Tamron 28200 F Di III RXD Sony Mirrorless

Key Features That Stand Out

• Fast F2.8-5.6 all-in-one zoom lens: Offers impressive aperture capabilities across a wide focal range, perfect for various lighting conditions and creative depth-of-field effects.
• Lightweight (20.3 oz.) and compact size (4.6″): Designed for superior mobility, making it an ideal companion for travel and everyday shooting where portability is key.
• Superior up-close shooting performance: Achieves remarkable close-up capabilities with a Minimum Object Distance (MOD) of 7.5 inches at the wide end (1:3.1 magnification) and 31.5 inches at the telephoto end (1:3.8 magnification), opening up new avenues for detail-oriented photography.
• RXD stepping motor unit: Provides exceptionally quiet autofocus operation, ensuring silent shooting for video recording and discreet stills photography.
• Moisture-Resistant Construction, Fluorine Coating, and Zoom Lock switch: Enhances durability and usability in challenging weather conditions, offering peace of mind and reliable performance.

Tamron 28-200 F/2.8-5.6 Di III RXD for Sony Mirrorless Full Frame/APS-C E-Mount, Model Number: AFA071S700, Black

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What We Like

• The versatility of an all-in-one zoom is truly exceptional, covering a broad range from everyday wide-angle shots to telephoto details without compromise.
• Its lightweight and compact design makes it a pleasure to carry all day, eliminating the common bulk associated with such a wide focal range.
• The ability to achieve impressive close-up shots, even at the telephoto end, adds significant creative potential for macro-like photography.
• The whisper-quiet RXD stepping motor is a game-changer for videographers and those who appreciate silent operation in sensitive environments.
• The inclusion of moisture-resistant construction and a fluorine coating provides confidence when shooting in less-than-ideal weather conditions, extending the lens’s usability.

Performance Analysis

The Tamron 28-200 F/2.8-5.6 Di III RXD demonstrates remarkable performance given its all-in-one nature. The fast F2.8 aperture at the 28mm end is particularly noteworthy, allowing for excellent low-light performance and pleasing background blur, which is often a compromise in similar lenses. As the zoom extends towards 200mm, the aperture naturally closes down to F5.6, which is typical for this lens type but still quite usable for many telephoto applications, especially in good lighting or when paired with a camera’s image stabilization. The RXD stepping motor ensures fast and accurate autofocus, crucial for capturing fleeting moments and for smooth focus transitions during video recording. Image quality, based on its broad focal range, is expected to be good throughout, with Tamron’s optical design aiming to minimize aberrations and deliver sharp results. The superior up-close shooting performance is a significant advantage, allowing users to explore creative macro-style shots without needing a dedicated macro lens. This lens is a testament to modern optical engineering, balancing a wide zoom range with portability and useful features.

Best For

This lens is an ideal choice for travel photographers, outdoor enthusiasts, and general hobbyists who prioritize convenience and a wide range of shooting capabilities without the hassle of lens changes. It’s perfect for capturing landscapes, portraits, street photography, and even those unexpected close-up opportunities, making it a true “one-lens-solution.” For Sony E-mount users, both full-frame and APS-C, who want to maximize their shooting potential while minimizing gear, the Tamron 28-200 F/2.8-5.6 Di III RXD for Sony Mirrorless Full Frame/APS-C E-Mount, Model Number: AFA071S700, Black offers an excellent blend of performance and portability.

Buying Guide

Key Features to Look For

When considering an all-in-one zoom lens like the Tamron 28-200 F/2.8-5.6 Di III RXD, prioritize features that enhance its versatility and usability. Look for a wide aperture range, especially a fast aperture at the wide end (like the F2.8 here), to improve low-light performance and offer creative depth-of-field options. A significant zoom range is crucial for an all-in-one lens, allowing you to cover a broad spectrum of focal lengths. Pay attention to autofocus motor technology; quiet and fast motors (like the RXD stepping motor) are essential for both video and stills. Features like moisture-resistant construction and fluorine coatings add durability and ease of maintenance, making the lens more suitable for outdoor use. Also, consider the minimum focus distance, as a lens with superior up-close shooting performance can open up more photographic possibilities.

Important Materials

While specific internal material compositions are rarely detailed for consumer lenses, external construction materials are key. The Moisture-Resistant Construction mentioned is a vital indicator of the lens’s build quality and suitability for various environments. A fluorine coating on the front element typically indicates a durable, easy-to-clean surface that repels water and smudges. High-quality plastics and metal alloys are commonly used in modern lens barrels to balance weight and durability.

Essential Factors to Consider

The size and weight are paramount for an all-in-one lens, as its primary appeal is portability. The Tamron 28-200’s compact dimensions and lightweight build are significant selling points. Ensure compatibility with your specific Sony mirrorless camera body (both full-frame and APS-C E-mount are supported here). Evaluate your typical shooting scenarios; if you frequently shoot in low light or require shallow depth of field, the F2.8-5.6 aperture range should be sufficient, but for extreme low-light or very shallow DOF, a prime lens might be needed. The superior up-close shooting performance is a bonus for those interested in macro-like details.

Budget Planning

For an all-in-one zoom lens offering such a broad focal range and desirable features like a fast aperture at the wide end and quiet autofocus, the price point of the Tamron 28-200 F/2.8-5.6 Di III RXD generally represents good value. Compare its features and specifications against other similar lenses in the market to ensure it aligns with your budget and offers the best bang for your buck. Consider the long-term utility and how much it can potentially reduce the need for purchasing multiple other lenses.

When to Buy

The best time to buy is often dictated by sales events like Black Friday, Cyber Monday, or holiday promotions, which can offer significant discounts. However, if the lens meets your immediate needs and budget, there’s no reason to delay. Keep an eye on reputable photography retailers and online marketplaces for potential flash sales or bundle deals that might include accessories. The release of newer models could also lead to price reductions on existing, well-performing lenses like this one.

Frequently Asked Questions

What type of camera mount does this lens use?

This lens features a Sony E-mount, making it compatible with both full-frame and APS-C sensor Sony mirrorless cameras.

How heavy is the Tamron 28-200 F/2.8-5.6 Di III RXD?

The lens is designed for portability and weighs approximately 20.3 ounces, making it relatively lightweight for its versatile focal range.

What is the minimum focus distance for this lens?

The lens offers impressive close-up capabilities with a minimum focus distance of 7.5 inches at the wide end (yielding a 1:3.1 magnification) and 31.5 inches at the telephoto end (yielding a 1:3.8 magnification).

Is the autofocus system quiet?

Yes, the lens is equipped with an RXD (Rapid eXtra-silent Drive) stepping motor unit, which ensures exceptionally quiet autofocus operation, ideal for video recording and discreet photography.

Is this lens weather-sealed?

The lens features Moisture-Resistant Construction, which provides a degree of protection against moisture and dust, making it more suitable for shooting in challenging environmental conditions.

Can this lens be used with APS-C Sony cameras?

Absolutely. While designed for full-frame mirrorless cameras, it is also fully compatible with APS-C sensor Sony E-mount cameras, where it will offer an equivalent focal range of approximately 42-300mm.

Final Thoughts

The Tamron 28-200 F/2.8-5.6 Di III RXD for Sony Mirrorless Full Frame/APS-C E-Mount, Model Number: AFA071S700, Black stands out as a truly exceptional all-in-one zoom lens for Sony E-mount users. Its impressive balance of a broad 28-200mm focal range, a useful F2.8 aperture at the wide end, and a remarkably compact and lightweight design makes it an indispensable tool for photographers who value versatility and portability. The quiet RXD autofocus motor enhances its appeal for both stills and video, while the robust build, including moisture resistance and a fluorine coating, ensures reliability in various shooting conditions. The surprisingly strong close-up capabilities further add to its value proposition, allowing for creative exploration beyond typical zoom lens limitations. While the aperture naturally closes down at the telephoto end, this is a reasonable compromise for the breadth of coverage offered in such a compact package. For anyone looking to streamline their gear without sacrificing photographic potential, this Tamron lens is a highly recommended investment.