Sony's recent release of the 50-150mm f/2 G Master lens has turned heads due to its unique combination of zoom range and constant aperture. However, Tamron previously entered similar territory with their 35-150mm f/2-2.8 lens, prompting photographers to wonder whether Sony’s premium price tag is justified.
Coming to you from Dustin Abbott, this detailed video compares Sony’s 50-150mm f/2 G Master lens directly with Tamron's established 35-150mm f/2-2.8 lens. Abbott highlights key features both lenses share, including comprehensive weather sealing, custom function buttons, and smooth aperture adjustments suitable for video shooting. Yet, he points out a common shortcoming: both lenses suffer flare issues, notably at longer focal lengths. Significantly, Abbott emphasizes the practical advantages of Tamron’s lens—it costs roughly half the price, features a broader zoom range starting at 35mm rather than 50mm, and remains smaller and considerably lighter, easing travel and handling.
Abbott also conducts a careful comparison of image quality, noting the strengths of each lens. Surprisingly, he finds Tamron’s image rendering more appealing in several real-world scenarios, particularly at the longer end of the zoom. This preference is tied to smoother transitions into out-of-focus areas and more natural-looking colors. However, when Abbott assesses sharpness and contrast, especially in controlled tests, the Sony consistently outperforms the Tamron, delivering crisper details and superior corner sharpness. The Sony lens also maintains a faster aperture throughout its zoom range, providing tangible benefits in low-light environments and sports photography.
Expanding on usability and practical differences, Abbott explains that the Sony lens is superior in terms of autofocus speed and precision, benefiting significantly from advanced quad XD linear motors. Videographers, particularly those needing minimal focus breathing and smooth zoom action, would find clear benefits with the Sony lens. Moreover, the Sony lens's internal zoom mechanism and included tripod foot enhance stability and handling, particularly in fast-paced or challenging shooting environments. The premium build quality and additional physical controls, such as a dedicated aperture ring with click/declick options, also make the Sony lens notably easier to operate precisely.
Whether the steep price difference between these two lenses makes sense largely depends on your photography priorities and shooting conditions. Abbott indicates that the Sony lens stands out for action-oriented environments, such as sports events or venues requiring rapid, precise autofocus and maximum frame rates on high-end Sony camera bodies. Meanwhile, the Tamron lens remains a highly competent option for general portraiture and event photography, especially if cost efficiency and portability are critical factors for you. Check out the video above for the full rundown from Abbott.
