Tamron Vs. Nikon

[Emily H.]

I want something like the Nikon 24-70mm f/2.8G lens, but right now a price of $1900 isn't something I can afford.
I came across the Tamron 17-50mm f/2.8 for about $650. It's not quite the same, but more in my price range, and still has the f/2.8 that I want, and I like that it's an even wider lens.
But, I've always been skeptical when it comes to 3rd party lenses.
Does anyone out there know if this specific Tamron lens is of good quality? Is it worth the money? Or should I save up for a long time and just get the Nikon lens?
Thanks!

[scootermcq]

I hve read good stuff about that lens... never tried it.

Nikon 17-55 vs Tamron 17-50 VC | Tamron Lens Review

[Emily H.]

Cool! Thanks! That link was very helpful.

[scootermcq]

Actually, damn good.... here is my dog taken wide open on the Tamron 17-50

Camera Nikon D300
Exposure 0.006 sec (1/160)
Aperture f/2.8
Focal Length 50 mm
ISO Speed 100

[kirbinster]

I would save your money for the Nikon. I had a Tarmon 200-500 and found it was not as sharp as my Nikon 70-200 f/2.8 with a Nikon 2x TC. I also bought a Tarmon 28-300VC when I got my Nikon D700, I liked the focal range but it was not super sharp and had some blue fringing, replaced it with a Nikon 28-300VR which is super sharp and a great lens. Stick with the Nikon glass, it is much better. Buy it used and you can save big bucks.

[scootermcq]

I agree that most of the Tamron lenses I have ever had have really disappointed me. I had a 200-400 constant 5.6 that was so soft it was not even worth using. I am really surprised with this lens. Here is a 100% crop of an image taken wide open. I would say that it is damn close to the results I get from prime lenses.



Original image


Camera Nikon D300
Exposure 0.008 sec (1/125)
Aperture f/2.8
Focal Length 50 mm
ISO Speed 100

[TheMoons678]

Promaster has a 17-50mm 2.8 that was manufactured by Tamron but promaster stuck their name on it. 2nd hand it sells significantly less due to the name of Promaster on it. I have mine listed on craigslist now for $250. Could be something to get you by until you can afford the Nikon version.

http://www.promaster.com/books/AF1750XREDO.pdf