Tamron SP AF 70-200mm f/2.8 Di LD (IF) Macro

The Tamron SP AF 70-200mm f/2.8 Di LD (IF) Macro is available in Canon, Nikon, Pentax and Sony mounts.

Measuring 89.5x194.3mm, the Tamron SP AF 70-200mm f/2.8 Di LD (IF) Macro is constructed with 18 elements in 13 groups. It lacks any form of optical image stabilisation, which is a major disadvantage for Canon and Nikon users who can’t rely on a body-based IS system, but in its defence it offers a close focus distance of 95cm.
Instead of having a traditional switch to control AF/MF operation the lens uses a push/pull focusing mechanism on the focus ring. This lets you switch from AF to MF quickly by snapping the focus ring towards you and as a visual reminder a blue ring is revealed at the front of the lens. The finish of the lens is to a high standard but it struggles to compete with the high-quality feel of its Canon, Nikon and Sony rivals, which feel sturdier and more refined – that said, this lens is over £1000 less expensive than those!
Operationally, the lens is rather slow at locking focus and though it performed with no real signs of hunting, the whirrs and groans the AF system produced were far from silent and slightly off-putting. The zoom and focus rings offer smooth motions with no indication of stiffness but we discovered that the supplied tripod collar slightly hampered access to the zoom ring. 
 
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