Tamron 25-200mm f/2.8-5.6 Di III VXD G2 is a new full-frame mirrorless 8x zoom lens for Sony E-mount cameras. It promises to offer a fast AF with Tamron’s VXD linear motor. The lens aperture starts at fast f/2.8 on the wider end. Offering a 1:1.9 magnification ratio and a 67mm front filter thread, the Tamron 24-200mm can be pre-ordered now for $899.
Ultra-zoom lenses have always been about compromising speed for the ultimate versatility. Even though the optical performance can never be on par with professional zoom lenses or primes, for me, there has always been something interesting about these lenses. The idea of covering a wide range of focal lengths all in one lens sounds appealing to me.
Recently, I was very tempted by the new SIGMA 20-200mm f/3.5-6.3 DG Contemporary lens, which was only announced last month. If I am not mistaken, this is the world’s first full-frame mirrorless lens to offer a 10x zoom.
Today, Tamron releases the new 25-200mm f/2.8-5.6 Di III VXD G2 lens, which “only” offers an 8x zoom range, but beats the SIGMA on paper in some other criteria. Let’s take a short look at the Tamron’s new ultra-zoom specs and features.
Tamron 25-200mm f/2.8-5.6 Di III VXD G2
The new ultra-zoom from Tamron builds on the legacy of the existing Tamron 28-200mm f/2.8-5.6 Di III RXD lens. In fact, it brings a few significant improvements. The most obvious difference is the wider focal length of 25mm, compared to 28mm. The 3mm might not sound like much, but at the wide end, it means a huge difference, fitting much more of the surroundings into the frame. Tamron claims that despite the wider focal length, this updated model maintains the same compact size as the original.
Tamron 25-200mm f/2.8-5.6 Di III VXD G2 lens. Source: Tamron
Furthermore, Tamron claims that the autofocus speed has been enhanced. The focus speed and tracking of the 25-200mm are now driven by Tamron’s VXD (Voice-coil eXtreme-torque Drive) linear focusing motor. This promises to offer enhanced tracking performance of moving objects while remaining silent.
Another improvement of the new 25-200mm is a 1:1.9 magnification ratio at the 25mm wide end (the original 28-200mm only offers 1:3.13). This enables capturing close-up images with half-macro shooting. For reference, the SIGMA 20-200mm offers a similar magnification ratio of 1:2 (although at a longer focal length of around 80mm, which results in a different aesthetic).
Tamron 25-200mm f/2.8-5.6 Di III VXD G2 lens. Source: Tamron
Compared to the SIGMA 20-200mm, the Tamron 25-200mm offers a slightly faster aperture throughout its zoom range. Neither lenses offer optical stabilization.
Lastly, according to Tamron, the ergonomic design has been updated to match other second-generation zooms in the lineup. These upgrades include improved exteriors and smooth zoom and focus rings. The lens retains the brand’s unified 67mm filter thread for improved compatibility. The 25-200mm is also compatible with Tamron’s Lens Utility, offering customizable functions for both still and video shooters.
Tamron 25-200mm f/2.8-5.6 Di III VXD G2 lens. Source: TamronOnly Sony E-mount?
Unfortunately, Tamron only released this new versatile ultra-zoom lens for the Sony E-mount. There is currently no information about whether this lens will be available for other mounts or not. Currently, Tamron produces only modern mirrorless full-frame lenses for the Sony E and Nikon Z ecosystems. Additionally, the Japanese lens manufacturer offers APS-C lenses for Canon RF and FUJIFILM X systems.
As a long-term LUMIX user, I would really appreciate Tamron joining the L-mount alliance and adapting their lineup for the mount. Perhaps one day…..I will continue to hope. At least Nikon Z users might be able to use the new Tamron 25-200mm ultra-zoom via one of the E-Z lens adapters.
Price and availability
The new Tamron 25-200mm is available now for pre-order. According to the company, the lens should start shipping by the end of November 2025. Price has been set at $899. For reference, the SIGMA 20-200mm f/3.5-6.3 DG Contemporary lens retails for $999.
Do you like ultra-zoom full-frame lenses? Do you use any of these for your productions? What do you think about the new Tamron 25-200mm? Let us know your thoughts in the comments section underneath the article.