Tamron 28-200mm F2.8-5.6 Di III RXD

Sony E

Review

The Tamron 28-200mm F2.8-5.6 Di III RXD is a versatile lens designed for Sony E-mount cameras, offering a wide focal range and impressive optical performance. This lens is particularly appealing to photographers who value flexibility without sacrificing quality, making it a great option for various photography genres such as travel, portrait, and landscape.

One of the standout features of the Tamron 28-200mm is its constant maximum aperture of F2.8 at the wide end. This allows for excellent low-light performance and the ability to achieve beautiful background blur (bokeh) when shooting at the longer focal lengths. The zoom range, covering from a useful 28mm to an impressive 200mm, makes it a versatile choice for capturing everything from expansive scenery to distant subjects.

In terms of build quality, the lens feels solid in hand, with a lightweight design that is easy to carry around for extended periods. The weather-sealed construction also adds a layer of durability, which is always a plus for outdoor photographers who encounter various environmental conditions.

Optically, the lens employs advanced technology with several special coatings and elements designed to minimize aberrations and enhance image quality. The images produced are sharp with good contrast, and the color rendition is true to life, making it a reliable tool for any photographer. Autofocus performance is swift and quiet, thanks to the RXD (Rapid eXtra-silent Drive) motor, making it suitable for both stills and videos.

However, while the Tamron 28-200mm is a strong performer, it does come with a few caveats. At the longer focal lengths, particularly around 200mm, the sharpness can slightly drop off compared to the shorter settings. Additionally, the variable aperture means that, as you zoom in, you’ll lose light, which might be a limitation in very low-light situations. Distortion and vignetting can also be present, although these can often be corrected in post-processing.

Pros and Cons

Pros

• Versatile zoom range from 28mm to 200mm
• Constant F2.8 aperture at the wide end for low-light performance
• Excellent build quality with weather sealing
• Sharp images with good contrast
• Fast and quiet autofocus system

Cons

• Sharpness at 200mm is not as strong as at shorter focal lengths
• Variable aperture limits light intake at longer focal lengths
• Some distortion and vignetting may require correction in post-processing

Verdict

In summary, the Tamron 28-200mm F2.8-5.6 Di III RXD for Sony E-mount cameras is an excellent lens for photographers looking for a flexible solution that can handle a variety of shooting scenarios. While it has a few minor downsides, the overall image quality, usability, and robust build make it a great addition to any Sony shooter’s kit. If you're searching for a travel-friendly lens that allows you to capture a lot of different scenes without the need for multiple lenses, this Tamron offering could be just what you need.