[Black] Okay, I've only had this lens for a week so far but I can already tell you I'm very pleased with the purchase. For me, the lens is incredibly light, sharp and versatile. And the close focus capability of this lens has not disappointed me. In the absence of any DXOmark tests, I bought this lens based on my experience with the stellar Zeiss Batis 2.8/18. What a great decision. This lens is on the same level of quality. I have GM glass but this Zeiss glass is just incredible. I wish it had it had the lens buttons but that's a minor issue for me. I need that on my 100-400 GM, but not this one. If you're looking for a light lens without ANY compromise on IQ, you will not be disappointed with this lens. When you DXOmark tests this lens, you'll see what I'm talking about.

[Black] I thoroughly enjoy using this lens and I absolutely love the images. They are VERY sharp with beautiful bokeh and colors. I've tried to reproduce the focus issue that one reviewer noted after the firmware update, and I was unable to find the problem. Maybe my copy doesn't have the problem, or maybe it has been successfully addressed. In either case, the versatility and light weight makes it enjoyable to use, and the images are stunningly beautiful. I really don't think I could be much happier with this product.

[Black] Pros:
- Extremely sharp
- Low chromatic aberration wide open
- Smooth, buttery bokeh
- Zeiss colors & pop
- Fast to focus
- Typical batis build quality

Cons:
- Expensive (obviously...)
- The rumors are real: the lens does stop down from f2 to f2.8-f4 when focusing within a foot or so, without reporting the change in aperture. This can be annoying when focusing within that range, because what my A7ii cant expose properly, and the OOF areas can develop nonagonal structures, someone did a more in depth look here: https://30daysofbatis.com/blog?offset=1542664707467&reversePaginate=true. Not a big issue for me, but i know it may be for others. Zeiss has promised to release a firmware update to change this issue.

[Black] I waited to write a review until after applying the recent firmware update that addresses concerns some people had when this lens came out.  It was already excellent, and now its even better!

It focuses quickly and silently, locking on with precision using eye AF or any other mode.  Images are bright and sharp, with extremely versatile control over depth of field.

Its close-focus abilities deserve special mention.  So many new and interesting shots are available when its so convenient.  Setting a scene or mood is easy when you can capture the wide view, then have a natural perspective when moving in for a closer look, and finally getting really close to see small details.  Being able to do all this without changing lenses makes for really fun, rewarding photography!

When I bought my a7RIII, I chose the Sony 24-105mm f/4 zoom as the default go-to lens for general use, and it serves that role very well.  Its excellent.  However, since getting this Zeiss 40mm, Im using the prime at least as much as the zoom, and not really missing the range.  (See last paragraph above.)  Its that good.

[Black] Just what we needed for shooting indoors and jelling windows.

[Black] This lens looks and feels worth the money

[Black] Bought this lens over a year ago and have really enjoyed using it. Great image quality from wide open to stopped down. Early ones may have had some sample variation issues - Zeiss replaced mine for free with better centering.

The autofocus also works great in real world situation. There are probably some corner cases where it signals but the internet comments on the subject are overblown.

Biggest drawback is that it's a fat lens compared to the Sony 35mm f1.8 but I think this one is sharper when I compared the reviews. Worth the premium for sure.

[Black] Best money I have spent in years. As great as my Zeiss 10x42 binoculars. Unbelievable what all you can see with these. Spot a coon at 1,000 yards. Looks thru woods to spot game. A great piece of equipment and fabulous technology. B & H got them to me quickly.

[Black] Great image quality, lightweight, not as big as it looks although still chunky. The AF performance works quite well especially after the firmware update. This is the best option at 35mm/40mm for Sony today.

[Black] This is an incredible lens. The bokeh is ridiculously smooth. The quality of the image. For photos and video. Is super sharp, so sharp that it will cut your face off. Is that sharp ;). Portable. Light weight. Love every time I use it. This is my main lens now. Superb macro. Close shots. Oh man yea.