Tamron 17-28mm f/2.8 Di III RXD Lens Review

The Tamron 17-28mm f/2.8 Di III RXD lens is a versatile piece of equipment designed for photographers and videographers alike, offering a blend of wide-angle perspectives suitable for a variety of shooting scenarios. Its compatibility with Sony Mirrorless Full Frame and APS-C E Mount cameras makes it a valuable addition to the kit of Sony users, providing a flexible focal length range while maintaining a constant and fast aperture of f/2.8. The lens is especially favorable for those looking to capture landscapes, architectural elements, and in situations where space is limited.

The relatively compact design of the Tamron 17-28mm f/2.8 Di III RXD lens belies its robust build and superb optical performance. With a price point that hovers around $899, it presents a more affordable alternative to some of the pricier wide-angle zoom lenses in the market, without compromising on the essential features. The lens’s introduction into the market signifies Tamron’s continued effort to provide high-quality, reliable lenses that cater to the needs of both professional and enthusiast photographers on a budget.

The Tamron 17-28mm f/2.8 Di III RXD lens boasts a good weather-sealed build quality which is crucial for a lens destined for outdoor and versatile usage. The weather sealing enhances its durability, ensuring that it can withstand the elements to some extent when you are out in the field. This build quality extends its lifespan and ensures that photographers can rely on it in varying weather conditions, be it a dusty trail or a misty morning shoot.

Moreover, the robust construction of the lens does not add bulk, which is a significant advantage for those who are always on the move. The lens’s construction feels solid in hand, providing a sense of reliability and confidence when using it in different shooting environments. The quality of materials used and the attention to detail in its construction reflect a level of craftsmanship that aligns with Tamron’s reputation in the lens market.

The optical performance of the Tamron 17-28mm f/2.8 Di III RXD is highlighted by its superb rendering of images, maintaining sharpness and clarity across the frame. The fast and constant f/2.8 aperture allows for excellent low-light performance and the ability to achieve a shallow depth of field, which is beneficial for creating a pleasing bokeh effect or drawing attention to a specific subject in the frame.

Additionally, the lens comprises 13 optical elements, two of which are low-dispersion and one is extra-low-dispersion, as per Digital Photography Review. These elements work together to minimize chromatic aberrations and ensure color accuracy, providing crisp and vibrant images. The lens's optical design also contributes to its ability to control distortions and maintain sharpness even at the edges of the frame, which is particularly crucial for wide-angle photography.

The balance between its wide focal length range and the optical quality it delivers makes this lens a compelling choice for those looking to capture wide-angle shots without sacrificing image quality. The Tamron 17-28mm f/2.8 Di III RXD lens stands as a testament to Tamron’s ability to deliver high-quality optics that meet the demands of modern-day photographers and videographers.

The Tamron 17-28mm f/2.8 Di III RXD lens lacks built-in optical image stabilization, which is a notable omission especially for handheld shooting or in situations where camera shake could be an issue​​. However, many Sony mirrorless cameras come equipped with in-body image stabilization (IBIS) which can compensate for the absence of stabilization in the lens. This feature in the camera body can help to reduce the effects of camera shake, providing steadier shots at slower shutter speeds or while shooting video.

The absence of optical stabilization in the lens might limit its usability in certain scenarios, particularly for photographers or videographers who heavily rely on stabilization for their work. This might be a consideration for potential buyers, especially those who work in dynamic or unsteady shooting environments without a tripod or other stabilizing equipment.

On the flip side, the omission of optical stabilization contributes to the lens's compact and lightweight design. Without the additional mechanisms required for stabilization, the lens remains portable and easy to handle. This trade-off between stabilization and portability is something prospective buyers will need to consider based on their specific needs and shooting styles. The constant f/2.8 aperture can also be a savior in low light conditions, allowing for faster shutter speeds which can help mitigate the effects of camera shake to some extent.

The Tamron 17-28mm f/2.8 Di III RXD lens, while primarily focused on delivering excellent optical performance and a robust build, also offers a few special features that enhance its appeal. The lens’s moisture-resistant construction is a standout feature, providing an added layer of protection when shooting in adverse weather conditions. Additionally, the lens incorporates a BBAR (Broad-Band Anti-Reflection) Coating which helps in reducing ghosting and flare, ensuring clearer and more contrast-rich images even when shooting in challenging lighting situations.

Furthermore, the Rapid eXtra-silent stepping Drive (RXD) motor not only ensures quiet and fast autofocus but is also highly precise, which is beneficial for both stills and video recording. The lens’s ability to maintain a constant f/2.8 aperture across the entire zoom range is another significant feature, providing consistent exposure and depth of field control, which is particularly beneficial for videographers and for shooting in varying lighting conditions.