Tamron 18-270mm f/3.5-6.3 Di II VC PZD Review By Jason Schneider |
Article & Images By Jason Schneider |
Back in 2010 Tamron added its proprietary VC (vibration compensation) to the popular 15X 18-270mm ultra-zoom for APS-C-format DSLRs to create the Tamron 18-270mm f/3.5-6.3 Di II VC. Now this class-leading 28-419mm equivalent zoom has been taken to a new level of compactness, portability, and performance by incorporating two new systems developed by the company’s in-house R&D tech gurus—PZD Drive and the next-generation version of VC. The result is the new Tamron 18-270mm f/3.5-6.3 Di II VC PZD, a lens that’s 3-1/2 ounces lighter, 0.18 inches shorter, and 0.22 inches slimmer than its illustrious predecessor, and accepts 62mm rather than 72mm filters. That may not sound like a big difference when you check the specs, but the new lens is astonishingly compact for its focal-length range, and it balances noticeably better on compact DSLRs like the Nikon D3100, Canon EOS Rebel T3, or the camera we used for this test, the Canon T2i. Its compact ergonomic form also makes it a good choice for use with heavier medium-tier DSLRs—it’s a great match for our Canon EOS 7D. |
Piezo Drive (PZD) is an exclusive Tamron innovation based on the standing wave principle. It uses high-frequency voltage to turn a ceramic piezoelectric element with a swiveling motion, thereby turning a micro-rotor to focus the lens swiftly, silently, and with greater precision. In addition, the new lens incorporates the latest version of Tamron’s tri-axial Vibration Compensation (VC) system of in-lens image stabilization that compensates for camera shake in three planes—a big plus in achieving sharp handheld images when shooting at long focal lengths and in low light. The upgraded VC system employs a new, Lightweight Moving Coil that reduces the load on the drive system, enhancing responsiveness in counteracting camera shake, and also reduces size and weight considerably. These enhancements not only make the lens lighter and more compact, they’re also designed to provide quicker, quieter, more accurate auto-focusing. |
The main features that have made this versatile lens a best seller have thankfully been retained. Its handling and balance are excellent and its zooming action via the nicely textured, easy-to grasp 1-3/8-inch-wide zoom ring is quite smooth and well damped, requiring only moderate effort—quite an achievement considering the complex multi-cam mechanism required to cover the huge 15X zoom range. The AF system is definitely quieter than average, and quieter than its non-PZD predecessor as claimed. It’s definitely quiet enough for discreet shooting. Like its predecessor the new lens provides macro focusing down to 19.3 inches at all focal lengths (an impressive maximum magnification ratio of 1:3.8X at 270mm!) To enhance image quality it incorporates three hybrid aspheric elements, two LD (low dispersion) elements plus proprietary multi-coating on all surfaces, internal and external. |
The proof of course is in the pictures, and as you can see this lens delivers excellent image quality over its entire range—crisp, with very good color fidelity, and outstanding definition from corner to corner at all focal lengths, apertures, and shooting distances. There was no noticeable decrease in definition when shooting at the closest (near macro) distances or at the longest focal lengths—perhaps the toughest challenges when designing an extended range ultra-zoom. Linear distortion was likewise minimal, even at the 18mm wide-angle setting. We were especially impressed with the lens’s flare–free performance and excellent contrast when shooting backlit subjects or in high-contrast situations. |
The verdict: If you shoot with a consumer DSLR and are looking for a super-flexible, ultra-compact lightweight zoom that covers a remarkable 15X zoom ratio and has built-in image stabilization, take a close look at the Tamron 18-270mm f/3.5-6.3 Di II VC PZD. A lens like this is the perfect solution when you want to travel light and be prepared for just about anything. That’s true whether you’re a pro or enthusiast user of middle-tier DSLRs like the Nikon D7000 and Canon EOS 7D or a newbie who’s just acquired an entry-level DSLR. If there is such a thing as a broad-spectrum-lens, this is it. At under $700, it's an excellent value, and because of its unique wide-range capabilities it represents a very good investment in expanding your picture-taking horizons. |