Tamron and Sigma focus on different segments of the full-frame mirrorless camera lens market, each targeting specific needs. Sigma produces optics for Sony E and L-mount, and Tamron – for Sony E and Nikon Z. Each company (if we talk about lenses for full-frame cameras) carefully works with its segment and does not climb into someone else’s field. Tamron 50-400mm f4.5-6.3 Nikon Z universal zoom lens has been released. Previously, this lens was available only for the Sony E-mount system.
This lens, released two years ago for the Sony system, provides an impressive 8x optical zoom. Its range of focal lengths is a standout feature. Tamron stated that they designed the new lens for various types of photography. It is suitable for sports, wildlife, portraits, and street photography.
Aperture and Focusing
There is a 9-blade diaphragm. At a focal length of 50 mm, the maximum aperture is F/4.5, and at 400 mm – F/6.3. The minimum focusing distance varies depending on the focal length. At a focal length of 50mm, a telephoto lens can focus at a distance of up to 0.25 m with a magnification ratio of 1:2.
Advanced Lens Elements
The lens’s optical design will likely remain the same as the Sony E-mount version. The Tamron 50-400mm f4.5-6.3 Nikon Z Di III VC VXD consists of 24 elements arranged in 18 groups. And be prepared for the lens to move forward when changing focal lengths (although not too much for such a large focal range).
The company uses two XLD (extra-low dispersion) lenses, one GM (glass aspherical) lens, and one hybrid aspherical lens to control optical and chromatic aberrations. Additionally, the BBAR-G2 (Broad-Band Anti-Reflection Generation 2) coating helps reduce ghosting and flare.
By the way, Nikon has a lens that is similar in versatility. The Nikkor Z 28-400mm f4-8 VR lens offers a much wider angle, enhancing its overall capabilities. However, its aperture ratio at the telephoto position is significantly lower.
Returning to the upcoming Tamron product for the Nikon Z system, the Tamron 50-400mm F4.5-6.3 Di III VC VXD lens body is now resistant to moisture and scratches. Additionally, the front element features a fluorine coating. Furthermore, it can accommodate filters with a diameter of 67 mm.
Autofocus and Stabilization
The lens features Sony’s VXD (Voice-coil eXtreme-torque Drive) autofocus system. This system integrates seamlessly with Sony’s hybrid autofocus technology. There’s also optical image stabilization (VC). Tamron says that at focal lengths up to 100mm, the lens uses AI-based technology to achieve the best level of stabilization.
The lens firmware can be updated using Tamron’s proprietary Lens Utility, which also allows photographers/videographers to limit the lens’s focusing range to improve performance when focusing on distant subjects.
Price and release date
The Tamron 50-400mm F4.5-6.3 Nikon Z Di III VC VXD lens is now available for pre-order on Bhphotovideo.com and Adorama.com for $1,299. Moreover, shipping is scheduled to begin on September 19, 2024.
Tamron 50-400mm F4.5-6.3 Nikon Z Di III VC VXD specifications
- Focal Length: 50 to 400mm
- Lens Mount: Nikon Z
- Lens Format Coverage: Full-Frame
- Focus Type: Autofocus
- Maximum Aperture: f/4.5 to 6.3
- Minimum Aperture: f/22 to 32
- Minimum Focus Distance: 9.8″ / 24.9 cm
- Maximum Magnification: 0.5x
- Macro Reproduction Ratio: 1:2
- Image Stabilization: Yes
- Front Filter Size: 67 mm
- Dimensions: 3.5 x 7.3″ / 88.5 x 185.8 mm
- Weight: 2.6 lb / 1.18 kg
