Tamron SP 150-600mm F5-6.3 Di VC USD

Canon EF

Review

The Tamron SP 150-600mm F5-6.3 Di VC USD for Canon EF mount is a versatile super-telephoto zoom lens that has garnered attention for its impressive reach and performance, especially for wildlife and sports photography. This lens stands out with its robust build quality and the added benefit of image stabilization, making it an appealing choice for photographers who often find themselves shooting at long distances.

One of the primary advantages of the Tamron SP 150-600mm is its incredible focal range. The 150-600mm zoom range provides a great deal of flexibility, allowing photographers to capture everything from distant wildlife to fast-moving sports events without needing to change lenses. The lens also features a relatively fast maximum aperture of f/5-6.3, which, while not the fastest on the market, is sufficient in many lighting conditions, especially when paired with a DSLR that has good high ISO performance.

The lens is equipped with Tamron's Vibration Compensation (VC) technology, which significantly reduces camera shake and allows for sharper images when shooting handheld at longer focal lengths. This feature is particularly beneficial for outdoor photographers dealing with shaky conditions. The lens also has moisture-resistant construction, which further enhances its usability in various weather conditions.

On the downside, while the lens is quite popular, it is relatively heavy and bulky. Weighing in at approximately 4.5 lbs (2.0 kg), it can be unwieldy for extended periods of handheld shooting or for those who prefer lightweight equipment. Additionally, the autofocus system can sometimes be slower compared to prime lenses or higher-end options, especially in lower light conditions.

The image quality is generally very good, with nice sharpness and color rendition across most of the zoom range. However, it does exhibit some distortion and vignetting at the extreme ends of the focal range, which may require correction in post-processing.

Pros and Cons

Pros

• Impressive 150-600mm zoom range
• Effective Vibration Compensation (VC) for reduced shake
• Good image quality and color rendition
• Moisture-resistant build

Cons

• Heavy and bulky design
• Autofocus can be slow in lower light
• Distortion and vignetting at extremes may require correction

Verdict

Overall, the Tamron SP 150-600mm F5-6.3 Di VC USD is a well-rounded lens that offers excellent versatility for those passionate about wildlife and sports photography. While it has some minor drawbacks, such as weight and autofocus performance in low light, its strengths in reaching distant subjects and providing solid image stabilization make it a compelling option for Canon EF mount users looking to expand their photographic capabilities.