Tamron 70-300mm f/4-5.6 Di VC USD SP AF

A surprising good lens, did read many reviews in order to choose between nikon 70-300 and this one , in the end the Tamron was best in most of the reviews. So bought one. (nikon was $ 713 that's $ 300 more !

Sharp; light; accurate autofocus ; inexpensive

noise; distortion

The Tamron 70-300mm f/4-5.6 SP DI VC USD features both Low Dispersion (LD) and Extra Low Dispersion (XLD) lens elements to help correct chromatic aberration and is also fitted with an Ultrasonic Silent Drive (USD) motor, as well as Tamron's Vibration Compensation (VC) mechanism to reduce the effects...

The Tamron SP designation is reserved for lenses developed with special emphasis on extraordinary photographic performance. Engineers are free to innovate in an uncommon atmosphere where optical performance comes before price, resulting in lenses that satisfy the demands of discerning photographers.

I have three lenses in this range, the Canon 70-200 f4 IS, the Canon 70-300IS and this.The Canon non-L lens and Tamron are more or less identical for sharpness with a tiny victory for the Canon, although it's more expensive.

Very good value, lens barrel nice and wide for easy gripping, good stabilisation, although does jar in the viewfinder when it comes on, fairly sharp at 70-200mm; Good warranty

Average to poor sharpness between 200-300mm, turns the opposite way from Canon lenses; Makes an odd click/crunch on mounting; I wouldn't want to get it wet