Tamron 11-20mm F/2.8 Di III-A RXD

Sony E

Review

The Tamron 11-20mm F/2.8 Di III-A RXD is a versatile ultra-wide-angle zoom lens designed specifically for Sony E-mount cameras. This lens appeals to photographers who are seeking to capture expansive landscapes, architecture, or creative perspectives for vlogging and video-making. With a bright f/2.8 aperture and a compact design, it promises robust performance in a variety of conditions.

Build Quality and Design

The Tamron 11-20mm is impressively lightweight, tipping the scales at just 335 grams (approx. 0.74 lbs), which makes it an excellent choice for those who prefer to travel light. Its construction is solid, featuring weather-sealing that ensures durability, especially beneficial when shooting in adverse conditions. The lens incorporates a number of special elements, including aspherical and low dispersion glass, which help to reduce various types of aberrations and maintain image clarity across the entire frame.

Optical Performance

One of the standout features of this lens is its sharpness. At both the wide and telephoto ends of the zoom range, images remain crisp with minimal distortion. The f/2.8 aperture is particularly advantageous in low-light scenarios, as it allows for brighter images without severely compromising exposure settings. However, while the lens excels in clarity, some users may observe slight vignetting at the extreme ends of the zoom, especially when used at wider apertures.

Autofocus and Usability

The autofocus system on the Tamron 11-20mm is powered by a rapid stepping motor (RXD), which contributes to quick and precise focusing. This makes it a suitable option for capturing fast-moving subjects or switching between focusing points in dynamic shooting conditions. Additionally, the lens features a customizable focus hold button and a smooth zoom ring, improving overall usability for both photography and videography.

Pros and Cons

Pros

• Compact and lightweight design, perfect for travel.
• Bright f/2.8 aperture for low-light performance.
• Sharp image quality across the zoom range with minimal distortion.
• Quick and reliable autofocus system.
• Weather-sealed construction for outdoor use.

Cons

• Slight vignetting at wide apertures.
• Not the most robust zoom range for all types of photography.
• Limited manual focus control due to the electronic design.

Verdict

The Tamron 11-20mm F/2.8 Di III-A RXD lens is a fantastic choice for any Sony E-mount photographer looking to delve into the realms of ultra-wide-angle photography. It combines excellent optical performance, user-friendly features, and lightweight portability, making it suitable for both stills and video. While it has minor drawbacks, such as slight vignetting and a limited zoom range, the overall performance and build quality make it an outstanding addition to your lens collection, particularly for landscape, architecture, or content creation.