Tamron 70-200mm f/2.8 Di LD (IF) Macro AF Lens for Pentax AF
The Tamron 70-200mm f/2.8 Di LD (IF) Macro Lens is a telephoto zoom lens that has a large maximum aperture of f/2.8 which remains constant throughout the zoom range. It also offers an excellent "close-focusing-distance" minimum of just 3.1' (0.95 m) throughout its entire zoom range, with a maximum macro magnification ratio of 1:3.1 at f=200mm. When mounted on an APS-C sensor size digital SLR camera, it provides a focal length equivalent of 105-300mm.
Di (Digitally Integrated Design) is a designation Tamron puts on lenses featuring optical systems designed to meet the performance characteristics of digital SLR cameras. Features like LD glass elements and Internal Focusing put this lens in the same category as the much bigger and more expensive professional Tamron lenses.
- LD Glass
- Two LD glass elements reduce various aberrations while minimizing the fall-off of light at the corners
- Internal Focus
- The lens neither extends nor contracts physically when focusing; all moving elements are contained within the lens barrel
- Di Design
- Digitally Integrated (DI) design lenses are designed to meet the performance characteristics of digital SLR cameras
- Tripod Collar
- The tripod mount, detachable in one touch, is made of magnesium alloy that reconcile lightweight and high rigidity, resulting in enhanced balance and ease of use in hand-held shooting
Go To
| Performance | |
|---|---|
| Focal Length | 70 - 200 mm |
| Aperture |
Maximum: f/2.8 Minimum: f/32 |
| Camera Mount Type | Pentax K |
| Format Compatibility |
35mm Film / Full-Frame Digital Sensor Pentax Digital (APS-C) |
| Angle of View |
34° - 12° APS-C Picture Angle: 22° - 7° |
| Minimum Focus Distance | 3.12' (95 cm) |
| Magnification | 0.32x |
| Maximum Reproduction Ratio | 1:3.1 |
| Groups/Elements | 13/18 |
| Diaphragm Blades | 9 |
| Features | |
|---|---|
| Image Stabilization | No |
| Autofocus | Yes |
| Tripod Collar | Yes |
| Physical | |
|---|---|
| Filter Thread | 77 mm |
| Dimensions (DxL) | Approx. 3.5 x 7.6" (8.89 x 19.30 cm) |
| Weight | 2.53 lb (1150 g) |
REVIEW SNAPSHOT®
by PowerReviews(based on 35 reviews)
Ratings Distribution
91%
of respondents would recommend this to a friend.
Pros
- Fast / accurate auto-focus (25)
- Consistent output (18)
- Strong construction (16)
- Durable (12)
- Easily interchangeable (12)
Cons
- Heavy (16)
- Slow focus (7)
Best Uses
- Sports/action (16)
- Landscape/scenery (12)
- Wildlife photos (11)
- Weddings (10)
- Low light (7)
- Reviewer Profile:
- Enthusiast (11), Photo enthusiast (9), Semi-pro photographer (7)
- Was this a gift?:
- No (11)
Most Liked Positive Review
Wow, so Sharp it hurts.
I just got this lens and have taken 100 test shots with it looking for flaws. I found one design flaw and that is the AF -> M switch( its actually just moving ...Read complete review
I just got this lens and have taken 100 test shots with it looking for flaws. I found one design flaw and that is the AF -> M switch( its actually just moving the focus ring about 1/8" in and out; not like on other lenses). The switch creates a noticable pop sound when toggled. Not sure why they did this; I've never used lenses with such a setup so it may be something I get used to.
I had a Canon 40D w/ the 70-200 f/4 L IS and 17-85mm IS. Unfortunately it got stolen and I replaced it with a Pentax K20D and Pentax 18-250mm. While it was a good set up I was not too pleased with some of the short coming of the 18-250 So I invested in this lens and the Pentax 16-50 f/2.8. While I love the AF, bokeh, and build of the 16-50mm over that of this lens. I have not used a sharper lens than this above f4. Below f4 it is still a very sharp lens, but above f4 it may be too sharp for portraiture; but that can be fixed with PS or filters. You can always take away detail, but getting nice sharp eyes and other small features is harder to do in post processing The detail and focus accuracy of this lens is great. Colors look great too and no signs of any distortion, vignetting, or corner softness. It's a bit heavy and may not focus as quietly or as fast as a Ultrasonic focusing but the pictures speak for themselves. The lens appears well made, not on par with L Glass or Pentax's DA* but still solid. Mine does have a piece of dust inside edge of front glass it may be an issue if i ever use it on a full frame sensor camera or if it moves but I won't loose sleep.
VS
Most Liked Negative Review
Serious quality problems
I shot film with Pentax for several years then moved to painting as my primary artistic outlet. I used point and shoot digitals as reference for painting. I recently decided to step back into ...Read complete review
I shot film with Pentax for several years then moved to painting as my primary artistic outlet. I used point and shoot digitals as reference for painting. I recently decided to step back into photography as it's own end, inspired by the sights that can only be seen at Burning Man. Feeling some brand loyalty, I purchased a K20D with the kit lens, a Sigma 10-20, and the Tamron 70-200 - all from B&H. I loved the bright clear shots to be had with the Tamron, then the first time I shot a burst in drive mode, it stuck full open. Eventually I would take one shot properly exposed and the second would be overexposed. I had to remove the lens after each shot, unstick the aperture lever, and shoot another one knowing that the aperture would stick open. I returned the lens in exchange for a new one (minus the manufacturer's box, because I tossed it). I didn't have this problem with the other two lenses. All the equipment was brand new. Hopeful that the first was an anomaly, I eagerly started shooting test shots with the replacement and within 20 shots it started sticking open again. Unfortunately, I fear I'm stuck with continually sending back bum lenses in exchange for more bum lenses because I can't trade up to a Sigma or a Pentax because I tossed the original box. I seriously recommend passing on this lens until Tamron comes out with a statement admiting the problem and describing their fix. I hate not having confidence in this lens except only when shooting full open at night or other low light situations.
REVIEWS
Reviewed by 35 customers
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Displaying reviews 1-20
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Pros
- Amazing glass
- Easily Interchangeable
- It's great for the price
- Lightweight
- Nice Bokeh
- Strong Construction
- Very Light
Cons
- Auto focus is slow
Best Uses
- Indoors/Low Light
- Landscape/Scenery
- Macro Photography
- Night Photography
- Weddings/Events
Comments about Tamron 70-200mm f/2.8 Di LD (IF) Macro AF Lens for Pentax AF:
Great for portrait, color is nice and crisp. Also, for a big lens it's light. Auto focus is not that fast but I don't really shoot a lot of sports, so it works just fine for me.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Consistent Output
- Durable
- Nice Bokeh
- Strong Construction
Cons
Best Uses
- Night Photography
- Sports/Action
- Weddings/Events
- Wildlife Photos
Comments about Tamron 70-200mm f/2.8 Di LD (IF) Macro AF Lens for Pentax AF:
Optically, excellent lens. Autofocus is OK. The only problem - contrast control detect autofocus in Live View does not work (is not able to focus correctly). For me, not a big problem, as I do not use contrast control focusing.
Otherwise, excellent.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Close Focus
- Great optics
Cons
- Too much plastic
Best Uses
- Landscape/Scenery
- Macro Photography
- Sports/Action
Comments about Tamron 70-200mm f/2.8 Di LD (IF) Macro AF Lens for Pentax AF:
This lens has great optics but it has some issues. The manual focus ring only rotates a quarter turn which makes it more difficult to get an accurate manual focus, the lens itself isn't built to be durable and auto focusing is almost useless in other than ideal light situations. However, due to it's price point this lens is a good, no, a great buy. No way to get quality optics (which is IMO the most important factor) and a fast F2.8 constant aperture in a telezoom lens for anywhere near the price. Not durable enough for a pro photographer in the field but an able amateur should get fantastic images with this lens. Some comments have said this lens is too large but in reality it is the smallest and lightest lens in it's class, you have to compare it to other zoom lenses of similar focal length and aperture range. It is very easy to hand hold this lens but a tripod will always get a better image. This lens also focuses very close, almost a macro lens, much closer than the competition. I really like this lens, I hope it holds up with time.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
- Indoors/Low Light
- Sports/Action
- Wildlife Photos
Comments about Tamron 70-200mm f/2.8 Di LD (IF) Macro AF Lens for Pentax AF:
I did a lot of research on this lens and the Sigma before I bought it. I will list the pros and cons below and assign a significance to each one that represents its value/importance to me (1-5).
Pros:
- IQ (5)
- Closeup capability (4) Approximately 1 meter min focusing distance
- Fast lens 2.8 (4)
- Saves a few hundred $ over the Sigma (4)
- Bokeh (3)
- Lightweight for its type (3)
- Handy mounting bracket that is easy to convert to portrait (2)
Cons:
- Screw-driven focusing is loud and hunts in low light (2)
- Switching to manual focus on Pentax requires focus clutch AND adjustment to camera body (1)
Anything not listed above was too irrelevant for me to put in here.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Easily Interchangeable
- Fast / accurate auto-focus
Cons
- Heavy
Best Uses
- Landscape/Scenery
- Sports/Action
- Wildlife Photos
Comments about Tamron 70-200mm f/2.8 Di LD (IF) Macro AF Lens for Pentax AF:
We purchased this lens for a trip to Alaska. I got wonderful shots of black bears, moose, red fox, humpback whales, sea lions, orca whales, Mt. McKinley and more! The lens works quickly and well on auto-focus. We had many cloudy days and with the f/2.8 I still got amazing, clear close-ups. The zoom is smooth and easy to create the perfect frame.
The only down side, is the weight! With the SLR/Digital and the 70-200mm lens, I was sometimes tired of carrying them. But, I always kept the set with me, didn't want to miss any wildlife!!
I had no problems with the lens.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Consistent Output
- Durable
- Fast / accurate auto-focus
- Nice Bokeh
- Resolution
- Rugged
- Sharpness
- Strong Construction
Cons
- No SDM HSM
Best Uses
- Indoors/Low Light
- Landscape/Scenery
- Sports/Action
- Weddings/Events
- Wildlife Photos
Comments about Tamron 70-200mm f/2.8 Di LD (IF) Macro AF Lens for Pentax AF:
I picked this lens after extensive research but am biased by the fact that I love my Tamron 17-50 f/2.8. I tested this lens with a Pentax K-5. The 16MP sensor is quite demanding on resolution. This lens is sharp, sharp and very sharp ... even wide open. Images at 300% on screen magnification are still sharp, well defined and contrasty. I tested it against comparable zooms and primes and it can compete with primes ... let alone other zooms. Once you achieve precise focus, this lens can deliver superb results. I am not a sports photographer; so I cannot comment on AF speed. I sometimes even use manual focus on LV, which is what I used for testing this lens.
I also checked out the claimed field curvature that some reported at 135mm FL. Yes, it does indeed has some minor field curvature but that is only relevant for near subjects and at wide open aperture. If the subject is 10 ft or further away, it may be detectable on screen at 100% or higher magnification. If you stopped it down to f/4.0, you can't even detect it. IOW, there is really nothing to worry IMO.
The build quality of this 70-200 is substantially better than the 17-50. While the Tamron 17-50 is not built like a tank, I have nothing to complain. Many people thought it was heavy; I don't find it heavy at all. I also have a Sigma 100-400 f/4.0, now that is a heavy lens.
Factoring in the "relatively" low cost compared to other 70-200 f/2.8, this lens has the best value in this segment. It is still not a cheap lens, but this lens must be on the short list if you are in the market for this class of zoom.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
Cons
- Heavy
- Slow Focus
Best Uses
Comments about Tamron 70-200mm f/2.8 Di LD (IF) Macro AF Lens for Pentax AF:
I use it with my k-x and the results are clearly much better than my kit lens 50-200. I use it mostly to take portraits of my kids outside. It is very hard to focus moving objects and it tends to hunt a lot.
Bottomline: If you are shooting something non-moving, you will get great IQ.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Consistent Output
- Fast / accurate auto-focus
- Nice Bokeh
Cons
Best Uses
- Sports/Action
- Wildlife Photos
Comments about Tamron 70-200mm f/2.8 Di LD (IF) Macro AF Lens for Pentax AF:
The sliding focus ring/switch is a bit annoying, but not a deal breaker. If you want a "macro" lens, buy a macro lens. This one will focus on subjects as close as 1 meter, but it is NOT a macro lens. Otherwise, pretty spectacular! Image quality is better than I'd expected. Considerably! With the K7 the autofocus is reasonably fast and accurate. Got some great shots at my first-grader's field day a few weeks ago. Buy one before the price goes up!
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Consistent Output
- Durable
- Fast / accurate auto-focus
Cons
Best Uses
- Landscape/Scenery
- Sports/Action
- Wildlife Photos
Comments about Tamron 70-200mm f/2.8 Di LD (IF) Macro AF Lens for Pentax AF:
It's fast, it's ultra sharp, and it's affordable. What more could you want from a zoom lens? How about reliable and warrantied for 6 years? This is a great performer, and I'm glad I finally satisfied my itch for it.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Consistent Output
- Durable
- Nice Bokeh
- Strong Construction
Cons
- Heavy
- Slow Focus
Best Uses
- Indoors/Low Light
- Weddings/Events
Comments about Tamron 70-200mm f/2.8 Di LD (IF) Macro AF Lens for Pentax AF:
I just used this lens to take pictures in a dark auditorium of a dance recital. I got great pictures with no flash! The only downfall is it is quite heavy. I bet it would great at a wedding! You can't be too close to your subject, so it worked if you are not sitting up front at an event you are taking photos.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Nice Bokeh
- Sharp
Cons
- Heavy
- Slow Focus
Best Uses
- Indoors/Low Light
- Portraits
- Sports/Action
- Weddings/Events
Comments about Tamron 70-200mm f/2.8 Di LD (IF) Macro AF Lens for Pentax AF:
I use this lens for sports and portrait photography. The lens has performed great, it takes very sharp photos.
However, the lens does lose a bit of sharpness at f/2.8.
The lens case could be designed better, overall, this is a good product.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Durable
- Fast / accurate auto-focus
- Lightweight
- Nice Bokeh
- Rugged
- Strong Construction
Cons
Best Uses
- Landscape/Scenery
- Night Photography
- Sports/Action
- Weddings/Events
Comments about Tamron 70-200mm f/2.8 Di LD (IF) Macro AF Lens for Pentax AF:
This is my absolute favorite Lens.....I use it all the time!
Pros
- Consistent Output
- Nice Bokeh
- Sharp at all apertures
Cons
- Heavy
Best Uses
- Landscape/Scenery
- Sports/Action
- Wildlife Photos
Comments about Tamron 70-200mm f/2.8 Di LD (IF) Macro AF Lens for Pentax AF:
Useful for nature, and selected sporting events.
Pros
- Consistent Output
- Nice Bokeh
- Strong Construction
Cons
- Heavy
Best Uses
- Indoors/Low Light
- Portraits
- Weddings/Events
Comments about Tamron 70-200mm f/2.8 Di LD (IF) Macro AF Lens for Pentax AF:
I have had this lens 2 weeks and love it. I was surprised how heavy it was compared to my other lenses, but after the first two hours of shooting and then reviewing, I was too pleased to care about weight. It picks up color better than the kit lens supplied with the K-100d body I bought 3 years ago. It's fairly quiet and great in low light. I took it to the park and shot my kids at the playground and used it for some indoor portraits. I've also noticed some improved image quality at ISO 800 and 1600 when I experimented with those settings. The depth of field is shallow at 2.8 but it makes great portraits that way! I do recommend a tripod when ever possible. The autofocus is good, but searches more if your hand is not steady. Overall, very pleased, this is a well-built lens and comes with a nice storage case...4.5 stars!
Pros
- Consistent Output
- Durable
- Easily Interchangeable
- Nice Bokeh
- Rugged
- Strong Construction
Cons
- Slow Focus
Best Uses
- Indoors/Low Light
- Landscape/Scenery
- Night Photography
- Wildlife Photos
Comments about Tamron 70-200mm f/2.8 Di LD (IF) Macro AF Lens for Pentax AF:
I purchased this lens for my hikes with my K20D when I want more reach and for idle objects or slow movement this lens will make you smile. Very sharp, even wide open. I usually shoot soccer with a Canon 7D and the 70-200 f/2.8L. Since allot has been written about the Tamron's difficulty in tracking moving targets I decided to give it a try at a soccer game yesterday. My findings are as follows... The lens has difficulty tracking a moving player in AFC mode. I used the single center point for focus and while tracking a player it constantly reacquired focus leaving me with many out of focus shots. My percentage of keepers climbed when I moved to AFS mode and I did almost as well by simply using manual focus. Remember back in the day manual focus was all the pros had and they did fine, it just takes practice. AFC and fast, erratically moving targets will leave you frustrated. With that in mind I would not suggest this lens as your primary glass for sports, That's the bad, the good is that when stopped down to f/4 or beyond the lens is very sharp, at least on the level of my 70-200L if not sharper. While not weather sealed, the build quality appears to be top notch. Yes, it's heavy, but with the right camera strap I find the weight a non issue on hikes ( I use a Black Rapid RS-5). I find the color, contrast, bokeh and sharpness exceptional, especially considering the price point. I suggest that you consider your use of this lens before you purchase. For full time sports you would probably be better served with the Sigma version. For any other shooting I think it would be difficult to beat this lens in this focal length for the Pentax bodies.
Pros
- Nice Bokeh
Cons
- Slow Focus
Best Uses
- Landscape/Scenery
- Macro Photography
- Weddings/Events
- Wildlife Photos
Comments about Tamron 70-200mm f/2.8 Di LD (IF) Macro AF Lens for Pentax AF:
I have loved this lens...as the optics is amazing - IMHO it is better than Canon 2.8 I version. But the focus is loud and bad. In the wedding you can not afford to miss focus and to be so loud. Because of this focus...now it is for sale. Planning to buy Canon 135 2.0L instead.
Pros
- Fast
- Very Sharp
Cons
- Heavy
Best Uses
- Landscape/Scenery
- Portraits
- Wildlife Photos
Comments about Tamron 70-200mm f/2.8 Di LD (IF) Macro AF Lens for Pentax AF:
I love this lens!
It's sharp - sharper than the Pentax DA* 60-250 F/4 at the same aperature & shutter. Even wide open at F/2.8 it's wonderfully sharp within the in-focus area (and with great bokeh outside.)
It's fast - fast enough that, combined with a bit of shake reduction from my K10D, I can get great shots handheld at 200mm on a cloudy Seattle day (despite the weight of the lens.)
Really the only downside is the lens' weight and size - I had to buy a new camera bag to accommodate it.
Pros
- Consistent Output
- Durable
- Easily Interchangeable
- Fast / accurate auto-focus
- Medium Weight
- Rugged
- Strong Construction
Cons
Best Uses
- Landscape/Scenery
- Sports/Action
- Weddings/Events
- Wildlife Photos
Comments about Tamron 70-200mm f/2.8 Di LD (IF) Macro AF Lens for Pentax AF:
I use the lens for my business. It is a great product , nothing bad about it !!!
Pros
- Quick Focus
Cons
- Heavy
Best Uses
- Landscape/Scenery
Comments about Tamron 70-200mm f/2.8 Di LD (IF) Macro AF Lens for Pentax AF:
Faster focus speed, maybe I use K-7, faster than I expect for Tamron lens, but too heavy
Pros
- Durable
- Easily Interchangeable
- Rugged
- Sharp Focus
- Strong Construction
Cons
Best Uses
- Sports/Action
- Wildlife
Comments about Tamron 70-200mm f/2.8 Di LD (IF) Macro AF Lens for Pentax AF:
Used for Weddings and Wildlife photos. Great in low light situations.
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- Price: $39.95
Cases & Wraps
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- Original: $11.99
- Save: $1.20
- Price: $10.79
What's in the Box
- 77mm Snap-On Lens Cap
- Rear Lens Cap for Pentax AF
- Lens Hood for the SP 70-200mm f/2.8 Di Lens
- Case
- Tripod Collar
- 6-Year Warranty
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