Review. Tamron AF 18-270/3.5-6.3 Di II VC PZD Zoom Lens for Nikon

jbird69

New member
Disclaimer; Im a novice sharing my experience with this lens :)

This is a new lens that was just released in December. Some advertisements call it a macro, some dont. The lens focuses at about 15" from the subject even at full zoom! So far Ive only really tested it at 200-270mm. Tho it pans back to 18mm so it should handle landscapes ok. It is a nice all-in-one lens.

From my research, Tamron is apparently known for having excellent glass but slow, clunky autofocus. This lens is touting the new PZD AF motor and I must say it is fast! as fast as my nikkor. Its quiet too (louder than my nikkor but entirely acceptable) The majority of noise comes from the VR system in the lens. The Nikkor VR is virtually silent.

The construction of the lens is impressive (another aspect Tamron isnt known for) It doesnt feel plasticy at all.

It has pretty ok bokeh for maxing out at f6.3 at 270mm. and f3.5 at 18mm.
It is not a fast lens in regard to aperture. But you pay big $$ for fast telephoto lenses and at this price point ($645 street) pretty impressive lens.

I have only had it 2 days and need a lot more use to know if this lens is as good as it seems.

Heres a few sample shots from this lens

Starting with a few macros. Ending with long distance wildlife.

DSC_3141.jpg


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decent bokeh at max ap
DSC_3172.jpg


shot at f40 in aperture priority
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Now for the birds.

European starling.

ap priority
270mm
F/6.3
1/500 s
ISO 500
subject distance 7.1m
DSC_3135.jpg


Red tail hawk

sports mode
270mm
F/7.1
1/2000 s
ISO 400
subject distance unknown (75m appr)

DSC_3046a.jpg



heres a direct comparison to my 55-300mm nikkor lens. Thes shots were taken on different days in slightly different conditions. Both lenses mounted on D3100 body. Both shot in Aperture priority


nikkor lens (photo on left)
300mm
F/5.6
1/320 s
ISO 200
Subject distance 15.8m


Tamron lens (photo on right)
270mm
F/6.3
1/400 s
ISO200
Subject distance 18.8m

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Any update on how this lens is working for you?

I am thinking about purchasing this lens and selling my 70-300mm Tamron and 18-70mm Nikkor.
 
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