Tamron 17-28mm F2.8 Di III RXD

Sony E

Review

The Tamron 17-28mm F2.8 Di III RXD is a versatile wide-angle zoom lens designed specifically for Sony E-mount cameras. It offers an attractive balance of performance, size, and price, making it a solid choice for landscape, architecture, and even some portrait photography. With a constant aperture of f/2.8, this lens allows for great low-light capabilities and creative depth-of-field control.

Build and Design

The build quality of the Tamron 17-28mm is commendable for the price point. It's lightweight (at just 420g) and compact, making it a practical option for photographers who want to carry a wide-angle lens without adding significant weight to their gear bag. The weather sealing also adds a layer of protection for outdoor shooting, which is a great benefit for those shooting in unpredictable environments.

Optical Performance

When it comes to optical performance, the lens impresses with its sharpness across the frame, even at wide-open apertures. The images captured with this lens are crisp, with minimal distortion and chromatic aberration. The focal range of 17-28mm is well-suited for a variety of scenes, from sweeping landscapes to intimate interiors. The bokeh produced by the lens is pleasing, making it functional for selective focus shots.

Autofocus and Handling

The RXD (Rapid eXtra-silent stepping Drive) autofocus system is swift and near-silent, a key feature for videographers and photographers alike. It locks focus accurately and quickly, an attribute that is particularly useful when capturing moving subjects. Moreover, the lens has a compact design that fits comfortably in hand and pairs well with Sony's a7 and a6 series cameras, allowing for efficient handling during long shoots.

Versatility

This lens stands out for its versatility. Wide-angle lenses are usually more specific in use, but the 17-28mm range allows for both expansive and detailed compositions, making it suitable for a broad range of photography styles. This quality, coupled with the constant f/2.8 aperture, extends its usability into various shooting scenarios, from low-light events to bright daylight landscapes.

Pros and Cons

Pros

• Compact and lightweight design
• Weather-sealed construction
• Sharp imaging performance across the zoom range
• Fast and silent autofocus
• Constant f/2.8 aperture for better low-light performance

Cons

• No image stabilization
• Some users may find the focal range limiting
• Moderate barrel distortion at the wide end

Verdict

In conclusion, the Tamron 17-28mm F2.8 Di III RXD is an impressive option for Sony E-mount users who are looking for a high-performing wide-angle zoom lens without breaking the bank. Its lightweight design and solid optical performance make it a fantastic choice for various photography styles. While it lacks in-body image stabilization, the advantages far outweigh this downside, especially considering the value it brings to a photographer's kit. Whether you're capturing landscapes, architecture, or dynamic scenes, this lens is sure to deliver excellent results.