I realise this may be unrelated but i thought I would throw this out there. I have had the old version featured in this video for about 2 years. Never had any problems until recently when I realised the autofocus had stopped working. For weeks I couldn't figure out the issue until today I noticed that the zoom function appeared to be loose. Upon further inspection I realised that there were 3 screws located around the front lens under the circular self adhesive cover. Upon removing this I noticed 2 of the screws were almost falling out. After tightening these the autofocus was back to normal. Anyway I hope this helps someone in the future who is having similar issues. Peace 🤘
Conclusion - if you have the old lens - keep it, no need to upgrade. If you are planing to buy a new ultra wide lens - spend the 100 extra dollars, even if it's for better video stabilization alone.
I love the Tamron family. I left Canon lenses long ago due to poor quality and always was a Tamron user. I finally tried the Canon 24-70 2.8 I and as I figured, sorry I spent the money, very poor quality and suffered back focusing like was reported by other users and Canon support could not fix it after 3 times of sending it back so then I went back to Tamron 24-70 and 70-200 G2 and never been happier. I can now hand hold the 70-200 2.8 VC thru ceremonies at weddings with no tripod (no flash) with excellent results. Great review as always Patrick.
Such bulsh*t, if that would be an accurate statement then you wouldn't see so many pros still rocking L canon lenses. I'm not taking anything from Tamron but sh*tting on Canon won't make you righteous nor accurate in your statement.
Very nice comparison I have wanted an ultra-wide for a while and was saving for the 14-24 2.8 from Nikon when I saw a lab test of both the Tamron and Nikon. For years the 14-24 has the reputation of being the best WA lenses, zoom or prime but it appeared that the Tamron was as good or better in some criteria. Two things swayed me to get the15-30, price and VC. I am very happy with it, mine happened to be the G2 but on my D800 or D850 it would not have made much difference. What has made my choice of G-2 worth the extra $100 was when I found it did not work at all on my new Z7 mirrorless. One of the main differences with the G2 is being able to update the firmware via the Tap-In adaptor. The Tap-In is a no brainer, simple update. Just attach the Tap-in console by USB cable to my laptop and open the application. From there one, it did the work of determining the current version, going to the Tamron web site to retrieve the new firmware, and installed it. Removed the Tap-In and connected it to the Z and everything worked. With the VC plus IBIS working together, the handheld limit for me is about 1 sec at 30 and 2 sec at 15mm. This is a great combination for hybrid shooters. The feel of the lens in hand is impressive, smooth, firm, solid. I really think it is a better lens for everything I care about than the 14-24 and $600 less. This was my first Tamron and I will be seriously considering their other G2 lenses in the future. One of my most used lenses is the 70-200 2.8 VR that I have had for years and it has been a workhorse with over 1million frames through it but it is showing the age and tech so looking at the new Nikon 70-200 E version at $2800 I balk at that price and will be checking the G2.
I used the original 15-30mm for just over a year for my real estate photography and it served me pretty well, except that it is really much closer to 16mm on the wide end and that little bit did make a difference in many situations, especially in smaller homes. For the past few months I've been using the Sigma 12-24 and it is MUCH more useful for what I need it for. I still take the Tamron on me when we go on vacations since it does have VC, where the Sigma does not (which for work isn't an issue since I do almost all shooting on a tripod).
My biggest take away from this video is that the new lens delivers incremental refinements that don't concern me, and that I might want to look on the used market for the 15-30 SP lens for my Nikon bodies.
Yes, I was saving up to buy the Tamron 15-30mm SP for my Nikon when the G2 was released. I saw the second hand market peak with people I imagine trying to sell their SP lenses to get the new G2 lens. Now, having heard so much great stuff about the original SP lens and seeing "As New" versions of the SP available on Amazon for about 40% less than the G2 (in Japan, the G2 sells for about 130,000 yen, a new SP for 107,000 yen and I picked up my "As New" one which literally was as good as any new lens I've bought for 85,000 yen). Because I went with a second hand SP instead of a new G2, I spent my savings on the Haida filter system and a 10 Stop ND filter. Now, having watched this video, bearing in mind that photography is purely my hobby (but of course, want to take the best photos I can) - I can safely say that buying a used version of the SP lens is well worth it in my opinion. It was and still is an amazing lens.
Recently switched to Sony and I’m glad when I go to sell my 15-30 SP it still has value and the G2 didn’t destroy the re-sell market of the older lens!
Thanks for a very useful video. I too had both the Tamron 24-70 & 70-200 2.8's G2 version. I added, great deal, the original SP 15-30 2.8 to my D850 - literally the day before Tamron announced the G2 version :( great timing :( so, I've been considering an upgrade. after watching your results, and as I will shoot little video with this lens, I won't be upgrading. Thanks again for some very helpful info.
Not going to lie; I really enjoy my G2 but I find that the low light AF on it is pretty terrible. I have an older Tamron lens that never exhibited such a problem. Thought it was just the lens, sent it back and got a new one but the problem persisted. Not a huge deal for me, but wasn't super happy about the issue.
Thanks for this, I recently got the SP version because it was really discounted a few weeks ago and was wondering how much I was missing out on by not getting G2
Yeah, I wanted to mention that in the video but by the time it was edited, the deal was off. For $800-$900, I can't see why you wouldn't snag that version up immediately. -P
I am missing a bit of conclusion here. I'd say for photography go with the old one that is available at a lower price( I see a price difference of about 300€). For videography go with the G2
I don't know if I might change my sp normal one, because, no one looks at a photo at 200% only us, photographers. My photographs with the older tamron, still works wonderfully well! ;)thank you for a very useful video!
I have shot the SP version for the last couple years for real estate photography. One test that would have been nice to show is sun flaring when shooting into the sun. the SP version is notorious for pretty bad flaring. I heard the G2 has better coating and different hood that may help. Let me know if you have witnessed any changes to flaring when shooting into the sun or direct light source.
guys, i want to tell you something about G1. it worked for both me and my friend on Canon EF. there are 2 spacer calibration rings under the bayonet mount. remove one and the lens becomes almost parfocal PLUS it consistently focuses right at 15mm, no matter if the subject is close or near infinity. in "stock" condition the G1 sometimes has trouble focusing at objects close to infinity. you can either microadjust the wide-zomm-position to work okay with close subjects, or to work well around infinity. Also, it brings W and T microadjustments values closer together. you lose something, too. infinity hard stop at 15mm.
I'm my experience if the lens has less than a 10% advantage it comes down to a combination of either user error or lens variation. when you really start to split hairs like this and compare lenses you will find a tremendous amount of variation in the 5 to 10% range. I literally went through this when I was testing to 16-35 trying to decide which one to purchase, I was amazed how different they actually were. Now to be fair both were very good but if you were splitting hairs one had advantages over the other in different setups
Sample variation is a very real problem and sometimes much more than you're describing here. Some lenses are known for sample variation problems like the original Canon 100-400mm IS lens or the Nikon 200-500mm lens. Both are known to have huge differences in image sharpness from lens to lens, meaning "sample variation" and meaning you NEED to test the lens before you buy it. I have seen this problem even with very expensive lenses such as the new $2800 Nikon 70-200mm F2.8 FL lens, which I bought about 6 months ago. I had to buy and test three copies of that lens to get one that I thought was as close to "perfect" as I could. One was pretty bad compared to the other's and I was very shocked by this as these lenses are pretty much hand made in Japan and cost so much money it's ridiculous!
just wanted to add - Make sure you buy a G2 lens if you have or plan to buy a Nikon Z series body. Only the G2's will work properly and the older series cannot and will not be updated.
Yes, I'm now stuck with my older generation and thinking about switching to the z6. Tried it out once with the g1 lens and the af was terrible on low light. How is it with the g2? :)
Very nice video, thanks! You mentioned in the video that you were going to test if the allegedly better coating would work out, but you didn't. Could you add something here regarding flare resistance? That would be really helpful.
Pair this with the Tamron 70-200 f/2.8 VC G2 and you will have the perfect do anything pair of zooms for the same price as a single Nikon 70-200 f/2.8E lens. That main problem I've always had with Nikon wide zooms is that the 14-24 is not long enough to replace a 24-70 really and the 17-35 and 16-35 f/4 aren't up to the same level optically. So if you want the best optics and wider than 24 you had to run 3 lenses and be changing them even if you have 2 bodies and if you wanted to run 2 lenses and not change them you had to compromise the wide zoom performance to do it. Tamron's 15-30 solves this problem. But Nikon should really do it themselves. one of the most popular wedding/event kits is a 17/16-35 and 70-200 setup. But given the 24-70E and 70-200E are out the 14-24 is probably the next lens to get updated. it will be interesting to see if ends up being a 14-30 to better compete with Tamron or if they stick with 14-24.
The Tamron 28-75mm F/2.8 for Sony E-mount is great - I just hope they have plans to release an E-mount version of this 15-30mm lens soon as well, or at least before I pull the trigger on a horribly expensive 16-35mm G Master instead...
Actually, you can use filters on the Nikon version with a kit from Lee filters and I've seen another brand also that will work just fine. There are options.
Correction for earlier comment about Tamron - Tap-in console. Sorry, more explanation needed. What I should have said was the Tap-in console hooks to the bottom of the lens with the usb cable going to the computer for firmware updates - not a separate usb port.
I hope they corrected the issues with the lens focus motor, I had to send back the 150-600 G2 and the 45mm prime, both had issues with the auto focus motor
Considering the sharpness difference between opposing corners, you my need to consider having your camera body’s mounting plate recalibrated. They do get out of square over time, and a reputable camera repair company should be able to perform this task.
A lot of photogs use VC/VR/IS/OSS or whatever the heck to excuse themselves from using tripods, but I think the real purpose of VC is for filmmakers. I would never push the limits of a lens on a full frame body because ISO is more than capable of making up for your quicker shutter speeds. Maybe not so much on crop bodies, however.
Form landscape photography perspective, both lenses seem to have an issue: you'll struggle to find a filter mount for it. And if you find one, it'll be very big and expensive.
This is true and one of the reasons I never bought the Nikon 12-24. This is really for those who need the 2.8 aperture for astrophotography, weddings, low light, etc. -P
I own the same camera and I have found that with my Zeiss 35mm f/1.4 lens that the purple fringing is being caused by the D850 being set on vivid, Set it to landscape or any other and the fringing will no longer appear. Now seeing your Tamron lens doing the same as my Zeiss lens its more than likely the camera causing it.
Confirms most of things I thought when tamron released the g2 version of this lens. I have the SP, the only thing I want from the g2 lens is the video stability. Otherwise there is virtually no difference. Also when the SP was released it was cheap, then they put up the price. I got mine when I saw prices were going up.... £850 instead of £930. I had the do a lot of searching to get it at that price.
Thanks for the review and thanks for mentioning the filter options. I use filters quite a bit for long shutter landscape shots and the Canon 16-35 is still the only option I'm aware of that takes standard 77mm filters. Definitely something to consider if you have a few hundred dollars in filters that you'd like to use on your wide angle.
Canon of course makes the 11-24mm F4 lens, which yes is obviously not a 2.8 lens. However it is an "L" lens and is very professionally built, etc. It might as well be a 2.8 lens, because you don't really need f2.8 when shooting at 11-14mm since everything is pretty much in focus. By the way the 11-24mm is almost double the price as most wide 2.8 lenses at around $3200.
Sunstars of the original are excellent, beat the 14-24mm (which are weak and too many points) and I really am critical of these things as I think it adds to landscape shots. I hope the new lens is as good in this regard.
That's really a specialty lens for astrophotography. The f/1.8 can help out a ton with keeping your iso and exposure times down but for a general landscape or architecture lens it isn't versatile enough for me. -P
I did a semi review on that lens on our channel. It's a great lens, probably even better for landscapes if you hike and want to use filters. I'd still go for the 15-30 for one lens in my bag just in case I want to shoot wider or want the shoot the stars but the 17-35 for landscapes is a winner too. -P
Fstoppers thank you for the reply! I’m looking for an astrophotography & landscape lens for my D850 and liked the idea that I could still use my CPL and variable ND filters on the 17-35.
That was my absolute first lens because I couldn't afford the Nikkor 17 - 55 2.8. I recall it being a little sharper than the Version II that came out but it was also a little slower to focus (it's been 10 years since I used that lens). The original Tamron 17 - 50 2.8 (for crop cameras) was such a great deal and I built my first 3 years of shooting weddings with that lens. -P
What is the EF/R adapter? I believe the lens itself has a filter mount. I haven't picked up the Canon version but Tamron specifically says the Canon version has a filter mount. -P
@@FStoppers An EF-mount lens needs an adapter to mount on an EOS-R. One of Canon's 3 adapter models has a drop-in filter slot. I thought that's what you meant, since you didn't specify EF or RF mount. However, I've since checked and can confirm that the EF-mount version (there is no RF version) has a drop-in filter slot, which is cool.
except his size and the size of the filter system, when you travel, this lens is aswesome, i love mine since it s out, image quality almost perfect and you can shoot 2.8 on the stars with no problem.my canon 16-35 2.8 II was shit compared to this one
Thanks Patrick Hall for the info. Am a canon user, please let me know if i can use a filter at the back of the tamron sp lens 15-30 , or its a reserve for the G2 ?
Actually, they are both SP lenses. SP is not a version, it's lens series, stands for "superior performance". All of the serious modern Tamron lenses are SP. You should call it the "original" 15-30mm or at least a G1.
It's curious, RUclips photographers always shoot Canon or Nikon, but never both systems. And some shoot Leica. They do combine Sony or Fuji with those systems, though. But crossing from Canon to Nikon or vice versa seems taboo for some reason.
hey i want a lens that's great in low light if this is the only lens i need then i want to buy one. and if the auto focus is fast then that's great. i have a canon 400d 10.1 megapixels and the lens on there is alright but i want something better than my tamron 18-200. if the lens is great in low light and have a fast auto focus then i need to jump on that. what do you think about the tamron 15-30 i love that one. and what you think about the tamron 85mm lens. like you said i want a lens that i can do everything with. i never knew there was a full frame camera so i want to buy me a full frame camera and what do you think about the canon 6d and i want the canon 80d and that's it. 3 cameras is all i need and 4 lens 1. tamron 35-150 2. tamron 15-30 3. canon 50mm 4. tamron 85mm tell me what you think about everything i said
Kenneth Stronach i love my Tamron SP, sad to be parting with it soon (switched to Sony) but a friend of mine borrowed my 15-30 for a day and gave mine back because he just himself one the next day e loved(s) it. I would usually have the 15-30 on my D750 90% of the time shooting. Hope you find a decent priced new/used one!
The first generation Tamron 15-30 is unpredictable and wonky when used with a Nikon FTZ adapter and Nikon Z6 or Z7. It doesn't have a USB port for Tamron Tap-in console updates. The new 15-30 G2 has the usb port for Tap-in console updates and there is Z6/7/FTZ compatability available for it.
Myrmidon easy is somewhat of an understatement but I purchased the wondapana filter system and they had made exact fit for the Tamron 15-30 SP it is a little bit of a hassle getting it on and off the lens (you have to remove the lens from the camera to get it on around the pedals) but once on it was great to use. I bought a 10 stop ND that glass is HUGE but LOVED shooting long mid day exposures with that combo.
It looks like the stabilisation did nothing on the SP. Like it wasn't turned on. How can it be on-par for stills but fall apart for video? Any more examples anywhere?
Hey Patrick! Have you had any focusing issues with any of your Tamron lenses on the D850 (mainly the 70-200mm G2)? I have both the 24-70 G2 and the 70-200 G2 with the D850 and I'm noticing that when I shoot wide open at a focusing chart it's consistently moving focus forward and back. I have the Tap-In Console but the front/back focus seems to be so random that it's difficult to set a correct calibration value. I've also noticed pretty large differences in physical sharpness between the optical viewfinder and using contrast detect in live view. I know Contrast detect is more accurate, but it's also producing sharper images even when the optical focus is accurately hitting (which seems odd). Just curious if you've had any of the same issues or if you guys have had to calibrate your lenses. I want to know if it's a "thing" with Tamron, or if it's pretty normal across all the brands. Thanks and great work as always!!
The lens is fine if it focuses well on Live View. The D850 might need adjustment. When making adjustments using the lens utility program and Tap-In console the proper test setup is needed for it is easy to make it worse. I see that testing problems cause more problems than lenses.
Patrick, I know is too much to ask but, do you have the micro adjustments settings for each Tamron lens you mention for Canon? I am drowning here with bad focusing on the 24-70 and 70-200 G2 using old Canon 5D Mark II. I appreciate your input kindly.
I've never shot with Canon and haven't made adjustments with my Nikons. I would have thought that each camera would have it's own adjustments. I'm not sure if you can just plug in a number and it will work on every camera/lens combo. -P
Fstoppers thanks for your reply. It works great most of the time but, I get some pictures where it shows my point of focus and it’s blurry and shows the area not focused in focus! It’s driving me crazy. Anywho, thanks a lot of your time. You’re the best!
You missed that the reviewer specifically said no Canon f.2.8 lens going that wide, not just "lens." That Canon f/4, compared to f/2.8 for the Tamron. Also, the Canon is $2700, the Tamron is $1200 Also, the Canon doesn't have antishake, the Tamron does.
It only took them like 11 years! And Nikon still has the 14-24 over them. I never knew Canon never had an ultra wide 2.8 zoom until I made this video. -P
I realise this may be unrelated but i thought I would throw this out there. I have had the old version featured in this video for about 2 years. Never had any problems until recently when I realised the autofocus had stopped working. For weeks I couldn't figure out the issue until today I noticed that the zoom function appeared to be loose. Upon further inspection I realised that there were 3 screws located around the front lens under the circular self adhesive cover. Upon removing this I noticed 2 of the screws were almost falling out. After tightening these the autofocus was back to normal. Anyway I hope this helps someone in the future who is having similar issues. Peace 🤘
Conclusion - if you have the old lens - keep it, no need to upgrade. If you are planing to buy a new ultra wide lens - spend the 100 extra dollars, even if it's for better video stabilization alone.
As of mid 2020, a used G2 is much harder to find and much costlier. So if you’re looking for a good user ultrawide lens go with the SP with no regret.
Yes. I have the Tamron 85mm G2 and the Tamron 24-70mm G2. I have been very interested in this lens.
I love the Tamron family. I left Canon lenses long ago due to poor quality and always was a Tamron user. I finally tried the Canon 24-70 2.8 I and as I figured, sorry I spent the money, very poor quality and suffered back focusing like was reported by other users and Canon support could not fix it after 3 times of sending it back so then I went back to Tamron 24-70 and 70-200 G2 and never been happier. I can now hand hold the 70-200 2.8 VC thru ceremonies at weddings with no tripod (no flash) with excellent results. Great review as always Patrick.
Such bulsh*t, if that would be an
accurate statement then you wouldn't see so many pros still rocking L canon lenses. I'm not taking anything from Tamron but sh*tting on Canon won't make you righteous nor accurate in your statement.
Very nice comparison
I have wanted an ultra-wide for a while and was saving for the 14-24 2.8 from Nikon when I saw a lab test of both the Tamron and Nikon. For years the 14-24 has the reputation of being the best WA lenses, zoom or prime but it appeared that the Tamron was as good or better in some criteria. Two things swayed me to get the15-30, price and VC. I am very happy with it, mine happened to be the G2 but on my D800 or D850 it would not have made much difference. What has made my choice of G-2 worth the extra $100 was when I found it did not work at all on my new Z7 mirrorless. One of the main differences with the G2 is being able to update the firmware via the Tap-In adaptor. The Tap-In is a no brainer, simple update. Just attach the Tap-in console by USB cable to my laptop and open the application. From there one, it did the work of determining the current version, going to the Tamron web site to retrieve the new firmware, and installed it. Removed the Tap-In and connected it to the Z and everything worked. With the VC plus IBIS working together, the handheld limit for me is about 1 sec at 30 and 2 sec at 15mm. This is a great combination for hybrid shooters.
The feel of the lens in hand is impressive, smooth, firm, solid. I really think it is a better lens for everything I care about than the 14-24 and $600 less. This was my first Tamron and I will be seriously considering their other G2 lenses in the future. One of my most used lenses is the 70-200 2.8 VR that I have had for years and it has been a workhorse with over 1million frames through it but it is showing the age and tech so looking at the new Nikon 70-200 E version at $2800 I balk at that price and will be checking the G2.
I have the SP version; it's looks like I'll have to send it in to Tamron for the firmware to be upgraded so it's fully compatiable with my Z5.
Holy bananas with the G2's stabilizer!!! 😱😱😱👍
I used the original 15-30mm for just over a year for my real estate photography and it served me pretty well, except that it is really much closer to 16mm on the wide end and that little bit did make a difference in many situations, especially in smaller homes. For the past few months I've been using the Sigma 12-24 and it is MUCH more useful for what I need it for. I still take the Tamron on me when we go on vacations since it does have VC, where the Sigma does not (which for work isn't an issue since I do almost all shooting on a tripod).
My biggest take away from this video is that the new lens delivers incremental refinements that don't concern me, and that I might want to look on the used market for the 15-30 SP lens for my Nikon bodies.
Yes, I was saving up to buy the Tamron 15-30mm SP for my Nikon when the G2 was released. I saw the second hand market peak with people I imagine trying to sell their SP lenses to get the new G2 lens. Now, having heard so much great stuff about the original SP lens and seeing "As New" versions of the SP available on Amazon for about 40% less than the G2 (in Japan, the G2 sells for about 130,000 yen, a new SP for 107,000 yen and I picked up my "As New" one which literally was as good as any new lens I've bought for 85,000 yen). Because I went with a second hand SP instead of a new G2, I spent my savings on the Haida filter system and a 10 Stop ND filter. Now, having watched this video, bearing in mind that photography is purely my hobby (but of course, want to take the best photos I can) - I can safely say that buying a used version of the SP lens is well worth it in my opinion. It was and still is an amazing lens.
Recently switched to Sony and I’m glad when I go to sell my 15-30 SP it still has value and the G2 didn’t destroy the re-sell market of the older lens!
Thanks for a very useful video. I too had both the Tamron 24-70 & 70-200 2.8's G2 version. I added, great deal, the original SP 15-30 2.8 to my D850 - literally the day before Tamron announced the G2 version :( great timing :( so, I've been considering an upgrade. after watching your results, and as I will shoot little video with this lens, I won't be upgrading. Thanks again for some very helpful info.
All the tamron G2 lenses are looking great.
I was waiting for a good review of this lens for so long🔥
Not going to lie; I really enjoy my G2 but I find that the low light AF on it is pretty terrible. I have an older Tamron lens that never exhibited such a problem. Thought it was just the lens, sent it back and got a new one but the problem persisted. Not a huge deal for me, but wasn't super happy about the issue.
helpful comment. thank you
Thanks for this, I recently got the SP version because it was really discounted a few weeks ago and was wondering how much I was missing out on by not getting G2
Yeah, I wanted to mention that in the video but by the time it was edited, the deal was off. For $800-$900, I can't see why you wouldn't snag that version up immediately. -P
I am missing a bit of conclusion here. I'd say for photography go with the old one that is available at a lower price( I see a price difference of about 300€). For videography go with the G2
I don't know if I might change my sp normal one, because, no one looks at a photo at 200% only us, photographers. My photographs with the older tamron, still works wonderfully well! ;)thank you for a very useful video!
Great video as usually. Plenty of examples and detailed explanations.
I have shot the SP version for the last couple years for real estate photography. One test that would have been nice to show is sun flaring when shooting into the sun. the SP version is notorious for pretty bad flaring. I heard the G2 has better coating and different hood that may help. Let me know if you have witnessed any changes to flaring when shooting into the sun or direct light source.
I’m looking to buy the G2 for real estate photography. Does the G1 work well for you?
I need this glass...I need to finish off my TAMRON TRINITY!!!
The vc on video sold me. I was about to get the SP as I found a good deal on a used one, but damn... the vc on video was too good
guys, i want to tell you something about G1.
it worked for both me and my friend on Canon EF.
there are 2 spacer calibration rings under the bayonet mount. remove one and the lens becomes almost parfocal PLUS it consistently focuses right at 15mm, no matter if the subject is close or near infinity. in "stock" condition the G1 sometimes has trouble focusing at objects close to infinity. you can either microadjust the wide-zomm-position to work okay with close subjects, or to work well around infinity. Also, it brings W and T microadjustments values closer together.
you lose something, too. infinity hard stop at 15mm.
I'm my experience if the lens has less than a 10% advantage it comes down to a combination of either user error or lens variation. when you really start to split hairs like this and compare lenses you will find a tremendous amount of variation in the 5 to 10% range. I literally went through this when I was testing to 16-35 trying to decide which one to purchase, I was amazed how different they actually were. Now to be fair both were very good but if you were splitting hairs one had advantages over the other in different setups
Sample variation is a very real problem and sometimes much more than you're describing here. Some lenses are known for sample variation problems like the original Canon 100-400mm IS lens or the Nikon 200-500mm lens. Both are known to have huge differences in image sharpness from lens to lens, meaning "sample variation" and meaning you NEED to test the lens before you buy it. I have seen this problem even with very expensive lenses such as the new $2800 Nikon 70-200mm F2.8 FL lens, which I bought about 6 months ago. I had to buy and test three copies of that lens to get one that I thought was as close to "perfect" as I could. One was pretty bad compared to the other's and I was very shocked by this as these lenses are pretty much hand made in Japan and cost so much money it's ridiculous!
just wanted to add - Make sure you buy a G2 lens if you have or plan to buy a Nikon Z series body. Only the G2's will work properly and the older series cannot and will not be updated.
Yes, I'm now stuck with my older generation and thinking about switching to the z6. Tried it out once with the g1 lens and the af was terrible on low light.
How is it with the g2? :)
Ooof thanks! Almost got a G1, planning to upgrade to Z series, but guessing I'm going to splurge a little extra.
I am not sure about that, at least from my experience I can say that my old SP G1 works perfectly on my Z cameras
Very nice video, thanks! You mentioned in the video that you were going to test if the allegedly better coating would work out, but you didn't. Could you add something here regarding flare resistance? That would be really helpful.
Pair this with the Tamron 70-200 f/2.8 VC G2 and you will have the perfect do anything pair of zooms for the same price as a single Nikon 70-200 f/2.8E lens. That main problem I've always had with Nikon wide zooms is that the 14-24 is not long enough to replace a 24-70 really and the 17-35 and 16-35 f/4 aren't up to the same level optically. So if you want the best optics and wider than 24 you had to run 3 lenses and be changing them even if you have 2 bodies and if you wanted to run 2 lenses and not change them you had to compromise the wide zoom performance to do it. Tamron's 15-30 solves this problem. But Nikon should really do it themselves. one of the most popular wedding/event kits is a 17/16-35 and 70-200 setup. But given the 24-70E and 70-200E are out the 14-24 is probably the next lens to get updated. it will be interesting to see if ends up being a 14-30 to better compete with Tamron or if they stick with 14-24.
the point is, the lenses are the sharpest at f4-f5,6 in the corners it's 5,6 > so the test at f8 reduces the resolution in the center.
TQ Fstopper, for ur advice about SP 15-30.. have a nice day... Love u all from Singapore.
The Tamron 28-75mm F/2.8 for Sony E-mount is great - I just hope they have plans to release an E-mount version of this 15-30mm lens soon as well, or at least before I pull the trigger on a horribly expensive 16-35mm G Master instead...
Actually, you can use filters on the Nikon version with a kit from Lee filters and I've seen another brand also that will work just fine. There are options.
Yep. Lee, Nisi and there was another one
Thanks for the comparison. Showed me that there´s no need to get the new one. Almost nothing improved.
Correction for earlier comment about Tamron - Tap-in console. Sorry, more explanation needed. What I should have said was the Tap-in console hooks to the bottom of the lens with the usb cable going to the computer for firmware updates - not a separate usb port.
Really comprehensive review mate, class job
I hope they corrected the issues with the lens focus motor, I had to send back the 150-600 G2 and the 45mm prime, both had issues with the auto focus motor
Considering the sharpness difference between opposing corners, you my need to consider having your camera body’s mounting plate recalibrated. They do get out of square over time, and a reputable camera repair company should be able to perform this task.
Great review and very informative channel. Thank you 🙏
Completely off topic, what tripod are you using? Looks solid.
A lot of photogs use VC/VR/IS/OSS or whatever the heck to excuse themselves from using tripods, but I think the real purpose of VC is for filmmakers. I would never push the limits of a lens on a full frame body because ISO is more than capable of making up for your quicker shutter speeds. Maybe not so much on crop bodies, however.
I was looking for a G2 lens however I purchased Sigma 14-24 f2.8 as it is a bit sharper at the edge. I prefer a zoom ring on Tamron though
Form landscape photography perspective, both lenses seem to have an issue: you'll struggle to find a filter mount for it. And if you find one, it'll be very big and expensive.
This is true and one of the reasons I never bought the Nikon 12-24. This is really for those who need the 2.8 aperture for astrophotography, weddings, low light, etc. -P
I own the same camera and I have found that with my Zeiss 35mm f/1.4 lens that the purple fringing is being caused by the D850 being set on vivid, Set it to landscape or any other and the fringing will no longer appear. Now seeing your Tamron lens doing the same as my Zeiss lens its more than likely the camera causing it.
would love to see an update to the 17-50mm f2.8 aps-c lens
Confirms most of things I thought when tamron released the g2 version of this lens. I have the SP, the only thing I want from the g2 lens is the video stability. Otherwise there is virtually no difference. Also when the SP was released it was cheap, then they put up the price. I got mine when I saw prices were going up.... £850 instead of £930. I had the do a lot of searching to get it at that price.
Superb review. Essential information clear and concise. I hope they do Sony FE version.
Thanks for the review and thanks for mentioning the filter options. I use filters quite a bit for long shutter landscape shots and the Canon 16-35 is still the only option I'm aware of that takes standard 77mm filters. Definitely something to consider if you have a few hundred dollars in filters that you'd like to use on your wide angle.
Canon of course makes the 11-24mm F4 lens, which yes is obviously not a 2.8 lens. However it is an "L" lens and is very professionally built, etc. It might as well be a 2.8 lens, because you don't really need f2.8 when shooting at 11-14mm since everything is pretty much in focus. By the way the 11-24mm is almost double the price as most wide 2.8 lenses at around $3200.
Sunstars of the original are excellent, beat the 14-24mm (which are weak and too many points) and I really am critical of these things as I think it adds to landscape shots. I hope the new lens is as good in this regard.
Nikon’s 20mm f/1.8 is my favourite ultra wide by far
That's really a specialty lens for astrophotography. The f/1.8 can help out a ton with keeping your iso and exposure times down but for a general landscape or architecture lens it isn't versatile enough for me. -P
Enjoyed the comparison. Thank you!
Great test. Thank you.
Yea Lee Filters does the Filters for this lens "The SW150" range, go to Lee`s website for more info. I have them for the lens and they work great.
You can add filters I.e. Haida filter holders etc.
Great review of the lens Patrick. What are your thoughts on the Tamron 17-35 F/2.8-4 compared to the new 15-30mm g2?
I did a semi review on that lens on our channel. It's a great lens, probably even better for landscapes if you hike and want to use filters. I'd still go for the 15-30 for one lens in my bag just in case I want to shoot wider or want the shoot the stars but the 17-35 for landscapes is a winner too. -P
Fstoppers thank you for the reply! I’m looking for an astrophotography & landscape lens for my D850 and liked the idea that I could still use my CPL and variable ND filters on the 17-35.
My primary lens is till the old Non-VC Tamron 17-50mm 2.8. Always liked tamron quality for the price.
That was my absolute first lens because I couldn't afford the Nikkor 17 - 55 2.8. I recall it being a little sharper than the Version II that came out but it was also a little slower to focus (it's been 10 years since I used that lens). The original Tamron 17 - 50 2.8 (for crop cameras) was such a great deal and I built my first 3 years of shooting weddings with that lens. -P
@@FStoppers I use it adapted so I don't even need to worry about the autofocus. It's 10/10 quality for me.
Is it worth the money buying the G2 if I don't have any of them?
I presume your comment about Canon's drop-in filter is for the EF/R adapter with drop-in, not the EF mount version itself. Correct?
What is the EF/R adapter? I believe the lens itself has a filter mount. I haven't picked up the Canon version but Tamron specifically says the Canon version has a filter mount. -P
@@FStoppers An EF-mount lens needs an adapter to mount on an EOS-R. One of Canon's 3 adapter models has a drop-in filter slot. I thought that's what you meant, since you didn't specify EF or RF mount. However, I've since checked and can confirm that the EF-mount version (there is no RF version) has a drop-in filter slot, which is cool.
I love my V1!
except his size and the size of the filter system, when you travel, this lens is aswesome, i love mine since it s out, image quality almost perfect and you can shoot 2.8 on the stars with no problem.my canon 16-35 2.8 II was shit compared to this one
Good review!
Had it not been for the bulbous and protruding front glass I would have bought it long time ago.
Thinking about getting this for my new Canon R6. Think it'll pair well with an EF to RF adapter?
Will the original version of this lens be still available?
Canon now makes the RF 15-35mm f/2.8 lens which has image stabilization.
For over $2k
Thanks Patrick Hall for the info. Am a canon user, please let me know if i can use a filter at the back of the tamron sp lens 15-30 , or its a reserve for the G2 ?
Actually, they are both SP lenses. SP is not a version, it's lens series, stands for "superior performance". All of the serious modern Tamron lenses are SP. You should call it the "original" 15-30mm or at least a G1.
When is this going to be available for the Sony FE mount?
That was a good review.
How about coma and corner performance for astrophotography ? Any idea whether one is better than the other ?
It's curious, RUclips photographers always shoot Canon or Nikon, but never both systems. And some shoot Leica. They do combine Sony or Fuji with those systems, though.
But crossing from Canon to Nikon or vice versa seems taboo for some reason.
any suggestions for train and milky way use with a nikon d500? look at this or another? thanks
sorry ....but i really think you didnt look "sharp"enough.....at 4.55 the brighter spot in the left corner(more to the centre) is clearly sharper...
As soon as the article goes live, you can look at the images side by side a lot better.
Keep in mind, this is a massively compressed image from premiere and then youtube.
@@FStoppers
Looking forward to it! Thanks for the response! Appreciate it!
I'm confused. I ordered the G2 and my lens says G2 but it also says SP. Are you saying G2 and SP are two different lenses?
thank you
Hi! Can u pleeeees make review on to Tokina Opera 50 1.4 There is no videos on it in web at all. TY!
Sure, let me see if I can get one shipped to us. -P
hey i want a lens that's great in low light if this is the only lens i need then i want to buy one. and if the auto focus is fast then that's great. i have a canon 400d 10.1 megapixels and the lens on there is alright but i want something better than my tamron 18-200. if the lens is great in low light and have a fast auto focus then i need to jump on that. what do you think about the tamron 15-30 i love that one. and what you think about the tamron 85mm lens. like you said i want a lens that i can do everything with. i never knew there was a full frame camera so i want to buy me a full frame camera and what do you think about the canon 6d and i want the canon 80d and that's it. 3 cameras is all i need and 4 lens
1. tamron 35-150
2. tamron 15-30
3. canon 50mm
4. tamron 85mm
tell me what you think about everything i said
I know they’re different lenses, but should I buy the Tamron 35mm f/1.4 or the Tamron 15-30mm f/2.8 G1 first... anyone?
I've been wanting to get the G2 version but from the sounds of things its not worth the extra money(I don't shoot video). Great video!
Kenneth Stronach i love my Tamron SP, sad to be parting with it soon (switched to Sony) but a friend of mine borrowed my 15-30 for a day and gave mine back because he just himself one the next day e loved(s) it. I would usually have the 15-30 on my D750 90% of the time shooting. Hope you find a decent priced new/used one!
I absolutely cant decide between that and the sigma 14-24mm f2.8 art. What are your thoughts about that?
My stress right now
The first generation Tamron 15-30 is unpredictable and wonky when used with a Nikon FTZ adapter and Nikon Z6 or Z7. It doesn't have a USB port for Tamron Tap-in console updates.
The new 15-30 G2 has the usb port for Tap-in console updates and there is Z6/7/FTZ compatability available for it.
The first generation lens firmware can be updated by Tamron
What is this place you're at? Like Puerto Rico or something?!
Charleston, it was one of the last videos we filmed before moving. -P
Is there no 15-30mm G2 for Sony E?
It's always been a deal breaker for me when ultra-wides don't take filters easily.
Myrmidon easy is somewhat of an understatement but I purchased the wondapana filter system and they had made exact fit for the Tamron 15-30 SP it is a little bit of a hassle getting it on and off the lens (you have to remove the lens from the camera to get it on around the pedals) but once on it was great to use. I bought a 10 stop ND that glass is HUGE but LOVED shooting long mid day exposures with that combo.
It looks like the stabilisation did nothing on the SP. Like it wasn't turned on. How can it be on-par for stills but fall apart for video? Any more examples anywhere?
Stabilization is the only real improvement but in video modes only.
Hey Patrick! Have you had any focusing issues with any of your Tamron lenses on the D850 (mainly the 70-200mm G2)? I have both the 24-70 G2 and the 70-200 G2 with the D850 and I'm noticing that when I shoot wide open at a focusing chart it's consistently moving focus forward and back. I have the Tap-In Console but the front/back focus seems to be so random that it's difficult to set a correct calibration value. I've also noticed pretty large differences in physical sharpness between the optical viewfinder and using contrast detect in live view. I know Contrast detect is more accurate, but it's also producing sharper images even when the optical focus is accurately hitting (which seems odd). Just curious if you've had any of the same issues or if you guys have had to calibrate your lenses. I want to know if it's a "thing" with Tamron, or if it's pretty normal across all the brands. Thanks and great work as always!!
That goes with all third party lenses.
The lens is fine if it focuses well on Live View. The D850 might need adjustment. When making adjustments using the lens utility program and Tap-In console the proper test setup is needed for it is easy to make it worse. I see that testing problems cause more problems than lenses.
Lens flare???
Patrick, I know is too much to ask but, do you have the micro adjustments settings for each Tamron lens you mention for Canon? I am drowning here with bad focusing on the 24-70 and 70-200 G2 using old Canon 5D Mark II. I appreciate your input kindly.
I've never shot with Canon and haven't made adjustments with my Nikons. I would have thought that each camera would have it's own adjustments. I'm not sure if you can just plug in a number and it will work on every camera/lens combo. -P
Fstoppers thanks for your reply. It works great most of the time but, I get some pictures where it shows my point of focus and it’s blurry and shows the area not focused in focus! It’s driving me crazy. Anywho, thanks a lot of your time. You’re the best!
Now try the 15-30 G2....
Good my friend
This one or Ef 16-35 f4?
Canon DOES make a zoom lens wider than 16mm. The 11-24
You missed that the reviewer specifically said no Canon f.2.8 lens going that wide, not just "lens." That Canon f/4, compared to f/2.8 for the Tamron.
Also, the Canon is $2700, the Tamron is $1200
Also, the Canon doesn't have antishake, the Tamron does.
Will it work in dx format ?
Hi! I am not an expert and perhaps I missunderstood you but if you mean ND filters you can use nisi filters. They have a filter holder for this lense.
Why I saw some centers the G1 is sharper than G2 😄
Would you recommend this for aps c such at the D5600?
Get tokina 11-16 f2.8 new version released this year. It's the best wide angle lens for apsc. This Tamron lens works well on full frame
Anyone know what happened to video reviewing memory cards and readers?
We are reuploading it tomorrow. -P
Was aboUt to buy a new Tamron 15-30 g2 but got my hands on a g1 for 250 dollars . To cheap to not buy . Really happy with it
stabilizing is fine but those are good vibrations, so...
Canon will announce RF 15-35 f2.8 IS next week.
Yeah but this one is probably going to be cheaper ;P
@@jordanlin4437 no shit Lol.
It only took them like 11 years! And Nikon still has the 14-24 over them. I never knew Canon never had an ultra wide 2.8 zoom until I made this video. -P
My G2 distort really bad at the edge, is that normal?
Is it true that tamron is like a lexus and sigma is like a chevy?
The new one is also an SP