What's this? This is based almost entirely on the lens¿s image quality, based on tests of sharpness (modulation transfer function), geometric distortion, reflexes within the lens (flare), veiling glare index, vignetting, and macro performance. Ease of use was also considered.
Price range:
$149.99 - $169.00
Summary:This model has been tested by our experts.
The Sony SAL-1870 18-70mm f3.5-5.6 DT is part of the SLR lens
test program at Consumer Reports. In our lab tests, SLR lens
models like the SAL-1870 18-70mm f3.5-5.6 DT are rated on multiple criteria, such as those listed below.
Image quality:
Image quality is based on tests of sharpness (modulation transfer function), geometric distortion, reflexes within the lens (flare), veiling glare index, vignetting, and macro performance.
Modulation transfer function:
This is a measure of lens performance and shows how well a lens reproduces object detail in the image it produces.
Geometric distortion:
All lenses have degrees of geometric distortion, which will depict straight lines as slightly curved. Two most common types are barrel distortion and pin-cushion distortion. These types of distortions are often seen in zoom lenses at both ends of the zoom range.
About This Brand
Sony has only been in the DSLR game since 2006 but it has quickly become a major contender. Sony purchased DSLR technology from Konica Minolta in June 2006 and then produced its Alpha series of digital SLRs using some of Konica Minolta's camera innovations. Sony's Alpha cameras use the Konica Minolta lens mount and so are compatible with older Minolta auto focus lenses and Minolta lenses rebranded under the Sony name. Sony currently has more than 20 lenses in its stable, including several premium models that were developed for Sony by the German lens manufacturer Carl Zeiss. Other Sony categories for lenses are: zoom, fixed focal length, macro-STF-reflex-fisheye, and G lenses (professional).
Features & Specs - Sony SAL-1870 18-70mm f3.5-5.6 DT
Kit bodies The SLR camera bodies that are sold with specific lenses.
Kit bodies
Sony A700, A350
Zoom ratio The zoom ratio is expressed by a value such as 2x or 3x, and describes the relationship between the longest and shortest focal lengths. For example, a 3x optical zoom with a minimum focal length of 18mm would have a maximum focal length of 54mm.
Zoom ratio
4X
Bayonet This describes which SLR or SLRs a particular lens is compatible with. It's also referred to as a lens mount.
Bayonet
Sony
Weight (oz.) Weight of the lens (without case, pouch or filters).
If you buy most Sony Alpha cameras, you would have gotten this lens with it. As far as kit lenses go, this was one of the better quality lenses give out by any camera maker.<br />This lens can be found on close out or used (as a Sony or Minolta version). If you need a general purpose light weight travel zoom, this would be a good buy if you pick one up used.<br />Sony now uses a different kit lens. Which stops at around 55mm but is comparable if slightly poorer in image quality.
How long have you owned it:
More than six months
Bottom Line
Yes, I would recommend this to a friend.
By
marsalski
from
Hubertus, WI
4.0
The lens we use the most
7/6/2010
Pros
Durable
Easily Interchangeable
Fast / accurate auto-focus
Lightweight
Cons
Poor in Low Light
Best Uses
Our primary lens
Weddings/Events
Comment:
A kit lens that seems to do whatever we want it to, with very good results.
2 people have reviewed this model.
Kit bodies
