Tamron had already announced the development of their second-generation Tamron 70-180mm F/2.8 Di III VC VXD G2 lens but now new details have been revealed including the release date and price. Preorders are also open.
The Tamron 70-180mm f/2.8 Di III VXD G2 (Model A065) will land in stores on October 12, 2023 for $1,299.00 which is a $100 increase over the original version’s MSRP.
The new G2 model features numerous improvements over its predecessor, with this most notable being the addition of Tamron’s proprietary Vibration Compensation (VC) mechanism.
This however makes the lens a little larger and heavier. It now weighs in at 30.2 ounces (855 grams) and is 6.2 inches (156.5 mm) long.
The original lens without optical image stabilization is slightly lighter, weighing 28.6 ounces (811g) and measuring 5.9 inches (149mm) long.
Still, Tamron claims its 70-180mm f/2.8 G2 lens is the most compact and lightest full-frame f/2.8 telephoto zoom lens with image stabilization technology. I think they are probably right on this one!
Using AI technologies, the lens chooses the appropriate compensation characteristics for videography at focal lengths of 100mm or less to powerfully support the inherent optical performance of the lens.
Tamron has also shortened the minimum focus distance at the wide end to just 0.3m (11.8in) compared to the 1st-generation 0.85m (33.5in), and 0.85m (33.5in) at 180mm. The maximum magnification ratio is 1:2.6.
Additionally, the new 70-180mm F2.8 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 lens gains a custom button and switch that can be customized through Tamrons Lens Utility™ and TAMRON Lens Utility Mobile™ apps.
Linear manual focus coupling is now also an option and is customizable through the apps.
The filter size remains at 67mm like with many of Tamron’s E-mount lenses.
The lens is comprises of 20 elements in 15 groups, including one XLD (eXtra Low Dispersion), one hybrid aspherical lens element, three LD (Low Dispersion) and two GM (Glass Molded aspherical) lens elements. It’s also moisture-resistant and there’s a fluorine coating on the front element to help keep finger prints at bay.
BBAR-G2 (Broad-Band Anti-Reflection Generation 2) Coating is used to suppress ghosting and flare, ensuring that fine subject detail is captured even in backlit situations, and delivering stunning clarity and contrast.
Further details about the lens including sample photos can be found on Tamron’s website.
Early Reviews
Specifications
| Model | A065 |
|---|---|
| Focal Length | 70-180mm |
| Maximum Aperture | F2.8 |
| Angle of View (diagonal) | 34°21′- 13°42′ (for full-frame mirrorless format) |
| Optical Construction | 20 elements in 15 groups |
| Minimum Object Distance | 0.3m / 11.8in (WIDE), 0.85m / 33.5in (TELE) |
| Maximum Magnification Ratio | 1:2.6 (WIDE), 1:4.7 (TELE) |
| Filter Size | φ67mm |
| Maximum Diameter | φ83mm |
| Length* | 156.5mm / 6.2in |
| Weight | 855g / 30.2oz |
| Aperture Blades** | 9 (circular diaphragm) |
| Minumum Aperture | F22 |
| Standard Accessory | Flower-shaped hood, Lens caps |
| Mount | Sony E-mount |
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