Tamron AF18-270mm f/3.5-6.3 Di-II VC LD Asph. (IF) Macro Lens
- Price: $399.95
- Free Shipping (USA)
- In Stock
Not compatible with 35mm cameras or digital cameras using full-size (FX) image sensors
The Tamron AF18-270mm f/3.5-6.3 Di-II VC LD Aspherical (IF) Macro Lens is a 15x high power zoom lens designed exclusively for digital SLR cameras using the more compact (APS-C) digital size image sensors. The focal length of this lens is equivalent to approx. 27-405mm in 35mm format. Designed as an "all-in-one" lens, it will meet almost all photographic opportunities without changing lenses.
The VC (Vibration Compensation) mechanism allows the use of shutter speeds that are much slower than otherwise possible, with no perceptible increase in image blur. It automatically detects movement of the camera and compensates for camera shake when shooting a moving object. This feature is a must in a lens with this long of a focal length.
The AF18-270mm lens, made for the Nikon digital SLR system, incorporates a motor built into the lens itself, which gives it the capability to autofocus with all Nikon DSLR cameras (including the D40 and D40x). In addition, with the motor built into the lens, focusing will be quieter and more responsive.
- Special Glass Optimized for Digital SLR
- Three hybrid aspherical lens elements and two LD (Low Dispersion) glass elements are used to accomplish effective compensation of on-axis and lateral chromatic aberrations, a critical factor to enhance the optical quality in digital photography.
- Di-II Series Design
- Design has been improved by adding a gold-colored band between the focus and zoom rings to enhance the appearance and make it stand out as a Di-II lens. The rubber patterns of the zoom and focus control rings have been improved at the same time to compliment the digital camera design style and to provide better handling.
Go To
| Performance | |
|---|---|
| Focal Length | 18 - 270 mm |
| Aperture |
Maximum: f/3.5 - 6.3 Minimum: f/22 - 40 |
| Camera Mount Type | Nikon F |
| Format Compatibility |
Nikon DX FX in DX Crop Mode |
| Angle of View | 75° - 5° |
| Minimum Focus Distance | 1.61' (49 cm) |
| Magnification | 0.28x |
| Maximum Reproduction Ratio | 1:3.5 |
| Groups/Elements | 13/18 |
| Diaphragm Blades | 7 |
| Features | |
|---|---|
| Image Stabilization | Yes |
| Autofocus | Yes |
| Tripod Collar | No |
| Physical | |
|---|---|
| Filter Thread | 72 mm |
| Dimensions (DxL) | Approx. 3.1 x 3.9" (7.87 x 9.91 cm) |
| Weight | 1.21 lb (550 g) |
REVIEW SNAPSHOT®
by PowerReviews(based on 192 reviews)
Ratings Distribution
85%
of respondents would recommend this to a friend.
Pros
- Fast / accurate auto-focus (124)
- Consistent output (101)
- Easily interchangeable (98)
- Strong construction (75)
- Durable (69)
Cons
- Lens creep (58)
- Heavy (53)
- Slow focus (42)
- Poor in low light (14)
- Blurry focus (8)
Best Uses
- Landscape/scenery (120)
- Wildlife photos (74)
- Sports/action (55)
- Macro photography (41)
- Weddings (38)
- Reviewer Profile:
- Photo enthusiast (93), Casual photographer (29), Semi-pro photographer (27), Enthusiast (20), Semi-professional (9)
- Was this a gift?:
- No (83), Yes (14)
Most Liked Positive Review
Better than perfect!
This lens is simply amazing! The convenience factor is obvious, but it doesn't make it unique. You can get the 18-200mm Nikkor or the (much cheaper) Sigma equivalent, both of which ...Read complete review
This lens is simply amazing! The convenience factor is obvious, but it doesn't make it unique. You can get the 18-200mm Nikkor or the (much cheaper) Sigma equivalent, both of which have similar zoom ranges and other specs. Yes, the Tamron is sharper than the Nikkor. Yes, it has a few extra mm at the long end, but so what. The big difference comes from the image stabilization system. It's different and better than what both Nikon and Sigma use. If you're careful, you can hand hold the Tamron and get perfect images at 1/2 of a second at the 18mm end and 1/15 at 270mm!!! This is simply impossible with the Nikkors (I tried it with 18-200mm and 70-200mm VR - you can't even come close). Also, there is no image shake in the finder and no noise. If not for the shallow depth of field that they produce, I would probably sell all my fast primes.
Now, the lens is not as sharp as the 17-35mm or the 28-70, or the 70-200m 2.8 Pro Nikkors when these lenses are stopped down. However, it is sharper stopped down than all of the Pro Nikkors wide open and given how great its image stabilization is, you can afford to stop it down even in dark conditions. Compared with Nikkor 18-200mm it's a clear winner in every respect other than the lack of a ring motor (it does have a built-in motor - it just doesn't let you focus manually without switching to MF mode).
The feel of the lens is mediocre, but not inferior to the 18-200mm VR Nikkor. It is a bit soft at the edges at the 270mm end, but still usable. The zoom ring doesn't rotate smoothly, which is annoying. You get the usual variety of weird distortions typical to super-zooms. Nevertheless, it is, in my view, by far the best DX format superzoom available. I would recommend it to anybody (my mother included) not only as a walk-about lens or a kit lens replacement, but also as an excellent available-light lens.
I wish Tamron licensed its stabilization technology to Nikon - if Nikon incorporated it into their pro zooms, I'd be first in line to spend a small fortune on these things.
VS
Most Liked Negative Review
Poor Lens, Please don't buy
I was very excited for this lens, read all the reviews, positive and negative and decided to go for this lens. I liked it initially when I checked it indoors. Photos were very ...Read complete review
I was very excited for this lens, read all the reviews, positive and negative and decided to go for this lens. I liked it initially when I checked it indoors. Photos were very bright and nice and probably I liked this lens over Nikon lens at that time.
I took it on my vacation and left my nikon 18-55 and 55-200 lenses at home which was my biggest mistake.
This lens worked nicely for initial 10-15 photos and then it my Nikon camera started giving me frequent messages "Lens not attached". I had to switch off my camera 3-4 times before I could click one or two photos and again the same message even I didn't switch off the camera.
Well then auto focus stopped working.. AF was not doing anything once for every 4 clicks. Well AF never worked if I switched on the camera which lens was at 270 zoom. The only way to get that working was to switch on the camera at 100 and then go to 270.
Rest all the negative comments given by other reviewers which I ignored while deciding for this lense like :
Lens Creep - its there - if you point the camera up, my lens falls back in
Image quality - Virtually all of my pictures are soft!
Zoom ring doesn't move smoothly between 70 and 150 mm.
Zoom difficult to move in vertical when pointing up or pointing down. It works normally on horizontal position
mainly very frequent "Lens Not Attached" Error.
I am returning this lens today. Can't recommend this to anyone, Don't go for cheap lens, just go for Nikon 18-200 if you need a good lens
Reviewed by 192 customers
Sort by
Displaying reviews 1-20
Previous | Next »
Pros
- Consistent Output
- Durable
- Easily Interchangeable
- Fast / accurate auto-focus
- Lightweight
- Strong Construction
Cons
- Heavy
Best Uses
- Landscape/Scenery
- Macro Photography
- Wildlife Photos
Comments about Tamron AF18-270mm f/3.5-6.3 Di-II VC LD Asph. (IF) Macro Lens:
I just upgraded to the Tamron AF18-270mm after my Tamron 18-200mm was damaged on a volcano. I am thrilled with the clarity and crispness of my photos. Even shooting moving birds at very far distances I am able to see very distinct details in the photos. I love the zoom ability and the vibration stability feature. It has made a significant difference in the quality of my photographs. The success rate of my photos has greatly increased (translation: fewer photos to delete).
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Bottom Line Yes, I would recommend this to a friend
Images shared by Neeter
Waiting for spring
Was this review helpful? Yes / No
- You may also flag this review
Pros
- Jack of all trades
Cons
- Resistance when zooming
Best Uses
- All in one Lens
Comments about Tamron AF18-270mm f/3.5-6.3 Di-II VC LD Asph. (IF) Macro Lens:
I've only been using it for a few weeks (Christmas gift), but so far I'm pleased with this lens. I did have to return the first one I had do to a loose screw in the barrel. However, the replacement has been working like a champ. Happy with B&H customer service, and had the Tamron warranty to fall back on. This is my second Tamron lens and it's performing admirably. First one was a wide angle zoom, and this one has replaced it as my stock lens so I don't miss opportune shots with my 2-year old. So far no complaints.
- Was this a gift?:
- Yes
Pros
- Consistent Output
- Easily Interchangeable
- Fast / accurate auto-focus
Cons
- Heavy
Best Uses
- Landscape/Scenery
- Macro Photography
- Wildlife Photos
Comments about Tamron AF18-270mm f/3.5-6.3 Di-II VC LD Asph. (IF) Macro Lens:
Yes, it IS heavy, and a bit noisy, but from inside shooting pictures of birds on the feeder, it also is a great lens! I carefully read all the reviews and have not had any of the problems listed i.e. stiff lens action or lens creep. I really like this lens.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Strong Construction
Cons
- Slow Focus
Best Uses
- Landscape/Scenery
Comments about Tamron AF18-270mm f/3.5-6.3 Di-II VC LD Asph. (IF) Macro Lens:
With a D40, it works well on indoor pictures and excellent for outdoor lighting. It is a little noisy, as some reviews have stated, but not much more than the shutter sound on my camera. I've not found a situation where the noise it makes is of any adverse consequences. I've used it for over a month, including a vacation trip to Florida. The extra zoom I now have, over my old 18-55 lens, was well worth the money. Make sure you order a polorizing filter from B&H as I've found the 72mm filter a little difficult to find.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Lightweight
- Strong Construction
Cons
Best Uses
- Indoors/Low Light
- Landscape/Scenery
- Weddings/Events
Comments about Tamron AF18-270mm f/3.5-6.3 Di-II VC LD Asph. (IF) Macro Lens:
Got a grat deal an so much better than my old 18-55mm will definitely buy from B&H again
- Was this a gift?:
- Yes
Pros
- Consistent Output
- Fast / accurate auto-focus
- Rugged
Cons
- Heavy
Best Uses
- Landscape/Scenery
- Macro Photography
Comments about Tamron AF18-270mm f/3.5-6.3 Di-II VC LD Asph. (IF) Macro Lens:
As an amateur photographer ,this lens has meet my expectation and than some .I do a lot of macros' pictures, i will recomend it to anyone .
- Was this a gift?:
- Yes
Pros
- Fast / accurate auto-focus
Cons
- Heavy
Best Uses
- Landscape/Scenery
Comments about Tamron AF18-270mm f/3.5-6.3 Di-II VC LD Asph. (IF) Macro Lens:
I am very much an amateur photographer so do not use many of the functions on my camera. I was a bit worried by some of the reviews I read about this lens - particularly slow focus at maximum zoom and concerns about vibration compensation. There were also issues in reviews about "zoom creep" where the lens would move under its own weight. I was pleasantly surprised. Focus seems to be as quick as my 80 - 240 lens and I do not see any issues with vibration even at extreme zoom. I haven't used it a great deal so I can't really endorse its performance yet. On zoom creep, I usually hold the zoom ring when shooting so that isn't a problem for me either. Biggest problem I have so far is the weight but, for a lens that has that level of flexibility, it is understandable that it will be heavy. Overall I'm impressed.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Consistent Output
- Durable
- Easily Interchangeable
- Strong Construction
Cons
- Heavy
- Slow Focus
Best Uses
- Indoors/Low Light
- Landscape/Scenery
- Macro Photography
- Night Photography
- Sports/Action
Comments about Tamron AF18-270mm f/3.5-6.3 Di-II VC LD Asph. (IF) Macro Lens:
Use the lens on vacation and shooting grandson's activities. Able to take up close shots as well as long distance shots without changing lenses. It's a little larger in circumfrance than I expected and just fits my camera bag.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Consistent Output
- Convenient
- Nice Bokeh
Cons
- Poor in Low Light
Best Uses
- Landscape/Scenery
- Sports/Action
- Weddings/Events
- Wildlife Photos
Comments about Tamron AF18-270mm f/3.5-6.3 Di-II VC LD Asph. (IF) Macro Lens:
I am pleased to own this lens. I have been able to capture shots at distances I would have missed before I got it. I recently gave it a workout at a party I attended and got some great head shots as well as wide angle scenes all from the same lens. The first thing I noticed when I put the lens on the camera was the stiffness at about the halfway point when zooming in. It seems to be loosening up a little, though. The VC works great. I have a Sigma as well as a Nikon lens with "camera shake" compensation and neither one works even close as good as the two Tamrons I have. Get ready to beef up the ISO on long zooms especially indoors. I will probably continue to keep this lens on my go-to camera. It's very convenient and takes at least good images.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Easily Interchangeable
- Fast / accurate auto-focus
- Strong Construction
Cons
Best Uses
- Landscape/Scenery
- Macro Photography
- Sports/Action
- Wildlife Photos
Comments about Tamron AF18-270mm f/3.5-6.3 Di-II VC LD Asph. (IF) Macro Lens:
I have this lense on my D80 Nikon. This 18-270mm lens takes the place of two lens (18-55mm and 55-200mm).
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Consistent Output
- Durable
- Easily Interchangeable
- Fast / accurate auto-focus
- Nice Bokeh
- Rangefast focussharp
- Rugged
- Strong Construction
Cons
- None so far
Best Uses
- Indoors/Low Light
- Landscape/Scenery
- Macro Photography
- Wildlife Photos
Comments about Tamron AF18-270mm f/3.5-6.3 Di-II VC LD Asph. (IF) Macro Lens:
bought this lens from B&H, got it next day, tried it and it works beautifully. From macro all the way to 270mm goes into focus very fast and makes
sharp pictures. Also enjoy the lens lock feature whereby when carring lens on camera on your shoulder it cannot "creep" outward, like other tele's do. Would recommend this lens highly. Friend also bought it same time from B&H, and loves it also.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Consistent Output
- Easily Interchangeable
- Fast / accurate auto-focus
- Lightweight
Cons
- Lens Creep
Best Uses
- Landscape/Scenery
Comments about Tamron AF18-270mm f/3.5-6.3 Di-II VC LD Asph. (IF) Macro Lens:
I am a recreational photographer who likes good quality images, good color, excellent clarity, resolution, and ease of use. This lens accomplishes it all. I do not like having to change lenses all of the time in order to make various shots. I am using this lens on a Nikon D40. The zoom range on this lens is exceptional. The auto focusing is fast and accurate, and the the image stabilization works great, as well.
If I had to say there is a drawback to this lens (and this is why I gave it a 4 star and not 5), it would be that when operating the telephoto portion of the lens, it is not mechanically smooth in operation throughout the full range. Although this does not affect the quality of the pictures, it is noticeable to me and is something that should be addressed by the manufacturer.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
Cons
- Lens Creep
- Slow Focus
Best Uses
Comments about Tamron AF18-270mm f/3.5-6.3 Di-II VC LD Asph. (IF) Macro Lens:
I returned this item. This lens is very slow in focusing. I liked color and clarity of the photos, but returned item and I am going to order the faster newer model.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Rugged
Cons
- Heavy
Best Uses
- Landscape/Scenery
Comments about Tamron AF18-270mm f/3.5-6.3 Di-II VC LD Asph. (IF) Macro Lens:
I bought it used at a street price and wow- it can cover a lot of area. This is the range I always wanted. It performs well in different situations. The VC is a blessing in the sky when lights get dim. The focus motor can be heard but thats if your in silence- out in public I forget its there. I bought a bigger strap for the camera because it can get a bit heavy after a while. Nevertheless, I give four stars and thats because the zoom ring can be a challenge. I learned a little on how to handle the shortcoming but I keep suing it and I am more than happy for what I paid.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Comments about Tamron AF18-270mm f/3.5-6.3 Di-II VC LD Asph. (IF) Macro Lens:
This is a Christmas gift for my daughter. It was the one and only thing on her list so I am sure she will be thrilled to have it. She wants to go to Brooks College next year for Photo Journalism !
Pros
- Fast / accurate auto-focus
Cons
Best Uses
- Landscape/Scenery
- Macro Photography
- Night Photography
- Sports/Action
- Weddings/Events
- Wildlife Photos
Comments about Tamron AF18-270mm f/3.5-6.3 Di-II VC LD Asph. (IF) Macro Lens:
Advanced non-pro user. Clarity is super sharp would highly recommend to anyone. Fast auto-focus. Great in low light.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Tamron AF18-270mm f/3.5-6.3 Di-II VC LD Asph. (IF) Macro Lens:
When zooming in and out, the barrel is nice and smooth until you reach the midpoint, where it becomes "sticky" and a fare amount of force is needed to over come the resistance. Also, a very loud lens. I was not happy with this lens and the item was returned. May just been a bad lens...who know. Replaced it with a 55 -300 from nikon...and i love it!
Pros
Cons
- Heavy
- Slow Focus
Best Uses
- Landscape/Scenery
- Sports/Action
- Video
- Weddings/Events
- Wildlife Photos
Comments about Tamron AF18-270mm f/3.5-6.3 Di-II VC LD Asph. (IF) Macro Lens:
The versatility of this lens covering wide to tele is unsurpassed. The drawback of it's weight is compensated by not having to lug two lenses. The focus is somewhat slow especially in low light situations but is prompt in good light. I have not tried the lighter piezo drive version but am happy with this lens which replaced my 18-200 zoom without VC.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Easily Interchangeable
- Fast / accurate auto-focus
- Strong Construction
Cons
- Heavy
Best Uses
- Indoors/Low Light
- Landscape/Scenery
- Macro Photography
- Night Photography
- Sports/Action
- Weddings/Events
- Wildlife Photos
Comments about Tamron AF18-270mm f/3.5-6.3 Di-II VC LD Asph. (IF) Macro Lens:
Great fit-all lens for amature photographer. Love the super zoom and VC feature. Good value.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Fast / accurate auto-focus
- Lightweight
Cons
Best Uses
- Indoors/Low Light
- Macro Photography
- Sports/Action
- Video
Comments about Tamron AF18-270mm f/3.5-6.3 Di-II VC LD Asph. (IF) Macro Lens:
This lens serves the exact purpose I was looking. It provides the wide angle as well as the zoom feature...all in one!
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Displaying reviews 1-20
Previous | Next »
Filters & Filter Kits
- Price: $31.50
- Price: $44.39
Hoods & Covers
- Price: $39.95
Cases & Wraps
- Price: $11.99
Protective Wraps & Mats
- Price: $11.95
What's in the Box
- Front & Rear Lens Caps
- Lens Hood
- 6-Year Warranty
Why Shop at B&H
Make your online shopping trip personal with our online Live Chat representatives. You can easily reach an in-house expert while browsing our site for your shopping needs. We have the most highly-trained staff in the industry who are pros in their fields, and their professional expertise will help you get the most from your purchase.
Place your domestic order with us for shipment via UPS, FedEx Economy, or FedEx Priority by 4 PM ET Monday through Thursday or 11 AM ET Friday and your order will be shipped that day. Visit our Shipping Delivery Times page for further details. Delivery times are subject to payment verification.
We appreciate your purchase from us, and we understand that sometimes the products you buy don’t turn out to be the right choice for you. We guarantee your peace of mind with our 30-day return policy. With no standard restocking fee and few restrictions, you’ll enjoy a return process as easy as shopping with us. Please visit our Return Policy page for further details.
We’ve made iPhone and Android mobile apps available for your service and shopping convenience. Use filtered search to find and purchase almost any item we sell and ship worldwide. Download product manuals and guides for many popular items. See high-resolution product images in close-up detail. Manage wishlists and view order history. Visit our Mobile Apps page to download.
See sample Newsletter
Help
Company Information
B&H Resources
