Tamron 150-500mm f/5-6.7 Di III VC VXD

Nikon Z (DX/FX)

Review

The Tamron 150-500mm f/5-6.7 Di III VC VXD for Nikon Z mount is an impressive lens that caters to photographers who require a versatile telephoto zoom with a broad focal range. Whether you are capturing wildlife, sports, or landscapes, this lens has the potential to deliver stunning results at various distances.

One of the key features of the Tamron 150-500mm is its remarkable zoom range. At 150mm, you can capture wide shots, and as you zoom in to 500mm, it allows for some serious close-ups, providing excellent reach without needing to change lenses. The lens benefits from a relatively compact design for a focal length of this magnitude, making it easier to handle during long shooting sessions or when traveling.

The optical performance of the lens is commendable, thanks to its advanced optical design that minimizes distortions and chromatic aberrations. The images are sharp across the frame, even at maximum apertures, with pleasing bokeh that adds a nice depth of field to portraits. Additionally, the Vibration Compensation (VC) technology helps reduce camera shake, enabling users to obtain clearer shots while shooting handheld at lower shutter speeds.

The build quality is robust and weather-sealed, which is vital for outdoor photographers who may face inclement conditions. The lens also features a fast and accurate autofocus system due to the VXD (Voice-coil eXtreme-torque Drive) motor, tightening the competition against other similar lenses in the market.

However, while the lens offers a lot of positives, it isn’t without pitfalls. At the extreme end of the zoom range, slight softness may occur, particularly in the corners. The variable aperture of f/5-6.7 means that the lens may struggle in low-light conditions, requiring a higher ISO setting, which could introduce noise in your images. Additionally, the lens is relatively heavy, which might not be ideal for travel or for photographers who prefer to work without the fatigue of larger gear.

Pros and Cons

Pros

• Wide zoom range of 150-500mm
• Excellent optical performance with sharp images
• Effective Vibration Compensation (VC) to reduce shake
• Robust, weather-sealed construction
• Fast and accurate autofocus thanks to the VXD motor

Cons

• Slight softness at the extreme zoom range
• Variable aperture may struggle in low-light scenarios
• Heavier than some comparable options

Verdict

The Tamron 150-500mm f/5-6.7 Di III VC VXD is an impressive lens that delivers good performance for Nikon Z mount users seeking versatility in their telephoto photography. While it has some drawbacks, such as a modest aperture and weight, the benefits—like its zoom range, image quality, and solid build—make it a compelling choice for both enthusiasts and professionals alike. If you're on the hunt for a capable and flexible telephoto zoom, this lens is certainly worth considering.