Zeiss Vario-Tessar 16-35 f2.8 ZA SSM II) with an LA-EA3. Before I bought it, I tested it with my Sony A7RII and I have found out that the AF system is not working. When I attempted to turn on the AF System of the camera to choose either Phase or Contrast detect – AF won’t work showing on camera monitor screen“Invalid with this Lens”. I was told by the owner that he was not able to use auto focus since having the lens and adapter combo when it was new with his A7R camera therefore only using a manual focus. Manual also works fine on my A7RII. The previous owner also told me that the other adopter LA-EA4 will work on Autofocus instead. Since I also own an LA-EA4 that I am using with my Zeiss 135 f1.8 A mount lens, I decided to buy it at a reasonable price.
However, when I arrived home the SAL1635Z2 that I bought also does not on Autofocus on my LA-EA4 adopter as well but also working fine on manual focus From your post above, it does show that both of these adopters should work. Am I suppose to set up something further on my camera to make the AF System works? Your opinion and help on this matter is much appreciated.
Thanks in advance – Greetings from the ‘Land down Under – Australia’
It’s a SSM lens so either adapter will work. I used mine with LA-EA3 before Sony released their FE 16-35 and AF worked fine.
The SAL1635Z has an AF/M dial on the side of the lens barrel – but be certain to check that’s set to AF. If it is and the lens is still not auto focusing, ther may be a problem with your lens.
Thanks for your reply Brian, I have double checked that the AF/M side selector is on AF (Auto-Focus) but the results on both adopters were the same – won’t engaged Auto Focus – I guess something wrong with the SAL1635Z2 lens that I bought.
Cheers
Eddie
Hi, it is necessary little bit to update information here. Because Eye – AF now works with my Tamron SP AF Di USD 24 – 70 mm f/2.8 XR LD ASL [IF] + LA-EA3. Its not the fastest, but it works along with some other funtions as Lock On in AF-C mode etc. And look like all AF points working too. But here is some thing greyed out anyway, but not very important.
With regard to Sony A7iii which sony adaptor will give you the fastest frame count using the Sony 70-300 F4.5-5.6 G SSM lens 8 or 10 Frames/sec
Since that’s a SSM A-mount lens you want Sony LA-EA3
Hi Brian, love your site and articles. I just bought the a7r iv, mounted my new/used la-ea4 and minolta 200mm with kenko 2x adapter. AF speed and photos are awesome, Very pleased with the old lens. But I’m having trouble activating focus peaking and manual over-ride. You know how important that is when trying to photograph a bird with leaves or other obstructions in the way. Am I missing something about the settings? I’m not familiar with the lens or the camera, but I used the a7r-2 with fringer adapter/contax n 70-300, and focus peaking worked beautiful. Thanks if you can point me in the right direction. I’m only 2 years into photography so still learning.
I’ve never tested that particular combination, but I’ll try to help you out. Since you’ve activated Focus Peaking before, you know where to find the menu setting.
The camera must be set to manual focus in order for Focus Peaking to be active.
By default settings, the AF Button will toggle AF On/Off You can confirm that here:
Menu Settings > Camera Settings 2 > Custom Operation 1 > Custom Key > 2 AF On
You can also select Manual Focus here:
Menu Settings > Camera Settings 1 > AF1 > Focus Mode > Manual Focus
Brian, that WORKED!!!!!! Thank you! Loving this lens combo, so light to carry, Minolta-rich colors and AF speed-accuracy are just great. My first use of a tele-converter and I am pleased with the image quality. Again, thank you so much!
Hi Brian,
Great article. Thanks so much for putting this together and all the testing you’ve done. Just wanted to offer an update – I have a Sony A6600. I purchased the LA-EA3 to use my Sony 16-50MM F/2.8 DT SSM and Sony 55-300MM F/4.5-5.6 DT SAM on the A6600. Eye-AF and Focus Lock work with both lenses (although AF and Eye Focus are quite a bit faster on the 16-50 than the 55-300; I’m guessing because of the SSM motor compared to the SAM motor). Regardless, I’m really happy with the performance of the 16-50 (to me it operates as well as my native e-mount glass for stills) and generally happy with the 55-300. Thanks again!
Thank you Brian.
Hi. Lots of useful comments here!
My experience with using LA-EA1/2/3/4 is that the wider array of AF points available with LA-EA3 may be an advantage to some users, but the on-sensor PDAF is much less capable than the older PDAF of the LA-EA2/4 adapters of detecting the direction of focus error when this is large, especially on tele lenses. For difficult focusing conditions, eg birding, I find the LA-EA4 a better solution, but then I’d much rather gave one good AF point in the centre than a whole host of them around the edge. Maybe I’m just old-fashioned and happy to work with focus/recompose, but then in my photography I don’t do much portrait work and never have to worry about which eyelash I want sharp … 🙂