Tamron SP AF 28-75mm F2.8 XR Di Review

General information

This is a zoom lens manufactured by Tamron and the lens was released 2003.
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 2003 Tamron wrote this regarding Tamron SP AF 28-75mm F2.8 XR Di :

"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.

High resolution full-frame digital SLRs demand the optical quality for which the SP 28-75mm F/2.8 XR Di is famous. Another in Tamron´s selection of fast and constant F2.8 maximum aperture optics, its speed benefits photographers in several ways, including the ability to render cluttered backgrounds well out of focus, added low-light shooting freedom and a brighter viewfinder image. Featuring XR (Extra Refractive Index) and LD (Low Dispersion) glass in an optical formula employing 16 elements and 14 groups—assuring sharpness, optimal contrast and color accuracy, rendering striking images. Sophisticated aspherical element design and internal focus contribute to barrel size that belies a typically large F2.8 optic. With both an ideal picture angle range, fast aperture and outstanding optical properties, it´s no wonder that so many SP 28-75mm F/2.8 lenses can be found in the bags of noted wedding and corporate shooters."


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 constructed to fit all models of Canon and Nikon cameras, regardless of camera model or type of sensor.

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 28-75 mm. Depending on which camera the lens is used, the experienced and perceived focal length will be different. Please visit the list of compatible cameras below, it will provide the equivalent focal length you get on each 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 28 mm or at 75 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 28-75mm F2.8 XR Di

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
  • Works on all sensor types
  • A lens hood is included
  • No built-in autofocus motor (the Nikon version)
  • The lens is not sealed against moisture and dust

Our Review Ratings

Time to grade Tamron SP AF 28-75mm F2.8 XR Di .

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

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