Sony FE 85mm F1.8

Reviewers rate it as one of the best-value lenses in the FE range. Centre sharpness is high from f/1.8, the corners lag a little wide open and catch up by f/4, and AF is fast and quiet enough for events and video. Bokeh is pleasant but less smooth than the GM, with some outlining in specular highlights.

The main criticisms are longitudinal colour fringing at f/1.8 on high-contrast edges and a slightly plasticky feel. Testers often note that third-party options such as the Samyang and Viltrox 85s have closed the gap, but few match its combination of size, AF speed and price.

Owners like how light and quick it is, and many use it for portraits, kids, indoor sports and stage work. The focus-hold button and silent AF suit hybrid shooters, and it pairs well with compact bodies like the A7C series.

The complaints are purple and green fringing wide open, bokeh that can look busy against foliage, and the lack of an aperture ring. A few owners mention focus breathing for video and a hood that feels cheap.