Tamron has a history of creating high-quality zoom lenses that offer an affordable alternative to Canon and Nikon models. The Tamron 70-210mm f/4 Di VC USD is a high-end telephoto zoom lens that has an excellent build quality, and a host of useful features that make it a brilliant option for wildlife and sports photography.
Using the 210mm maximum focal zoom, you can photograph brilliant details on individual subjects from a great distance. Alternatively, the minimum focal length of 70mm is still brilliant for portrait photography – this is accentuated by the maximum aperture of f/4. Using the f/4 aperture, you can create superb portrait photography with a gorgeous bokeh background effect. In this review, we look at what the Tamron 70-210mm f/4 Di VC USD has to offer, and how it sizes up to other similar models.
Main Features
The Tamron 70-210mm f/4 Di VC USD is a highly functional lens with various useful features. For example, it has VC image stabilization and USD silent motor operation. Furthermore, it has an aperture range of f/4 to f/32 – this gives users excellent flexibility in their image compositions.
- Weight: 860g
- Max Length: 76 – 176mm
- Viewing Angle: 34°21′-11°46′-23°01′-7°46′
- Maximum Aperture: f/4
- Minimum Aperture: f/32
- Image Stabilization: Yes
- Lens Hood: Yes
It is clear Tamron has kitted this lens out and wants it to be a robust, functional device.
Design
The design of this lens is right up there with other top-rated zoom lenses. It has three low dispersion lens elements that help reduce chromatic aberration and other distortion. Furthermore, the actual lens has a quality exterior casing that is weather resistant. In addition to this, it has the following optional extras: Â
- Optional tripod mount
- Tamron teleconverter
- TAP-in Console
Both the tripod mount and range of Tamron teleconverters provide additional utility. The teleconverters, for example, allow you to extend the focal length of this lens by either 1.4x or 2.0x for ultra-telephoto photography. Overall, the Tamron 70-210mm f/4 Di VC USD is a well-built lens with a robust design.
Performance
In terms of performance, this lens is outstanding. The basic image quality provided is magnificent. Furthermore, the image quality remains excellent throughout the different focal lengths – from 70mm through to 210mm. There is little to no distortion and the images have minimal softening around the edges.
Aside from the basic image quality, the lens also has several features that improve its usability. Zoom lenses can oftentimes be difficult to use due to their size and bulk. Firstly, the Tamron 70-210mm f/4 Di VC USD has built-in vibration control – this effectively acts as a form of image stabilization. It means that even when the lens is fully extended, you should still be able to take sharp photos.
Tamron 70-210mm f/4 Di VC USD vs. Canon EF 70-200mm f/4L IS II USM
Finally, let’s look at how this lens compares to a similar zoom lens. The Canon EF 70-200mm f/4L IS II USM is a good comparative model. This lens is a top-rated Canon zoom lens and offers excellent functionality and build quality. In a head to head comparison, there is little to choose in terms of features. Both models have a maximum aperture of f/4. Furthermore, both devices have image stabilization and silent motor capabilities.
| Tamron 70-210mm f/4 Di VC USD | Canon EF 70-200mm f/4L IS II USM | |
| Minimum Aperture | f/32 | f/32 |
| Image Stabilization | Yes | Yes |
| Weight | 860g | 780g |
| Dimensions | 76 – 176mm | 80 – 176mm |
As you can see, the specs are virtually identical. The difference relates to build quality and portability. The Canon zoom lens is slightly lighter which makes it easier to carry. Furthermore, Canon L-series lenses are historically better build quality than Tamron alternatives. This doesn’t mean the Tamron lens is of poor quality.
Which lens you choose depends on your own preference and available funds. The Canon lens is more expensive, but it is considered the superior model. If you are happy using a third-party alternative, the Tamron lens is a top choice.
Final Thoughts on the Tamron 70-210mm f/4 Di VC USD
This particular lens fills a valid role and is a great addition to any photographer’s arsenal. It can be used for a range of purpose including sports photography and wildlife photography. The maximum zoom of 210mm allows you to get great detail from a distance. Furthermore, combined with the f/4 aperture, when at maximum zoom, you can create shots with a beautiful bokeh effect background.
This excellent functionality is complemented by the solid build quality, and the array of useful features like vibration control, and silent USD motor. Tamron has developed a brilliant lens that competes with the best Canon and Nikon comparable items. Whether you purchase this lens or not depends largely on your own preference – some photographers prefer to stick with lenses produced by the manufacturer of their DSLR camera. Others, however, don’t mind using third-party models.
