Tamron Announce 70-210mm f/4 Lens

Tamron has announced a new 70-210mm f/4 Di VC USD lens, a compact telephoto zoom lens for full-frame DSLR cameras. This new lens provides superb optical performance throughout the entire zoom range and features a maximum magnification ratio of 1:3.1, the highest in its class.* The design includes an internal zoom mechanism that provides solid mechanical construction and stable, reliable operation. The lens also employs a Dual MPU (Micro-Processing Unit) design, which enables high-speed and high-accuracy AF performance as well as powerful VC (Vibration Compensation) image stabilization for flexible and versatile use in various situations. For dependable outdoor use, the new telephoto zoom is equipped with Fluorine Coating and Moisture-Resistant Construction.

The lens will be available for £699 from April 2018. The price point makes it a more affordable option to the 70-200mm f/2.8 G2 which we reviewed in February 2017.

Tamron 70-210mm Key Features

High-performance telephoto zoom lens with a constant maximum aperture of f/4

The optical construction of 20 elements in 14 groups uses three LD (Low Dispersion) lens elements to effectively compensate for axial and transverse chromatic aberrations, thereby ensuring crisp and crystal clear image quality across the entire frame. The lens also features a constant maximum aperture of F/4 throughout the entire zoom range, thus providing superior control over depth-of-field and excellent bokeh.

Class-leading magnification ratio and MOD (Minimum Object Distance)

The lens boasts the highest-in-class maximum magnification ratio of 1:3.1 and the shortest-in-class* MOD of 0.95 m.

*Among 70-200mm F/4 class interchangeable lenses for full-frame DSLR cameras (as of January, 2018: Tamron)

Highly reliable internal zoom mechanism

Thanks to an internal zoom mechanism, the physical length of the lens does not change during zooming. So-called “zoom creep” is impossible because the overall length never extends. Furthermore, the design provides a very robust and sturdy feeling, and the non-rotating front element makes the use of polarizing filters much easier.

High-speed Dual MPU (Micro-Processing Unit)* control system delivers responsive autofocus performance plus outstanding VC (Vibration Compensation) image stabilization

The Dual MPU system includes two high-performance MPUs dedicated to VC processing and lens system control. Both MPUs have a DSP (Digital Signal Processing) block that provides high-speed digital signal processing, improving the computing power of the entire system. This new control system achieves high-speed and precise AF performance as well as assured VC effects.

*A new control system using two high-performance MPUs (micro-processor units).

Excellent autofocus performance

The AF drive system uses a USD (Ultrasonic Silent Drive) ring-type ultrasonic motor for outstanding responsiveness and to ensure fast, precise focusing. Plus the new zoom is equipped with a Full-time Manual Focus override mechanism that enables a photographer shooting with AF to instantly make fine manual focusing adjustments without switching the AF-MF mode switch.

Outstanding vibration compensation effects

The lens is equipped with Tamron’s proprietary VC system and achieves the CIPA image stabilization performance level of 4 stops.* Even in low light or with slow shutter speeds, photographers can enjoy shake-free handheld shooting with ease and comfort.

*CIPA Standard Compliant. For Canon: EOS-5D MKIII is used; for Nikon: D810 is used.

Fluorine Coating

The surface of the front element is coated with a protective fluorine compound that has excellent water- and oil-repellant qualities. The front surface is easier to wipe clean and is less vulnerable to the damaging effects of dirt, dust, moisture or oily fingerprints, allowing for much easier maintenance. The coating also provides an enhanced level of durability, and will sustain its effectiveness for years.

Moisture-Resistant Construction

Seals are located at the lens mount area and other critical locations to prevent infiltration of moisture and/or raindrops to provide Moisture-Resistant Construction. This feature affords an additional layer of protection when shooting outdoors under adverse weather conditions.

Compatible with Tamron teleconverter

The new lens is also compatible with both the 1.4x (Model TC-X14) and 2.0x (Model TC-X20) Teleconverters, which increase the focal length of the lens to 1.4 times and 2 times the original, respectively. For more detailed information about tele converters, please refer to the Tamron website.

Compatible with TAMRON TAP-in ConsoleTM, an optional accessory

The lens is compatible with the optional TAMRON TAP-in Console, an optional accessory product that provides a USB connection to a personal computer, enabling users to easily update a lens’s firmware as well as customize features including fine adjustments to the AF and VC.

Optional tripod mount compatible with Arca-Swiss style quick release plates

An Arca-Swiss style tripod mount is available as an optional accessory. Featuring a hinge-type ring section, connection is easy even when the lens is mounted on a camera.

Electromagnetic diaphragm system now used also for Nikon-mount lenses

An electromagnetic diaphragm system, which has been a standard feature for Canon-mount lenses, is now employed in Nikon-mount lenses.* More precise diaphragm and aperture control is possible because the diaphragm blades are driven and controlled by a built-in motor through electronic pulse signals.

*Available only with cameras compatible with the electromagnetic diaphragm

(D5,D4s,D4,D3X,Df,D850,D810,D810A,D800,D800E,D750,D600,D610,D300S,D500,D7500,D7200,D7100,D7000,D5600�D5500,D5300,D5200,D5100,D5000,D3400,D3300,D3200,D3100). (As of January, 2018; Tamron)