Tamron has introduced a new zoom lens, the 28-300mm f/4-7.1 Di III VC VXD, designed for Sony E-Mount cameras.
Weighing just 1.3 lbs (590 grams), this lens offers a versatile focal range, making it an affordable and practical option for outdoor photographers who prefer to travel light. The lens includes Tamron’s VXD linear motor focus mechanism and the VC Camera Shake Reduction System, both of which are beneficial for handheld photography, particularly at longer focal lengths.
Tamron’s Affordable Alternatives
Tamron is recognized for providing budget-friendly alternatives to more expensive native lenses, often offering unique focal lengths not typically found in other brands’ lineups. The Tamron 28-300mm f/4-7.1 Di III VC VXD is another example of this, providing an all-in-one solution that covers a wide range of focal lengths suitable for various everyday shooting scenarios.
Key Features of the Tamron 28-300mm f/4-7.1 Di III VC VXD
This full-frame lens for the Sony E-Mount has a maximum aperture of f/4-7.1, making it ideal for outdoor photography with ample light. The lens construction consists of 20 elements in 13 groups, a 9-bladed diaphragm, and a minimum focusing distance of 7.5 inches at the wide end and 39 inches at the telephoto end. It is moisture-sealed, compact, and lightweight, making it suitable for portable setups. Additional features include a zoom lock switch, a focus set button for quick adjustments, and a Tamron lens utility connector port for customizing settings, assigning camera body functions, and updating firmware.
VC, VXD, and Image Quality
The lens features Tamron’s Vibration Compensation (VC) technology, which is essential for handheld photography, particularly at the telephoto end when the camera lacks internal stabilization. The Voice-coil eXtreme-torque Drive (VXD) provides fast and quiet autofocus, making it suitable for both video and photography, especially in nature settings where silence is required. The lens’s optical design includes 20 elements across 13 groups to minimize chromatic aberration, while the 9-bladed diaphragm produces smooth bokeh, particularly noticeable at longer focal lengths.
Pricing and Availability
The Tamron 28-300mm f/4-7.1 Di III VC VXD is available for preorder at a price of $899, with an expected shipping date of August 29, 2024.
About Tamron
Tamron Co., Ltd. is a Japanese company that specializes in the manufacturing of precision optical equipment. The company is known for producing a range of products, including cameras, photographic lenses, and various optical devices for both consumer and industrial applications. Tamron operates globally, providing lenses for different camera mounts, including Sony E-Mount, and is recognized for offering alternatives to more expensive lenses while also covering unique focal lengths.