Tamron Zoom Super Wide Angle SP AF 17-50mm f/2.8 XR Di II LD Aspherical [IF] Autofocus Lens for Nikon Digital Cameras
- No Longer Available
Not compatible with 35mm or digital cameras with image sensor larger than APS-C size
The Tamron SP AF17-50mm f/2.8 XR Di II LD Aspherical [IF] is a lightweight, compact, fast standard zoom lens designed exclusively for digital SLR cameras. The focal length of this lens is equivalent to approx. 26-78mm in 35mm format.
This lens offers an f/2.8 maximum aperture throughout the entire zoom range, to ensure stress-free photographic shots at all focal lengths and distances. Additionally, a broader photographic expression through the use of faster shutter speeds as a result of the maximum aperture offers enhanced photographic pleasure.
Note! Di-II lenses cannot be used with digital SLR cameras using image sensors that are larger than that of an APS-C size imager, or with 35mm film SLR cameras.
- Optimized for Digital SLR
- The use of XR (Extra Refractive Index) glass optimizes the overall distribution of optical power, and also reduces various aberrations to the absolute minimum while achieving remarkable compactness. In addition, suitable positioning of two hybrid aspherical elements serves to maintain imaging performance and to shorten and compress the entire optical system.
- LD Glass
- An LD (Low Dispersion) glass element is used to accomplish effective compensation of on-axis and lateral chromatic aberrations, a critical factor for enhancing optical quality in digital photography, in order to achieve outstanding optical performance over the entire zoom range.
- Enhanced Peripheral Illumination
- Peripheral light fall-off is minimized when compared with that of conventional lenses for film cameras, so images are uniformly bright from the center to the periphery.
- Internal Surface Coating to Reduce Ghosting and Flare
- By employing "Internal Surface Coatings" (i.e., multiple-layer coatings on cemented surfaces of plural elements) and multiple-layer coating technology on ordinary elements, ghosting and flare due to the reflections that occur when light enters through the front element and reflections caused by the imagers themselves are reduced to the absolute minimum.
- Zoom Lock Mechanism
- The Zoom Lock prevents unwanted barrel extension when carrying the lens/camera combination.
| Filter Size | 67mm |
| f/Stop Range | 2.8-32 |
| Minimum Focus Distance | 10.6" (27 cm) [entire zoom range] |
| Magnification | 1:4.5 |
| Angle of View | 78 to 31 (APS-C size equivalent) |
| Groups/Elements | 13/16 |
| Length | 3.2" (82mm) |
| Maximum Diameter | 2.9" (74mm) |
| Weight | 15.3 oz (434 g) |
REVIEW SNAPSHOT®
by PowerReviews(based on 22 reviews)
Ratings Distribution
91%
of respondents would recommend this to a friend.
Pros
- Lightweight (10)
- Fast / accurate auto-focus (8)
- Consistent output (7)
- Easily interchangeable (5)
- Durable (3)
Cons
Best Uses
- General purpose (10)
- Portraits (4)
- Reviewer Profile:
- Enthusiast (6), Semi-professional (5)
Most Liked Positive Review
Awesome All-arounder
SPORTS/ACTION photography: This lens is a must if you are an active person looking for a lightweight d-SLR kit for general use. I have been using this lens for over a year with ...Read complete review
SPORTS/ACTION photography: This lens is a must if you are an active person looking for a lightweight d-SLR kit for general use. I have been using this lens for over a year with professional results. I use this lens for pretty much everything for my business, including product action shots and studio shots for catalog and web. [@]I tried the 28-75mm version as well. You definitely notice the extra wide end on the 17-50, and I don't really miss the loss in tele. I tried the Nikon 17-55 f/2.8 just because I thought it would make my images that much more pro, but they are hardly different. There are some differences between the Nikon and the Tamron:Nikon+excellent contrast+more robust build+weathersealed!-expensive-heavy & bigTamron+sharp!+light and packable-no seals-some chromatic aberationThe Tamron is sharper than the Nikon pro lens! The Nikon lens offers better out-of-the-camera contrast, but I shoot RAW, so both lenses make for the same result in Lightroom post-processing. Chromatic aberration is present in scenes where the sky is very bright in the background of a dark subject. Some of this is correctable, some is not. Mostly noticeable only at very large image sizes, but it is there. The Nikon on the other hand, is optically perfect.I need lightweight so that my pack doesn't hinder my mountain biking. I also carry multiple flashes, so it all adds up quick. The weight of the Nikon lens, combined with the fact that it is very minimally different optically than the Tamron, make the Tamron a no brainer at 1/3 the price. I do wish it had the weather sealing though.I sent my Tamron back after 3 months of hard use in rugged terrain because the front element became loose. Warranty handled it within a month for no charge. Excellent customer service.PROFESSIONALS: Please note, this lens does not "look" professional. To instill client confidence, purchase the Nikon. I actually enjoy the fact that people are surprised by how good the images are, rather than expecting it when you carry around a huge lens like the Nikon version.Eventually I plan to own both the Nikon and the Tamron, so that I can choose which is more important for each outing. For now, I returned the 17-55 Nikon and spent my money where it really counts: Nikon 70-200 f/2.8 VR!!!Weather sealing makes a huge difference for lens choice on my D300, since I purchased it for it's body seals that are rendered useless without a gasket on the lens mount.
VS
Most Liked Negative Review
"A cheap f 2.8 walkaround"
Its construction is not as sturdy looking as Nikor counterparts; altough has a good grip. The lens hood is also suplied, but it doesnt fit as smoothly as Nikor lens. As for performance,...Read complete review
Its construction is not as sturdy looking as Nikor counterparts; altough has a good grip. The lens hood is also suplied, but it doesnt fit as smoothly as Nikor lens. As for performance, it is good, but sometimes the AF keeps hunting; especially when using the af-points farthest from the center. The quality is good, not too smooth. Also, because it doesnt have internal af motor, it is slighty noisier than those that have them.
Makes very good pictures, nice bokeh (dof).
REVIEWS
Reviewed by 22 customers
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Displaying reviews 1-20
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Pros
- Durable
- Lightweight
Cons
- Auto-focus Problem
Best Uses
- General Use
Comments about Tamron 17-50mm f/2.8 XR Di II LD Lens for Nikon Digital:
This is a good general purpose lens and delivers solid image quality. It's a little soft in the corners at 17mm, but on the whole it's sharp.
One issue I've run into is an intermittent problem with auto-focus. Sometimes it will stop auto-focusing and I'll have to power-off/power-on in order to get it going again. I plan to send it in to get it fixed, but since this is my only lens, I haven't done it yet.
Pros
- Consistent Output
- Easily Interchangeable
- Easy To Clean
- Lightweight
- Sharp Focus
Cons
- Zoom is a little stiff
Best Uses
- Cityscapes
- General Use
- Indoor use
- Nature Photography
Comments about Tamron 17-50mm f/2.8 XR Di II LD Lens for Nikon Digital:
I tried it the minute it came! IQ is very nice, the range is good, its a real bang for the buck if you ask me. The only thing that needs getting use to is the zoom ring. It's a little tighter than normal, but not really a biggie.
Pros
- Consistent Output
- Durable
- Easily Interchangeable
- Lightweight
- Sharp Focus
Cons
Best Uses
- Portraits
Comments about Tamron 17-50mm f/2.8 XR Di II LD Lens for Nikon Digital:
I bought this lens mainly because my backup camera is a Nikon D40X and it is not autofocus. This is the only 3rd party lens I could find that had autofocus built in. It works great. I just wish it had come with instructions because it took a while to figure out how to get it to work. It also works good on my Nikon D200.
Pros
- Sharp Focus
- Very sharp picture
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Tamron 17-50mm f/2.8 XR Di II LD Lens for Nikon Digital:
I like this lens so much it coming out with great pictures with my D300. But only 1 thing I dont understand is everytime I take it out and turn on the camera I need to take off the lens and log back on then I can focus. [...]
Pros
- Consistent Output
- Great images
- Lightweight
- Sharp Focus
Cons
- Seems cheap
Best Uses
- General Use
Comments about Tamron 17-50mm f/2.8 XR Di II LD Lens for Nikon Digital:
Image quality, focus performance and handling are all excellent. I am very pleased with this lens. Both the zoom ring and manual focus ring are perfectly tensioned.
A few issues though. First, a couple times the camera hasnt registered the lens. I had to jiggle it a little to get the contacts to notice the lens. If this continues I am going to have to return it for repair. Second, the manual focus/autofocus switch leaves a little to be desired. Its akwardly placed and kind of chincey. Third, I dont like how the focus ring spins when its on autfocus. My final complaint is that the lens is ugly. It looks like a "third party" lens. The gold tamron ring just screams cheap. In fact it looks like a toy.
Bottom line though is that the image quality outweighs these complaints for me. I am very happy with the images, and because the zoom and focus rings are so precise I am finding this to be my main lens along with the Nikon 80-200 2.8
Pros
- Durable
- Easily Interchangeable
- Lightweight
Cons
Best Uses
- General Use
Comments about Tamron 17-50mm f/2.8 XR Di II LD Lens for Nikon Digital:
Today I use this lens mainly for wedding photography, but I used it for everything while I was photo editor at my college newspaper - sports, concerts, indoor, outdoor. It's a very versatile lens in all situations. The focus ring is a little loud and the autofocus can be a little twitchy at times, but its a sturdy build with a good feel.
Pros
- Consistent Output
- Lightweight
- Sharp Focus
Cons
Best Uses
- General Use
Comments about Tamron 17-50mm f/2.8 XR Di II LD Lens for Nikon Digital:
The Tamron 17-50mm f/2.8 gets the job done and is considerably less expensive than its Nikon brand equivalent. The lens has produced sharp images when used on my Nikon D80. The 17-50mm is a nice practical range and f/2.8 helps out in low light. I've used this lens for landscapes at the Grand Canyon and indoor shots of aircraft at the National Air & Space Museum and the quality of the images have been more than satisfactory. I would recommend this lens for use with a D80, D200 or D300 body.
- Recommended:
- Hoya 67 mm Introductory Filter Kit
Pros
- Sharp Focus
- Strong Construction
Cons
Best Uses
- General Use
- Portraits
Comments about Tamron 17-50mm f/2.8 XR Di II LD Lens for Nikon Digital:
I own a Sigma 17-70 and it is no match to the Tamron 17-50. This lens is sharp as knife and solidly built. Highly recommended!
- Similar:
- Sigma 17-70 f/2.8-4.5
Pros
- Consistent Output
- Easily Interchangeable
- Lightweight
- Sharp Focus
Cons
- Difficult to Clean
- Hunts for focus sometimes
- Scratches Easily
- Slow Focus
Best Uses
- General Use
- Portraits
Comments about Tamron 17-50mm f/2.8 XR Di II LD Lens for Nikon Digital:
Very good lens, althought not as sturdy as Nikor counterparts. A bit noisy due to lack of focus motor, and sometimes hunts a bit for focus when using the side af spots. Also dust can enter in the back elements tru the back opening. Keep the cap always
Capable of making very nice pictures.
Pros
- Consistent Output
- Easily Interchangeable
- Easy to use
- Lightweight
Cons
- Bad hood
- Difficult to Clean
- Scratches Easily
- Slow Focus
Best Uses
- General Use
- Portraits
- Walkaround
- Wide angle
Comments about Tamron 17-50mm f/2.8 XR Di II LD Lens for Nikon Digital:
Its construction is not as sturdy looking as Nikor counterparts; altough has a good grip. The lens hood is also suplied, but it doesnt fit as smoothly as Nikor lens. As for performance, it is good, but sometimes the AF keeps hunting; especially when using the af-points farthest from the center. The quality is good, not too smooth. Also, because it doesnt have internal af motor, it is slighty noisier than those that have them.
Makes very good pictures, nice bokeh (dof).
- Similar:
- Tokina 12-24 f4, Nikor 50m f1.4, Nikor 70-300 4.5-5.6 vr
Pros
- Lightweight
Cons
- Blurry Focus
Best Uses
- General Use
Comments about Tamron 17-50mm f/2.8 XR Di II LD Lens for Nikon Digital:
I sent mine back for calibration, but my initial experience with it was not good. It would not focus on spot at 2.8 unless I focused manually and used a tripod. I have a Nikon D80. Let's hope its better when I get it back.
Pros
- Consistent Output
- Lightweight
- Sharp Focus
Cons
Best Uses
- Back-Up
- General Use
- Sports/Action
- Upgrade
Comments about Tamron 17-50mm f/2.8 XR Di II LD Lens for Nikon Digital:
SPORTS/ACTION photography: This lens is a must if you are an active person looking for a lightweight d-SLR kit for general use. I have been using this lens for over a year with professional results. I use this lens for pretty much everything for my business, including product action shots and studio shots for catalog and web. [@]I tried the 28-75mm version as well. You definitely notice the extra wide end on the 17-50, and I don't really miss the loss in tele. I tried the Nikon 17-55 f/2.8 just because I thought it would make my images that much more pro, but they are hardly different. There are some differences between the Nikon and the Tamron:Nikon+excellent contrast+more robust build+weathersealed!-expensive-heavy & bigTamron+sharp!+light and packable-no seals-some chromatic aberationThe Tamron is sharper than the Nikon pro lens! The Nikon lens offers better out-of-the-camera contrast, but I shoot RAW, so both lenses make for the same result in Lightroom post-processing. Chromatic aberration is present in scenes where the sky is very bright in the background of a dark subject. Some of this is correctable, some is not. Mostly noticeable only at very large image sizes, but it is there. The Nikon on the other hand, is optically perfect.I need lightweight so that my pack doesn't hinder my mountain biking. I also carry multiple flashes, so it all adds up quick. The weight of the Nikon lens, combined with the fact that it is very minimally different optically than the Tamron, make the Tamron a no brainer at 1/3 the price. I do wish it had the weather sealing though.I sent my Tamron back after 3 months of hard use in rugged terrain because the front element became loose. Warranty handled it within a month for no charge. Excellent customer service.PROFESSIONALS: Please note, this lens does not "look" professional. To instill client confidence, purchase the Nikon. I actually enjoy the fact that people are surprised by how good the images are, rather than expecting it when you carry around a huge lens like the Nikon version.Eventually I plan to own both the Nikon and the Tamron, so that I can choose which is more important for each outing. For now, I returned the 17-55 Nikon and spent my money where it really counts: Nikon 70-200 f/2.8 VR!!!Weather sealing makes a huge difference for lens choice on my D300, since I purchased it for it's body seals that are rendered useless without a gasket on the lens mount.
Comments about Tamron 17-50mm f/2.8 XR Di II LD Lens for Nikon Digital:
I have been using this as my studio lens for over a year. Fantastic results from F4 to F22. This lens replaced 2 prime lens I was using. Very light weight. Not as solid a build as the Nikon 17-55 and the lens does extend as you zoom. For 1/3 the price, I can live with those issues. Very happy with this lens. Just wish it did not have the odd filter size.
Expertise: Advanced Amateur
Comments about Tamron 17-50mm f/2.8 XR Di II LD Lens for Nikon Digital:
To add to my previous review, i just want to say my lens is pin sharp at 2.8, 4, 5.6, 8, and as you stop down it gets softer and softer, rendering it unusable at 22 and 32. I suppose you could add sharpening to it in post production but I feel you shouldn't have to. A bit of a pain in the backside. Also, after a 8 hour trek through the atlas mountains in morocco my lens is riddled with dust and dirt particles inside due to its lack of seal..... I'd still invest in one of these lenses though... hope i have helped make your decision.
Expertise: Pro
Problems Encountered: Soft at smaller apertures, not sealed so dust gets in quite easily.
Items I Recommend: D200
Comments about Tamron 17-50mm f/2.8 XR Di II LD Lens for Nikon Digital:
As much as I want a $1200 Nikon 17-55mm f/2.8, I couldn'tjustify the cost. I've heard a lot of good remarks aboutthis lens (and other Tamron lenses) so I gave it a try.Wow, sharp even at WIDE OPEN aperture! Works great at both ends, 17mm and 50mm. Gives a superbcreamy bokeh.It's plastic so what? The construction is tight and solid.I've never had a lens disintegrate in my hands. Has metalmount if that makes you happy.Noisy? Not really. Just like any other lens without an HSMor AF-S motor. Speed is average but not slow. I guess theshort throw of the focus ring helps a lot. I have not usedit for focusing manually because I fail on that aspect onany lens. On real world, the focus speed is adequate.The only thing I don't like is the 67mm filter diameter. Iwish it was 77mm like my other lenses so I don't have to buymore filters just for it. I hate using the adapter (which Ihave) because then you can't use a hood which I always do.I also don't like the barrel extending but I guess that'sthe price I have to pay for this class. At least the lensisn't huge and heavy. This has internal focusing so that'svery good!I RECOMMEND this lens.
Expertise: Advanced Amateur
Problems Encountered: None as of this writing. The build is very solid.
Previous Equivalent Item Owned: Nikon 18-55mm kit lens. I got a lot of lens but not same focal length as this.
Items I Recommend: Nikon 70-200mm VR f/2.8 (I know expensive but I love it!)
Comments about Tamron 17-50mm f/2.8 XR Di II LD Lens for Nikon Digital:
This Tamron zoom and the Nikon 55-200 VR make up my travel kit. For me, the f/2.8 max opening throughout was a must. In my tests, the lens was very sharp at f/2.8 and f4, something I was not expecting.If this zoom had not worked out, folks, I would have gone back to carrying two or three primes in its place.
Expertise: A long-time pro shooter
Problems Encountered: Other owners have mentioned that the auto-focus is too loud. I've yet to notice it.
Previous Equivalent Item Owned: Nikon 18-55 and Nikon 24-85 f/2.8-4
Comments about Tamron 17-50mm f/2.8 XR Di II LD Lens for Nikon Digital:
I have been nothing but pleased with this lens. I found itto be sharp from 2.8 and on, seriously. Wonderful color andcontrast and excellent exposure on my D200. I was skepticalwhen I bought it because I heard of overexposure issues andwas worried that 2.8 wouldn't be usable, but I love it.
Expertise: Event/Wedding Photographer
Problems Encountered: Not the same build quality as the Nikon 17-55 f2.8 and noAF-S, but the AF is not loud.
Previous Equivalent Item Owned: Nikon 18-70, Nikon 17-55, Sigma 24-60 f2.8, Tamron 28-75f2.8
Comments about Tamron 17-50mm f/2.8 XR Di II LD Lens for Nikon Digital:
I purchased the lens a month ago, tried it out several times, with what I'd rate as poor results. The overall clarity was questionable, at f/2.8 as well as 22. The contrast is less than the kit lens that came with my D200, it had a slight color cast, as well. The focus is slow and doesn't seem to integrate well with Nikon's AF features. Hard to focus in lower light conditions.I expected great results from the reviews, but this lens is just not all it's cracked up to be. I'm surprised they can get away with selling it at all. It's not HORRIBLE, but certainly not a 4.8 out of 5, at best, it's a 3.5 in my book. It's too bad I didn't have a way to borrow it before I purchased it. Thank goodness for B&H's return policy.
Problems Encountered: Low quality/clarity, slow focusing, cheap lens hood, rear lens cap barely stays on...
Comments about Tamron 17-50mm f/2.8 XR Di II LD Lens for Nikon Digital:
This is the best lens that I can recommend. Very sharp, lightweight at a very affordable price. I tried to compare it with my Nikon 17-55 f/2.8 shot by shot and i cant believe it is even performing better. So why pay more? Go for this one and you will never be sorry. The only advantage of Nikon 17-55mm f/2.8 is its built. It feels very durable and focuses quietly. But this Tamron is a lot lighter. I have 2 cameras, D50 and D200. I tried this Tamron to my cameras and it is really flawless!!!! Again this Tamron 17-50mm is a must have lens. Weighs a lot less than its counterpart with Nikon and will cost you a lot less, and it will give you a better quality. Go for this lens and you will never be sorry.
Problems Encountered: There is a little noise when focusing. It does not look as pro as Nikon 17-55mm but with the price I cant ask for more.
Previous Equivalent Items Owned: Nikon 17-55mm f/2.8, Nikon VR 18-200mm f/3.5-5.3
Items I Recommend: Hoya 67mm filter, Nikon D50, Nikon D200, Nikon SB600 flash
Comments about Tamron 17-50mm f/2.8 XR Di II LD Lens for Nikon Digital:
I am shocked that this lens performs so good at 1/3 the price of the Nikon 17-55mm.This is a real great value in a lens on this focal length. Fast, accurate focusing and great performance
Problems Encountered: None at all
Previous Equivalent Items Owned: 17-55mm 2.8 Nikon
Items I Recommend: a good quality 67mm protective filter
Displaying reviews 1-20
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- 67mm Snap-On Lens Cap
- Rear Lens Cap for Nikon AF
- Lens Hood
- 6-Year Warranty
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