A whole month testing not just one but two ultra telephoto lenses. We were missing the second article dedicated to these very special lenses: the Tamron 150-600mm. And we've put it to the test. We haven't skimped on locations, trips, excursions... it's even accompanied us inside a very special hide. Want to know more? Then keep reading.

In it previous article We defined the general characteristics of an ultra-zoom telephoto lens. In that case, we focused on the Sigma 150-600mm telephoto lens. In this second article, we will dedicate ourselves entirely to its direct competitor in the market, the lens tamron SP 150-600mm F/5-6.3 Di VC USD.

And what's this Tamron 150-600mm like...?

.Let's not get lost in fancy names. The telephoto lens ""affordable"" The Tamron lens (there's a newer, better, and of course more expensive G2 version) is the mirror image of the Sigma. With a focal length ranging from 150mm to 600mm, we can achieve an effective focal length of 900mm when paired with an APS-C camera.

The acronyms VR They tell us it has a vibration reduction system. The rest of the acronyms in the ostentatious name indicate the chemical protection of the lenses and the ultra-quiet system of the focus motor (which I can tell you now is truly silent).

The weight difference compared to the same Sigma model is minimal, as according to the manufacturer's data, weight It's from 1.9Kg. Where Tamron really went all out was with the top-of-the-line model, the G2. With its dust and moisture seal, the company's "Pro" model weighs a mere 2.05 kg, a far cry from the Sigma Sport's 2.8 kg. Experts say the weight difference is due to the G2's less thorough sealing compared to the Sigma Sport.

I haven't had the chance to compare the "pro" models from both brands, so I can't comment on differences in weight or weather sealing. However, I have been able to compare the more affordable Tamron and Sigma models, and I can assure you that the photographic differences are almost undetectable. That said, both telephoto zoom lenses do have slight technical differences. Want to know what they are?

A simpler VR system

Tamron has opted for a vibration reduction system traditional, with two positions: on/off. Some users found Sigma's system a bit redundant. Why do we need a second option for reducing "lateral" vibrations when mounting the lens on a tripod? The truth is, using the Tamron with a stable tripod, we won't notice any vibrations when the system is turned off. Combining the tripod with a Gimbal joint It will also help us achieve smoother and more stable camera tracking. So why have a reduction system that will only drain the battery?

I personally haven't noticed any difference between using Sigma's VR system and Tamron's traditional method. If you mount the lens on a tripod and turn off Tamron's VR system, you'll get equally sharp photos with both. It just takes a little practice and avoiding sudden movements. Of course, you'll get some blurry photos, but you'd get them with the Sigma too... the vibration reduction system won't work miracles if your movements are jerky or you're trying to achieve the impossible. And if you still need it, you can always turn on Tamron's VR.

Tamron too saves in the focusing system

Tamron has also reduced the focusing options. While the Sigma telephoto lens offers three different options, the Tamron lens only provides two. focus limiter:

• Focus from 15m to infinity
• Focus from 0m to infinity

Some will miss the option Sigma offers between 2 and 10 meters. Conversely, others will appreciate the simplified number of options, since in action photography (sports or moving animals) it's difficult to adjust the focus system between three different positions.

Personally, I've missed the Sigma system at times. And I don't think it's because it was better, but because it was more intuitive. Although, as I already mentioned in the article dedicated to the Sigma, at first it may take some time to get used to this system with 3 positions to limit the focus.

But if we think about it again... Who needs to focus with a lens this size between 2 and 10 meters? It's clear that these ultra-telephoto lenses are designed for photography at long focal lengths and when the subject is far away. Football fields, wild animals that we can rarely get close to... Who would shoot a subject with this lens at less than 10 meters? At that distance, a short telephoto lens would suffice—lighter, cheaper, and much easier to handle.

So I understand Tamron's decision to "simplify" both the vibration reduction and focus limiting systems. Of course, these "simplifications" are reflected in the price. The Tamron is usually around €200 cheaper than the Sigma lens. That might not seem like much of a difference when we're talking about lenses close to €1000, but it makes a difference if we consider buying used equipment.

Of course, the tamron doesn't have any extra points.

That's right. Like the Sigma model, the Tamron has a small tab that locks the zoom range. The difference is that with the Sigma lens, you can lock the tab at any point in the zoom range, meaning at any focal length. With the Tamron lens, however, you can only lock the zoom at 150mm, meaning when the lens is not fully extended.

This tab actually serves the purpose of sure It prevents the lens from shifting under its own weight when you're carrying it. That's its only function. To be honest, in the 48 hours I used the Sigma, I never locked the zoom at a specific focal length while shooting... but it's good to know you have that option if you need it.

Tamron, on the other hand, has stuck to a basic and effective design. We lock the lens's zoom range once it's retracted to 150mm to prevent unintentional movement. Nothing more, nothing less. It might seem like a disadvantage... but again, the same question arises: is it really necessary to lock the zoom range when taking photos? Is it really so essential that it's a must-have feature worth paying extra for?

Friends after Compare the two most affordable ultra-telephoto lenses on the market It's time to "rating" both models.

• He Sigma Contemporary 150-600m It was the first one I tried, and the one that impressed me the most. Its vibration reduction systems and focus limiters seem very useful and intuitive, and the extras Sigma adds to its construction put it above the Tamron model. I'd put it at the top of my wish list.
• On the contrary, the Tamron 150-600mm It's a much more affordable lens. And that can be an advantage when money is a limiting factor. Tamron has designed a basic ultra-telephoto lens without accessories or extras that would increase the price. That doesn't mean the lens is worse... on the contrary, photographically it's every bit as good as Sigma. So... why pay for extras you might not even use?

The Tamron is a fantastic lens that more than fulfills its intended purpose and is every bit as good as the Sigma model. If you're looking to photograph wildlife with a telephoto zoom lens, the Tamron won't disappoint. However, if money is no object and you'd like a couple of extra secondary magnifications, the Sigma is the better choice.

Friends, in the next article I will tell you about my Impressions with the Tamron 150-600mm. Despite not having the extras of the Sigma model, I have really enjoyed using the Tamron lens and have obtained photographs of impressive quality.

Greetings.