The best Sony lenses for sports photography make a huge difference in capturing those dynamic, fast-paced moments. With a variety of options available, it’s important to find a lens that offers both versatility and performance to meet the demands of sports photographers.
Our top pick is the Sony FE 100-400mm f/4.5-5.6 GM OSS. We’ve chosen this telephoto zoom for its quick autofocus, versatile zoom range, and reliable image stabilization. But if that’s not the lens for you, we have seven more fantastic Sony lenses for sports photography.
What Is the Best Nikon Sony Lens for Sport Photography?
Autofocus speed, zoom range, and image stabilization are some of the key features you need to consider when searching for the best Sony lens for sports. Our list includes options like the Sony FE 100-400mm GM OSS for its quick focus and versatility and the Sigma 150-600mm for its extensive reach.
- Versatile 100-400mm zoom for dynamic sports shots
- Superior sharpness and fast autofocus performance
- Effective Optical SteadyShot image stabilization
- Durable, weather-sealed construction for outdoor use
- Compatible with Sony's teleconverters for extra reach
- Ideal for wildlife and sports photography
- Lightweight design enhances portability and handling
- Sharp images across entire zoom range
- Built-in Optical SteadyShot for image stabilization
- Weather-sealed for reliable outdoor use
- Bright f/2.8 aperture for low-light performance
- G Master optics ensure top-tier image quality
- Fast, precise autofocus with silent operation
- Durable, weather-sealed construction for outdoor reliability
- Optical SteadyShot stabilization for sharp handheld shots
- 10x zoom range covers wide to telephoto
- Optical SteadyShot stabilization for sharper images
- Compact design for an all-in-one solution
- Ideal for travel and everyday photography
- High-quality construction with weather resistance
- Extensive 200-600mm range for distant subjects
- Built-in Optical SteadyShot for enhanced stability
- High-quality optics ensure sharp, clear images
- Weather-sealed design for outdoor shooting resilience
- Fast, precise autofocus system for dynamic captures
- Versatile 70-300mm zoom for diverse shooting scenarios
- Optical SteadyShot ensures sharp images at long distances
- High-quality G Series optics for superior clarity
- Fast, silent autofocus ideal for wildlife and sports
- Durable design with dust and moisture resistance
- Exceptional 150-600mm range for ultimate subject reach
- Optical Stabilization for sharp images at long distances
- Robust build with dust and splash-proof construction
- Customizable AFL button enhances shooting versatility
- Compatible with Sony E-mount for seamless integration
- Expansive 150-500mm zoom for versatile long-range shooting
- VXD motor ensures fast, precise autofocus performance
- VC image stabilization for sharp handheld photos
- Moisture-resistant construction for reliability in harsh conditions
- Lightweight design enhances portability and handling
Our Favorite Sony Lenses for Sport Photography
Let’s take a closer look at our favorite Sony lenses for sport photography. These lenses provide plenty of options to capture the on-field action, ensuring you find the perfect fit for your sports photography requirements.
1. Sony FE 100-400mm f/4.5-5.6 GM OSS
| Brand |
Brand
Sony
|
| Lens Weight |
Lens Weight
1395 g
|
| Maximum Aperture |
Maximum Aperture
f/ 5.6
|
| Focal Length Range |
Focal Length Range
100-400 mm
|
| Image Stabilization |
Image Stabilization
 |
The Sony FE 100-400mm f/4.5-5.6 GM OSS is the best Sony lens for sports photography, standing out due to its extensive reach and fast AF system.
Its telephoto focal range allows photographers to zoom in on distant action. This versatility is a big advantage when you can’t get close to the athletes.
Its variable aperture of f/4.5-5.6 might not be the best in low light conditions, limiting shutter speed options. Thankfully, the Optical SteadyShot (OSS) stabilization system compensates, giving you additional exposure stops. This helps you capture fast action in low light.
Double linear direct-drive supersonic motors drive the autofocus system, giving you super-fast focusing. This is essential when shooting fast-moving subjects like sports players and athletes.
Weighing about 3.07lb (1395g), this lens is relatively light for its class. This makes it easier to handle during long sporting events. But the lens’s size and weight might still require a monopod for stability during longer shoots.
Compared to the Sony FE 70-200mm f/2.8 GM OSS II, the 100-400mm offers a longer reach but at the cost of a smaller maximum aperture. This trade-off means the 70-200mm might be better in very low light, but the 100-400mm lens provides more flexibility to capture action from afar.
With excellent sharpness at the longest focal lengths, a fast AF system, and image stabilization, there’s a lot to love about the Sony FE 100-400mm f/4.5-5.6 GM OSS. That’s why it’s our choice as the best Sony lens for sports photography.
2. Sony E 70-350mm f/4.5-6.3 G OSS
| Brand |
Brand
Sony
|
| Lens Weight |
Lens Weight
625 g
|
| Maximum Aperture |
Maximum Aperture
f/ 6.3
|
| Focal Length Range |
Focal Length Range
70-350 mm
|
| Image Stabilization |
Image Stabilization
|
The Sony E 70-350mm f/4.5-6.3 G OSS is the best Sony sports lens for APS-C cameras.
thanks to an XD linear motor, its autofocus is quick and reliable. This makes it easy to keep up with fast-moving subjects.
The lens offers a broad zoom range, allowing photographers to capture distant action without needing to move closer. And the wider end allows you to shoot scenic stadium shots, giving you excellent shot variety.
Its variable f/4.5-6.3 aperture might not be ideal in low light, limiting its use in some sports environments. But the OSS gives you a helping hand in low light, allowing for slower shutter speeds with less motion blur.
Weighing 1.3 lb (625 g), this lens is light enough for handheld shooting over long periods, which is helpful during lengthy sports events.
The Sony E 70-350mm f/4.5-6.3 G OSS gives you versatility and high-quality performance. It’s the best lens for sports enthusiasts with a Sony APS-C mirrorless camera.
3. Sony FE 70-200mm f/2.8 GM OSS II
| Brand |
Brand
Sony
|
| Lens Weight |
Lens Weight
1045 g
|
| Maximum Aperture |
Maximum Aperture
f/ 2.8
|
| Focal Length Range |
Focal Length Range
70-200 mm
|
| Image Stabilization |
Image Stabilization
|
The Sony FE 70-200mm f/2.8 GM OSS II is a top option for sports photographers thanks to its fast aperture and optical quality.
This lens is perfect for capturing athletes in motion, offering sharp images across its zoom range. Its autofocus is both speedy and precise, ensuring that fast-moving subjects remain in clear focus.
A f/2.8 max aperture is a godsend for sports photography. With better light intake, you can work with faster shutter speeds more often. The max aperture is also constant, meaning you don’t lose any stops when you zoom in.
The Optical SteadyShot (OSS) helps reduce blur from camera shake, giving you even better low-light performance. That makes this lens the best for indoor or nighttime sporting events.
Weighing around 2.3 lb (1 kg), this lens is relatively easy to handle. Its build is sturdy and designed to withstand the demands of outdoor use with extensive weather sealing.
Its compatibility with Sony’s teleconverters also extends its versatility, making it a valuable tool in a sports photographer’s bag.
It might not have the biggest reach, but the Sony FE 70-200mm f/2.8 GM OSS II delivers in other important areas. It has fast AF support and sharp optical quality. But the highlight is the constant f/2.8 aperture and OSS stabilization.
4. Sony FE 24-240mm f/3.5-6.3 OSS
| Brand |
Brand
Sony
|
| Lens Weight |
Lens Weight
780 g
|
| Maximum Aperture |
Maximum Aperture
f/ 6.3
|
| Focal Length Range |
Focal Length Range
24-240 mm
|
| Image Stabilization |
Image Stabilization
|
The Sony FE 24-240mm f/3.5-6.3 OSS is a versatile lens that’s a bit more budget-friendly than some of the alternatives.
Its wide zoom range helps you capture everything from wide stadium shots to close-up action without switching lenses. However, its variable aperture of f/3.5-6.3 might limit its use in low-light conditions.
Thankfully, you have some backup in the form of the OSS system. This gives you extra exposure compensation, so you can capture blur-free shots even in low light.
A combination of spherical and Extra-low Dispersion (ED) elements ensures sharp images throughout the zoom range. And a rounded aperture diaphragm helps you create a bokeh background for close-up shots.
This lens is relatively lightweight, making it easier to handle during long sports events. It’s also dust and moisture-resistant, allowing you to work in relatively bad conditions.
The telephoto reach isn’t extensive, and the aperture is limited. But the Sony FE 24-240mm f/3.5-6.3 OSS is a versatile zoom amateurs can use to capture their local sports team. It’s an inexpensive option for full frame cameras that still delivers top results.
5. Sony FE 200-600mm f/5.6-6.3 G OSS
| Brand |
Brand
Sony
|
| Lens Weight |
Lens Weight
2115 g
|
| Maximum Aperture |
Maximum Aperture
f/ 6.3
|
| Focal Length Range |
Focal Length Range
200-600 mm
|
| Image Stabilization |
Image Stabilization
|
The Sony FE 200-600mm f/5.6-6.3 G OSS lens is a powerhouse for sports photography, offering an impressive zoom range that brings distant action into clear view.
Its dual-motor autofocus is quick and reliable, which is essential for capturing athletes moving at high speeds.
While its aperture range of f/5.6-6.3 might not be the widest, it compensates with exceptional reach and image stabilization. The built-in OSS significantly reduces camera shake, a boon for photographers without a tripod or working in low light.
ED and aspherical elements give you sensational image quality. You get sharp images at any focal length in the zoom range. And a Nano AR coating minimizes glare, which is handy when shooting under floodlights.
The lens is on the heavier side, weighing 4.65 lb (2.1 kg). But its design is optimized for balance and comfort when shooting from hand.
The magnification is breathtaking. And the sharp image quality gives you detailed images of far-off sportsmen and women. It might be overkill for casual sports photographers, but the Sony FE 200-600mm f/5.6-6.3 G OSS is a brilliant piece of kit.
6. Sony FE 70-300mm f/4.5-5.6 G OSS
| Brand |
Brand
Sony
|
| Lens Weight |
Lens Weight
854 g
|
| Maximum Aperture |
Maximum Aperture
f/ 5.6
|
| Focal Length Range |
Focal Length Range
70-300 mm
|
| Image Stabilization |
Image Stabilization
|
The Sony FE 70-300mm f/4.5-5.6 G OSS lens is a solid choice for sports photographers who need versatility and reach.
Its autofocus is quick, ensuring that fast-moving subjects are captured with clarity. And the focal range allows photographers to zoom in on distant action, making it ideal for field sports where getting close to the action isn’t always possible.
The variable aperture of f/4.5-5.6 means it’s better suited for well-lit conditions and daylight events. But the OSS does give you a helping hand when you’re struggling for light.
Two ED and four aspherical elements give you excellent image quality, reducing chromatic aberration and distortion. You get crisp images at any point in the zoom range. A Nano AR coating also reduces the effect of lens flare and improves light transmission.
As one of the lightest lenses on the list, it’s a great addition to your sports photography backpack.
A versatile all-in-one lens, the Sony FE 70-300mm f/4.5-5.6 G OSS is a great option for casual sports photographers.
7. Sigma 150-600mm f/5-6.3 DG DN OS | S for Sony E
| Brand |
Brand
Sigma
|
| Lens Weight |
Lens Weight
2100 g
|
| Maximum Aperture |
Maximum Aperture
f/ 6.3
|
| Focal Length Range |
Focal Length Range
150-600 mm
|
| Image Stabilization |
Image Stabilization
|
The Sigma 150-600mm f/5-6.3 DG DN OS | S is a game-changer for sports photographers seeking extensive reach without sacrificing image quality. It might not be a true Sony lens, but as part of Sigma’s specialist Sports lens series, you’re in good hands.
Its broad focal range and Optical Stabilization (OS) ensure sharp, crisp shots when shooting distant action.
While the variable aperture of f/5-6.3 might not be ideal in low light, the lens compensates with its ability to bring far-off subjects into clear view, making it invaluable for outdoor sports events. And low-light situations are where the OS really comes in handy.
Weighing 4.6 lb (2.1 kg), this lens is hefty, so we recommend pairing it with a camera monopod.
Its quick autofocus system keeps up with rapid movements, ensuring athletes remain in sharp focus. Despite its size, the Sigma 150-600mm is a popular choice for its rugged build and weather-sealing. It’s a reliable lens for outdoor sports events.
The Sigma 150-600mm f/5-6.3 DG DN OS | S offers exceptional magnification. The optics are just as impressive, so you get clear, detailed images of athletes from long range. The price is also surprising when you consider the wide telephoto zoom range.
8. Tamron 150-500mm f/5-6.7 Di III VC VXD for Sony E
| Brand |
Brand
Tamron
|
| Lens Weight |
Lens Weight
1710 g
|
| Maximum Aperture |
Maximum Aperture
f/ 6.7
|
| Focal Length Range |
Focal Length Range
150-500 mm
|
| Image Stabilization |
Image Stabilization
|
The Tamron 150-500mm f/5-6.7 Di III VC VXD is a standout choice for sports photographers who demand versatility and reach.
Its expansive zoom range allows for capturing distant subjects with ease, making it perfect for sideline sports reportage.
The lens’s Vibration Compensation (VC) system is a big advantage. It significantly reduces camera shake and enables clearer shots at slower shutter speeds. This is particularly helpful when the lens is limited to f/6.7 at 500mm.
Image sharpness is another strong point. A combination of Extra-low Dispersion (XD), ED, and aspherical elements gives you corner-to-corner sharpness at all points in the zoom range.
Relatively lightweight and compact, it’s easy to handle for long periods or stow in your camera bag.
Its autofocus is powered by the VXD motor, which is both fast and silent. This ensures that photographers never miss those blink-and-you-miss-it moments.
An affordable to Sony lenses, the Tamron 150-500mm f/5-6.7 Di III VC VXD delivers everything a sports photographer needs. It offers extensive magnification, sharp images, and fast focusing. It’s a brilliant lens for sports photography.
Conclusion: The Best Sony Lenses for Sport Photography
Choosing the right Sony lenses for sports photography is key for capturing fast-paced action. We reviewed eight high-quality lenses, highlighting their strengths in relation to sports photography. From quick autofocus systems to impressive zoom ranges, each lens offers unique benefits sports photographers will appreciate.
The Sony FE 100-400mm f/4.5-5.6 GM OSS emerged as our top pick. Its balance of zoom flexibility and quick autofocus make it ideal for covering sports. But as we’ve seen, Sony users have plenty of options when it comes to lenses for sports photography.
