Review: Tamron 28-75mm f/2.8 for Sony E-Mount

The Tamron 28-75mm f/2.8 version 1 for Sony Alpha full frame cameras was an exciting lens when it was first announced being the first truly affordable professional lens for the E-Mount. Don’t let the fact that it is a third party lens scare you. This mid-range zoom lens allows you to capture sharp images at a relatively low cost of around $700. There is a second version of this lens now but we still recommend this one because of the price on the used market. You can find the Tamron 28-75mm f/2.8 version 1 for Sony for around 600 dollars or even $550. This isn’t a G-master lens but it can provide what you need on a budget. While this lens has killer features for a killer price, there are some real downsides when it comes to this lens as well.

Below is a list of some pros and cons when it comes to the Tamron 28-75mm f/2.8 version 1 for the Sony E Mount along with it’s specs. We have also provided some photographs we took with the lens on a Sony a7iii, a7iv and the a7Riv which were also post-processed in Adobe Lightroom Classic.

Key Specs:

Weight: 1.21(lb)/550(g)
Filter Size: 67mm
Minimum Focus: 7.48″
Maximum Length: 5.64″

Pros:

Wallet Friendly – You Really can’t beat the price of this lens in 2023, especially when a Sony GM 24-70mm f/2.8 costs around $2,300 new. The value for what you get is un-heard of. It performs well with Sony’s eye auto-focus features and is a very capable lens for making videos. If you have the extra cash, I’d even consider purchasing the Tamron 17-28 f/2.8 wide angle lens for Sony full frame mirrorless along with it to have options
Light/Compact– The Tamron 28-75 f/2.8 is lightweight creating for great balance while attached to the camera. It is smaller than most zoom lenses in this category creating for a lighter and more impact load on your photography journeys.
Sharp Results – Probably the most important case for this lens is that it is sharp. You are going to get great results no matter the scenario!

Cons:

Poor Build Quality – While this lens is light and compact, it also is a big downside as it’s build quality is sub-par. It for the most part all plastic. Be very careful when using this lens in certain situations including when it is raining or even hiking.
No Auto Focus/Manual Focus Switch – This one was the biggest killer for me. Not having an AF/MF switch on the lens was a poor decision from Tamron. Having to switch your focus mode by going toggling through the Sony menu takes away precious time from getting the perfect shot especially if you are photographing concerts or sports.
No Lens Stabilization – While I can deal with this, there is no lens Stabilization built in the Tamron 28-75mm f/2.8 for the Sony E Mount
28mm Is Not Wide Enough- You would think that 4mm wouldn’t make a big difference but I really wish that this lens was a true 24-70mm focal length. That extra reach is very crucial with landscapes and event photography.