Tamron 11-20mm F/2.8 Di III-A RXD Fujifilm X
Review
The Tamron 11-20mm F/2.8 Di III-A RXD lens brings an intriguing option to the Fujifilm X mount community, especially for those seeking an ultra-wide angle capability. This lens impresses with its constant f/2.8 aperture, making it ideal for a variety of shooting scenarios, from landscapes to astrophotography, and even indoor environmental portraits. Its compact and lightweight design makes it a perfect companion for on-the-go photographers who need versatility without the burden of heavy gear.
When it comes to build quality, the Tamron 11-20mm feels solid in hand and sports a weather-resistant construction. This feature is a significant advantage for outdoor photographers who need to face varying weather conditions without worrying about damaging their gear. Additionally, the lens is equipped with the RXD (Rapid eXtra-silent stepping Drive) autofocus technology, which is not only fast but also incredibly quiet, ensuring a distraction-free experience when capturing video or during discreet photography sessions.
Image quality is where the Tamron truly shines. With sharpness across the frame, even at the widest aperture, this lens delivers impressive results. You will notice well-controlled chromatic aberrations and distortion, which is often a concern with ultra-wide lenses. The lens's rounded aperture blades contribute to pleasant out-of-focus rendering, enhancing the aesthetic quality of background blur in your photos.
However, no lens is without its downsides. While the autofocus performance is mostly dependable, there can be occasional hesitation in low-light situations, which may frustrate users in fast-paced shooting environments. Furthermore, the lens does exhibit some noticeable barrel distortion at 11mm, although this is generally manageable and can often be corrected in post-processing.
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Constant f/2.8 aperture throughout the zoom range
- Weather-resistant build quality
- Lightweight and compact design
- Excellent sharpness and image quality
- Fast and quiet autofocus system
Cons
- Occasional autofocus hesitation in low-light scenarios
- Noticeable barrel distortion at 11mm
Verdict
Overall, the Tamron 11-20mm F/2.8 Di III-A RXD lens is a remarkable choice for Fujifilm X users looking to expand their lens arsenal. It combines exceptional image quality with a versatile focal range and a constant fast aperture, well-suited for a wide range of photography styles. While there are a few slight drawbacks, they do not significantly detract from the overall performance and value this lens offers. For landscape enthusiasts, travel photographers, and those interested in creative wide-angle shots, this lens is a compelling option that deserves consideration.