Tamron 35mm f/2.8 Di III OSD M1:2 Lens for Sony E-Mount

85%

Image Quality

Autofocus Speed

Macro Performance

Build Quality

Portability

Value for Money

Durability

Compatibility

Ease of Use

Low-Light Performance

Bokeh Quality

Versatility

Focus Accuracy

Overview

The Tamron 35mm f/2.8 Di III OSD M1:2 Lens for Sony E-Mount is a versatile, compact prime lens designed specifically for Sony mirrorless cameras. With its lightweight design and wide aperture of f/2.8, this lens is perfect for capturing sharp, vibrant images in a variety of settings. Whether you're shooting with a full-frame or an APS-C Sony camera, this lens delivers exceptional image quality. Additionally, the macro capability with 1:2 magnification ratio allows for stunning close-up shots, making it a great choice for both everyday photography and more detailed macro work.

Features & Benefits

This 35mm prime lens boasts high MTF performance, which translates into crisp, clear images with excellent contrast. It features a moisture-resistant construction, ensuring durability even when shooting in less-than-ideal weather conditions. The OSD autofocus motor delivers smooth, fast focusing, making it ideal for both stills and video. The lens’s close focus distance enables detailed macro photography, adding flexibility to your creative range. Whether you're shooting landscapes or intricate close-ups, this lens consistently produces sharp and vibrant images.

Best For

The Tamron 35mm f/2.8 lens is ideal for a wide range of users. Photographers seeking a lightweight and versatile prime lens will appreciate its portability for travel and street photography. It's also perfect for Sony camera users looking for a compact lens with macro capabilities, offering reliable performance without the bulk. Content creators and hobbyists will find it an affordable, high-quality option for wide-angle shots and everyday photography, especially for those seeking a balance between affordability and image quality.

User Feedback

Users generally rave about the sharpness and overall image quality of this lens, particularly for both wide-angle and macro photography. Its lightweight design makes it easy to carry around, which is a major plus for travel photographers. However, some users note that the autofocus can be a bit slower in low-light situations, which may be a drawback for certain types of photography. Despite this, the lens remains highly regarded for its versatility, especially considering its price point and compact size.

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Pros

This lens is highly praised for its sharpness and image quality, making it a great choice for both wide-angle and macro shots.
Weighing only 7.4 oz, this device is lightweight and portable, perfect for photographers on the go.
Its 1:2 magnification ratio offers decent macro capabilities for hobbyists and those new to macro photography.
The moisture-resistant construction adds an extra layer of durability, ideal for light outdoor use.
The autofocus is fast and quiet, which is beneficial for video shooters and live setups.
Its compact size makes it an excellent travel companion, fitting easily into most camera bags without adding bulk.

Cons

In low-light conditions, the autofocus may slow down, which could be problematic for fast-paced shooting or night photography.
The 1:2 magnification ratio may not satisfy professional macro photographers looking for higher magnification power.
While it is moisture-resistant, the lack of full weather sealing limits its use in more extreme outdoor environments.
Some users note that the lens can feel slightly plasticky and less robust compared to other higher-end models.
Autofocus performance may struggle in certain challenging scenarios, such as continuous autofocus for moving subjects.
The lens’s aperture of f/2.8 may not be fast enough for those needing a brighter option for low-light work or shallow depth of field.

Ratings

The ratings for the Tamron 35mm f/2.8 Di III OSD M1:2 Lens for Sony E-Mount reflect a wide range of authentic user feedback from various platforms and languages. Only verified reviews were considered, filtering out spam, bots, and incentivized responses. While this lens is highly regarded for its image quality and portability, some users have noted minor drawbacks, particularly with autofocus in low-light conditions. Overall, both strengths and pain points have been captured in these scores, ensuring a balanced view of its performance across different use cases.

Image Quality

94%

Many users commend the sharpness and clarity of images produced with this lens. The optical design ensures high-quality results, whether shooting wide-angle landscapes or close-up macro shots. The lens excels in producing detailed, vibrant images with minimal distortion, making it a popular choice for both enthusiasts and professionals.

However, some users note that despite its high-quality optics, there may be occasional minor softness at the edges of the frame when shooting wide open. A few users also mentioned that the lens struggles slightly in very low-light conditions, affecting image sharpness and clarity.

Autofocus Speed

75%

25%

The autofocus system is generally fast and smooth, offering good performance for most shooting scenarios. Users have reported that the lens is capable of locking focus quickly in well-lit environments, which is especially beneficial for street photography and dynamic subjects.

In lower light, the autofocus can become slower and less reliable. Several reviewers pointed out that the autofocus motor struggles to maintain focus in dimly lit environments, leading to some missed shots, especially in fast-moving situations.

Macro Performance

90%

This lens shines in macro photography, delivering stunning close-up shots with a 1:2 magnification ratio. Users are impressed with its ability to capture intricate details while maintaining sharp focus across the frame. The close focus distance adds a lot of versatility for users who enjoy photographing small subjects, like insects or textures.

Some users find that the 1:2 magnification ratio limits the macro capabilities compared to lenses with higher magnification ratios. Although it's suitable for many macro shots, those seeking extreme close-ups may feel it's not powerful enough for their needs.

Build Quality

88%

The lens is compact and lightweight, with a sturdy build that feels durable in hand. Users appreciate its moisture-resistant construction, which adds an extra layer of protection for outdoor shoots in less-than-ideal conditions. Its solid build quality gives a sense of reliability, especially for photographers who travel frequently.

While the build is durable, a few users mention that the lens feels a bit plasticky compared to more premium models. Some also noted that the lack of weather sealing, beyond moisture resistance, could be a limitation for extreme outdoor photography.

Portability

91%

One of the standout features is its lightweight design, making it an ideal companion for travel and everyday photography. Users have praised the lens for being easy to carry, whether for street photography or hiking trips. Its compact size makes it highly portable, fitting easily into camera bags without adding unnecessary weight.

A few users feel that the small size might compromise ergonomics, especially during extended shooting sessions. Some mentioned that the lens feels a little too small and light, making it slightly harder to handle for those used to more robust lenses.

Value for Money

92%

For the price, many users find this lens to offer exceptional value, especially given its image quality and versatility. It’s an affordable option for those looking to upgrade their lens collection without breaking the bank. The combination of solid performance and a reasonable price point makes it a smart choice for both amateurs and seasoned photographers.

Despite its great value, a few users feel that the autofocus performance, especially in low light, detracts from its overall appeal. While it’s an excellent lens for most situations, those needing faster autofocus might consider other options at a higher price point.

Durability

85%

The lens is praised for its moisture-resistant design, which enhances durability in moderate weather conditions. Many users appreciate the lens's robust feel, especially considering its compact size. It holds up well for general outdoor use and is a solid option for photographers who shoot in diverse environments.

However, some users express concerns about its long-term durability, particularly regarding the plastic construction. While moisture resistance is a plus, some believe it may not stand up as well in harsh conditions compared to more expensive, fully weather-sealed lenses.

Compatibility

89%

This lens is highly compatible with both full-frame and APS-C Sony mirrorless cameras, making it versatile for a wide range of users. It works seamlessly with a variety of Sony models, including both entry-level and professional cameras, providing excellent value for Sony E-mount users.

Some users have found that while the lens works well with Sony cameras, its performance might not be optimized for all models. A few noted slight discrepancies in autofocus speed or tracking when used with certain older or entry-level Sony bodies.

Ease of Use

86%

The lens is easy to handle, with a straightforward autofocus system and user-friendly design. It’s well-suited for beginners due to its simple setup and intuitive operation, making it a good choice for photographers looking to step up from their kit lens.

A few users find that the lens can be a bit too basic for advanced users looking for more customization options. The absence of a dedicated focus ring or manual focus override might be a downside for those who prefer more control over their shooting experience.

Low-Light Performance

70%

30%

In well-lit conditions, the lens performs admirably, with fast and responsive autofocus. Many users appreciate its versatility in regular daylight settings, especially for street and landscape photography.

However, in low-light environments, autofocus can be slower, and the lens struggles to maintain sharp focus. Several users pointed out that it becomes less reliable in dark settings, which may impact its usability for nighttime or indoor shooting.

Bokeh Quality

80%

20%

The bokeh produced by this lens is generally pleasing, with a smooth and creamy background blur that enhances the subject. It works well for portraits and close-up shots where you want to isolate the subject from the background.

Some users have mentioned that the bokeh isn’t as pronounced or as soft as expected, especially when shooting wide open at f/2.8. The shape and quality of the blur can vary depending on the subject, which might not appeal to those with more specific bokeh preferences.

Versatility

90%

With its wide-angle focal length and macro capabilities, this lens offers great versatility, making it suitable for a wide range of photography styles. Whether shooting landscapes, portraits, or close-up detail shots, it provides flexibility in various shooting scenarios.

While versatile, some users feel that it may not fully replace other specialized lenses, particularly those aimed at extreme macro or portrait photography. Its focal length can be limiting for users who need a more varied zoom range for specific situations.

Focus Accuracy

78%

22%

When it works, the autofocus is accurate and responsive, allowing users to capture subjects with precision. It performs well in moderate lighting conditions, and users appreciate its consistency for still photography.

However, users in challenging environments, particularly with moving subjects or low light, have noted that focus accuracy can be inconsistent. There are instances where the autofocus system struggles to lock on, especially when tracking fast-moving objects.

Suitable for:

The Tamron 35mm f/2.8 Di III OSD M1:2 Lens for Sony E-Mount is an excellent choice for photographers and content creators who need a lightweight and versatile lens for everyday shooting. Its compact design makes it ideal for travel or street photography, where portability is crucial. Those who enjoy macro photography will also find its 1:2 magnification ratio highly useful for capturing fine details in a variety of subjects. This lens is particularly well-suited for Sony E-mount camera owners, including both full-frame and APS-C users, offering high-quality images with minimal distortion. The combination of ease of use, affordability, and solid performance makes it a top pick for hobbyists, students, or anyone on a budget looking to enhance their photography without a hefty investment.

Not suitable for:

However, this lens may not be the best option for users who need faster autofocus performance, especially in low-light conditions. While it performs well in well-lit environments, several users have reported that its autofocus slows down in darker settings, making it less reliable for fast-moving subjects or low-light situations. Additionally, advanced macro photographers seeking extreme magnification may find its 1:2 ratio limiting, as it does not offer the same level of close-up detail as other macro-specific lenses. Professional photographers or those who regularly shoot in challenging environments may also find the lack of weather sealing a drawback for more rugged outdoor use.

Specifications

Lens Type: Prime lens offering fixed focal length without zoom capabilities.
Focal Length: 35mm, providing a versatile wide-angle perspective for general photography and video.
Aperture: f/2.8, offering a balance of light gathering ability and depth of field control.
Mount: Sony E-Mount, compatible with a wide range of Sony mirrorless cameras, including both full-frame and APS-C models.
Focus Type: Autofocus with Optical Stepping Drive (OSD) motor for smooth, quiet focus transitions.
Macro Ratio: 1:2 magnification, suitable for capturing detailed close-up shots, though not full 1:1 macro.
Weight: 7.4 oz, making it lightweight and portable, ideal for travel and everyday use.
Dimensions: 2.5 x 2.87 x 2.87 inches, compact design that fits easily into camera bags and travel gear.
MTF Performance: High MTF (Modulation Transfer Function) performance, ensuring sharp, high-quality images with minimal distortion.
Moisture Resistance: Moisture-resistant construction, providing additional durability for use in light rain and humid environments.
Autofocus Motor: Optical Stepping Drive (OSD), offering quick and quiet autofocus performance for both stills and video.
Compatibility: Works with both full-frame and APS-C Sony E-Mount mirrorless cameras, offering flexibility across camera types.
Close Focus Distance: Capable of focusing as close as 0.15m (5.9 inches), enabling detailed macro shots and close-up photography.
Lens Coating: Features advanced lens coatings to reduce ghosting and flare, ensuring clearer images in challenging lighting conditions.
Optical Design: Contains a multi-element design optimized for high image quality and minimal chromatic aberration.
Video Performance: Quiet and smooth autofocus motor makes it ideal for video, ensuring no distracting noise during filming.
Focus Range: The lens has a wide focus range, making it versatile for both general photography and detailed macro work.

FAQ

This lens is specifically designed for Sony E-Mount cameras, providing excellent compatibility with both full-frame and APS-C sensor models. Its compact size and lightweight design make it an ideal choice for those looking for a portable, versatile lens for everyday use, travel, and street photography.

The Tamron 35mm lens offers a 1:2 magnification ratio, allowing you to capture detailed close-up shots. This is especially useful for photographing small objects, flowers, or textures. While it doesn’t offer full 1:1 magnification like some dedicated macro lenses, it’s still quite capable for casual macro photography.

Yes, this lens is designed to work seamlessly with both full-frame and APS-C sensor Sony mirrorless cameras. On APS-C cameras, it will provide an effective focal length of approximately 52.5mm, making it versatile for a range of shooting styles.

Yes, the Tamron 35mm f/2.8 lens has a moisture-resistant construction, which helps protect it from light rain and humidity. However, it's not fully weather-sealed, so it’s best to avoid extreme weather conditions or heavy exposure to water.

The autofocus on this lens is generally fast and quiet, making it great for both stills and video. However, in low-light situations, some users report slower focus speeds. While it performs well under most conditions, very dim environments may cause a slight delay in autofocus.

Yes, this lens is a great option for video shooters, as it features a quiet OSD (Optical Stepping Drive) autofocus motor. This ensures smooth and silent focus transitions, which is particularly beneficial for capturing video without distracting sounds.

Users have praised the Tamron 35mm lens for its sharpness, especially in the center of the frame. The optical design is optimized for high MTF performance, delivering crisp, high-quality images with minimal distortion. It's a solid performer for both wide-angle shots and macro photography.

Given its compact and lightweight design (weighing just 7.4 oz), this lens is a great option for travel photography. It offers good image quality in a portable package, making it easy to carry without adding much weight to your gear bag. It's ideal for street photography, landscapes, and general travel shots.

While the Tamron 35mm lens offers great performance in most situations, it does have some limitations. The f/2.8 aperture may not be bright enough for very low-light environments, and the 1:2 macro magnification is not as high as some dedicated macro lenses. Additionally, the autofocus can be slow in challenging lighting conditions.

The build quality of the Tamron 35mm lens is generally solid for its price, with a moisture-resistant construction. However, some users have noted that it feels a bit plasticky compared to more premium lenses. While it’s durable enough for most situations, it may not stand up to the roughest environments as well as more robustly built lenses.