Tamron 70-180mm f/2.8 Review: Compact Telephoto Excellence
Tamron 70-180mm f/2.8 Di III VXD review. Compact, sharp, affordable telephoto zoom for Sony E-mount photographers.
The Tamron 70-180mm f/2.8 proves you don’t need a massive 70-200mm to get professional telephoto results.
Key Specifications
| Spec | Value |
|---|---|
| Focal Length | 70-180mm |
| Aperture | f/2.8 constant |
| Elements | 19 in 14 groups |
| Min Focus | 0.85m |
| Weight | 810g |
| Filter | 67mm |
| Mount | Sony E |
Why 70-180mm?
Tamron’s design choice trades 20mm of reach for significant benefits:
- 810g vs 1,500g - Nearly half the weight
- 67mm filters - Standard, affordable size
- Compact - Fits in smaller bags
- $1,199 - Half the price of Sony 70-200
Optical Performance
Sharpness
Excellent across the frame at all focal lengths and apertures.
Bokeh
Beautiful for a zoom lens, though 70-200 f/2.8 lenses offer slightly better subject separation.
AF Performance
The VXD linear motor is fast and silent—perfect for both stills and video.
Verdict
Rating: 9.0/10
For Sony shooters who value portability, the Tamron 70-180mm is an excellent choice at a remarkable price.
Price: $1,199 | Check on Amazon
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