Tamron AF 55-200mm F/4-5.6 Di-II LD Macro Review
Tamron AF 55-200mm F/4-5.6 Di-II LD Macro Review
Tamron's 55-200mm lens is designed specifically for smaller digital sensors. Made from 13 elements in 9 groups, the optical train features one Low Dispersion element (LD) and also features macro capability...
Verdict
Pros
- Macro throughout, image quality
Cons
- Small manual focusing ring
Key Specifications
- Review Price: £149
Tamron’s 55-200mm lens is designed specifically for smaller digital sensors. Made from 13 elements in 9 groups, the optical train features one Low Dispersion element (LD) and also features macro capability throughout the zoom range at a 1:3.5 ratio.
The two-piece plastic barrels and lens mount keep the weight and costs down, while the zoom grip is deep and secure, though the front manual focus ring is small and quite recessed. Despite the lack of an advanced AF drive motor, autofocusing is reasonably quick and fairly quiet. The action of the motor is smooth and painless, matched by the nicely balanced and smooth zoom ring’s twist.
Image Quality
At both ends of the telephoto range the lens performs best at wide apertures, quickly peaking at f/5.6 at 55mm and f/8 at 200mm, with a rapid fall-off in resolution after the mid apertures. At 55mm, the highest resolution is impressive from such a budget lens. Chromatic aberration control is good at the wider apertures at 55mm, and central area fringing is nicely controlled throughout the focal range.
Verdict
Really a budget or starter lens, reasonably priced, but lacking the fast maximum aperture and expensive glass of more professional lenses
Trusted Score
Score in detail
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Value 9
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Design 8
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Image Quality 8
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Features 9
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Editorial independence
Editorial independence means being able to give an unbiased verdict about a product or company, with the avoidance of conflicts of interest. To ensure this is possible, every member of the editorial staff follows a clear code of conduct.
Professional conduct
We also expect our journalists to follow clear ethical standards in their work. Our staff members must strive for honesty and accuracy in everything they do. We follow the IPSO Editors’ code of practice to underpin these standards.
