Tamron AF 18-200mm F/3.5-6.3 XR Di II LD Aspherical (IF) Macro

Nikon F (DX/FX)

Review

Tamron's AF 18-200mm F/3.5-6.3 XR Di II LD Aspherical (IF) Macro is an intriguing option for Nikon F (DX) mount users looking for an all-in-one zoom lens. This lens covers an extensive focal range, from wide-angle at 18mm to telephoto at 200mm, making it quite versatile for various shooting scenarios, whether you're capturing landscapes, portraits, or close-up shots.

Design and Build Quality

The Tamron AF 18-200mm features a sleek, lightweight design that is convenient for photographers who prefer traveling light. It weighs about 400g, which is relatively light for a lens with such a broad zoom range. The build quality, while mostly plastic, feels solid enough for everyday photographic use. The lens incorporates a rubberized grip on the focus ring, enhancing usability when adjusting focus. However, its plastic construction may not be as durable as some all-metal counterparts from other manufacturers.

Optical Performance

In terms of optical performance, the lens utilizes a combination of aspherical and LD (Low Dispersion) elements to minimize aberrations and distortions. At the wide-end (18mm), the lens offers good sharpness, but users may notice some corner softness, which tends to improve as you zoom in towards the 200mm range. The maximum aperture of f/3.5-6.3 is adequate for most lighting conditions, but if you're looking for something to perform in low-light situations, you might need to invest in a faster lens.

Macro Capabilities

One of the standout features of this lens is its macro functionality, allowing you to achieve a maximum magnification of 1:3. This makes it possible to get up close to your subjects, whether they are flowers, insects, or other small items. The minimum focusing distance of approximately 45cm aids in capturing intricate details, making this lens quite versatile for macro photography as well.

Autofocus Performance

The autofocus system on this lens provides decent performance, though it may not be lightning fast. It's suitable for casual use, but in challenging lighting conditions or when tracking fast-moving subjects, you may experience some hunting or lag. Manual focus is also an option, and the focus ring operates smoothly enough for fine adjustments.

Pros and Cons

Pros

• Extensive focal range (18-200mm) ideal for various shooting situations.
• Lightweight and portable, making it great for travel.
• Good macro capabilities with a 1:3 magnification ratio.
• Competitive price point for an all-in-one zoom lens.

Cons

• Build quality is mostly plastic and may not endure heavy use.
• Some corner softness at the wide-end.
• Autofocus can struggle in low-light or high-speed situations.

Verdict

Overall, the Tamron AF 18-200mm F/3.5-6.3 XR Di II LD Aspherical (IF) Macro for Nikon F (DX) mount is a well-rounded lens that offers a lot of functionality for its price. While it may not compete with more specialized lenses in terms of optical sharpness or autofocus speed, its versatility and macro capabilities make it an excellent choice for hobbyists and casual photographers. If you're looking for a do-it-all lens that you can take with you on various photography adventures, this one might just fit the bill.