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What the Press Say . . . Tamron SP AF200-500mm F/5-6.3 Di Lens

Handling is good on this optic, with its wide, grippy zoom ring and smooth focusing action, at least in manual mode. .....
This lens delivers strong results at 200mm, and they're not far behind at 500mm, although there is a fall-off at f/22 and f/32. But how often are you going to be using f/32 at extreme telephoto.
VERDICT: With the possible exception of fast action and willdife this lens will meet all your telephoto needs.


HANDLING 20/25
FEATURES 22/25
PERFORMANCE 23/25
VALUE FOR MONEY 20/25
FINAL SCORE 85/100
PROS: Lightweight, good optical performance.
August 2006 - Photography Monthly.
Comparison test: Long zooms.

VERDICT: Light and compact enought o carry, solid performance except, possibly, for top end wildlife or fast action. A handy addition to your camera bag.
SCORE: 86/100
WHAT'S GOOD: Lightweight and compact, easy to use., performance.
August 2006 - Which Digital Camera Long Zoom Lenses - Big Lens Test

 

It's relatively light, pin-sharp and easy to use. For the specialist photographer, the focal power is supurb (especially when used on a digital SLR). Its only competitor is Sigma's 170-500mm, which is cheaper at £650, but is nine years old now.

  • RATING * * * *
  • VALUE FOR MONEY * * * *
  • November 2004

The new Tamron is a true workhorse, capable of high and consistent image quality in - for its specification - a manageable and lightweight unit. It may not give the razor-edge, brilliant images of the most expensive long teles, but it fulfils most of the demands of critical workers in the wildlife, sports - paparazzi even - specialisms for which it is intented. And the street price of around £700 may encourage some newcomers to take an interest and have a go.

  • SPECIFICATION 26/30
  • BUILD 18/20
  • HANDLING 17/20
  • PERFORMANCE 27/30
  • AP RATING 88%

This would be a very handy lens for feeding station work, or at a seabird colony where the ability to frame species at different focal lengths would save having to take a variety of lenses.
Overall, this is a very good value lens for those on a tight budget, or especially those who are just starting bird photography.