New Tamron 70-180 G2 for Nikon Z?

[Ado Wolf]

It is no secret that’s the budget friendly 2.8 zoom lenses for Nikon are based on Tamron’s first generation designs.

The fact that Tamron released its 28–75 mm G2 for Nikon came as a shock too many (being a much better lens and released shortly after the Nikon version). My question is: will the same happen with the improved G2 70-180 mm lens as well?

Not only has the G2 version better IQ, it’s cheaper and also offers vibration control (Tamron’s version of VR).. the main reason stopping me from purchasing the Nikon version.

considering the 28-75, 35-150 and 50–400 mm were released for the Z mount.. there’s no logical reason to hold back on the 70–180 mm.. don’t you agree?

 

[TurtleCat]

I don’t think it will happen anytime soon if at all. I’m sure there is an agreement that Tamron won’t do the exact same lens (basically) as what Nikon licensed and also undercut them. If it happens it will be a new Nikon version. And since the one released is still quite new I don’t think they will do that anytime soon.

 

[JAJohnson]

I’m sure there is an agreement that Tamron won’t do the exact same lens (basically) as what Nikon licensed and also undercut them.

Tamron has already done that with with their 28-75mm f/2.8 G2. Will Nikon allow them to do it again with the 70-180 f/2.8? Perhaps not, but I don’t know.

 

[TurtleCat]

Tamron has already done that with with their 28-75mm f/2.8 G2. Will Nikon allow them to do it again with the 70-180 f/2.8? Perhaps not, but I don’t know.

I guess it could depend on how well it sells and if Nikon has decided what they will do with their mount. I’m frankly surprised they have been as willing as they have been to let others use the AF tech.

 

[ajrmd]

Good question and the 70-180 is a fine lens which even works well with a TC in a pinch. Certainly, at some point either Nikon or Tamron would be likely to release an updated version though it doesn't obviate the current lens' abilities. So, if you're on the fence about buying one, I wouldn't worry too much about it. BTW, I own both the 28-75 G2 and the 70-180. Both are wonderful, capable travel and general-purpose lenses.

Nikon Z 70-180mm f/2.8 Review - Page 2 of 5

photographylife.com

 

[xxx]

If I was budget limited, I would buy Nikon's best lens and a lower level body. Makes no sense to put secondary lens on the Z9, Z8.

 

[Ado Wolf]

Good question and the 70-180 is a fine lens which even works well with a TC in a pinch. Certainly, at some point either Nikon or Tamron would be likely to release an updated version though it doesn't obviate the current lens' abilities. So, if you're on the fence about buying one, I wouldn't worry too much about it. BTW, I own both the 28-75 G2 and the 70-180. Both are wonderful, capable travel and general-purpose lenses.

Nikon Z 70-180mm f/2.8 Review - Page 2 of 5

photographylife.com

Thank you for the feedback.

many reviews seem to claim that the VC on the 70-180 G2 isn’t performing as expected and the IQ improvement in the real world is only marginally noticeable at the FF corners..but the AF is noticeably improved, so as flairs and close up performance.

i was hoping to use this lens as a travel lens on my Z50, but since that camera lacks IBIS, I am not sure I can get sharp images on the long end in low light situations.

 

[Ado Wolf]

If I was budget limited, I would buy Nikon's best lens and a lower level body. Makes no sense to put secondary lens on the Z9, Z8.

I agree, it is better to spend money on good glass rather than camera body.. I’m also lucky to have been able to purchase good prime lenses. However, for travel weight and compactness becomes more important than IQ (granted enough IQ is achieved). So the lighter 70–180 mm becomes more attractive than the Nikon 70–200 which weighs a ton. It’s spending money on the right tool for the right job.

 

[ajrmd]

I agree, it is better to spend money on good glass rather than camera body.. I’m also lucky to have been able to purchase good prime lenses. However, for travel weight and compactness becomes more important than IQ (granted enough IQ is achieved). So the lighter 70–180 mm becomes more attractive than the Nikon 70–200 which weighs a ton. It’s spending money on the right tool for the right job.

Precisely. The IQ differences between it and a 70-200 are slight and given the benefits, i.e. cost, compactness, weight, lack of "attention getting", it was a no brainer for me. Now, if I relied on it in the studio, the 70-200 would more likely be my choice.