TAMRON SP 150-600MM F5-6.3 DI VC USD G2
Aiming to take everything to a whole new level, here’s Tamron – the next generation
As with the excellent 24-70mm and 70-200mm G2 zooms, this one boasts improvements in features, handling and performance. A revised optical layout includes three LD elements rather than just one, and a mixture of both conventional and nano-structured coatings. A full set of weather seals is added, plus a fluorine coating on the front element.
Useful features include a short/longdistance autofocus limiter, which can lock out the range either side of ten metres.
The ring-type ultrasonic system has the same manual-priority override as in the Nikon lens, but lacks the Sigma lenses’ auto/manual-priority selection switch.
For stabilisation, the Tamron has a threeposition VC (Vibration Compensation) switch. It covers all bases with static and panning modes, plus a mode for applying stabilisation only during the exposure.
This makes it easier to track erratically moving subjects through the viewfinder. The system delivers 4.5-stop effectiveness, matching that of the Nikon lens and edging ahead of the Sigma lenses. And where you can lock the Sigma lenses’ zoom ring at any marked setting, the Tamron has a push-pull zoom ring enabling it to be locked at any focal length.
In a reversal of fortunes to the Sigma Contemporary lens, sharpness is very good at the long end of the zoom range but less impressive at short to medium focal lengths. Ultimately, if you want a lens that delivers excellent 400-600mm performance in a strong, weather-sealed yet reasonably lightweight build, all at a keen price, this Tamron is a smart buy.