Tamron 28-75mm f/2.8 Di III VXD G2
The value king returns. The G2 improves on the original with sharper corners, nicer bokeh, and a more robust build quality.
Tamron 28-75mm G2: The Best Value Standard Zoom
Pros
- Significantly sharper than the G1
- Compact and lightweight
- Excellent close-focus performance
Cons
- 28mm isn't quite wide enough for some
- Build is high-quality plastic, not metal
Tamron 28-75mm G2: A Worthy Successor
The original Tamron 28-75mm was a revolution for Sony users. The G2 (Generation 2) takes that formula and refines almost everything. It’s sharper, focuses faster, and feels more premium in the hand.
Optical Upgrades
Tamron completely redesigned the optical construction for the G2. The result is a lens that can easily handle the 61MP resolution of the Sony A7R V, providing crisp details from corner to corner even at f/2.8.
The VXD Difference
The new VXD linear focus motor is a significant upgrade. It’s near-silent and much more confident in low light or when tracking fast-moving subjects. It’s a lens that rarely misses.
Ergomomics and Customization
The G2 adds a 'Focus Set' button that can be customized via Tamron's Lens Utility software. You can change focus presets, reverse the focus ring direction, and more—features usually reserved for much more expensive lenses.
Verdict
If you are a Sony shooter looking for a standard f/2.8 zoom, it’s hard to justify the extra cost of the Sony GM II over this Tamron G2. It offers 90% of the performance for less than half the price.