This autumn, Tamron will start shipping a VC G2 version of its popular Sony E-Mount tele-zoom, the 70-180mm F/2.8 Di III VXD. The updated lens is called the 70-180mm F/2.8 Di III VC VXD G2. The big news is that the new lens now has in-lens ‘VC vibration compensation’, or Optical Image Stabilisation, missing from the current lens.
Tamron’s 70-180mm f/2.8 is an interesting design, which has been around for three years. It’s not a legacy DSLR lens; it’s mirrorless through and through. It’s an attractive a zoom range and even more attractive for its f/2.8 constant maximum aperture. It’s also relatively small and light, and more affordable than some alternative lenses with a similar optical specification.
From an industry viewpoint, the 70-180 is also interesting because, earlier this year, Nikon announced an own-branded version of the lens, the Nikon Z 70-180mm f2.8. Nikon is remaining silent, but there is no denial that Tamron makes the Nikon version, for Nikon.
The new G2 version has a number of improvements, besides the addition of VC, including:
- Closer minimum focusing from 0.85m to 0.3m
- Revamped optical design (though no specific details were provided)
- Compatibility with Tamron’s Lens Utility software apps
Firm pricing and availability are to be confirmed.
Official press release:
Development Tamron 70-180mm F/2.8 Di III VC VXD G2 for Sony E-mount
Press release 2023-08-07 12:00
The Transcontinenta UK Ltd., distributor for Tamron UK and Ireland, announces the development of the Tamron 70-180mm F/2.8 Di III VC VXD G2 (Model A065), a fast-aperture telephoto zoom lens for Sony E-mount full-frame mirrorless cameras.
The Tamron 70-180mm F/2.8 G2 marks the further evolution of the first-generation model that earned high acclaim in the marketplace and incorporates several enhancements. Leading the list of improvements of the new G2 lens is the incorporation of Tamron’s proprietary VC (Vibration Compensation) mechanism. The lens maintains the maneuverability of class-leading compact size and weight while enabling shooting with greater stability.
The optical design has been revamped from the first-generation 70-180mm F/2.8 and achieves uncompromising high image quality across the entire zoom range. Tamron also shortened the MOD (Minimum Object Distance) at the wide end to 0.3m compared to the first-generation 0.85m, enabling users to enjoy unique photographic expressions distinctive to the lens.
Additionally, the new 70-180mm F/2.8 G2 zoom features Tamron’s renowned VXD (Voice-coil eXtreme-torque Drive) linear motor focus mechanism enabling high-speed, high-precision auto-focusing that performs well whether shooting stills or video. The new 70-180mm F/2.8 G2 zoom also supports the dedicated Tamron Lens Utility™ and Tamron Lens Utility Mobile™ apps that were developed in-house by Tamron. The software can be used to customize functions based on various shooting styles for still photography and video. The new lens design improves operability and provides scratch resistance. This single lens combines profound maneuverability and practicality that is worthy of the second-generation G2 badge and will deliver shooting experiences that make a fast-aperture telephoto zoom lens even more enjoyable.
Product Highlights
• Even with VC image stabilization, the lens is just 156.5mm long and weighs only 855g
• Revamped optical design delivers truly superb performance at all focal lengths
• VXD provides high-speed and high-precision AF with vastly improved subject tracking
• Equipped with Tamron’s proprietary VC mechanism
• Achieves MOD of 0.3m at 70mm and 0.85m at 180mm
• Proprietary software tool Tamron Lens Utility for lens function customization
• Additional features for greater convenience
• User-friendly features (Moisture-Resistant Construction and Fluorine Coating)
• Compatible with many camera-specific features and functions, including Fast Hybrid AF and Eye AF
• 67mm filter size, same as most other Tamron lenses for mirrorless cameras
Availability and price
The Tamron 70-180mm F/2.8 Di III VC VXD G2 (Model A065), for Sony-E mount full frame cameras will be available from Tamron dealers in the UK and Ireland in the fall 2023. The exact date and recommended retail price will be announced in due course.
About Tamron Co., Ltd
Tamron offers a wide range of original optical products, from interchangeable lenses for digital cameras to various optical devices for consumers and OEMs. They produce optical products that contribute to a variety of industries, and will continue to apply their rich creativity and leading technical capabilities to various industrial fields. Furthermore, Tamron is fully aware of its responsibility to the environment and strives to contribute to the preservation of the natural environment in all of its business activities.
Optical Product Line-up
Interchangeable lenses for mirrorless and DSLR cameras, surveillance camera lenses, FA and machine vision lenses, videoconferencing lenses, camera modules, automotive lenses, digital still camera lenses, camcorder lenses, drone lenses and medical lenses.
Topics: Photo • Video
Tamron website: https://www.tamron.eu
