Here we have an updated version of Tamron's highly rated 28-75mm f/2.8 standard zoom lens. It is intended for Sony full-frame mirrorless cameras, but of course, could also be used on the crop sensor APS-C format bodies. In this latter case, the "35mm equivalent" field of view would be around 42-112.5mm and it becomes a wide standard to short telephoto. For this review, coupling the lens up with the 42MP Sony A7R III full-frame body, we have an attractive and very usable range of focal lengths for a wide variety of subject matter. Let's see how the lens handles in the field and how it performs in the technical tests.

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Tamron 28-75mm F/2.8 Di III VXD G2 Handling and Features

This is a reasonably compact lens, weighing in at a modest 540g. There is a supplied bayonet fit lens hood that clips securely into position. No locking catch is needed. Within the bayonet fitting for the hood is a conventional 67mm filter thread.

The zoom ring extends the length of the lens as we zoom in but this does not disturb the balance. Focal lengths of 28mm, 35mm, 50mm and 75mm are clearly marked, and are accurate. The grip is excellent and the amount of resistance when zooming is just right.

The focus set button is positioned between zoom and focus rings and enables focus lock as default, but this can be set to other functions when the lens is connected to a computer with the TAMRON Lens Utility App. Connection is via a USB Type-C connector on the lens. Tamron sells a specific USB connection lead for this purpose and specifies that this should be used.

The focus ring is electronic and as utterly smooth in operation as we would expect. The usual Sony focus settings are accessed via the camera menu, including DMF (Direct Manual Focus, where MF can be used whilst AF is active) and MF. Tamron quote “minimum object distances” as follows:

• Wide: 0.18m (7.1 inches) for a maximum magnification of 1:2.7
• Tele: 0.38m (15 inches) for a maximum magnification of 1:4.1

This does enhance the usability of the lens, being not quite macro distances but still very usefully close. The AF is virtually silent and locks on accurately and efficiently, utilising Voice-coil eXtreme torque Drive motor. It is claimed to be twice as fast as the previous RXD lens.

Optical construction is 17 elements in 15 groups, including 1 LD (Low Dispersion) and 1 Glass Moulded Aspherical. There are 9 diaphragm blades to improve bokeh. The front element is fluorine-coated to repel dirt, grease and moisture and the lens as a whole is moisture resistant.

There is no doubt this is a great lens to use, fast, efficient and reliable. The focal length range might be a little curtailed and it would have been nice to extend to 24mm or perhaps a little further to 105mm, but on the other hand, the constant f/2.8 maximum aperture could well be more than enough compensation for that.

The USB-C connection is also a great idea, enabling other functions to be assigned and also giving a straightforward method of updating the lens firmware.