Tamron SP AF 17-50mm f/2,8 XR Di-II LD IF VC Review

General information

This is a zoom lens manufactured by Tamron and the model was launched 2009.
The lens belongs to the category  normal zoom lenses, a normal lens where you have the possibility to zoom in and out.

Compatibility, autofocus and focal length

The lens is available for both Canon and Nikon cameras, but there are two different versions of this lens (one for each brand and mount) so it is important that you ask for and choose the right version when bying the lens.

This lens is designed and meant for Canon and Nikon cameras with a smaller sensor (often referred to as 'APS-C') which means that the lens does not fit all camera models. By clicking on the link below you can make sure that the lens works with your camera model and you should do an additional check with your local dealer as well, before you buy the lens just to be sure.

The ability to use autofocus is available for all cameras.

The lens has a focal length of 17-50 mm. Since the lens is designed to be used on a camera with smaller sensor ('APS-C') the focal length will be equivalent to 27-80 mm if you have a Canon camera or 26-75 mm if you have a Niko camera.

Lens brightness and image stabilizer

The lens brightness and aperture value is f/2,8.

This aperture value indicates that the lens is very bright.  This will make it so much easier shooting in darker environments where you do not want or can use flash lighting, for example in churches or at different sports venues.

A feature worth commenting, which is also related to lens brightness, is that the brightness and maximum aperture-value remains constant regardless of focal length used. This makes it easier for you as a photographer. No matter if you are have the focus ring and focal length at 17 mm or at 50 mm the aperture value can be f/2,8.

Inside the lens there is an image stabilizer, which helps to fend off possible movements and tremors. This is very positive and can be of great help in situations and conditions where the light is inadequate and not enough for decent shutter speeds.

Filter and Lens Hood

The lens has a traditional filter thread on the front and its measuring 72 mm which also the filter you will use must have. If you use for example an UV filter can be a cheap insurance against scratches and dust.

If you buy this lens it will come with a lens hood, whose model name is "AB003".

Different versions of the lens

This lens has replaced several earlier versions and this lens is currently the newest version but please compare it with the earlier versions before you buy it.

Pictures (product and sample images)

In order to see larger product images of the lens, click the link below.

Besides looking at product images it is also of interest to see pictures taken with this specific lens. This can give you a hint of what kind of images this lens can achieve, what the focal length will be like etc.

Things to consider before buying

Below you will find some summarized points and facts that can be considered as the 'pros and cons' of this lens. These are based entirely on the facts and values that are accessible through the lens specification, so we highly recommend that you also read the reported reviews available (see tab 'Reviews'); this in order to get a more complete view of the lens and its capabilities. Reviewer opinions reflect the lens, its use and its optical performance in a more accurate way, but any way - here a few different points to consider before buying this lens.

  • The price (more info)
  • The lens brightness, f/2,8
  • Constant maximum aperture value regardless of focal length
  • Has a built-in image stabilizer
  • Has a built-in autofocus motor
  • A lens hood is included
  • The lens is the latest among several editions
  • Works only on cameras with APS-C sensor
  • The lens is not sealed against moisture and dust
  • Heavy (570 gr)

Best deals on Tamron SP AF 17-50mm f/2,8 XR Di-II LD IF VC

Make sure to check out our price information page for best offers on this lens.

Reviews

sefotosidan.se (reviews by users)
gecolorfoto.de
usephotozine.com
frfocus-numerique.com
usthe-digital-picture.com

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Pictures (product and sample images)

In order to see larger product images of the lens, click the link below.

Besides looking at product images it is also of interest to see pictures taken with this specific lens. This can give you a hint of what kind of images this lens can achieve, what the focal length will be like etc.

Different versions of this lens

Tamron SP AF 17-50mm f/2,8 XR Di-II LD IF VC has released different versions of this lens. Please make sure that you study the differences before buying.

Tamron SP AF 17-50mm f/2,8 XR Di-II LD Asph IF (2006) Tamron SP AF 17-50mm f/2,8 XR Di-II LD Asph IF
Tamron SP AF 17-50mm f/2,8 XR Di-II LD IF (motorized) (2008) Tamron SP AF 17-50mm f/2,8 XR Di-II LD IF (motorized)
Tamron SP AF 17-50mm f/2,8 XR Di-II LD IF VC (2009) Tamron SP AF 17-50mm f/2,8 XR Di-II LD IF VC

Alternatives to Tamron SP AF 17-50mm f/2,8 XR Di-II LD IF VC for Canon photographers

Below you will find four interesting alternatives to Tamron SP AF 17-50mm f/2,8 XR Di-II LD IF VC. Make sure to compare these (and other) options before deciding which lens you will buy.

Tamron SP AF 17-50mm f/2,8 XR Di-II LD Asph IF Tamron SP AF 17-50mm f/2,8 XR Di-II LD Asph IF
Canon EF-S 17-55mm f/2,8 IS USM Canon EF-S 17-55mm f/2,8 IS USM
Sigma EX 17-50mm f/2,8 DC OS HSM Sigma EX 17-50mm f/2,8 DC OS HSM
Sigma EX 18-50mm f/2,8 DC Macro  Sigma EX 18-50mm f/2,8 DC Macro

Alternatives to Tamron SP AF 17-50mm f/2,8 XR Di-II LD IF VC for Nikon photographers

Below you will find four interesting alternatives to Tamron SP AF 17-50mm f/2,8 XR Di-II LD IF VC. Make sure to compare these (and other) options before deciding which lens you will buy.

Tamron SP AF 17-50mm f/2,8 XR Di-II LD IF (motorized) Tamron SP AF 17-50mm f/2,8 XR Di-II LD IF (motorized)
Nikon AF-S DX 17-55mm f/2,8 G ED Nikon AF-S DX 17-55mm f/2,8 G ED
Nikon AF-S DX 18-55mm f/3,5-5,6 G ED VR Nikon AF-S DX 18-55mm f/3,5-5,6 G ED VR
Sigma EX 17-50mm f/2,8 DC OS HSM Sigma EX 17-50mm f/2,8 DC OS HSM

Popular searches for this lens

If you want do dig deeper and look for more information about this lens you can be prepared that other photographers name and search for this lens in a lot of different ways. Here are a few of the most popular search strings:

  • Tamron 17-50 mm f 2,8 VC
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  • Tamron 17-50 mm f 2,8
  • Tamron 2,8 17-50 mm
  • Tamron 2,8 17-50
  • Tamron 17-50 mm VC
  • Tamron f 2,8 17 50
Because of this we also created a special page for this.