Tamron 17-35mm F2.8-4 Di OSD

Nikon F (DX/FX)

Review

The Tamron 17-35mm F2.8-4 Di OSD is a versatile wide-angle zoom lens designed for Nikon F (DX) mount cameras. This lens offers a unique combination of a fast aperture at the wide end, a compact design, and an impressive range, making it suitable for landscape, architecture, and travel photography.

Build Quality and Design

With a sturdy yet lightweight construction, the Tamron 17-35mm strikes a great balance between portability and durability. The lens features a moisture-resistant design, which is a fantastic addition for those who often shoot in challenging weather conditions. The zoom and focus rings are well-placed and provide a smooth operation, although some users may find the focus ring slightly less tactile than competitors.

Optical Performance

In terms of optical quality, the Tamron 17-35mm excels in providing sharp images throughout its zoom range. At 17mm, you can expect excellent corner sharpness, though the lens does exhibit some distortion at the widest aperture. Stopping down to f/8 noticeably improves sharpness across the frame. Chromatic aberration is well controlled, making it a reliable choice for high-contrast scenes.

Autofocus and In-Camera Compatibility

The lens is equipped with Tamron's OSD (Optimized Silent Drive) autofocus technology, which provides fast and quiet focusing. This feature is particularly advantageous for capturing still subjects as well as video. Compatibility with Nikon's focus systems ensures that users will have an enjoyable experience with minimal hunting, although in low-light situations, it may struggle occasionally.

Versatility and Use Cases

With its focal length range, the Tamron 17-35mm is perfect for various photography styles. Landscapers will appreciate the immense field of view, while travel photographers will find it lightweight and compact enough to carry on journeys. However, the f/2.8-4 aperture range, although decent, may not suit everyone, particularly those who need consistently fast performance in low-light settings or for shallow depth-of-field effects.

Pros and Cons

Pros

• Broad focal length range (17-35mm) for versatility
• Exceptional sharpness, especially at f/8
• Lightweight, making it suitable for travel
• Weather-sealed design for outdoor use
• Fast and silent autofocus system

Cons

• Mild distortion at the widest focal lengths
• Aperture range may be limiting for certain low-light situations
• Focus ring can feel less tactile than competitors

Verdict

The Tamron 17-35mm F2.8-4 Di OSD is an impressive choice for Nikon F (DX) users who are looking for a reliable wide-angle zoom lens that offers solid optical performance in a lightweight and durable package. While it may not be the fastest option available, its overall versatility and image quality make it a worthy contender in the wide-angle lens market. Whether you’re photographing sweeping landscapes or capturing architectural intricacies, this lens provides an excellent option without breaking the bank.