Tamron SP AF 17-50mm f/2.8 XR Di-II VC LD Aspherical (IF) Lens USA
- Price: $609.95
- GBP 385.55
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offer ends APR 30 '12 - Price after Rebate: $559.95
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Tamron's SP AF17-50mm F/2.8 XR Di II VC LD Aspherical (IF) is a high-speed, wide-to-moderate-telephoto zoom lens designed for Canon digital SLR cameras with smaller sensors. It covers the very popular 17-50mm focal length range (equivalent to 26-78mm in the full-frame 35mm format) making it extremely versatile. Tamron's Vibration Compensation (VC) mechanism minimizes the effects of handheld camera shake (up to 4-stops), providing a means to great low-light shooting.
The lens delivers impressive sharpness and striking contrast over its entire focal length and aperture range. A maximum aperture of f/2.8 delivers images enhanced by shallow depth-of-field, and smooth, natural transitions in out-of-focus areas of the image. Additionally, this lens carries a 6-Year Tamron Limited Warranty (U.S.A. only)
Di II Lenses are designed for exclusive use on digital cameras with smaller-size imagers. These lenses are not designed for conventional cameras or digital cameras with image sensors larger than APS-C size (24mm x 16mm).
Go To
| Performance | |
|---|---|
| Focal Length | 17 - 50 mm |
| Aperture |
Maximum: f/2.8 Minimum: f/32 |
| Camera Mount Type | Canon EF-S |
| Format Compatibility | Canon (APS-C) |
| Angle of View | 78° - 31° |
| Minimum Focus Distance | 11.4" (28.96 cm) |
| Magnification | 0.20x |
| Maximum Reproduction Ratio | 1:4.8 |
| Groups/Elements | 14/19 |
| Diaphragm Blades | 7 |
| Features | |
|---|---|
| Image Stabilization | Yes |
| Autofocus | Yes |
| Tripod Collar | No |
| Physical | |
|---|---|
| Filter Thread | 72 mm |
| Dimensions (DxL) | Approx. 3.13 x 3.7" (7.95 x 9.40 cm) |
| Weight | 1.25 lb (570 g) |
REVIEW SNAPSHOT®
by PowerReviews(based on 87 reviews)
Ratings Distribution
90%
of respondents would recommend this to a friend.
Pros
- Consistent output (33)
- Strong construction (33)
- Durable (32)
- Easily interchangeable (30)
- Fast / accurate auto-focus (27)
Cons
- Heavy (18)
- Slow focus (17)
- Heavy / bulky (4)
- Poor in low light (4)
- Blurry focus (3)
Best Uses
- Low light (47)
- Landscape/scenery (37)
- Weddings (32)
- Video (24)
- Night photography (17)
- Reviewer Profile:
- Semi-pro photographer (29), Photo enthusiast (27), Pro photographer (9), Casual photographer (8), Tech savvy (5)
- Was this a gift?:
- No (54), Yes (4)
Most Liked Positive Review
Great Glass
I'm a portrait & wedding photographer, and I use this lens on a Canon 7D. I owned the previous version, but decided to upgrade. Here is the best reason to own this gl...Read complete review
I'm a portrait & wedding photographer, and I use this lens on a Canon 7D. I owned the previous version, but decided to upgrade. Here is the best reason to own this glass, it is so crisp. Better than Canon's 24-70 or their 17-55. I don;t use the VC (vibration control) as I find it a little jerky and more of a distraction. But then I've always felt that VC is only needed on the big 200mm plus lenses.
The other thing I really like about this lens is the feel. It's got a great grip, the zoom action is smooth, and the build quality is very fine.
I'd rate this a 5 on the glass and the feel of the lens, but a 4 on the VC. Overall It's a 4.9 lens for me. Love it
VS
Most Liked Negative Review
An ambitious lens that falls short....
I purchased this lens recently and had the opportunity to test it for three days. I was hopping to save some money by not having to pay for the much more expensive Canon 17-55...Read complete review
I purchased this lens recently and had the opportunity to test it for three days. I was hopping to save some money by not having to pay for the much more expensive Canon 17-55. I did some close up testing on textured fabric and the results were disappointing. The lens was extremely soft at f2.8 and didn't become tack sharp until f8. This lens has a relatively solid build quality it but falls far short of what I would expect from a [$] lens.
REVIEWS
Reviewed by 87 customers
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Displaying reviews 1-20
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Pros
- Easy To Use
- Improves Picture Quality
- Very sturdy
Cons
Best Uses
- Shooting Indoors
- Shooting Outdoors
- Upgrade
Comments about Tamron SP AF 17-50mm f/2.8 XR Di-II VC LD Aspherical (IF) Lens:
This is my first really high quality lens since I got my camera. After a lot of research I decided to go with this one. I currently have a 50mm and wanted something that would allow me to zoom out a bit and still be great in low light. The 17mm, works like a champ. I can almost put my lens on the subject and still get very clear shots. I'm sure I'll be using this one all the time.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Tamron SP AF 17-50mm f/2.8 XR Di-II VC LD Aspherical (IF) Lens:
pro's, i work with my local fire dept. to shoot accidents and fire for traning propose's so i work in all levels of light and i have found that it serves me well good clear pic at a wide range of ISO's as well for the money a exelent lense
cons, the zoom is a little stiff and sticky but i can live with that to save the money from the cannon equal
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Easy To Use
- Improves Picture Quality
Cons
Best Uses
- Close Up Filming
- Shooting Outdoors
- Upgrade
Comments about Tamron SP AF 17-50mm f/2.8 XR Di-II VC LD Aspherical (IF) Lens:
I use this lens quite often, works great, picture quality is amazing and based on my research before and after purchasing this lens I recommend B&H for your good pricing and fast shipping.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Easy To Use
- Improves Picture Quality
- Vibration control
Cons
- None so far
Best Uses
- Less than bright areas
- Shooting Indoors
Comments about Tamron SP AF 17-50mm f/2.8 XR Di-II VC LD Aspherical (IF) Lens:
I've used it mainly for indoor, moderate light situations. It's worked well, and the vibration control has made a substantial difference in the exposure times needed (2 stops at the least). So far, no problems/concerns (it's a bit noisier focusing than my Canon lenses, but minimally).
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Bottom Line Yes, I would recommend this to a friend
Images shared by ARNIE
without vibration control
Images shared by ARNIE
with vibration control
(2 of 2 customers found this review helpful)
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Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Tamron SP AF 17-50mm f/2.8 XR Di-II VC LD Aspherical (IF) Lens:
This is my everyday lens. Captures at just about any light and distance. Love it.
Very nice detail and clarity.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Comments about Tamron SP AF 17-50mm f/2.8 XR Di-II VC LD Aspherical (IF) Lens:
I wasn't sure if I should just wait and get the Cannon but I had a friend convince me and I am glad he did... This is some nice glass and it is well worth the money. Very Fast Lens and Great Quality!
Pros
Cons
- Bad Autofocus
- Bulky Design
- Gritty zoom
- Heavy
- No Increase In Performance
Best Uses
Comments about Tamron SP AF 17-50mm f/2.8 XR Di-II VC LD Aspherical (IF) Lens:
17-50 is a great range of view, but aside from that this lens falls short. It's wrist-achingly heavy, very gritty zoom, and 2.8-3.5 are unusable. Auto-focus is schizophrenic and shooting anything at 17mm is pointless. I bought this instead of a kit lens for my 60d because I wanted something better than a kit lens. I now, would rather have a kit lens.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Compact Design
- Easy To Use
- Sharpness
Cons
- Slow focusing
Best Uses
- Most Situations
- Shooting Indoors
- Shooting Outdoors
Comments about Tamron SP AF 17-50mm f/2.8 XR Di-II VC LD Aspherical (IF) Lens:
I've owned this lens for over a year now and find myself using it more than any other lens I have. The lens is very sharp and works very well in nearly every condition. My only complaint is the focusing is slow, especially in low light. When Tamron upgrades the focus motor to their new faster motor I will be one happy man. Until then I can't see myself shelling out $1000 for the over sized Canon equivalent.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Comments about Tamron SP AF 17-50mm f/2.8 XR Di-II VC LD Aspherical (IF) Lens:
It lives up to the reputation. I've read that the non VC version has better sharpness, but I'm very happy with it. I shoot a lot freehand, so the VC is critical for me.
Pros
- Easy To Use
Cons
Best Uses
- Shooting Outdoors
Comments about Tamron SP AF 17-50mm f/2.8 XR Di-II VC LD Aspherical (IF) Lens:
This is a great replacement for your kit lens. I love the fixed 2.8 and ever since i bought my 50mm 1.4 I had to have this lens. It's a little loud but is super fast and is very sharp!
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Easy To Use
Cons
Best Uses
- Panoramic Filming
- Shooting Indoors
- Shooting Outdoors
Comments about Tamron SP AF 17-50mm f/2.8 XR Di-II VC LD Aspherical (IF) Lens:
I love the lens. Awesome f/2.8.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Easy To Use
- Improves Picture Quality
Cons
Best Uses
- Shooting Outdoors
- Upgrade
Comments about Tamron SP AF 17-50mm f/2.8 XR Di-II VC LD Aspherical (IF) Lens:
17-50mm lens is mainly used for nature photography. The easy to use f-stop system and wide range of options allows for easy shooting and crystal clear shots. With the lowest f-stop option of 2.8, shooting stars at night allows for amazing images of the Milky Way. Not really sure what I do not like about the lens at this time. All in all, very happy.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Easy To Use
- Improves Picture Quality
Cons
- Bulky Design
Best Uses
- Shooting Indoors
Comments about Tamron SP AF 17-50mm f/2.8 XR Di-II VC LD Aspherical (IF) Lens:
I'm using the lens for indoor shooting of concerts performances and it is proving to be excellent in these conditions
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Awesome warranty
- Feels solid
- Great optics
- Inexpensive
Cons
- Focusing a little slow
- Noisy
- VC is a bit jerky
Best Uses
- Indoors/Low Light
- Landscape/Scenery
- Weddings/Events
- Wildlife Photos
Comments about Tamron SP AF 17-50mm f/2.8 XR Di-II VC LD Aspherical (IF) Lens:
The best lenses are the ones that basically become "one with the camera." This lens does...for the most part. With the VC on, you can easily be distracted. It's a bit clunky and sort of jerks into place. If your shooting on the fly...it can be a bit annoying. However, in a situation where you would NEED to use VC you'll likely be shooting something that is NOT moving since it only extends to 50mm. Other than that the optics are great. The focus is a bit noisy compared to a USM lens, but I didn't notice it much during a session. If your into manual focusing, it's not too bad, but it feels a bit "sticky" when moving it slow. The build quality seems comparable to Canons mid-grade EF lenses. Lens feels very solid compared to some more expensive lenses. I am a very happy customer.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Consistent Output
- Durable
- Easily Interchangeable
- Fast / accurate auto-focus
- Lightweight
- Nice Bokeh
- Rugged
- Strong Construction
Cons
- Slow Focus
Best Uses
- Indoors/Low Light
- Landscape/Scenery
- Macro Photography
- Night Photography
- Sports/Action
- Video
- Weddings/Events
- Wildlife Photos
Comments about Tamron SP AF 17-50mm f/2.8 XR Di-II VC LD Aspherical (IF) Lens:
really good at low light
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Consistent Output
- Easily Interchangeable
- Fast / accurate auto-focus
- Lightweight
- Nice Bokeh
Cons
Best Uses
- Indoors/Low Light
- Landscape/Scenery
- Night Photography
- Sports/Action
- Video
- Wildlife Photos
Comments about Tamron SP AF 17-50mm f/2.8 XR Di-II VC LD Aspherical (IF) Lens:
I have now used this lens in all sort of low light situations and can't be more pleased.
Made a mistake in ordering the "regular" when I didn't realize two different lens by same name except for VC.
The additional stability allows about 2 stops in hand held which is a heckuva difference without flash.
As always, use B&H for the best.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Tamron SP AF 17-50mm f/2.8 XR Di-II VC LD Aspherical (IF) Lens:
If you are looking to replace or substitute the kit lens, this is a great option. I'm using it for video, so the VC is important for me, but maybe not essential for photographers. Great in low light. Buyers should know that there may be a loose component upon delivery. Simply attach to your camera and focus. The loose component should be calibrated and no longer moving about. Had to contact Tamron to solve this query, they were very helpful!
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Consistent Output
- Durable
- Easily Interchangeable
- Fast / accurate auto-focus
- Nice Bokeh
- Rugged
- Strong Construction
Cons
Best Uses
- Indoors/Low Light
- Landscape/Scenery
- Video
Comments about Tamron SP AF 17-50mm f/2.8 XR Di-II VC LD Aspherical (IF) Lens:
I bought the Tamrom SP AF 17-50mm f/2.8 VC as my primary lens for shooting my documentary. It's my work horse for sure. I have not been disappointed. It's a great wide-normal lens so I can capture the big picture and punch-in to focus on something specific. My one complaint (and I'm not 100% sure if this happens on all these lenses or a problem with mine) is that when the VC is on, there is some mechanical noise that comes from the lens.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
Cons
- Breaks easily
- Lens Creep
Best Uses
Comments about Tamron SP AF 17-50mm f/2.8 XR Di-II VC LD Aspherical (IF) Lens:
I used this lens on only a few shoots with my 7D. Now it does not work when I am taking stills. It displays "Err 01. Clean lens contacts." I've cleaned them several times, and it doesn't work. Now I have to send it to Tamron, and the warrantee is expired, so I'm sure they will be charging me an arm and a leg to fix their unreliable product. None of my Canon lenses give me this problem. Go with Canon and you'll save money in the long run. I guess that's the lesson I learned here.
Pros
- Consistent Output
- Durable
- Easily Interchangeable
- Fast / accurate auto-focus
- Lightweight
- Rugged
- Strong Construction
Cons
- Heavy
Best Uses
- Indoors/Low Light
- Landscape/Scenery
- Weddings/Events
Comments about Tamron SP AF 17-50mm f/2.8 XR Di-II VC LD Aspherical (IF) Lens:
First off you're probably like me and looking at this vs. a Canon. I've owned and own several Tamron and Canon lenses and my Tamron lenses are in many cases just as good as or better than my Canon lenses. The fact that Tamron gives a 6 yr warranty and Canon only a 1 yr speaks volumes in my book. I'm loving the image quality and consistency of my new Tamron 17-50mm and I'm so glad I went with this lens. Try it! You'll love it!
- Was this a gift?:
- No
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What's in the Box
- Canon Lens Mount
- Front Lens Cap
- Rear Lens Cap
- Lens Hood
- 6-Year Tamron Limited Warranty (U.S.A. Only)
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