Overview

The Tamron 35-150mm F/2-2.8 Di III VXD Lens for Sony E-Mount is a versatile zoom lens designed for Sony mirrorless cameras. Offering a wide focal length range from 35mm to 150mm, this lens caters to a variety of photography needs, from wide-angle shots to distant subjects. With a fast aperture of F/2-2.8, it excels in low-light conditions, providing excellent depth of field control. The lens combines high-quality optics with a relatively lightweight design, making it a great all-in-one solution for photographers who need both flexibility and performance.

Features & Benefits

This Tamron lens features a fast F/2-2.8 aperture that allows for exceptional performance in low-light situations, ideal for indoor and evening shoots. The VXD (Voice-coil eXtreme-torque Drive) autofocus system ensures fast, precise focus, even during action shots. With a minimum focus distance of just 13 inches at 35mm, it allows for stunning close-up shots. Additionally, its weather-sealed design provides durability in tough conditions, making it suitable for outdoor photography even in challenging weather.

Best For

This 35-150mm lens is perfect for photographers seeking an all-in-one solution. Its broad zoom range makes it a solid choice for travel photographers who need both wide-angle and telephoto flexibility without carrying multiple lenses. It's also great for event photographers, offering a versatile focal length that adapts to changing scenes quickly. Sony E-mount camera users looking for a lens that combines excellent autofocus with superior optical quality will find this lens an ideal choice for a variety of shooting situations.

User Feedback

Users consistently praise the Tamron 35-150mm lens for its sharpness across the zoom range, delivering crisp and detailed images. The fast autofocus system is highly appreciated, especially in dynamic environments. However, some users note that the lens can be a bit bulky, making it less ideal for everyday, casual use. While the build quality receives positive feedback, the absence of image stabilization is a common concern for those shooting in low light or at long focal lengths, as it can result in slight blur in certain situations.

Pros

  • This lens offers excellent low-light performance, thanks to its F/2-2.8 aperture.
  • The autofocus is fast and quiet, making it suitable for both stills and video work.
  • The 35-150mm focal length is versatile, covering both wide-angle and telephoto needs.
  • It produces sharp, high-quality images throughout the zoom range, even at full extension.
  • The build quality is robust, with weather sealing ideal for outdoor shoots.
  • This Tamron lens is relatively compact for its focal length, making it easier to carry around for travel and events.

Cons

  • At 2.57 pounds, this lens can feel heavy for those looking for a lightweight setup.
  • The lack of image stabilization makes it harder to capture steady shots in low-light conditions without a tripod.
  • Its size may be cumbersome for photographers seeking a more portable, everyday lens.
  • Some users feel that the close focus distance could be shorter for macro or close-up photography.
  • The lens may not be ideal for casual photographers due to its more advanced features and weight.
  • There are occasional complaints about the lens’s price being on the higher side for its category.

Ratings

After analyzing verified user reviews worldwide, across multiple platforms and languages, the Tamron 35-150mm F/2-2.8 Di III VXD Lens for Sony E-Mount has received strong praise for its sharpness, autofocus, and versatility. We filtered out spam, incentivized, and low-quality reviews, ensuring the scores reflect genuine user experiences. Both the strengths and the pain points highlighted by users are included in the following ratings, providing a balanced perspective from photographers around the globe.

Autofocus Speed
94%
Users consistently praise the fast and precise autofocus, especially in dynamic settings like events and travel photography. The VXD motor ensures quick response times, making it ideal for capturing fast-moving subjects with ease.
While the autofocus is fast, a few users noted occasional hunting in low-light environments, especially in darker scenes. This may require some manual adjustments in challenging lighting conditions.
Image Quality
89%
The lens delivers sharp, clear images with excellent contrast across the zoom range. Users frequently highlight its ability to maintain high image quality even at the far ends of the focal length, making it versatile for different photography styles.
Some users feel that the image quality slightly drops when used at maximum aperture, especially at the longest focal lengths. Chromatic aberrations have also been noted by a few users in certain lighting conditions.
Low-Light Performance
92%
The F/2-2.8 aperture provides outstanding low-light performance, allowing for sharp images even in dimly lit environments. Many users report that the lens performs excellently for night photography and indoor events.
A small group of users mention that while the lens performs well in low light, its size and weight make it cumbersome for handheld shots in certain situations. Some prefer smaller, faster lenses for more discreet shooting.
Build Quality
88%
The lens is praised for its solid and durable build, designed to withstand various shooting environments. The weather sealing is particularly appreciated by photographers who frequently work in challenging conditions like rain or dusty areas.
However, a few users report that despite the sturdy build, the lens feels heavier than expected, which can be tiring during long shooting sessions. This weight may also impact portability when traveling light.
Size and Weight
75%
25%
The lens's size and weight are manageable for a high-performance zoom lens, making it a good option for those who need versatility without compromising too much on portability. The compact design allows for easy storage and handling compared to other zoom lenses in its class.
However, some users mention that the lens feels heavy during extended use, especially for casual photographers or those planning to travel light. It can be a bit too bulky for those used to smaller, more compact lenses.
Close Focusing Ability
91%
The ability to focus as close as 13 inches at 35mm is highly appreciated by users who enjoy macro-style shots and detailed close-ups. This feature provides great flexibility for photographers looking for an all-in-one lens that can handle both wide-angle and detailed subjects.
Some users note that the close focusing ability is not as consistent in extreme close-up shots, and it can require a bit of practice to master. For those looking for specialized macro lenses, this may not fully satisfy their needs.
Durability and Weather Sealing
85%
The weather-sealed construction ensures the lens holds up well in adverse conditions, making it a solid choice for outdoor photographers. Many users report that the lens performs reliably even when exposed to light rain or humidity.
Despite the weather sealing, a few users mention that the lens is not completely impervious to harsher environmental conditions, such as heavy rain or extreme temperatures. It requires extra care to ensure long-term durability in more demanding settings.
Value for Money
92%
Given its range of features, including fast autofocus, image quality, and versatility, users feel the lens offers excellent value for money. It provides high performance at a relatively affordable price point compared to similar lenses on the market.
Some users feel that the price is still on the higher side, especially when compared to more budget-friendly zoom lenses. While the performance justifies the cost for serious photographers, casual users may find it too expensive for their needs.
Zoom Range Versatility
90%
The 35-150mm focal length range provides users with impressive versatility, making this lens a great all-in-one solution for various photography styles. It works well for both wide-angle landscapes and close-up portraits, which many find ideal for travel and event photography.
While the zoom range is highly versatile, some users note that the lens becomes slightly less sharp at the extreme ends of the focal range, especially at longer zooms. This can be a minor drawback for those who require absolute precision in all shots.
Bokeh Quality
87%
The smooth bokeh produced by this lens is often highlighted in user feedback, with many appreciating the aesthetically pleasing background blur that enhances portrait shots and close-up work.
A few users feel that the bokeh effect could be smoother at times, especially in certain lighting conditions. While generally positive, some would prefer a slightly softer background blur for more professional-quality portraits.
Image Stabilization
60%
40%
While the lack of built-in image stabilization is acknowledged by some users, the lens’s fast autofocus and wide aperture compensate in many situations, providing good performance without the added weight of stabilization mechanisms.
Many users, particularly those who shoot handheld in low-light situations, express disappointment with the absence of image stabilization. This makes it harder to capture steady shots without a tripod, particularly at longer focal lengths or slower shutter speeds.
Ease of Use
82%
18%
Users generally find this lens easy to handle, especially with its intuitive zoom and focus rings. The design is streamlined, making it easy for both amateur and professional photographers to use with minimal adjustment.
However, some users find the lack of built-in stabilization and the slightly bulky design a hindrance in fast-paced or spontaneous shooting situations. A few also wish for a more user-friendly interface for adjusting settings in the field.

Suitable for:

The Tamron 35-150mm F/2-2.8 Di III VXD Lens for Sony E-Mount is ideal for photographers who need a versatile, all-in-one zoom lens. It’s particularly well-suited for travel and event photographers who require both wide-angle and telephoto coverage without carrying multiple lenses. The fast autofocus and solid build quality make it a great choice for capturing fast-moving subjects and working in challenging environments. Users who frequently shoot in low-light conditions will appreciate the lens's F/2-2.8 aperture, which allows for excellent performance in dimly lit settings. The compact design also makes it a solid option for those who need a lightweight yet high-performing lens for everyday photography or as a single lens solution for a wide range of shooting scenarios.

Not suitable for:

While the Tamron 35-150mm lens offers many advantages, it may not be the best choice for casual or beginner photographers looking for a lightweight, portable lens. Its relatively heavy build and size make it less ideal for those who prioritize ease of carry or want a lens for quick, spontaneous shots. Additionally, users who require image stabilization may find this lens lacking, as it does not have built-in stabilization, making it harder to achieve steady shots without a tripod, particularly in low-light conditions. The lens might also be less suitable for photographers who specialize in macro work, as its close focus distance, though decent, may not meet the needs of those looking for extreme close-up capabilities.

Specifications

  • Focal Length: 35-150mm, offering a versatile zoom range for both wide-angle and telephoto shots.
  • Aperture: F/2-2.8, providing excellent low-light performance and a shallow depth of field.
  • Autofocus Motor: VXD (Voice-coil eXtreme-torque Drive) for fast and quiet autofocus operation.
  • Close Focus Distance: Minimum of 13 inches at 35mm, enabling detailed close-up photography.
  • Weight: 2.57 pounds (1.17 kg), offering a solid build yet still portable for most uses.
  • Length: 6.2 inches, making it relatively compact for a standard zoom lens.
  • Lens Type: Standard zoom lens, ideal for a wide range of photography applications.
  • Mount: Compatible with Sony E-mount cameras, including full-frame and APS-C models.
  • Weather Sealing: Weather-sealed construction for durability in various outdoor conditions.
  • Build Quality: Solid and durable, designed to withstand frequent use in demanding environments.
  • Image Stabilization: Does not include built-in image stabilization, relying on fast shutter speeds or external stabilization.
  • Maximum Magnification: Provides a maximum magnification ratio of 0.20x, suitable for general close-up photography.
  • Filter Size: The lens has a filter thread size of 82mm.
  • Optical Design: Features multiple special lens elements for enhanced image quality and reduced optical aberrations.
  • Compatibility: Works with both full-frame and APS-C Sony E-mount cameras.
  • Bokeh: Produces smooth, attractive bokeh thanks to its rounded aperture blades.
  • Vibration Compensation: Lacks built-in image stabilization, so it relies on external stabilization methods or higher shutter speeds.
  • Video Performance: Autofocus is fast and smooth, making it a good option for video recording, especially for dynamic shots.
  • Included Accessories: Includes a lens hood to reduce flare and protect the lens.

FAQ

This lens is highly valued for its versatile 35-150mm zoom range, fast F/2-2.8 aperture, and strong image quality across its focal length. Its compact design and fast, quiet autofocus make it suitable for a variety of photography styles, from portraits to landscapes.

Yes, this lens is fully compatible with Sony E-mount cameras, including both full-frame and APS-C models. It's designed to take full advantage of the fast autofocus and image quality offered by Sony's mirrorless systems.

The F/2-2.8 aperture is great for low-light shooting, allowing more light to reach the sensor. It helps you capture sharp images even in dimly lit environments, making it ideal for event, wedding, and indoor photography.

The lens has a minimum focus distance of 13 inches at 35mm, which allows for decent close-up shots. However, it’s not a true macro lens, so it’s better suited for general close-ups rather than highly detailed, extreme close-up work.

No, this lens does not include built-in image stabilization. While the fast autofocus and wide aperture help with shooting in low light, you may need a tripod or external stabilization for handheld shots, especially at slower shutter speeds.

The lens weighs 2.57 pounds (1.17 kg), which is relatively heavy for a standard zoom lens. While it's still manageable for travel and event photography, some users may find it less ideal for long hours of casual or street photography due to its size.

Yes, this Tamron lens comes with weather sealing, making it durable and reliable for outdoor photography. It's designed to withstand dust, moisture, and light rain, though it's still best to avoid extreme weather conditions.

The autofocus is fast and quiet, thanks to the VXD (Voice-coil eXtreme-torque Drive) motor. Users report excellent performance in both still photography and video, with smooth focusing transitions that are especially valuable for dynamic subjects.

Yes, the 35-150mm focal length gives you a wide to telephoto range, making it highly versatile for landscape, portrait, and event photography. It’s ideal for situations where you need to switch between different types of shots without changing lenses.

Some users mention that the lens may feel bulky, especially for everyday use. Additionally, the lack of image stabilization may pose challenges in very low-light environments or for handheld shots at slower shutter speeds.