In 2020, the market for alternative lenses for Sony E-mount was still relatively "in its infancy", and the benchmark of quality in the field of telephoto lenses was undoubtedly the Sony 70-200 GM. Its image quality and robust construction, however, were balanced by a price that made it somewhat of a "luxury" choice even for some professional photographers.
Tamron shattered this narrative by introducing the Tamron 70-180 f/2.8 Di III VXD, providing a cost-effective yet visually top-notch alternative. Although the 70-180 lacked image stabilization and other advanced features, it was characterized by sharpness and beautiful rendering, at almost half the price compared to the Sony 70-200 GM, quickly securing Tamron a significant place in the lens market for the Sony E mount.
Comparison of the Tamron 70-180mm F2.8 bodies – on the left the original generation, on the right the new G2.
Now, three years later, Tamron introduces a new generation, the model – 70-180 mm f/2.8 Di III VC VXD G2 (internal designation A065S), which brings a series of innovations and improvements, while still promising to maintain a friendly price level. Key new features include integrated optical stabilization, added control elements, even faster autofocus, and truly exceptional optical performance.
First, let's look at what all these acronyms mean:
Di III (Digitally Integrated Design) - lenses specifically designed for mirrorless cameras with interchangeable lenses, in this case for Sony Full Frame E-mount, or Sony FE.
VC (Vibration Compensation) - a patented optical image stabilization mechanism.
VXD (Voice-coil Extreme-torque Drive) - linear motor focusing mechanism for extremely fast and highly precise movement (compared to conventional drive systems, the linear motor significantly reduces noise and vibrations). Currently the best autofocus system that Tamron offers.
Design and Ergonomics - Tamron 70-180mm f/2.8 Di III VC VXD G2
In addition to technological improvements, Tamron also focused on user-friendliness. The ergonomics of the lens have been improved for better handling, making it fit perfectly in the hand. The surface treatment has also been modified, which is now slightly glossier and more resistant to scratches and fingerprints.
Programmable focus/hold button and 3-position switch.
Thanks to the innovated construction, integrated optical stabilization, and added control buttons, the weight has slightly increased to the current 855g (G1 weighs 810g), but it remains the lightest telephoto lens on the market in its category. The dimensions have also slightly increased, specifically by 2mm in maximum diameter, thus to 83mm, and 7mm in length to 156.5mm.
The integrated USB-C port allows for firmware updates and customization of lens functions, such as focusing methods (non-linear/linear), easily from home using the free Tamron Lens Utility software. Between the focusing and zoom ring, there is also a programmable focus/hold button, plus a 3-position switch, providing additional options for customizing the lens to your needs and style of creation.
USB-C port for firmware updates and customization of available functions.
The body of the 70-180 is sealed against dust and moisture at all critical points, including the aforementioned USB-C port.
Another ace news is that Tamron has again managed to maintain the filter diameter at 67mm, which is common for most of its lenses and makes filter sharing extremely simple.
A few basic parameters:
Model designation: A065S
Focal length: 70-180mm
Aperture: F/2.8
Optical Construction: 20 elements in 15 groups
Number of aperture blades: 9
Minimum focusing distance: 0,3m (WIDE) / 0,85m (TELE)
Filter diameter: 67mm
Stabilization: ano
Weight: 855g
Length: 156,5mm
Sealed against moisture and dust
Compatible with TAMRON Lens Utility software - firmware updates and optimization of functions
Tamron 70-180 mm f/2.8 Di III VC VXD G2 – ISO 100, F2.8, 1/200s
To suppress internal reflections causing "ghosts" (secondary images) and flares (causing low contrast and fading), Tamron used BBAR-G2 (Broad Band Anti Reflection) technology, i.e., multiple applications of magnesium fluoride layers. At wide-open apertures, flares are almost negligible, and even at higher aperture values when shooting against the light, nothing significant occurs. The front element is also treated with a fluorine coating that repels water, grease, and other impurities.
Image Quality and Performance
In the optical construction, one element and one new group were added, allowing the Tamron 70-180mm G2 to achieve excellent image quality across its entire range. The photos are beautifully contrasty and color-accurate. The lens draws stunning details and provides top-notch sharpness from the center to the corners. The only place where there is a slight softening of the corners is around 135mm, but otherwise, it is really absolutely perfect. 70-180mm also suppresses chromatic aberration really well. The large aperture F/2.8 in combination with 9 blades provides beautiful bokeh.
Tamron 70-180mm f/2.8 Di III VC VXD G2 – ISO 800, F2.8, 1/250s
Fast focusing is provided by linear VXD (Voice-coil Extreme-torque Drive) motors. VXD motors offer greater torque compared to classic RXD motors, which means that autofocus refocuses almost instantly. It really doesn't matter whether you're shooting portraits, sports, or animals, the autofocus is 100% accurate in every situation. VXD motors are also very quiet.
Tamron 70-180mm f/2.8 Di III VC VXD G2 – ISO 320, F2.8, 1/320s
Pros:
Excellent image quality throughout the range
Perfect color rendering and great contrast
Optical stabilization
Great minimum focusing distance
Good control of chromatic aberration
Sealed against moisture and dust
Strong VXD motors and very accurate autofocus
USB-C port for firmware updates and user settings
Beautiful bokeh
Ergonomically shaped body and weight
67mm filters
Price
Cons:
Cannot use a teleconverter
Has 20mm less range than its rival Sony 70-200GM
On A1/A9 bodies, limited to 15 frames per second
Conclusion:
The new Tamron 70-180mm f/2.8 Di III VC VXD G2 is an absolutely top-notch professional lens that allows you to shoot and record a wide range of subjects, from portraits to sports events in the most challenging lighting conditions. The new generation has been gifted with optical stabilization and a completely new optical construction for excellent optical performance.
Compared to its biggest rival, the Sony 70-200GM II, it may lack 20mm at the end, but during the entire testing period, I only really felt this potential limit when "spying" on wildlife. However, with the high resolution of today's Sony bodies, this possible handicap can simply be resolved by switching to APSC mode, or by cropping in post-processing.
Tamron 70-180mm f/2.8 Di III VC VXD G2 – ISO 400, F2.8, 1/6400s
Either way, for 1.199 EUR (currently discounted price by Tamron.eu, May 2024), you get an extremely sharp lens that almost perfectly fulfills all the requirements of professional photographers, and thanks to the combination of price, weight, and quality durable construction, it will make a great partner on your journeys, whether you are photographing your offspring at poorly lit performances or motivated friends at sporting frolics.
So good light and see you next time,
MS
GEAR:
Camera: Sony A7 IV
Filters: VFFOTO magnetic UV GS 67-82mm
Tripod: 3 Legged Thing Mike Legends Mike
Backpack: Shimoda Action x70
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