Tamron SP 150-600mm f/5-6.3 Di VC USD G2 Review

Tamron SP 150-600mm f/5-6.3 Di VC USD G2 Handling and Features

The lens is available in Nikon and Canon mounts with VC built in and in a Non-VC version for Sony full frame A mount cameras. In the case of Sony, the vibration reduction is built into the camera body so is not included within the lens. This review of the lens uses the Canon EOS 6D full frame DSLR body.

There is a generously sized bayonet lens hood, which surrounds the 95mm filter thread. Weight is a fairly heavy 1990g and is best supported when carrying by some suitable carrying sling or strap. There is a zoom lock switch that can be engaged at 150mm, preventing the weight of the lens causing it to extend whilst travelling. There is also a Flex Zoom Lock mechanism, whereby pulling the zoom ring forwards will lock the zoom setting. This could be useful in preventing unintentional changes to the focal length selected. The zoom action is, however, quite firm and there does not seem to be much of a problem anyway.

Lens construction is 21 elements in 13 groups, with the front and rear elements being Fluorine coated to help repel water, dust and dirt. Closest focus is 2.2m (86.6 inches), which gives a very useful maximum magnification of 1:3.9 at 600mm. This is as high a magnification as many standard zooms, but also allows a different perspective because of the increased subject to camera distance.

The zoom ring is generously sized and quite smooth in operation, although also very firm when new. The manual focusing ring lies closer to the camera body and is equally smooth in operation. When set to AF, manual focus can be used at any time, after which another half press on the shutter release will re-enable the AF as desired. The usual window reveals distances marked in metres and feet and to the left of that can be found a series of switches.

The focus limiter switch helps prevent excessive hunting, the choices being full range, infinity to 10m and 10m to 2.2 metres. Next around the barrel is the AF/MF switch, the VC on/off switch and the VC mode switch. This last one has three options. Mode 1 is the standard mode and balances keeping a stable viewfinder image with reducing camera shake. Mode 2 is for panning. Mode 3 prioritises compensation at the moment of shutter release. For general purposes Mode 1 is very satisfactory and offers a significant advantage in increased stability. Of course, VC will do nothing for moving subjects, where a high shutter speed will still be needed to arrest subject movement.

The tripod mount allows the lens to be rotated, which is very convenient when used mounted on a tripod. The mount is also ARCA-SWISS compatible.

Although the lens is heavy, it is also reasonably compact for its specification. As a consequence it is easy to handle. The AF system locks on quickly and reliably. Also, none of the controls are misplaced, so there is little chance of nudging a switch inadvertently. In use, the Tamron SP 150-600mm f/5-6.3 Di VC USD G2 lens proved to be a thoughtful, ergonomic design. The moisture seals around the lens are an added bonus, allowing use in more arduous conditions.                       

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