If you are trying to decide between the Sony 85mm f/1.8 FE and the Sony 85mm f/1.4 GM Version 1 (there is a newer version of this lens, the II), you’re in the right place. The 85mm focal length is one of the most popular choices for portraits because it gives you flattering compression, gorgeous background separation, and dreamy bokeh. But when it comes to Sony’s two versions, the decision often comes down to price and whether the G Master (GM) lens is worth the investment. The camera body I used for this review was the Sony A7RV.

This review is not a technical spec rundown. What I share here is a real-world, practical perspective. I want you to walk away feeling confident about which lens makes the most sense for your photography, your business, and your wallet.

Understanding Sony FE vs GM

Let’s start with what “GM” means. The Sony 85mm f/1.4 GM belongs to Sony’s G Master lineup, which is their top-tier lens family. G Master lenses are designed with premium optics, better coatings to reduce ghosting and flare, weather sealing, and higher build quality. They are heavier, more durable, and marketed as the “best of the best” within the Sony ecosystem.

The Sony 85mm f/1.8, on the other hand, is the entry-level version. It has a plastic body and does not have weather sealing. That might sound like a drawback, but it also means the lens is much lighter and easier to carry around all day. Despite being “entry-level,” it still feels sturdy and is capable of producing beautiful images.

It is tempting to assume that the GM is automatically “better,” but that isn’t always the case. The truth is, both lenses can deliver professional-quality results. The bigger question is whether the additional features of the GM justify the higher price tag for your personal needs.

Sony 85mm f/1.4 GM vs 1.8: Price

Price is often the deciding factor, and the gap here is significant.

Sony 85mm f/1.4 GM: $1,400 brand new, around $828 used in Bargain condition on KEH.
Sony 85mm f/1.8: $650 brand new, around $350 used on KEH.

When you look at those numbers side by side, the question becomes: is the GM worth more than double the cost of the f/1.8?

To be totally honest, the 85mm f/1.8 at $650 new feels overpriced. When you consider that similar “nifty fifty” f/1.8 lenses from Canon, Nikon, or even Sony’s own 50mm lineup often cost under $200 used, paying $650 doesn’t make sense. But at $350 on KEH, it suddenly feels like the right price point for what it delivers.

The GM version is, of course, expensive. But if you are shopping used, KEH makes it more attainable. You can often find the first version for hundreds less than new retail, and when it comes to lenses, cosmetic wear does not affect image quality. Personally, I always recommend going with KEH’s “Bargain” condition to maximize savings. In fact, I purchased the Canon EF 85mm f/1.2 in bargain condition!

Sharpness

The Sony 85mm f/1.4 GM is impressively sharp. Even as someone who doesn’t often get wowed by expensive gear, I found myself surprised when editing photos in Lightroom. The clarity in landscape details and portrait textures was stunning.

That said, the Sony 85mm f/1.8 is also very sharp. With the right camera settings and accurate focus, the differences between the two are much smaller than the price tag suggests. In real-world use, sharpness alone is not enough to justify the jump to the GM version for most photographers.

Autofocus Speed

This might ruffle some feathers among the tech-focused crowd, but in my experience, both lenses performed equally well. Even shooting in low light at dusk, I didn’t notice a major difference in autofocus speed or accuracy.

Yes, on paper, the GM may be slightly faster, but with today’s Sony mirrorless cameras, both lenses benefit from incredibly advanced autofocus systems. If you are upgrading from a DSLR, you’ll likely be blown away by the speed and accuracy of either lens.

Skin Tones: Sony vs Canon

Since I typically shoot with my Canon 5D Mark IV, I immediately noticed differences in skin tones. Canon is known for rendering natural, accurate tones straight out of camera, while Sony often requires a little more work in editing.

On the Sony A7R V, I found that skin tones looked fine on the LCD screen but needed adjustments once imported into Lightroom. This is something to keep in mind if you are switching systems. It doesn’t make the images bad, but it may add to your editing time compared to Canon.

Sample Images

Below are unedited side-by-side sample images for comparison.

Who Each Lens Is For

Here’s where I’ll get personal. The 85mm is my favorite focal length, and if I had to start over with any brand, the first lens I would invest in would be an 85mm f/1.2 or f/1.4. It is the lens I reach for the most because of how flattering it is for portraits.

That said, not everyone will use an 85mm enough to justify a $1,400 lens.

If you mostly shoot indoors in tight spaces, like branding sessions in coffee shops or offices, the 85mm might feel restrictive. In that case, a 50mm or 35mm might be more versatile.
If you are new to the 85mm focal length, I recommend renting or borrowing one before buying. See if you like the compression and working distance.

For most photographers, I recommend starting with the Sony 85mm f/1.8. It delivers incredible results at a fraction of the price, and unless you are shooting in extreme conditions that require weather sealing, you won’t miss the GM.

Think of the GM as a luxury purchase. Yes, it has better build quality and a premium feel in hand, but the images you create with either lens can be equally beautiful.

The Sony 85mm f/1.4 GM and the Sony 85mm f/1.8 are both fantastic portrait lenses. The biggest difference is not in image quality, but in price, build, and weather sealing.

If budget is your top concern, go with the 85mm f/1.8 used on KEH. At $350, it’s an incredible value and more than capable of producing professional results.

If you want the best of the best, and you know you’ll use the 85mm heavily for client work, the 85mm f/1.4 GM will impress you with its sharpness, premium build, and flare resistance. But for many photographers, it’s a luxury rather than a necessity.

When it comes to gear, remember this: your skill and creativity matter far more than the lens in your hand. Don’t go into debt for photography, and always test gear before making a purchase if you can.

watch the youtube lens review video