Tamron Di III 18-300mm f/3.5-6.3 Di III-A VC VXD
Canon L EF 70-200mm f/4L IS II USM
What Buyers Say
Tamron Di III 18-300mm f/3.5-6.3 Di III-A VC VXD
The Tamron 18-300mm F/3.5-6.3 Di III-A VC VXD is widely praised as a versatile all-in-one zoom for Sony APS-C cameras. Users love the incredible 16.6x range, close focusing at the wide end, and solid image quality, though some note softness beyond 70-80mm and slow autofocus. The lens is heavier than typical crop-sensor lenses but still considered portable. A few verified buyers report issues with sharpness at the telephoto end and a stiff zoom ring, but the majority find it an excellent walk-around lens that replaces multiple primes and zooms.
Pros
- Incredible 16.6x zoom range
- Close focusing at wide end (semi-macro)
- Good image quality and color rendition
- Solid build with weather sealing
- Effective vibration compensation (VC)
Cons
- Softness beyond 70-80mm
- Slow autofocus compared to smaller zooms
- Heavy and bulky for APS-C
- Stiff zoom ring when zooming out
- Moderate distortion at both ends
Canon L EF 70-200mm f/4L IS II USM
The Canon EF 70-200mm f/4L IS II USM is widely praised for its exceptional sharpness, lightweight design, and effective image stabilization. Users consistently highlight the lens's superb image quality, fast autofocus, and excellent value compared to the heavier f/2.8 version. A few criticisms include the lack of an included tripod collar and some reports of IS noise or autofocus issues in low light. Overall, it is considered a top-tier telephoto zoom for enthusiasts and professionals who prioritize portability.
Pros
- Exceptional sharpness across zoom range
- Lightweight and portable design
- Effective 5-stop image stabilization
- Fast and accurate autofocus
- Excellent image quality and color
Cons
- Tripod collar not included
- IS noise in some units
- Autofocus issues in low light
- No teleconverter compatibility
- High price point
Scores
Specifications
| Tamron Di III 18-300mm f/3.5-6.3 Di III-A VC VXD | Canon L EF 70-200mm f/4L IS II USM | |
|---|---|---|
| Optics | ||
| Type | zoom | zoom |
| Focal Length Min | 18 mm | 70 mm |
| Focal Length Max | 300 mm | 200 mm |
| Elements | 19 | 16 |
| Groups | 5 | 15 |
| Aspherical Elements | 3★ | 0 |
| ED Elements | 4★ | 2 |
| Coating | Fluorine Coating | Super Spectra Coating |
| Aperture | ||
| Max Aperture | f/3.5 | f/32 |
| Min Aperture | 3.5-6.3 | f/4 |
| Constant | ✗ | ✓★ |
| Diaphragm Blades | 7 | 9★ |
| Build | ||
| Mount | Sony E | Canon EF |
| Format | APS-C | full-frame★ |
| Weather Sealed | ✓ | ✓ |
| Weight | 0.62 kg★ | 0.78 kg |
| Filter Thread | 67 mm | 77 mm |
| AF & Stabilization | ||
| AF Type | VXD | USM★ |
| Stabilization | ✓ | ✓ |
| Stabilization Stops | — | 5 stops★ |
| Focus | ||
| Min Focus Distance | 150 mm★ | 600 mm |
| Max Magnification | 1:2★ | 0.28x |
Pros & Cons
Tamron Di III 18-300mm f/3.5-6.3 Di III-A VC VXD
- Strong versatility (99th percentile)99th %ile
- Strong optical (95th percentile)95th %ile
- Strong macro (89th percentile)89th %ile
- Strong stabilization (81st percentile)81st %ile
Canon L EF 70-200mm f/4L IS II USM
- Strong stabilization (97th percentile)97th %ile
- Strong social proof (94th percentile)94th %ile
- Strong af (94th percentile)94th %ile
- Strong optical (83rd percentile)83rd %ile
- Below average aperture (5th percentile)5th %ile
- Below average bokeh (8th percentile)8th %ile
Pricing
Tamron Di III 18-300mm f/3.5-6.3 Di III-A VC VXD
Canon L EF 70-200mm f/4L IS II USM
No current pricing available
Verdict
Scores 92 overall, wins 9 of 9 usage categories and 5 of 22 specs.
