Sony FE 200-600mm F5.6-6.3 G OSS vs Sony FE 600mm F4 GM OSS

The FE 200-600mm G is the practical super-telephoto for most people: a zoom that covers 200 to 600mm, internal zoom, fast Direct Drive SSM focus and a removable tripod collar, at a weight most can handhold for short bursts. The FE 600mm f/4 GM is the specialist: a fixed 600mm at f/4 with two XD linear motors, three fluorite elements and a magnesium alloy barrel, giving a stop and a half more light and cleaner subject isolation. Owners praise the 200-600 for sharpness and value across the zoom range; the 600mm f/4 is praised for focus speed, balance and low-light reach, but it is a single focal length and heavier to carry.

• Choose the Sony FE 200-600mm G if you shoot wildlife, sports or aircraft and need flexible framing from 200 to 600mm, want internal zoom and a tripod collar, and would rather carry one lens than a prime.
• Choose the Sony FE 600mm f/4 GM if you shoot at 600mm most of the time, need the f/4 aperture for low light and shallow depth of field, and want the fastest XD autofocus Sony offers in a super-telephoto.