Tamron 70-180 F2.8 vs Sony 70-200 F2.8 GM

With the launch of the new Tamron 70-180mm f/2.8 Di III VXD lens many Alpha Shooters have been curious to know how this new puppy stacks up against Sony’s FE 70-200 f/2.8 G-Master lens that costs around $1,400 more.

Well thankfully Manny Ortiz and his wife Diana already have already had their hands all-over the Tamron which isn’t expected to ship till the middle of May.

In the video below they test focus accuracy, speed, low-light performance, image quality, as well as throwing in some side-by-side comparisons showing exactly what an extra 20mm of reach gets you.

If you don’t have time to watch right now then I’ll summarize the results for you.

For such a large price difference you would expect the Sony to spank the Tamron in every category besides size and weight but this wasn’t to be. Tamron appears to have taken the fight to Sony and they aren’t pulling any punches!

According to Manny the Tamron has better focus accuracy (although he’s not sure if his 70-200 GM has focus issues), but both focus speed and low light performance are tied. He gives the edge to the Sony when it comes to image quality and bokeh, but the Tamron wins when it comes to portability and convenience.

The Sony does have one trick up its sleeve as it features built-in stabilization that the Tamron lacks, the Sony also feels like the better built lens, has a tripod collar and uses an internal zoom design that improves handling.

All in all the Tamron appears to be shaping up to be another fantastic lens from Tamron and if I didn’t already own the Sony FE 70-200 F2.8 GM myself I would be seriously tempted by this lens from what I’ve seen so far.

Are you tempted by Tamron’s latest offering? Let me know in the comments!