Tamron SP 35mm and 45mm f/1.8: Pro Prime Lenses with Stabilization

Tamron today announced two new lenses for its high-end SP (“Super Performance”) lineup: the SP 35mm f/1.8 Di VC USD and the SP 45mm F1.8 Di VC USD. Both are fast, premium lenses that offer image stabilization.

These lenses boast a revamped outward look for Tamron, reminiscent of Sigma’s Art line.

On the front of the lenses, the window over the distance scale is now 20% larger than previous Tamron lenses in order to increase visibility and legibility. The design of many of the features on the lens (e.g. the switches and rings) have been optimized for style and usability.

Tamron says that even the attachment of lens hoods and caps have been re-engineered to ensure both a tight fit and durability.

SP 35mm F1.8 Di VC USD

The new Tamron 35mm f/1.8 offers the world’s first 0.2m (7.8in) minimum object distance for a full frame DSLR lens, which has a magnification ratio of 1:2.5.

Other features include 10 elements in 9 groups, minimal vignetting (even when wide open), eBAND coating to combat ghosting and flare, high-speed AF with Ultrasonic Silent Drive (USD), fluorine coating on the front element to repel water and fingerprints, a moisture-resistant construction, and a 9-blade circular aperture.

Here are some official sample photos captured with the new 35mm f/1.8:

SP 45mm F1.8 Di VC USD

Tamron calls its new 45mm f/1.8 “a new standard among all standard lenses.” It also boasts that it’s the world’s first full frame prime standard lens that carries stabilization.

Other features include 10 elements in 9 groups, minimal vignetting, eBAND coating, high-speed AF with USD, fluorine coating, moisture resistance, and a 9-blade circular aperture.

Here are some sample photos made with the 45mm f/1.8:

Pricing and Availability

While pricing hasn’t officially been announced by Tamron yet, both lenses will be available for Canon EF and Nikon F cameras starting in October 2015. B&H has the 35mm f/1.8 and the 45mm f/1.8 both listed with a pre-order price of $599. The lenses will be launched for Sony Alpha cameras afterward, but those versions won’t carry vibration compensation.