Tamron SP AF 200-500mm F/5-6.3 Di LD (IF)

Nikon F (DX/FX)

Review

The Tamron SP AF 200-500mm F/5-6.3 Di LD (IF) is a powerful telephoto zoom lens designed for Nikon F (DX) cameras. With its impressive focal length range, this lens is a great option for sports, wildlife, and even some nature photography. Its versatile zoom range allows photographers to capture subjects from a distance without disturbing them, making it a popular choice among wildlife enthusiasts.

One of the standout features of the Tamron 200-500mm lens is its build quality. It feels robust and durable, designed to withstand the rigors of outdoor shooting. The inclusion of LD (Low Dispersion) glass elements helps to minimize chromatic aberration, ensuring that images remain sharp and clear throughout the focal range. Additionally, the lens has a respectable maximum aperture of f/5 at 200mm, which only narrows to f/6.3 at 500mm. This allows you to gather a good amount of light, making it suitable for well-lit conditions and some lower light scenarios.

When it comes to autofocus performance, the Tamron lens offers a decent level of speed and accuracy due in part to its internal focusing (IF) mechanism. While it might not be the fastest in its class, it does a commendable job of locking onto subjects, especially when shooting in good lighting conditions. Moreover, manual focusing is smooth, allowing for fine-tuning when necessary.

However, there are a few drawbacks that potential buyers should keep in mind. The lens can be quite heavy and bulky, which may make it less convenient for extended hand-held shooting sessions. Additionally, the maximum aperture of f/6.3 can be limiting in low-light environments, requiring higher ISO settings or slower shutter speeds that could lead to motion blur, particularly at the long end of the zoom range.

Pros and Cons

Pros

• Versatile 200-500mm focal length ideal for wildlife and sports photography.
• Built with durable materials, offering solid construction.
• Low Dispersion (LD) glass elements reduce chromatic aberration for sharp images.
• Internal focusing (IF) mechanism allows for quicker autofocus performance.

Cons

• Heavier and bulkier than some telephoto options, less suitable for prolonged hand-held use.
• Maximum aperture of f/6.3 can be limiting in low light situations, leading to potential motion blur.

Verdict

The Tamron SP AF 200-500mm F/5-6.3 Di LD (IF) is a solid choice for photographers looking for a capable telephoto lens for their Nikon F (DX) mount cameras. It provides impressive reach and good image quality in well-lit conditions, making it particularly suitable for wildlife and sports photography. While it does have some drawbacks, such as weight and aperture limitations, the overall performance and build quality make it a worthy investment for enthusiasts and professionals alike. If you can manage its bulk and adapt to its light-gathering constraints, this lens can significantly enhance your photographic capabilities.