Tamron 100-400mm f/4.5-6.3 Di VC USD Review

Fast and quiet autofocus performance; Convenient size and weight for a lens of its pedigree; Effective Vibration Compensation (VC) system; Moisture-resistant construction;

Tripod collar adds £109 to cost of lens; Produces heavy vignetting used with full-frame DSLRs; More expensive than its closest Sigma rival; Lens hood isn't complimentary to pull zooming;

Tamron 100-400mm f/4.5-6.3 Di VC USD Review

The Tamron 100-400mm f/4.5-6.3 Di VC USD ($799) is an appealing telezoom lens for photographers using both full-frame and APS-C systems. The zoom delivers crisp images for the most part, with some issues at the edges of the frame, and boasts strong image stabilization. We give slight preference to the Sigma 100-400mm F5-6.3 DH OS HSM Contemporary, a similar zoom with an edge in sharpness at 400mm. But there are reasons to consider the Tamron, especially if you value protection from the elements. Design The Tamron 100-400mm ($799.00 at Amazon) measures 7.8 by 3.4 inches (HD), weighs 2.5 pounds, and supports 67mm front filters. It telescopes as it zooms, extending by about 3 inches in height at 400mm, and includes front and rear caps and a reversible lens hood. Tamron sells the lens in Canon EF and Nikon F mounts. Construction is sturdy, with a barrel that's a mix of metal and polycarbonate. The lens is protected against dust and moisture and sports fluorine coating on the front el...

The Tamron 100-400mm f/4.5-6.3 Di VC USD is a light, affordable telezoom lens for full-frame SLRs, but image quality suffers toward the edge of the frame.

Long telephoto reach; Optical stabilization; Fluorine lens coat; Dust and moisture protection; Optional tripod collar available; Relatively light and compact; Affordable

Soft edge performance at 100mm and 400mm; Vignette at maximum aperture; Some pincushion distortion