Sony E 16mm f/2.8 Lens

Sony
Product # SYL8242MFR #SEL16F28S
Sony
Product # SYL8242MFR #SEL16F28S
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Sony E 16mm f/2.8 Lens
DISCONTINUED
This product has been discontinued and is no longer available for purchase.

Key Features

  • Ultra-compact pancake design for maximum portability
  • Focal length: 16mm (24mm equivalent on APS-C)
  • Bright f/2.8 maximum aperture for low-light shooting
  • 49mm filter thread—compatible with conversion lenses and filters
  • Minimum focus distance: 9.4" (0.24m)
  • Lightweight: only 2.5 oz (70g)
  • Pleasing circular aperture with seven blades for smooth bokeh
DISCONTINUED
This product has been discontinued and is no longer available for purchase.

OVERVIEW

The Sony E 16mm f/2.8 Lens (SEL16F28S) is a true standout in the world of E-mount primes, packing impressive wide-angle performance and ultralight portability into an elegant pancake profile. Designed for APS-C format Sony mirrorless bodies, this lens delivers a versatile 24mm equivalent field of view, making it ideal for landscapes, street, interiors, travel, and vlogging. Its bright f/2.8 aperture offers solid low-light capability and creative subject isolation, while its affordable price makes it accessible to both beginners and experienced shooters.

Design and Build Quality

The SEL16F28 features a slim pancake profile just 0.8" (22mm) deep, enabling a truly pocketable camera setup. Weighing only 2.5 oz (70g), it is one of the lightest E-mount lenses available, perfect for travel and daily carry. Crafted with a high-quality aluminum alloy barrel and metal lens mount, the lens offers durability while maintaining an elegant, retro-inspired look in silver.

Optical Specifications

The lens features a single-focal length 16mm design, which translates to a 24mm equivalent field of view on Sony APS-C bodies—covering wide landscapes, interiors, and crowded streets with ease. Key specifications:
  • Focal Length: 16mm (24mm APS-C equivalent)
  • Maximum Aperture: f/2.8
  • Minimum Aperture: f/22
  • Minimum Focus Distance: 9.4" (0.24m)
  • Filter Size: 49mm
  • Diaphragm Blades: 7-blade circular
  • Dimensions: Approx. 0.89 x 2.44" (2.26 x 6.20 cm)
  • Weight: 2.5 oz (70g)

Performance and Image Quality

Offering a wide field of view and crisp rendering, the lens improves image quality especially in peripheral areas compared to previous generations. The optical formula includes an aspherical element for higher sharpness and reduced distortion—vital for expansive scenes or architectural subjects.

Focus and Handling

Direct Manual Focus (DMF) capability allows adjustment after autofocus lock-on, and an easy-grip manual focus ring gives a tactile, hands-on feel for smoother operation. The internal stepping motor ensures quiet autofocus and silent aperture operation, well suited to stills and video shooting. The lens design omits optical stabilization, relying on camera IBIS or tripod for extended exposures.

Compatibility

Fully compatible with all Sony APS-C E-mount bodies (e.g., a6000/a6100/a6400/a6500/a6600), as well as full-frame E-mount cameras in crop (APS-C) mode (e.g., a7/a9/a1 series). Especially suited for shooters who value minimal weight and maximum mobility.

Accessory and Creative Options

Supports 49mm filters (UV, polarizing, ND) and is specifically designed to work with Sony's dedicated Ultra-wide and Fisheye conversion lenses for even more creative perspectives.

Key Specifications: Comparison Table

Feature Sony E 16mm f/2.8 Lens (SEL16F28S)
Focal Length16mm
Maximum Aperturef/2.8
Lens MountSony E
ColorSilver
Minimum Focus Distance0.24m (9.4 inches)
Filter Size49mm
Weight~70g (2.5 oz)
Manufacturer NumberSEL16F28S
UPC027242785540

Who Should Choose This Lens?

The Sony E 16mm f/2.8 is ideal for travel, street, landscape, and vlogging enthusiasts who want a lightweight, unobtrusive lens with a wide perspective and reliable performance. Its compatibility with conversion lenses further expands creative options for photographers and videographers alike.