Tamron 70-200mm f/2.8 SP AF

I have one and I like it!

It is sharp (some say as sharp as the Canon equivalent), it is fairly light compared to the Canon as it is a plastic barrel (which could be a negative if you need the toughness of the L lens)

The only negative (IMO, and that depends on what you plan on using it for) is that the AF isn't as fast as the Canon verisons, if you shoot sports, you may be better looking at the Sigma or Canon versions. Having said that, I shot F15 planes at Donna Nook last year when I went to see the seals without a problem (well, that couldn't be put down to my poor technique!)

I don't know what they cost new today, but when I got mine, it was cheaper than the Canon 70-200 F4 L non IS and as I don't really shoot sports, and the wide aperture will be handy for me, it was a bargain for me. For you, it may not be.

Hope that helps
 
thanks for that gem

I had been looking originally at a canon 70-200 2.8 but way out of my price range. Also looked at the Sigma one too, but still a little out of my reach at the moment and i have seen the tamron equivalent and possibly a good price
 
I've got one.
Optically very good.
Autofocus: meh. It'll do for still subjects but I'd hate to try sports or wildlife.
Manual focus: Argh! focussing 1m to infinity occurs in about 1/8th of a turn of the barrel and can be fiddly as hell. Focussing automatically then switching to manual to lock can't be done as when the gears intermesh it throws off the focus a signifficant amount.
 
You must log in or register to reply here.
Back
Top