In a time when lens manufacturers, including Tamron, are pushing boundaries back, it is interesting to see Tamron introduce a new lens with the same name as the previous lens, requiring the model number to be included in references for differentiation.

I've always preferred longer focal-length macro lenses in the 90-100mm range because they give you more breathing room between the camera and skittish subjects than does standard (50/60mm) macros.

Handling and features Tamron's 90mm Macro lenses have earned an enviable reputation for optical quality and value for money over the years. With this new 90mm Macro optic, Tamron have brought their 90mm up to date with the latest technology by incorporating Vibration Compensation, silent internal...

Extremely sharp even when used at its maximum aperture, the Tamron SP 90mm F2.8 Di VC USD Macro 1:1 is one of the best macro lenses on the market, comfortably outperforming its legendary predecessor with the same focal length.

The 90mm f/2.8 Di USD VC updates Tamron's ‘classic' 90mm macro, and comes bursting with new features. It comes in Nikon, Canon and Sony mounts and fits APS-C and full-frame D-SLRs, although the Sony version doesn't feature Vibration Compensation (VC) due to the built-in IS in Sony bodies.

I purchased this lens to use with my Sony A57 (16.1 megapixel APS-C, 1.5x crop). I have three other Tamron SP lenses (A16, A005 and B01) and chose them because I felt their image quality was as good, maybe even better than the comparable Sony or Sigma lenses.

solid build; good fit & finish; very sharp at f/2.8-f/3.1 and tack sharp at f/3.5-f/16; no lateral chromatic aberration; no distortion; IF; quiet af; no front/back focus issues; smooth focus ring; moisture resistant; 6 yr warranty

a-mount connector a bit loose; sharpness declines after f/16; minor bokeh fringing from f/2.8-f/7.1; minor vignetting from f/2.8-f/3.5; lens flair; Sony version lacks VC; AF slower than expected; no case/pouch