Recommended small lenses for the Sony a7CR and a7C II?

Question

Hey everyone! I finally pulled the trigger on a new Sony a7CR after years of lugging around a heavy DSLR setup. I am absolutely loving how small the body is, and that 61-megapixel sensor is just incredible for the size. However, I am hitting a bit of a wall with my current glass. Most of my older E-mount lenses are pretty bulky, and they make the camera feel really front-heavy and awkward to hold without adding a massive extension grip.

I am looking for some solid recommendations on high-quality small lenses that really lean into the portability of the C-series bodies. I mainly do street photography and a lot of hiking, so I am trying to keep the whole kit as low-profile as possible. I have been looking at a few specific options already:

The Sony 40mm f/2.5 G since it seems like the perfect size.

The Zeiss 35mm f/2.8 just for how tiny it is.

Maybe a small prime from the Sigma I-series.

Since the a7CR has such high resolution, I am a bit worried about some of the older or cheaper small lenses not being sharp enough to keep up with the sensor. Does anyone have a favorite compact setup that doesn't compromise on image quality? What are you guys using as your go-to daily carry for these smaller bodies?

Susanhodsget · Accepted Answer

Late to the party, but if you're watching your budget after buying that a7CR, you should definitely check out the Samyang AF 35mm f/1.8 FE. It weighs just 210g and the MTF charts show it holds up surprisingly well against the 61MP sensor, especially stopped down to f/4. It is way cheaper than the Sony G equivalents. Another sleeper hit for hiking is the Tamron 24mm f/2.8 Di III OSD M1:2. You can find these for next to nothing used. It has a bit of a slow AF motor, but the actual resolving power is stellar for the price point. It hits 1:2 macro too, which is great for detail shots on trails. Basically, you can build a two-lens kit for less than the price of one Sony prime if you shop the used market or wait for seasonal sales.

Mariogus · Answer

Tbh the Sony FE 40mm f/2.5 G Lens is easily your best bet. It manages to resolve surprisingly well on that 61MP sensor while keeping the kit tiny. If you need more light, the Sigma 35mm f/2 DG DN Contemporary I-Series is built like a tank and super sharp, tho it adds a bit more weight. The Zeiss is tiny but honestly lacks the modern resolving power youll want for the CR.

ToMyAccount · Answer

Catching up on this now and I definitely agree about that 40mm G. To keep your setup consistent and reliable, I would look at the Sony FE 50mm f/2.5 G as well. Those G primes were basically built for these compact bodies and handle the 61MP resolution without any issues. For your hiking, the Sony FE 24mm f/2.8 G is another solid choice that wont feel unbalanced or compromise on sharpness.