Tamron unveils new and improved 150-600mm ultra-telephoto lens

By Gannon Burgett September 6, 2016

tamron 150 600 mm lens stabilization 600mm 1 — Image used with permission by copyright holder

Tamron has launched an updated version of its incredibly versatile 150-600mm ultra-telephoto lens, improving upon its predecessor with a cleaner design, much improved autofocus and better optical elements.

Designed for nature, wildlife, and sports photography, the new SP 150-600mm f/5-6.3 Di VC USD G2 lens features 21 elements in 13 groups — one more element than its 3-year-old predecessor has.

Of the 21 optical elements, three of them are low-dispersion elements made to reduce chromatic aberration. Tamron’s proprietary Extended Bandwidth & Angular Dependency (eBAND) and Broadband Anti-reflection (BBAR) coatings have also been added to the optical elements to reduce ghosting and flaring in images.

A fluorine coating has been added to the front element of the lens to make it more resistant to unwanted moisture and oils. The coating also makes it easier to wipe clean when it becomes smudged.

Inside the lens is a brand new image stabilization system that offers three separate modes for various shooting situations. Tamron claims the new system can offer up to four and a half stops of compensation, an impressive feat that will be especially useful at the longer focal lengths.

Tamron 150-600mm 2 — Image used with permission by copyright holder

Autofocus has also made an improvement in this second-generation lens. Tamron’s Ultrasonic Silent Drive (USD) ring-type motor is said to offer better responsiveness and control over its predecessor.

Like many of Tamron’s recent lenses, the SP 150-600mm f/5-6.3 Di VC USD G2 is compatible with Tamron’s TAP-in Console, which lets you fine-tune various settings and modes in the lens by connecting it to your computer.

Another noteworthy feature is a new Flex Zoom Lock mechanism, which lets you quickly lock zoom at a certain distance and keep it there without the worry of bumping the ring.

The SP 150-600mm F5-6.3 Di VC USD G2 is set to retail for $1,400 and will be available for Canon and Nikon mounts late September. A Sony A-mount version will be available shortly after.

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