Tamron 28-75mm F2.8 G2 Lens
Tamron 28-75mm f/2.8 G2 Review: A Stellar Standard Zoom for Creators
The Tamron 28-75mm f/2.8 Di III VXD G2 is the second-generation update to one of Tamron’s best-selling zoom lenses for Sony E-mount full-frame cameras. With refined optics, a faster autofocus system, and improved build quality, it builds on the success of the original while remaining lightweight, compact, and relatively affordable.
Whether you’re a portrait photographer, travel shooter, or hybrid video creator, this lens delivers fantastic sharpness, fast autofocus, and beautiful bokeh, making it an excellent alternative to pricier native Sony zooms.
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Check Price on AmazonAt a Glance
- Focal Length: 28-75mm
- Maximum Aperture: f/2.8 (constant)
- Mount Type: Sony E (Full-Frame)
- Filter Size: 67mm
- Weight: 540g (1.19 lbs)
- Minimum Focus Distance: 0.18m (wide), 0.38m (telephoto)
- Lens Elements: 17 elements in 15 groups
- Autofocus: VXD motor (fast and silent)
- Image Stabilization: No (relies on IBIS)
- Ideal For: Portraits, travel, events, and videography
What’s New? G2 vs. the Original Tamron 28-75mm f/2.8
The original Tamron 28-75mm f/2.8 was a favorite among Sony users, but the G2 version brings notable improvements:
✔ Sharper optics with better corner performance.
✔ New VXD (Voice-coil eXtreme-torque Drive) autofocus – significantly faster and more precise.
✔ Closer focusing distances (0.18m at 28mm, 0.38m at 75mm) for better macro-like shots.
✔ More refined build quality with a stronger, redesigned lens hood.
✔ Updated lens coatings to reduce flare and ghosting.
If you’re deciding between the original and G2, the G2 version is the clear winner, especially for faster autofocus and improved image quality.
Build Quality & Handling
At 540g, the Tamron 28-75mm f/2.8 G2 maintains the lightweight and compact form factor that made the original so popular. It feels well-balanced on full-frame Sony bodies like the Sony A7IV and A7III, making it ideal for handheld shooting and travel.
Key Build Features:
✔ 67mm filter thread – Matches the Tamron 17-28mm f/2.8, making it easy to swap filters.
✔ Weather-sealed construction – Protects against dust and light moisture.
✔ Metal lens mount – Provides a durable and secure connection to your camera.
✔ Improved lens hood – More rigid design for better flare protection.
The zoom ring has a smooth feel with just the right amount of resistance, and the manual focus ring is highly responsive, making it easy to fine-tune focus in both photography and video work.
Optical Performance: Sharp, Clean, & Versatile
The G2 version brings noticeably better sharpness, especially in the corners and at longer focal lengths.
- Wide-End Sharpness (28mm): Excellent corner-to-corner sharpness, even at f/2.8.
- Portrait-Friendly (75mm): Delivers strong subject isolation with sharp details and creamy bokeh.
- Color & Contrast: The BBAR-G2 (Broad-Band Anti-Reflection) coating helps maintain rich contrast and accurate colors, minimizing ghosting and flare.
- Chromatic Aberration Control: Minimal, even in high-contrast conditions.
🚀 Who is this for? Anyone needing high-quality optics in a lightweight, do-it-all zoom—ideal for portraits, weddings, travel, and event photography.
Autofocus: VXD Motor Delivers Speed & Precision
Tamron has upgraded the G2 version with a VXD (Voice-coil eXtreme-torque Drive) autofocus motor, significantly improving both speed and accuracy.
✔ Fast, nearly silent focusing – Perfect for photo and video work.
✔ Works seamlessly with Sony’s Eye AF & Fast Hybrid AF – Ideal for portraits and action photography.
✔ Locks onto subjects quickly, even in low-light conditions.
📹 For Video Creators: The autofocus is smooth and accurate, with minimal focus breathing, making it a great choice for video shooters who need reliable tracking.
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Close-Up Performance: Surprisingly Versatile
One of the biggest improvements in the G2 version is the closer minimum focusing distance.
- At 28mm: Focus as close as 0.18m (7.1 inches).
- At 75mm: Focus at 0.38m (15 inches).
This makes the lens fantastic for detail shots, such as food, products, and flowers, giving it unexpected macro capabilities.
Bokeh & Low-Light Performance
The 9-blade rounded aperture creates smooth, natural bokeh, making backgrounds look soft and cinematic.
- At f/2.8, subject separation is excellent, especially at 75mm.
- Low-light performance is solid, thanks to the constant f/2.8 aperture—ideal for shooting in dim environments without boosting ISO too much.
Pros & Cons
Pros:
✅ Excellent image sharpness across the zoom range.
✅ Fast and silent VXD autofocus – perfect for both photo & video.
✅ Compact & lightweight design – easy for travel and handheld shooting.
✅ Weather-sealed construction for added durability.
✅ Great close-up focusing ability for creative shots.
✅ Better flare resistance with BBAR-G2 coatings.
Cons:
❌ Slight barrel distortion at 28mm (easily correctable).
❌ No built-in stabilization – relies on Sony’s IBIS.
Where to Buy the Tamron 28-75mm f/2.8 G2 Lens
Ready to add the Tamron 28-75mm f/2.8 G2 to your kit? Check it out here:
Final Thoughts
The Tamron 28-75mm f/2.8 G2 is a worthy successor to the original, offering better sharpness, faster autofocus, and improved close-up performance while keeping its compact, lightweight design.
🔥 Perfect for: Portraits, weddings, travel, and hybrid shooters needing a versatile zoom.
🚀 Pairs well with: The Tamron 17-28mm f/2.8, covering an ultra-wide-to-telephoto range without breaking the bank.
If you’re using a Sony A7III or A7IV, this lens feels like a natural fit, giving you pro-level results without the premium price tag.
🚀 For most Sony shooters, this is the best standard zoom at its price point.