Tamron AF 28-200mm F/3.8-5.6 XR Di Aspherical (IF) Macro

Canon EF

Review

The Tamron AF 28-200mm F/3.8-5.6 XR Di Aspherical (IF) Macro is a versatile lens designed for Canon EF mounts, making it a fitting option for those who appreciate the convenience of a zoom lens that covers a wide range of focal lengths. This lens is particularly attractive for travel photographers and enthusiasts who prefer to travel light without sacrificing versatility in their kit.

At the wide end, the 28mm focal length is great for landscapes, street photography, and environmental portraits, while the long end of 200mm allows for close-up details and portraits—with good bokeh effects that can make your subject stand out. The ability to shoot macro photography at a 1:3.7 reproduction ratio is another notable feature of this lens, allowing you to capture intricate details up close without needing a dedicated macro lens.

In terms of build quality, the lens has a decent feel in hand, though it’s worth noting that it’s predominantly made from plastic. This can make it feel less rugged compared to some all-metal counterparts. The lens has a relatively compact design for a zoom lens, which contributes to its portability, making it easy to carry around during long shooting days.

When it comes to image quality, the Tamron AF 28-200mm offers a generally good performance. At its widest aperture, images can sometimes exhibit vignetting and noticeable distortion, particularly at the 28mm mark. However, stopping down usually improves these characteristics significantly throughout the zoom range. The sharpness is acceptable at most focal lengths, but one might find it lacking in resolution compared to high-end options in similar zoom ranges.

Pros and Cons

Pros

• Wide zoom range (28-200mm) offers excellent versatility for various shooting scenarios.
• Good macro capabilities for close-up photography.
• Compact and lightweight design makes it travel-friendly.
• Affordable option compared to other zoom lenses in its category.

Cons

• Build quality feels less sturdy due to plastic construction.
• Some vignetting and distortion, especially at the wide end.
• Image sharpness may not compete with higher-end lenses.

Verdict

Overall, the Tamron AF 28-200mm F/3.8-5.6 XR Di Aspherical (IF) Macro offers a compelling balance between versatility and affordability. While it has some limitations in image quality and build robustness, it remains a suitable choice for amateur photographers and travelers seeking a single lens solution for a variety of shooting scenarios. If you're looking for a budget-friendly option to enhance your Canon EF setup, this lens might just meet your requirements while keeping your backpack light.