An essential piece of gear for any photographer is a high-quality mid-range zoom lens. The Tamron SP 24-70mm f/2.8 Di VC USD G2 fits this bill perfectly. This mid-range zoom lens is a great competitor to the Canon EF 24-105mm, and the Nikon 24-70mm. It has a superb set of features including image stabilization and a silent autofocus system. Moreover, the consistent aperture of f/2.8 offers excellent performance and allows users to create photos with superb out-of-focus backgrounds.
Here, we look at what you can expect from this lens. We analyze the main features, design, and performance. Furthermore, we compare this lens to other similar models on the market. If you are looking for a multi-purpose zoom lens, read on to find out more about this excellent choice from Tamron!
Main Features
First, let’s look at the basic features and specifications of the Tamron SP 24-70mm f/2.8 Di VC USD G2. It is important to note that this lens is part of the Super Performance range – this could be compared to Canon’s L-series, for example. The basic specifications are listed below:
- Weight: 825g
- Max Length: 116mm
- Viewing Angle: 84, 04-34, 12 (Horizontal, Vertical, Diagonal)
- Maximum Aperture: f/4.0
- Minimum Aperture: f/22.0
- Image Stabilization: Yes, Tamron VC
- Lens Hood: Yes
The aperture range of f/4.0 – f/22 offers superb flexibility. Moreover, it has a great viewing angle and is relatively lightweight and compact for a zoom lens. This lens is available for both Canon and Nikon DSLR cameras.
Design
The Tamron SP 24-70mm f/2.8 Di VC USD G2 is certainly not lacking in useful design features. Firstly, it is part of the Tamron Super Performance range – this means that its build quality is superior to standard Tamron lenses. Furthermore, it has an enhanced lens that offers brilliant image quality. The following are some of the design features that make this such a good choice:
- Vibration Compensation – Enhanced image stabilization
- Ultrasonic Silent Drive – Quiet usage when focusing and zooming
- eBAND Coating – Brilliant lens coating for optimal protection
- Super Performance – Part of the elite Tamron lens series
Tamron’s enhanced Vibration Compensation system is highly effective and allows users to take stable shots at any focal length. Moreover, the Ultrasonic Silent Drive and Internal Focusing system make this lens both silent, but effective when focusing. The eBAND coating and super performance lens classification make this model sturdy, robust, and durable. The Tamron SP 24-70mm f/2.8 Di VC USD G2 has additional protection from dust and moisture, and the exterior coating feels well-made.
Performance
In terms of performance, this lens is on par with similar devices from Canon and Nikon. The superior build quality and additional features mean that image quality is consistent. With some zoom lenses, image quality can reduce at the extreme focal lengths. Furthermore, images can become soft at the edges, and have lens distortion. This is not true with the SP 24-70mm f/2.8 Di VC USD G2. There is minimal distortion, ghosting, and lens flare. Moreover, the images remain sharp and crystal clear.
Not only does the SP 24-70mm f/2.8 Di VC USD G2 offer excellent image quality, but it is also highly functional. The zoom transitions are smooth and there is no movement once the zoom is locked in place. Finally, the device is relatively lightweight compared to some other zoom lenses – it is easy to handle, and fits perfectly on Canon and Nikon DSLR cameras.
Tamron SP 24-70mm f/2.8 Di VC USD G2 vs. Canon EF 24-105mm f/4L
Does this lens compare favorably to other similar zoom models? One of the closest matches is the Canon EF 24-105mm f/4L IS II USM. This L-series lens offers amazing quality, a robust design, and fantastic performance. In terms of basic features and spec, we have compared the two lenses below:
| Tamron SP 24-70mm f/2.8 Di VC USD G2 | Canon EF 24-105mm f/4L IS II USM | |
| Minimum Aperture | f/22 | f/22 |
| Image Stabilization | Yes | Yes |
| Weight | 825g | 795g |
| Dimensions | 88 x 116 | 83 x 118 |
The Canon lens offers a higher maximum focal length of 105mm – this does provide a sizable increase compared to the maximum focal length of Tamron’s lens at 70mm. In terms of size and weight – there is little difference between both models. Moreover, both lenses feature image stabilization and a great autofocus system.
One of the main benefits of the Tamron lens is the larger maximum aperture. There is quite a difference between f/2.8 and f/4 – this can provide additional flexibility at maximum aperture settings. Furthermore, this should mean that the Tamron 24-70mm f/2.8 has better low-light capabilities too.
Should You Purchase the Tamron SP 24-70mm f/2.8 Di VC USD G2?
The Tamron SP 24-70mm f/2.8 Di VC USD G2 is a fantastic alternative to both the Canon EF 24-105mm and the Nikon AF-S 24-70mm. If you want a reliable, third-party kit lens for varying purposes, you can’t go wrong with this device.
There is both a Canon and Nikon version available and both provide fantastic image quality and a reliable zoom with great aperture range. Moreover, this lens benefits from built-in vibration control and an advanced MPU that improves image stabilization.
Image quality remains sharp and without distortion at both ends of the focal range. Furthermore, the consistent aperture of f/2.8 allows for excellent control and some beautiful portrait shots. This kit lens is a magnificent option for those who want a reliable “walking around” lens – it can suit a myriad of purposes and is great for travel photography, portraits, and landscape shots.
Aside from the brilliant image stabilization, the SP 24-70mm f/2.8 Di VC USD G2 also has an enhanced protective coating – this helps reduce flare and ghosting. The combination of usability, compact design, enhanced protection, and amazing image quality make this lens a brilliant choice.
