Tamron 17-28mm f/2.8 Di III RXD
Announced June 28, 2019
PixelMeter The PixelMeter is our 1–100 aggregate of reviewer scores from trusted publications and creators. Weighted by source tier — not a raw average, and not PetaPixel’s own review.
Reviewer Consensus
Strong
The Tamron 17-28mm f/2.8 Di III RXD is a compact, lightweight wide-angle zoom that delivers impressive sharpness and reliable autofocus at a reasonable price. While its restricted focal range and plastic construction may not suit everyone, it remains a highly capable and portable companion for full-frame cameras.
Weighted from 13 reviewer scores
Pros
- Compact and lightweight design
- Strong value for money
- Excellent image sharpness and optical performance
- Fast, quiet, and accurate autofocus
- Versatile f/2.8 constant aperture
Cons
- Limited focal range
- Peripheral distortion and vignetting
- Lack of physical buttons or switches
- Build quality feels plasticky
- Absence of optical image stabilization
- Launch price $899 (USD)
- Focal length & aperture 17-28mm f/2.8
- Mount & coverage Sony E Full-Frame
- Stabilization None
- Close focus 19 cm (0.19x)
- Filter thread 67mm
- Autofocus motor Stepper motor
- Weight & size 420g (14.8 oz) · 73 x 99 mm (2.87 x 3.90 in)
What the Reviewers Say
All 13 expert reviews, weighted into the PixelMeter score.
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So if you can live with the somewhat limited 1.6x zoom range, Tamron's second native E-mount lens earns a clear recommendation and becomes even more compelling when paired with the 28-75mm.
- OpticalLimits 6.5/10
The longish, yet slim Tamron lens is based on a smooth plastic body on a metal mount. However, it’s also very obvious that it has been precisely assembled.
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This is a lens that really needs to be paired with a 24mm or 28mm standard zoom for everyday shooting, whereas some photographers might be just about happy carrying the Sony 16-35mm f/4 on its own.
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I rarely suggest buying a specific camera brand to allow a lens from a different manufacturer to be used but this is a scenario where that could make sense.
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This is lens feels in many ways very similar to the Tamron 28-75mm 2.8 Di III RXD: it combines a fast maximum aperture with compact dimensions and a resonable price at the cost of a more restricted zoom range.
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The new Tamron 17-28mm f/2.8 Di III RXD performs superbly, feels fantastic to use and is a very reasonable price as well.
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Tamron have hit another home run with the 17-28mm F2.8 Di III RXD, and we can't wait to see what they can offer in the F2.8 telephoto zoom department...
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The Tamron 17-28mm f/2.8 Di III RXD delivers much better image and build quality than you'd expect from a budget lens, especially one with a wide-angle, f/2.8 design.
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It’s a great addition to the full-frame E-mount. I have sold my personal Sony 16-35mm f/4 in favor of this new Tamron. I suspect many others will do the same.
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With good control of flare and distortion, coupled with its very capable resolution performance – notably at its wider apertures – this Tamron wide-angle zoom is an impressive optic and deserves some serious consideration.
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I can say that I am very happy with Tamron 17-28mm f/2.8 Di III RXD. Just like the longer version, it provides a good balance between the optical qualities, focal range, size, feature set, and the price.
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I would have to say that this lens has more pros than cons, with the pros being that it's very light, bright, compact, has an internal zoom, has fast autofocus, and is weatherproof, and it's a lot cheaper than a lot of full-frame lenses on the market right now.
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In a nutshell, and in my opinion, Tamron’s 17-28mm lens still offers very good value for money, especially when you consider its constant f/2.8 aperture, weight, and dimensions.
