Commack, NY—Announced in development in early August, Tamron revealed the launch date of the Tamron 70-180mm F2.8 Di III VC VXD G2 (model A065). The fast-aperture telephoto zoom lens for Sony E-mount full-frame mirrorless cameras will launch on October 12, 2023. It will have a suggested retail price of $1,299.
“The 70–180mm f/2.8 G2 marks the further evolution of the 1st-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 company announced.
Even with VC image stabilization, the lens is very portable. It has a filter size of φ67mm, a maximum diameter of φ83mm and measures 6.2 inches long at the 70mm focal length. It weighs 30.2 ounces.
Tamron 70-180mm F2.8 Di III VC VXD G2 Features
The optical design was revamped from the 1st-gen lens to achieve high image quality across the entire zoom range. Tamron also shortened the MOD (minimum object distance) at the wide end to 11.8 inches compared to its predecessor’s 33.5-inch MOD, with a maximum magnification ratio of 1:2.6.
Additionally, the new zoom lens features Tamron’s VXD (voice-coil eXtreme-torque drive) linear motor focus mechanism to provide high-speed, precision autofocusing for shooting stills or video.
Its revamped optical design comprises 20 elements in 15 groups. The redesign features an effective arrangement of special lens elements. They include one XLD (eXtra low dispersion); one hybrid aspherical lens element; three LD (low dispersion); as well as two GM (glass molded aspherical) lens elements. The elements work to control chromatic aberration and other artifacts as well as deliver high resolution throughout the zoom range.
In addition, BBAR-G2 (broad-band antireflection generation 2) coating is used to suppress ghosting and flare. This helps to ensure that subject detail is captured even in backlit situations. Moreover, the lens boasts beautiful, soft bokeh that’s a hallmark of a fast f/2.8 aperture.
Further, the lens’s tracking performance when following fast-moving subjects received a boost via the VXD linear motor focus mechanism. The linear motor also suppresses vibrations and noise during AF more effectively, making it ideal for shooting both still photos and video in environments that demand quietness.
This is complemented by Tamron’s VC mechanism. It suppresses camera shake that can occur when shooting at the telephoto end, when panning or during close focusing. Thus, it enables more stable handheld shooting. It also suppresses camera shake when shooting handheld in low light, allowing tripod-free shooting. Moreover, at focal lengths up to 100mm, artificial intelligence (AI) technology provides vibration compensation with videography in mind.
Additional Features
What’s more, the new 70–180mm f/2.8 G2 zoom lens supports the Tamron Lens Utility and Tamron Lens Utility Mobile apps. The software was developed in-house by Tamron. It is used to customize functions based on various shooting styles for still photography and video.
Other features include improved scratch resistance; moisture-resistant construction; a front fluorine coating to facilitate cleaning; as well as support for camera-specific features and functions, including fast hybrid AF and eye AF.
