Tamron has recently announced the launch of Nikon Z and Canon RF mount versions of its 17-70mm F/2.8 Di III-A VC RXD, making this budget-friendly, standard zoom lens compatible with a wider range of APS-C cameras. Both variants are now available for pre-order for $749.
The Tamron 17-70mm was initially released in January 2021 for the Sony E mount system, followed one year later by a FUJIFILM X-mount variant.
As with all Tamron products, the appeal of this lens largely resides in its price-to-features ratio. For just $749, Nikon and Canon users can now get an all-in-one, fast-aperture zoom with a broad focal range, built-in stabilization, and autofocus performance that is good enough for both stills and video. Let’s take a look!
Tamron 17-70mm F/2.8 Di III-A VC RXD – All-rounder zoom for APS-C cameras
The Tamron 17-70mm F/2.8 Di III-A VC RXD is a standard zoom lens designed for APS-C cameras. These new versions make it compatible with popular hybrid mirrorless cameras such as the Nikon Z50 II and Z30, Canon EOS R7, R10, and R50 V. However, it can also potentially serve as a companion for cinema-grade cameras such as the RED KOMODO-X or the Canon EOS C70.
Tamron 17-70mm F/2.8 Di III-A VC RXD with Canon RF mount. Image credit: Tamron
The lens has a 4.1x zoom ratio, offering a full-frame equivalent of a 26-105mm (depending on crop factor), and a constant f/2.8 aperture throughout the entire range. This makes it a good do-it-all lens for users on a budget.
Tamron 17-70mm F/2.8 Di III-A VC RXD with Nikon Z mount. Image credit: Tamron
The zoom has built-in VC (Vibration Compensation) technology and features Tamron’s RXD (Rapid eXtra silent Drive) Stepping AF Motor, which the company claims provides fast, quiet autofocus performance, making the lens suitable for shooting both stills and video. Only the Canon version has physical AF/MF and VC ON/OFF switches on the lens barrel.
Tamron 17-70mm F/2.8 Di III-A VC RXD with Nikon Z mount. Image credit: Tamron
The lens also offers good close-focus capabilities, with minimum focusing distances of 19cm and 39cm at the wide (17mm) and long (70mm) ends, respectively.
Optical and physical design
The optical design of the Tamron 17-70mm F/2.8 Di III-A VC RXD features 16 elements arranged in 12 groups, including one hybrid aspherical element, two low-dispersion elements, and two molded glass aspherical elements. According to Tamron, this design should deliver sharp images, while the 9-blade aperture is claimed to produce smooth, rounded bokeh.
Optical design of Tamron 17-70mm F/2.8 Di III-A VC RXD. Image credit: Tamron
Both versions are extremely portable, measuring approximately 119.3 × 74.6mm (4.7 × 2.9 inches) and weighing 540g / 19.0 oz (Nikon) and 530g / 18.7 oz (Canon). The front of the lens features a 67mm thread to accommodate screw-on filters.
Tamron 17-70mm F/2.8 Di III-A VC RXD. Image credit: Tamron
The lens features moisture-resistant construction, and the front element is coated in fluorine to protect it from fingerprints, dust, and smudges. A USB-C port on the lens barrel allows users to perform firmware updates using the Tamron Lens Utility app.
Price and availability
The new Tamron 17-70mm F/2.8 Di III-A VC RXD for Nikon Z and Canon RF mount will officially launch on July 2, but both lenses are already available for pre-order from B&H. They share the same official retail price of $749 (Nikon Z / Canon RF).
For more information, please visit Tamron’s website here.
What do you think of the Tamron 17-70mm? Would you consider it an all-round lens for your Nikon Z or Canon RF APS-C camera? Let us know your thoughts in the comment section below!