5 Best Tamron Lenses in 2025!

If you’re serious about upgrading your photography game, you need the right glass in your arsenal.

In this article, we dive into the 5 best Tamron lenses of 2024.

We carefully evaluated five top contenders, each with its own unique flair—from the versatile all-in-one zoom to the razor-sharp portrait lens.

Whether you’re capturing wide-open landscapes or intimate portraits, we’ve got the lens that will take your shots from meh to masterpiece.

Stick around to find out which one suits your shooting style best!

Tamron is a third-party lenses manufacturer, so we’ve had lenses for all kinds of cameras, like full-frame cameras, aps-c mirrorless cameras, lenses for Nikon cameras, and lenses for Canon. Although, most of the lenses are for Sony cameras.

We’ll start with the full-frame and APS-C format mirrorless camera lenses (Di III series).

The holy trinity of lenses:

Tamron 17-28mm F/2.8 Di III RXD (for Sony E): Why It’s the Best Wide-Angle Lens for You

Why Buy the Tamron 17-28mm F/2.8 Di III RXD?

Price Point: $$
Looking for a high-quality wide-angle lens without breaking the bank? The Tamron 17-28mm F/2.8 Di III RXD is here to give you that premium feel at a surprisingly affordable price, making it a fantastic option for enthusiasts and professionals alike.

Key Features and Benefits:

• Constant f/2.8 Aperture: Crisp, bright shots in any lighting condition, perfect for low-light scenes or getting that dreamy bokeh.
• Ultra-Wide 17-28mm Focal Length: Capture expansive landscapes or tight interiors without the need to take a step back.
• Lightweight & Compact: Weighing just 420 grams, it’s a featherweight champ that doesn’t compromise on performance—no more backaches after a long day of shooting.
• Fast and Silent Autofocus: With its RXD motor, it’s perfect for both photographers and videographers who need quiet, precise focusing.
• Weather-Resistant Build: When adventure calls, don’t worry about the elements—this lens can handle light rain and dust.

Overview

The Tamron 17-28mm F/2.8 Di III RXD is part of the Holy Trinity of lenses for Sony E mount cameras, specializing in ultra-wide-angle coverage. Whether you’re photographing sweeping landscapes, expansive architecture, or those creative close-up perspectives, this lens hits the mark. It’s designed to excel in both image quality and portability, making it a standout choice for traveling photographers and vloggers.

It’s More Than Just a Wide-Angle Lens

Yes, the Tamron 17-28mm is an ultra-wide-angle lens, but it’s so much more. Want to capture a dramatic sky full of swirling clouds? Done. How about close-up shots with an exaggerated perspective? This lens has a minimum focusing distance of just 0.19m at the wide end, giving you the flexibility to get up close and personal for unique shots.

What Makes the Tamron 17-28mm Stand Out?

1. Awards and Recognition: This lens has consistently ranked at the top of its class for its exceptional value and performance. It has also received praise from photography communities and editors as one of the best wide-angle options for Sony users.
2. Personal Experience: Imagine you’re on a mountaintop at sunrise. You want to capture the entirety of that breathtaking view—the expansive landscape, the color gradient in the sky, and every detail in the foreground. With the Tamron 17-28mm, you get that shot, without worrying about framing limitations or hauling around a bulky lens.

Comparing the Tamron 17-28mm to the Competition

• Tamron 17-28mm vs. Sony FE 16-35mm f/2.8 GM: The Sony 16-35mm offers more versatility with a slightly wider range, but it comes at almost triple the price and significantly more weight. The Tamron 17-28mm, by contrast, is compact, lighter, and provides nearly the same image quality for a fraction of the cost.
• Tamron 17-28mm vs. Sigma 14-24mm f/2.8 DG DN: Sigma’s offering is a great performer but heavier and bulkier. The Tamron edges out with better portability, perfect for handheld shooting or for long hikes where weight matters.

Potential Drawbacks

No product is perfect, and the Tamron 17-28mm is no exception. One downside is the limited zoom range compared to some other wide-angle lenses. If you’re someone who craves flexibility in framing, you might feel slightly restricted. However, pairing this lens with a good mid-range zoom can easily solve that problem.

Another consideration is that it doesn’t have built-in image stabilization. However, many Sony bodies have stabilization in-camera, which makes this less of an issue for most users.

Ideal Customer Profile

Who Is This Product For?

If you’re a landscape enthusiast, an architecture lover, or simply someone who loves capturing expansive, dramatic shots, this lens is for you. Vloggers and travel photographers will particularly love its lightweight build, allowing for easy, all-day use without compromise on image quality.

Not Suitable For

If you often find yourself needing a longer zoom or prefer a one-lens-does-it-all solution, this lens may not fit the bill. Wildlife photographers or those needing substantial reach would likely benefit from a different option.

Final Verdict

The Tamron 17-28mm F/2.8 Di III RXD is a stellar performer in the wide-angle category, offering fantastic image quality, portability, and an attractive price. It’s a perfect companion for creatives looking to expand their storytelling capabilities without weighing down their camera bag. Whether you’re scaling mountains or exploring tight urban spaces, this lens gives you the tools to capture the world in a beautiful, dynamic way.

Ready to elevate your wide-angle game? Add the Tamron 17-28mm F/2.8 to your kit today and experience the difference it makes in your creative journey.

Tamron 28-75mm F/2.8 Di III VXD G2 (for Sony E and Nikon Z): Why It’s the Best Standard Zoom Lens for You

Why Buy the Tamron 28-75mm F/2.8 Di III VXD G2?

Price Point: $$
On the hunt for a versatile zoom lens that delivers pro-level quality without costing as much as a vacation to the Maldives? The Tamron 28-75mm F/2.8 Di III VXD G2 is a top choice for photographers and videographers who want excellent performance at a mid-tier price point.

Key Features and Benefits:

• Constant f/2.8 Aperture: Ensures bright, consistent exposure throughout the zoom range—perfect for portraits, events, or creative depth-of-field effects.
• Versatile 28-75mm Focal Length: Cover everything from wide-angle group shots to close-up portraits, making it ideal for weddings, street photography, or everyday use.
• Improved Close-Up Capability: With a minimum focusing distance of just 0.18m at 28mm, this lens lets you get up close and personal, giving your photos a unique, detailed perspective.
• Compact & Lightweight: Weighing in at only 540 grams, this lens is incredibly portable. Say goodbye to neck pain and hello to on-the-go creativity.
• Fast VXD Autofocus: Tamron’s VXD linear motor offers blazing-fast autofocus that’s also silent—a major bonus for video shooters or anyone who likes their focus to be fast and discreet.

Overview

The Tamron 28-75mm F2.8 Di III VXD G2 is the second-generation upgrade to the highly popular Tamron 28-75mm. It’s the quintessential everyday lens for Sony E-mount users, offering a blend of versatility, quality, and affordability. With a consistent f/2.8 aperture, this lens works wonders in various lighting conditions, whether you’re shooting indoors, outside, or during golden hour.

It’s More Than Just a Standard Zoom Lens

Sure, the Tamron 28-75mm is a standard zoom lens, but it does more than you might think. The improved close-up capability allows you to take near-macro shots, which means this lens is just as comfortable capturing the details of a blooming flower as it is documenting a bustling street scene. Its versatility means you’re always ready—whether the moment calls for a sweeping wide shot or an intimate close-up.

What Makes the Tamron 28-75mm Stand Out?

1. Awards and Recognition: This lens has won multiple awards for its balance of affordability and high performance. Photography enthusiasts and professionals alike have raved about its quality, with user testimonials highlighting its excellent sharpness and utility for diverse shooting scenarios.
2. Real-World Versatility: Picture this: you’re traveling through a busy marketplace. One moment you need a wide-angle shot to capture the hustle and bustle; the next, you want to zoom in on a street vendor’s handmade trinkets. With the Tamron 28-75mm, you get both—without having to switch lenses or lose time in the process.

Comparing the Tamron 28-75mm to the Competition

• Tamron 28-75mm vs. Sony FE 24-70mm f/2.8 GM: The Sony 24-70mm may offer a slightly wider focal range and some minor improvements in sharpness, but it comes at more than double the cost and weight. The Tamron, while more budget-friendly, still delivers exceptional image quality, making it a better all-around option for those who value portability and affordability.
• Tamron 28-75mm vs. Sigma 28-70mm f/2.8 DG DN: Sigma’s 28-70mm is a solid competitor, with similar image quality. However, Tamron’s superior autofocus speed and closer focusing distance give it the edge, particularly for those who shoot a lot of video or close-up work.

Potential Drawbacks

No lens is without its flaws, and the Tamron 28-75mm F/2.8 G2 has a couple of minor considerations. The zoom range starts at 28mm, which is not as wide as the 24mm some competing lenses offer. This could be a drawback for those looking for ultra-wide versatility in a single lens. However, pairing it with an ultra-wide prime or zoom can easily fill this gap.

Another potential downside is the lack of built-in image stabilization. However, most modern Sony mirrorless bodies have in-body stabilization, which effectively compensates for this.

Ideal Customer Profile

Who Is This Product For?

This lens is perfect for photographers who need an all-purpose zoom that covers a wide range of scenarios, from landscapes to portraits. Wedding photographers, travel enthusiasts, and content creators will especially appreciate its versatility and lightweight build, which makes it ideal for shooting all day long.

Not Suitable For

If you need a one-lens solution that includes ultra-wide shots, or if you’re a wildlife photographer needing serious reach, this may not be the lens for you. Additionally, photographers who heavily rely on optical stabilization might want to consider a lens with built-in stabilization.

Final Verdict

The Tamron 28-75mm F/2.8 Di III VXD G2 strikes an impressive balance between quality, versatility, and price. It offers a constant f/2.8 aperture, excellent optics, and is lightweight enough to carry around comfortably all day. Whether you’re a hobbyist looking to upgrade your gear or a professional in need of a reliable workhorse lens, the Tamron 28-75mm G2 has something for everyone.

Ready to take your photography to the next level? Grab the Tamron 28-75mm F/2.8 G2 today and see just how versatile your creativity can be.

Tamron 70-180mm F/2.8 Di III VC VXD G2 (for Sony E): Why It’s the Best Telephoto Zoom Lens for You

Why Buy the Tamron 70-180mm F/2.8 Di III VC VXD G2?

Price Point: $$

Are you searching for a powerful telephoto zoom lens that won’t turn your wallet inside out? The Tamron 70-180mm F/2.8 Di III VC VXD G2 offers professional-grade performance without the four-figure price tag. If you want to capture stunning action shots, beautiful portraits, or jaw-dropping wildlife photos, this lens might just be the perfect fit.

Key Features and Benefits:

• Constant f/2.8 Aperture: Provides consistent brightness across the zoom range, perfect for low-light conditions and achieving beautiful subject separation with soft bokeh.
• Compact and Lightweight: At only 855 grams, it’s the lightest in its class, making it perfect for handheld use and extended shooting sessions.
• VXD Linear Motor Autofocus: The VXD motor ensures fast, precise, and silent focusing, ideal for action photography and shooting in quiet environments.
• TAMRON VC (Vibration Compensation): TAMRON’s proprietary stabilization technology helps minimize camera shake, enabling sharp handheld shots even at longer focal lengths.
• Close-Up Versatility: With a minimum focusing distance of just 0.3m at 70mm, you can get creative with close-up shots, achieving macro-like results.

Overview

The Tamron 70-180mm F/2.8 Di III VC VXD G2 is a high-performing telephoto zoom lens that sits comfortably in the holy trinity of lenses for Sony E-mount cameras. It is ideal for photographers who require a longer reach, whether capturing sports events, wildlife, or even candid portraits. Despite its extended focal length, this lens manages to maintain an impressively compact size and weight, making it a versatile choice for travel and on-location shoots.

It’s More Than Just a Telephoto Zoom Lens

Sure, it’s a telephoto lens, but the Tamron 70-180mm F/2.8 G2 has a few tricks up its sleeve. The minimum focusing distance of 0.3m at 70mm is almost unheard of for telephoto lenses, allowing for close-up, macro-like shots that add versatility to your toolkit. Imagine zooming in on a subject while maintaining the intimacy of a close-up shot—this lens allows you to do just that.

What Makes the Tamron 70-180mm Stand Out?

1. Awards and Recognition: The original version of this lens was highly celebrated for its value and performance, and the G2 only builds on that success. It’s been praised for its sharpness, speed, and build quality by professional reviewers and photography enthusiasts alike.
2. Real-World Versatility: Picture yourself on a safari, ready to capture that once-in-a-lifetime shot of a lion in the distance. The lightweight build means you can move freely without being weighed down, and the fast autofocus ensures you nail the shot before the moment passes. Or imagine shooting a wedding, smoothly transitioning between capturing intimate emotions up close and candid moments from afar—this lens has you covered.

Comparing the Tamron 70-180mm to the Competition

• Tamron 70-180mm vs. Sony FE 70-200mm f/2.8 GM OSS II: The Sony 70-200mm offers a bit more range and features built-in stabilization, but it also comes at nearly double the cost and a significant weight increase. For most photographers, the Tamron provides similar image quality at a fraction of the price and with far more portability.
• Tamron 70-180mm vs. Sigma 100-400mm f/5-6.3 DG DN OS: The Sigma offers a longer reach, but at the cost of a much narrower aperture. If you’re often shooting in low-light conditions or want that creamy bokeh, the constant f/2.8 of the Tamron is hard to beat.

Potential Drawbacks

No lens is without compromises, and the Tamron 70-180mm F/2.8 G2 is no exception. The lack of a slightly wider starting focal length can be a drawback for those looking for an all-in-one solution that covers both wide and telephoto needs. Additionally, while the Vibration Compensation system is effective, some may miss the built-in stabilization found in other telephoto lenses.

A workaround for the slightly limited zoom range could be to pair this lens with a wide-angle lens in your kit. As for the stabilization, modern Sony bodies with in-body stabilization compensate very well, making this a non-issue for many users.

Ideal Customer Profile

Who Is This Product For?

This lens is perfect for photographers who need a versatile telephoto zoom that excels in both action and portraiture. Sports enthusiasts, wildlife photographers, wedding shooters, and anyone who appreciates lightweight gear will find a lot to love in this Tamron lens.

Not Suitable For

If you’re looking for an all-in-one lens solution or primarily shoot wide-angle landscapes, the 70-180mm range might be too restrictive. It also may not be ideal for those who require built-in optical stabilization beyond what is offered by in-body stabilization in their camera.

Final Verdict

The Tamron 70-180mm F2.8 Di III VC VXD G2 offers a compelling mix of performance, portability, and price. With a constant f/2.8 aperture, advanced autofocus, and built-in vibration compensation, it delivers stunning images while remaining comfortable enough to carry all day. If you’re looking for a lightweight telephoto zoom that doesn’t compromise on quality, this is the lens for you.

Ready to capture those distant, magical moments? The Tamron 70-180mm F/2.8 G2 is waiting to become your go-to telephoto companion—don’t miss out on what it can do for your photography.

Tamron 28-200mm F/2.8-5.6 Di III RXD (for Sony E): Why It’s the Best All-in-One Zoom for You

Why Buy the Tamron 28-200mm F/2.8-5.6 Di III RXD?

Price Point: $$

Looking for a lens that does it all without emptying your bank account? The Tamron 28-200mm F2.8-5.6 Di III RXD is an all-in-one zoom lens designed for versatility. Whether you’re snapping landscapes, portraits, or close-ups, this lens delivers stunning results across its wide zoom range—all while being remarkably affordable and compact.

Key Features and Benefits:

• Versatile 28-200mm Zoom Range: Perfect for everything from wide-angle landscapes to telephoto portraits—no need to change lenses.
• Wide Aperture at 28mm: Starting at f/2.8, it’s ideal for low-light photography and capturing beautifully blurred backgrounds.
• Compact and Lightweight: Weighing only 575g, it’s the ultimate travel companion—easy to carry around all day without fatigue.
• Close-Up Capability: The minimum focusing distance of 0.19m at 28mm lets you take impressive close-ups, adding extra versatility.
• Rapid RXD Autofocus: The RXD motor ensures fast, quiet, and accurate focusing—perfect for both photo and video.

Overview

The Tamron 28-200mm F/2.8-5.6 Di III RXD is the ultimate do-it-all lens for photographers using Sony E-mount cameras. Its impressive 28-200mm zoom range makes it suitable for a wide variety of photography styles—whether you’re capturing sweeping landscapes, intimate portraits, or spontaneous street photography. It stands out in the market as a reliable, compact option for those who prefer traveling light but still want quality results.

It’s More Than Just a Zoom Lens

Sure, the Tamron 28-200mm is an all-in-one zoom, but it’s also a great creative tool. With a wide aperture of f/2.8 at 28mm, you can shoot in lower light conditions or achieve that beautiful shallow depth of field—great for portraits. And thanks to its close focusing capability, you can even capture detailed, macro-like shots without switching lenses.

What Makes the Tamron 28-200mm Stand Out?

1. Awards and Recognition: This lens has been widely recognized as one of the best travel zoom lenses for Sony users. Its blend of versatility and image quality has earned it praise from professionals and hobbyists alike.
2. Real-World Versatility: Imagine exploring a bustling city—one moment you’re photographing the towering skyline, the next you’re capturing a street performer up close. With the 28-200mm, you never have to worry about switching lenses or missing the shot. The lightweight build means you can carry it all day without feeling bogged down.

Comparing the Tamron 28-200mm to the Competition

• Tamron 28-200mm vs. Sony FE 24-240mm f/3.5-6.3 OSS: The Sony 24-240mm offers a slightly wider focal range but sacrifices image quality at the extremes and is considerably heavier. The Tamron provides better sharpness, faster focusing, and a more compact design, making it ideal for on-the-go photographers.
• Tamron 28-200mm vs. Sigma 18-300mm f/3.5-6.3 DC Macro: The Sigma has a greater zoom range, but it also has a narrower maximum aperture, making it less suitable for low-light situations. Tamron’s f/2.8 aperture at the wide end gives it a distinct advantage in versatility and creative shooting.

Potential Drawbacks

No lens is without its compromises. The variable aperture of f/2.8-5.6 may be a limitation for those seeking consistent brightness across the entire zoom range. If you frequently shoot in low light at the telephoto end, this might require you to bump up your ISO settings, which can introduce more noise. However, with modern cameras’ excellent low-light performance, this trade-off is manageable.

Another potential issue is the lack of built-in image stabilization. However, many Sony bodies feature effective in-body stabilization, mitigating this downside.

Ideal Customer Profile

Who Is This Product For?

This lens is perfect for travelers, street photographers, and casual shooters who want one lens that can handle a wide variety of situations. If you enjoy the convenience of carrying just one lens while maintaining excellent image quality, the Tamron 28-200mm is an ideal choice.

Not Suitable For

If you need a constant aperture throughout the zoom range for consistent lighting or shoot extensively in low-light telephoto situations, this lens might not be the best fit. It also might not satisfy those seeking ultra-wide-angle coverage, as 28mm may not be wide enough for some landscape enthusiasts.

Final Verdict

The Tamron 28-200mm F/2.8-5.6 Di III RXD is a powerhouse in a compact package. It offers fantastic versatility, great image quality, and an affordable price, making it an ideal choice for anyone looking for a convenient, all-in-one solution. Whether you’re exploring new cities, documenting family events, or just want to simplify your kit, this lens has everything you need to capture your world.

Ready to simplify your shooting experience? Get your hands on the Tamron 28-200mm F/2.8-5.6 and discover how easy it is to carry just one lens for all your photography adventures.

Standard Zoom Lens For full-frame and APS-C format DSLR cameras (Di series)

Tamron SP 24-70mm F/2.8 Di VC USD G2 (for Canon EF, and Nikon F): Why It’s the Best Lens for DSLR Cameras

Why Buy the Tamron SP 24-70mm F/2.8 Di VC USD G2?

Price Point: $$

Looking for a high-quality, versatile lens for your DSLR without spending your entire savings? The Tamron SP 24-70mm F/2.8 Di VC USD G2 is a fantastic choice. With a constant f/2.8 aperture and superior image stabilization, it delivers stunning results for portraits, landscapes, and everything in between—all at a price that keeps it competitive with the big-name brands.

Key Features and Benefits:

• Constant f/2.8 Aperture: Ensures beautiful background blur and low-light performance throughout the zoom range—ideal for portraits and events.
• 5-Stop Vibration Compensation: TAMRON’s VC technology keeps handheld shots sharp, even in challenging lighting situations.
• Exceptional Image Quality: Features advanced optics with 17 elements, providing high resolution and minimal distortion.
• Durable Build: Moisture-resistant construction and fluorine coating make it a durable companion for outdoor shoots.
• USD Autofocus: Ultrasonic Silent Drive (USD) ensures quick, precise, and quiet autofocus, perfect for both stills and video.

Overview

The Tamron SP 24-70mm F/2.8 Di VC USD G2 is a versatile standard zoom lens that fits perfectly into the category of “do-it-all” lenses for DSLR cameras. Whether you’re shooting portraits, landscapes, or action, the constant f/2.8 aperture provides the flexibility you need to achieve fantastic results. Designed for full-frame DSLRs, this lens packs advanced optics and stabilization features into a robust build, making it a reliable choice for both professionals and enthusiasts.

It’s More Than Just a Standard Zoom Lens

Yes, it’s a standard zoom, but the Tamron SP 24-70mm F/2.8 G2 is so much more. Thanks to its 5-stop Vibration Compensation, you can capture sharp images even in low-light situations without relying on a tripod. The eBAND and BBAR coatings work hard behind the scenes, reducing ghosting and flare, meaning you get crystal-clear images, even when shooting against the light—think golden hour, sunsets, or concert lighting.

What Makes the Tamron SP 24-70mm Stand Out?

1. Awards and Recognition: This lens has been recognized by numerous photography publications as one of the best all-around lenses for full-frame DSLRs, receiving praise for its image quality and superior Vibration Compensation.
2. Real-World Versatility: Picture this: You’re shooting a wedding, capturing both the wide scene of the ceremony and intimate portraits of the couple. With the Tamron 24-70mm, you get that versatility without the need to switch lenses constantly—not to mention, the fast autofocus ensures you never miss those candid moments.

Comparing the Tamron SP 24-70mm to the Competition

• Tamron 24-70mm vs. Canon EF 24-70mm f/2.8L II USM: Canon’s version offers slightly faster autofocus and a bit less vignetting at wide apertures, but it lacks image stabilization. The Tamron’s 5-stop VC makes it the better choice for handheld work, especially in low light, and at a more affordable price point.
• Tamron 24-70mm vs. Sigma 24-70mm f/2.8 DG OS HSM: Sigma offers similar features, including optical stabilization. However, Tamron’s Vibration Compensation has consistently been rated more effective, and its advanced coatings deliver better flare resistance, which is crucial when shooting in backlit environments.

Potential Drawbacks

The Tamron SP 24-70mm G2 does have a few minor drawbacks. It is slightly heavier compared to some competitors, which might be a consideration if you’re used to lighter prime lenses. Also, while the autofocus is fast and accurate, it might not match the speed of the highest-tier professional lenses from Canon or Nikon, especially in extremely fast-paced action scenarios.

However, these compromises are minor compared to the value it offers, and the Vibration Compensation alone makes it worth the slightly increased weight, especially for handheld shooting.

Ideal Customer Profile

Who Is This Product For?

This lens is perfect for photographers who want a versatile, high-quality zoom for events, portraits, landscapes, or even travel photography. If you love shooting in natural light or need a lens that handles low-light situations well, the constant f/2.8 aperture combined with superior image stabilization makes this an excellent choice.

Not Suitable For

If you prefer the lightweight simplicity of prime lenses or frequently shoot extremely fast-moving subjects, this lens might not fully meet your needs. The weight could also be a factor for those who prioritize portability above all else.

Final Verdict

The Tamron SP 24-70mm F/2.8 Di VC USD G2 delivers everything a standard zoom should—versatility, exceptional image quality, and great performance in low-light situations. Its advanced Vibration Compensation technology and durable build make it a standout choice for DSLR users who need a reliable, all-around workhorse lens. Whether you’re a pro capturing important moments or an enthusiast wanting to elevate your photography, this lens is an investment that pays off.

Ready to take your DSLR photography to the next level? Grab the Tamron SP 24-70mm F/2.8 G2 and experience the power of a lens that truly does it all.

Conclusion

Choosing the right lens can make all the difference in your photography journey.

The 5 Tamron lenses we’ve highlighted offer something for every type of shooter, whether you need versatility, sharpness, or portability.

Each of these lenses can elevate your photos, helping you capture moments with greater clarity and creativity.

So, take your pick, invest wisely, and watch your photography skills soar to new heights!