Tamron SP AF 17-50mm F/2.8 XR Di II LD Aspherical (IF)

Nikon F (DX/FX)

Review

The Tamron SP AF 17-50mm F/2.8 XR Di II LD Aspherical (IF) lens for Nikon F (DX) mounts is a versatile and affordable option for photographers looking to enhance their kit with a quality standard zoom lens. With a constant maximum aperture of f/2.8 throughout the zoom range, this lens is particularly appealing for those who often shoot in low-light conditions or who wish to achieve nice background blur.

Build Quality and Design

The build quality of the Tamron 17-50mm feels solid and well-constructed, despite being primarily composed of plastic materials. The lens has a smooth focus ring and a zoom mechanism that operates fairly fluidly. It's not the heaviest lens out there, making it an excellent choice for those long photography sessions or travels where weight is a concern. However, the plastic construction can sometimes feel less premium compared to fully metal lenses, but it is certainly adequate for the intended use.

Optical Performance

Image quality from the Tamron 17-50mm is generally impressive, particularly considering the price point. It delivers sharp images with good contrast, especially when stopped down a bit. The lens produces pleasing bokeh, making it a suitable option for portrait work. Chromatic aberrations are minimal, especially in the center of the frame, but can sometimes be noticeable at the edges, particularly at wider apertures. Distortion is also present, especially at the extremes of the zoom range, but correction profiles are available in most post-processing software.

Autofocus Capabilities

The autofocus performance of the Tamron 17-50mm is capable and relatively fast; however, it's worth noting that in low-light situations, the autofocus can sometimes struggle, leading to slight hunting. This is a common trait among lenses in this price range, and it generally won't be a deal-breaker for most users. Also, the lens does not feature image stabilization, which may be a downside for some photographers who desire added stability for handheld shooting.

Usability and Versatility

This lens is well-suited for various photography genres, from landscapes and portrait work to street photography. The 17-50mm focal length range is particularly useful for capturing a wide array of scenes without needing to change lenses frequently. The constant f/2.8 aperture makes it a great all-around lens, offering versatility that is often lacking in similarly priced options.

Pros and Cons

Pros

• Constant f/2.8 aperture throughout the zoom range
• Solid build quality for its category
• Sharp image quality, especially when stopped down
• Good bokeh and color rendering

Cons

• Autofocus can struggle in low-light conditions
• Chromatic aberrations present at edges
• Lacks image stabilization

Verdict

In conclusion, the Tamron SP AF 17-50mm F/2.8 XR Di II LD Aspherical (IF) lens for Nikon F (DX) mount is a solid investment for photographers looking for a fast, versatile lens at an affordable price. While it has some minor flaws, such as low-light autofocus performance and absence of image stabilization, the benefits far outweigh the negatives. Its excellent optical quality, coupled with a useful focal length, makes it a worthy contender for anyone looking to upgrade their photography toolkit.