What To Know
- While the Nikon lens has a more robust build, the Tamron lens is surprisingly lightweight and portable.
- The Nikon lens uses an SWM motor, which is known for its speed and accuracy, while the Tamron lens utilizes an RXD motor, which is particularly quiet for video applications.
- However, if you prefer a lightweight and portable lens with a smoother bokeh and a lower price point, the Tamron lens is a compelling option.
The Nikon 28-75mm f/2.8G and Tamron 28-75mm f/2.8 Di III RXD are two highly regarded standard zoom lenses for Nikon’s full-frame mirrorless cameras. Both offer a versatile focal range, making them suitable for a wide range of photography genres. In this comprehensive guide, we will compare these lenses in-depth to help you make an informed decision about which one is right for your needs.
Build and Handling
Nikon 28-75mm f/2.8G:
- Solid construction with a metal mount
- Dust- and moisture-resistant
- Weighs approximately 560g
Tamron 28-75mm f/2.8 Di III RXD:
- Lightweight and compact with a plastic mount
- Weather-sealed against dust and moisture
- Weighs approximately 550g
While the Nikon lens has a more robust build, the Tamron lens is surprisingly lightweight and portable. Both lenses feature a weather-resistant design, ensuring durability in challenging conditions.
Optical Performance
Image Quality:
Both lenses deliver sharp and detailed images throughout the zoom range. The Nikon lens exhibits slightly better edge-to-edge sharpness, especially at wider focal lengths.
Bokeh:
The f/2.8 maximum aperture on both lenses produces a pleasing background blur. The Nikon lens has a slightly smoother bokeh rendering, while the Tamron lens produces more pronounced out-of-focus highlights.
Distortion and Vignetting:
The Nikon lens exhibits minimal barrel distortion at the wide end and pincushion distortion at the telephoto end. The Tamron lens has negligible distortion throughout the zoom range. Both lenses show some vignetting at the widest aperture settings, but it is easily correctable in post-processing.
Autofocus
Nikon 28-75mm f/2.8G:
- Silent Wave Motor (SWM) for fast and accurate autofocus
- Supports eye-detection autofocus
Tamron 28-75mm f/2.8 Di III RXD:
- Stepping Motor (RXD) for smooth and quiet autofocus
- Supports eye-detection autofocus
Both lenses feature fast and reliable autofocus systems. The Nikon lens uses an SWM motor, which is known for its speed and accuracy, while the Tamron lens utilizes an RXD motor, which is particularly quiet for video applications.
Image Stabilization
Neither the Nikon nor the Tamron lens features built-in image stabilization. This is not a major drawback, as many Nikon full-frame cameras have in-body image stabilization (IBIS).
Price and Availability
The Nikon 28-75mm f/2.8G is priced at approximately $1,000, while the Tamron 28-75mm f/2.8 Di III RXD is priced at approximately $800. Both lenses are readily available from authorized retailers.
Final Thoughts:
Choosing between the Nikon 28-75mm f/2.8G and Tamron 28-75mm f/2.8 Di III RXD depends on your individual needs and preferences. If you prioritize image quality, especially at wider focal lengths, the Nikon lens is the better choice. However, if you prefer a lightweight and portable lens with a smoother bokeh and a lower price point, the Tamron lens is a compelling option. Ultimately, both lenses offer exceptional performance and versatility, making them excellent choices for photographers seeking a high-quality standard zoom lens.
Questions You May Have
1. Which lens is better for portraits?
Both lenses are suitable for portraits, but the Nikon lens has a slightly smoother bokeh rendering.
2. Which lens is more versatile for travel photography?
The Tamron lens is more lightweight and compact, making it a better choice for travel photography.
3. Is either lens compatible with Nikon DSLRs?
No, both lenses are designed specifically for Nikon’s full-frame mirrorless cameras.
4. Does the Nikon lens support eye-detection autofocus in all shooting modes?
No, eye-detection autofocus is only supported in AF-S and AF-C modes.
5. Can the Tamron lens be used for video recording?
Yes, the Tamron lens has a quiet RXD motor that is well-suited for video applications.
