Tamron SP AF 17-50mm F2.8 XR Di-II LD Asph IF Review

Tamron SP AF 17-50mm F2.8 XR Di-II LD Asph IF

General information

This is a zoom lens manufactured by Tamron and the lens was released 2006.
The lens belongs to the category standard zoom lenses, a normal lens where you have the possibility to zoom in and out.

Product description from Tamron

At launch 2006 Tamron wrote this regarding Tamron SP AF 17-50mm F2.8 XR Di-II LD Asph IF :

"The Tamron SP designation is reserved for lenses developed with special emphasis on extraordinary photographic performance. Engineers are free to innovate in an uncommon atmosphere where optical performance comes before price, resulting in lenses that satisfy the demands of discerning photographers.

One of two Tamron 17-50mm F/2.8 offerings, the image integrity and compositional options afforded by the SP 17-50mm F/2.8 Di-II´s wide-to-moderate-telephoto zoom characteristics are prized by experienced photographers. Both versions of the SP 17-50mm F/2.8 stem from the long-successful SP 28-75mm F/2.8—originally designed for 35mm film SLRs. Later refined to meet the needs of high-resolution digital SLRs with APS-C-format sensors, and like its further refined variant (the SP 17-50mm F/2.8 XR Di-II VC, model B005), the 17-50mm renders a picture angle range approximating a 26-78mm lens on a full frame DSLR or a 35mm SLR. A fast and constant F/2.8 maximum aperture benefits photographers in several ways, including the ability to render cluttered backgrounds well out of focus, expanded low-light shooting freedom and a brighter viewfinder image. With its mildly less complex optical formula and without tri-axial VC (Vibration Compensation), the SP 17-50mm F/2.8 Di-II (model A16) stands out as a remarkable value and a favorite of passionate photographers.

This 17-50mm is an extremely high-quality standard zoom with a high luminosity of 2.8 over the entire focal length range. It belongs to the Super performance ( SP) class of Tamron lenses distinguished by ultra high optical and mechanical quality. The high luminosity that this lens offers is ideal for low-light conditions and professional image composition. The result is images with smooth, even bokeh (background blur), where the subject is virtually released from the background. Apart from the unlimited possibilities that this lens has to offer, it is the quality of your images that stand in the focus.

The world´s shortest minimum focus distance of only 27 cm was achieved, by using 3 XR glass elements (Extra Refractive) in the front group coupled with a new mechanical design, whilst at the same time keeping the construction compact. The maximum magnification ratio of 1:4,5 and a weight of mere 430 g are also a worldwide top*. Image defects are kept at an absolute minimum through the application of aspherical elements and LD (Low dispersion) glass as well as a special coating of internal glass surfaces (Internal Surface Coating). The result is high-quality extremely sharp and excellent images.

*based on lenses of the same class and F/2,8

Please note that Di II lenses are made for the exclusive use on digital SLR cameras with image sensors smaller than 24mm x 16mm. Di II lenses cannot be used together with a full format or 35mm SLR camera, as their image sensors are not able to cover the entire area of full format resulting in dark corners of the (i.e. vignetting becomes noticeable).

Please note: The 17-50mm became available with a built-in motor for the Nikon D40, D40X and D60 (Model A16NII) from March 2008. The A16N model which had been available up until March 2008 is only compatible with the D40/D40X/D60 in the MF mode due to the fact it doesn´t have a built-in motor."

Product description from Tamron at launch 2006

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.

Here it is the only Canon version of the lens that has a built-in autofocus (AF) motor. The possibility to use autofocus (AF) is available for Nikon cameras but only if the camera itself has a built-in autofocus (AF) motor. Some cheaper and budget camera models from Nikon lacks a built-in autofocus motor, and we at Lensora appreciate autofocus, so in the list of compatible cameras we have chosen to display only the cameras that you can get autofocus with.

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.

The lens lacks image stabilization, which otherwise os good for avoiding the blur that can occur when using slow shutter speeds. Since the lens is bright, with good aperture value, the lack of image stabilization might not be that big of a deal, although a image stabilizer is always an advantage to have.

Filter and Lens Hood

The lens has a traditional filter thread on the front and its measuring 67 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.

Together with the lens there is a lens hood included but we have unfortunately no further information on model etc so feel free to contact us if you know more.

Images of Tamron SP AF 17-50mm F2.8 XR Di-II LD Asph IF

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

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
  • A lens hood is included
  • Light weight (430 gr)
  • No built-in autofocus motor (the Nikon version)
  • Works only on cameras with APS-C sensor
  • The lens is not sealed against moisture and dust

Our Review Ratings

Time to grade Tamron SP AF 17-50mm F2.8 XR Di-II LD Asph IF .

Build Quality     
Image Quality     
Autofocus     
Sharpness     
Versatility     
Value     
Overall rating 3 of 5

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