If you want to progress into ultra-wide-angle photography, a dedicated wide-angle lens is ideal. You could use a standard kit lens – like a 24-70mm zoom, but the overall quality may not be as sharp as a professional wide-angle option like the Tamron SP 15-30mm f/2.8 Di VC USD G2. A lens like this is built specifically for wide-angle shots, so it excels at this type of photography. This lens, in particular, features the latest Tamron technology and is a joy to use.
In this review, we analyze the build quality and features of the Tamron SP 15-30mm f/2.8 Di VC USD G2. Furthermore, we look at how it compares to other wind-angle lenses, and its overall performance.
Main Features
First, let’s look at the basic features the Tamron SP 15-30mm f/2.8 Di VC USD G2 has. It is available for both Canon and Nikon DSLR cameras. Furthermore, it provides a focal range of 15-30mm and an aperture range of f/2.8 to f/22. The following are the basic specifications of this wide-angle lens:
- Weight: 1100g
- Max Length: 145mm
- Viewing Angle: 110°32′ – 71°35′-85°52′ – 49°54′
- Maximum Aperture: f/2.8
- Minimum Aperture: f/22
- Image Stabilization: Yes (Vibration Control)
- Lens Hood: Yes
This lens is also considered to be part of the Tamron “Super Performance” range – this means that it benefits from a host of additional features. Furthermore, it has superior build quality compared to standard Tamron lenses.
Design
The design of this lens is fantastic. Tamron has included a wealth of useful technologies and design features that improve the functionality of this lens. The Tamron SP 15-30mm f/2.8 Di VC USD G2 far exceeds the quality of standard lens models and has the following additional features:
- eBAND Coating
- AX Lens Coating
- LD Low Dispersion
Firstly, it has eBAND Coating. This is a special Nano-coating applied to the lens elements. This helps reduce ghosting and troublesome reflections. Secondly, the lens glass has AX Coating. This is an advanced technology from Tamron that ensures impeccable image quality. Finally, the lens has an LD low dispersion element which reduces chromatic aberration.
Performance
When using this lens you will notice the smooth function and the silent operation of the zoom and focusing system. The USD silent motor ensures that using the manual focus ring is a quiet process. Furthermore, the Tamron SP 15-30mm f/2.8 Di VC USD G2 has vibration control which offers excellent image stabilization.
In comparison, the Canon version of this lens, the Canon EF 16-35mm f/2.8L USM, features a filter holder slot. This means you can quickly insert gel or film filters to create different photo effects.
For both the Canon and Nikon versions, the lens mount is solid and feels secure when connected to your DSLR camera. Furthermore, the lens itself is easy to use. The only downside we found was the weight and size of the lens. At 98.4 x 145mm and 1100g it is quite heavy. It is still portable, but when attached to a DSLR camera, the weight is noticeable.
Tamron SP 15-30mm f/2.8 Di VC USD G2 vs. Canon EF 16-35mm f/2.8L USM
Let’s take a closer look at how this lens compares to other similar models. Both Nikon and Canon have several ultra-wide-angle lenses suitable for landscape photography. We will compare it to the Canon EF 16-35mm f/2.8L USM – this is another fantastic wide-angle lens with similar features. We could compare it to the Canon RF 15-35mm f/2.8L IS USM, but this is for mirrorless cameras.
Firstly, the Canon EF 16-35mm f/2.8 is only in Canon’s basic range – it is not an L-series lens. This gives Tamron the upper hand in build-quality. The Tamron SP 15-30mm f/2.8 Di VC USD G2 is part of the Super Performance range, which means it has superior build quality in comparison to the Canon model.
The only downside to the Tamron lens is that it is much heavier and larger. It weighs over double the Canon alternative. Furthermore, it is longer and more awkward to carry. This is mainly due to the enhanced build features like Vibration Control and the USD motor. We have created a basic comparison table below:
| Comparison | Tamron SP 15-30mm f/2.8 Di VC USD G2 | Canon EF 16-35mm f/2.8L USM |
| Minimum Aperture | f/22 | f/22 |
| Image Stabilization | Yes | No |
| Weight | 1100g | 545g |
| Dimensions | 98.4 x 145mm | 95.7 x 83.5mm |
While the Tamron lens offers greater image quality and performance. The Canon EF 16-35mm is certainly a great affordable option. Another similar device is the Sigma 17-50mm f/2.8 EX DC OS HSM.
Choosing the Tamron SP 15-30mm f/2.8 Di VC USD G2
If you are looking for an ultra-wide-angle lens that offers exceptional quality, the Tamron SP 15-30mm f/2.8 Di VC USD G2 is a top choice. It rivals similar lens models like the Canon RF 15-35mm and has a valid space in any avid photographer’s arsenal.
Using state-of-the-art lens elements, it offers excellent clarity, and images are fantastic. Furthermore, the consistent f/2.8 aperture is great for low-light photography, but also gives users greater flexibility. This lens is particularly useful for travel and landscape photography. It allows you to produce monumental wide-angle shots and create near-panoramic images without the associated complication.
Tamron has really excelled when creating this lens and the build quality is fantastic. It has a myriad of useful features that make it usable, durable, and flexible. The built-in vibration control offers additional image stabilization, while the USD motors ensure silent manual focus performance.
