Tamron 50-400mm f/4.5-6.3 Di III VC VXD

Announced July 28, 2022

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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 50-400mm f/4.5-6.3 Di III VC VXD is a highly versatile telephoto zoom that packs an expansive focal range into a relatively compact, portable frame. While its variable maximum aperture requires higher ISOs in dim conditions, the lens delivers impressive sharpness and macro capabilities that make it a compelling choice for travel and nature photography.

Weighted from 19 reviewer scores

Pros

  • Versatile 50-400mm zoom range
  • Compact and lightweight build
  • Strong image quality with sharp results
  • Fast, quiet, and accurate autofocus
  • Impressive macro and close-focus performance

Cons

  • Tripod collar not included
  • Slow maximum aperture range
  • Incompatible with teleconverters
  • Limited burst rate on certain cameras
  • Distortion and vignetting present
  • Launch price $1,299 (USD)
  • Focal length & aperture 50-400mm f/4.5-6.3
  • Mount & coverage Sony E, Nikon Z Full-Frame
  • Stabilization Optical IS
  • Close focus 25 cm (0.5x)
  • Filter thread 67mm
  • Autofocus motor VXD
  • Weight & size 1155g · 88.5 x 183.4 mm (3.48 x 7.22 in)


What the Reviewers Say

All 19 expert reviews, weighted into the PixelMeter score.

  • DPReview

    I think the first thing to appreciate is there's just really nothing like it on the market that's native for mirrorless mount, and it is fairly compact given what it does, and optically, actually a pretty sweet performer.

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  • Cameralabs

    It may not have the brightest focal ratio but its versatility and image quality makes the 50-400mm f4.5-6.3 Di III VC certainly a very attractive option for those seeking to cover their tele-photo needs with a single zoom lens: Well worth the money and Highly Recommended.

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  • Amateur Photographer

    If you could take just one lens with you, and wanted some telephoto reach, then this lens could be one of the most versatile, whilst also offering impressive image quality, so you don’t need to be worried that you’re making any kind of compromise on your photos.

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  • Z System User

    The Tamron 50-400mm f/4.5-6.3 is a very good lens on full frame cameras, a better lens on DX bodies (though heavy). It has a wide focal length range and close focusing abilities that should be attractive to users looking for an all-around telephoto zoom.

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  • PCMag

    The Tamron 50-400mm F4.5-6.3 Di III VC VXD is a telezoom that you won't mind carrying, and thanks to a standard starting angle and 1:2 macro focus, it’s one of our favorites for creators looking for a single lens for nature, sports, and everything in between.

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  • 35mmc

    This isn’t just a do-everything, jack of all trades travel lens, it’s more targeted at people who want to shoot at longer focal lengths (either for subject, or just preference reasons).

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  • Julia Trotti

    I am very impressed with the image quality considering the focal range Tamron has squeezed into this lens. The images are sharp and crisp, and you can see plenty of details throughout all the focal lengths.

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  • Jake Sloan

    [T]his lens is one of the better options because at thirteen hundred dollars you're getting fantastic performance out of a great lens that is also lighter weight and smaller than the competitors on the market.

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  • Adrian Alford Photography

    For the price you pay for this lens, I think it's most definitely worth considering given the image quality you can achieve and given also that it has that amazing close-up focusing ability on the short end at 50mm.

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Specifications

General

Announcement date July 28, 2022
Launch MSRP $1,299
Lens mount Sony E, Nikon Z
Image circle coverage Full-Frame
Lens type Zoom
Lens line / series Di III

Optical Design

Elements 24
Groups 18
Special elements XLD, LD, GM, Hybrid Aspherical
Coatings BBAR-G2
Front fluorine coating Yes

Focal Length & Aperture

Focal length (wide) 50mm
Focal length (tele) 400mm
Max aperture (wide) f/4.5
Max aperture (tele) f/6.3
Minimum aperture f/22
Diaphragm blades 9

Angle of View

Diagonal angle of view 46° 48' - 6° 11'

Focusing

Autofocus motor VXD
Minimum focus distance 25 cm
Maximum magnification 0.5x
Focus mechanism Internal focus

Stabilization

Optical stabilization (OIS) Yes

Controls

AF/MF switch Yes

Build

Weight 1155g
Maximum diameter 88.5mm (3.48 in)
Length 183.4mm (7.22 in)
Filter thread 67mm
Weather sealing Full weather sealing
Internal zoom No
Tripod collar Optional

In the Box

Lens hood HA067 petal-type, included
Teleconverter compatibility Not supported