Tamron 150-500 | Is it BETTER than SONY 200-600? In the Field Review

[@princeharbinger]

Be nice to see you review the Tamron again with the latest AF update.

[@joshuathomas4934]

I use the Tamron 150-500 paired with an A6400. Yes sometimes I miss focus. But. This combination cost me less than 2000 dollars. Which is the cost of the Sony lens. So. I’m happy with it. Works well.

[@paulclarke4571]

I use this lens with my A6600 and am very pleased with the results. Not many non professional people can afford the cameras you use. I also get 750mm reach from my combination. I also have animal eye auto focus.

[@jan_wegener]

awesome

[@steveandnaz]

Hi Paul, Any thoughts on the Tamron with the a6700/a6600 ve a7sii now after some time? A7siii has animal eye focus, but I think the a6700 has birds eye autofocus. Thanks!!

[@paulclarke4571]

It is still very good but I tend to use my 50 400 due to reduction in weight

[@steveandnaz]

@@paulclarke4571 Hmmm. Thanks for pointing that one out. looks very interesting. We are looking for a good Zoom for the a7siii for our travels.... choices.... haha. Thank you!

[@steveandnaz]

Another update... after seeing your suggestion... I am considering the 50-400mm and the 150-500mm Tamron. I was keen on the former, but someone reviewed handheld video saying they 150-500mm is much better with autofocus... Hard to tell without actually trying. Have you noticed a difference between the two as far as VIDEO / HANDHELD STABILIZATION and AF? THANKS!!@@paulclarke4571

[@skep41]

Great video... it addressed my concerns in every way. I had been leaning towards the sony 200-600 but was very concerned about weight and portability. I think that I'm now leaning towards the Tamron. I only have an A6000 so I wonder if the slight distinctions you found with your more professional cameras would even apply. But the joy of going out and trying to do the best that you can is always there...

[@falcocolumbarius9177]

I was always thinking "His videos are so good and informative, I'd love him to test sony gear and hear his opinion about other brands in bird photography". So I'm very happy and looking forward to your upcoming vidoes! You are doing the best bird photography reviews in my opinion - keep up the fantastic work!

[@jan_wegener]

Wow, thanks! :)

[@plinkyplanky9651]

Brilliant, i'm very much looking forward to the A1 and R5 comparison, particularly in terms of tracking performance.

[@jan_wegener]

Coming soon!

[@pjkdiver]

great video. I wonder how the tamron 150-500 would perform on the sony a6700?

[@joshuathomas4934]

Extremely well. Only the a9 and a1 can reach the limitations of the lens.

[@kingghidorah8106]

​@@joshuathomas4934 this made me think of getting the Tamron instead

[@allonwne]

"Extremely well" - agreed.

[@daryl9550]

Great review and comparison, sadly it doesn't make my decision much easier with al these great e-mount options! Would love to see the sigma 100-400 (ultimate portability) tamron and 200-600 go head to head.

[@mikebyrne8420]

Another fabulous review. Trying to decide between these two lenses, and you've given me lots to think about. Thanks!!

[@Kozitaju]

What a sharp review. I have the Tamron and found some very interresting and encouraging tips. Thank you Jan !

[@jan_wegener]

My pleasure!

[@brucegraner5901]

Always interesting to see what a professional photographer thinks about using other gear. Duade Paton has been doing some interesting comparisons with the new OM-1 to his Canon gear. I don't expect either of you to change from your preferred systems but especially knowing how less expensive gear (that most of us can afford) stacks up against the the top tier gear your profession demands is of great interest to me, especially how the keeper rates may vary. Your reviews of the Canon R7 were of similar interest as well, especially when used with the 100-500mm lens. Thanks for the effort you put into these videos.

[@elouisamckenzie9536]

Great video!!!! very well done, achieving all my expectations.

[@madcat1007]

Nice video. Thanks. Perhaps you could share your camera settings with reference to af tracking.

[@thethirdman225]

Well, I just ordered the 200-600 and I’m happy with my decision, despite the extra cost and weight. I also know I will be able to use a Tele converter with it. I have always used OEM lenses but have a healthy respect for Tamron, having recently used their 28-80. If the 200-600 hadn’t been available, I’d have gone with the Tamron.

[@mden2490]

Thanks for a great detailed video! Let’s not forget with the Tamron when used with APSC you would get 700mm. I just got my Sony a6700 and would love to see how it works with it?

[@bondgabebond4907]

I used to own the Sony 70-300mm lens. Then I bought the 200-600 zoom. Then I realized just how much nicer the 200-600 was with its internal zoom mechanism. So, I got rid of that 70-300 lens (son has it) and bought the 70-200 with internal zoom. Both are far superior to use as you don't have to move that Big Tube filled with Heavy Glass back and forth. Think the wear and tear going on inside that lens housing. Something to think about.

[@jan_wegener]

Yes, the 200-600 is a sweet lens. With an internal zoom you are still moving parts as well.

[@zoltantolgyesi3891]

Best video of yours so far imo. Very well explained. Thanks.

[@jan_wegener]

Glad you enjoyed it!

[@nsphotography4590]

I recently sold my Sigma 100-400 lens due to being underwhelmed, maybe a bad copy. I have been going between 70-200mm Sony (as no other 3rd party lens), 100-400 Sony and the 200-600 Sony. Seeing a great deal of positive feedback and my photography at an enthusiasts level it would appear this 150-500 suits my requirements to the T. I have no interest in using it for video work and I am using it for motorsport, field sports and the occasional wildlife shoots. I would hope the A7R III would be a good price point match for this lens as in UK its about £1,800.00. Thank you for your review and image examples, I listened to every word as it was very informative, clear and comparable. Keep up the good work.

[@jan_wegener]

Glad I could help. Would you use it in addition to your current lenses?

[@nsphotography4590]

@@jan_wegener I would, running a Sigma 24-70mm F2.8 at the moment. It is my go to lens but with everything opening up again for us would want a quality zoom based on affordability as I am no professional.

[@sediaberkhidmat]

I bought the 100-400 GM twice😀but sold them later. I have tried sigma 100-400mm, and not impress with it at all (very soft and hard to get sharp image) & later sold it. Wonder if the Tamron 150-500 image quality could match the GM, may give it a try i hope

[@nsphotography4590]

@@sediaberkhidmat my father has the Tamron and it is an excellent alternative when comparing costs and image quality. I am now in a position of having a 70-200 F4 being far lighter than the GM version and the 200-600 for the distance stuff. Wouldn't change this setup now.

[@mhakangunes]

Again This a very useful comparison, thanks. As a potential RF 100-500 user, I would like to hear the comparison between these two lenses.

[@jan_wegener]

I will make a video with 200-600 & 100-500.

[@code-master]

which lens you're using to shoot the video of camera person? The shots are brilliant from tamron, are these all mounted on tripod or is this the native steady shot support.

[@kaksas5530]

very good review and very professional , this video really helped me. Thank u

[@jan_wegener]

You are welcome!

[@m11kan]

For me weight and Min Focus Distance: 1.8m vs Sony Min Focus Distance: 2.4m chose me Tamron even tho it might be cheaper and not so "pro" version. :)

[@tomnicholas9038]

What a great video, Subscribing. Thanks Jan. Just picked this up for my a7 iv

[@dmazumdar78]

Thanks a lot for the detailed informative comparison of the lenses I have a alpha 6000 (2015 model) I am upgrading my lens and I am more inclined towards Sony 200-600, I just wanted to know that whether I can use either of the lenses with my existing alpha 6000 or do I need an upgrade for the body. Secondly I am planning to buy Sony Alpha 7 iII next year in that case will the 200-600 would be good bet

[@jaypainespotter]

Jan's videos are always top notch. I shoot Canon but it's nice to see what else is out there.

[@jan_wegener]

That's how I felt about trying the gear, too

[@jakewerth9614]

What do you use for cleaning up noise? Those iso1600 images are crazy clean

[@spiltmilt]

Did you compare the video capabilities of the two lenses?

[@stripes_in_raw]

Lots of thanks for this video. Previously i was only considered the Sony 200-600 but i like the tamron more now. I could buy the Sony A7R4 with the Tamron 150-500 instead of A7iii/A7c with the Sony 200-600mm. This combination is also much cheaper than the Canon R5 & RF100-500mm with a lot better battery life. I can crop a lot even in apsc mode. The sony also has excellent eye af for bigcats. Whenever i am pushing the ISO past 6400 i might only shoot video. I mainly photograph bigcats in the wild not a bird in flight guy and maybe some static birds. My other choice would be the 2 Sony A6600s with Tamron 150-500 & Sony 70-200 f4. It also has real time tracking and animal eye af. Any suggestions would be welcome And i think you missed a point with the Tamron lens you are capped at 15fps max burst shooting on both A9 & A1 instead of 20 & 30. Again thanks for this video comparing the Sony 200-600 & the Tamron 150-600mm

[@jan_wegener]

ha, I thought I said that, but must have been in a different take that I didn't end up using. The A6600 has animal eye tracking like the A1?

[@stripes_in_raw]

@@jan_wegener The A6600 has real time tracking and animal eye af tracking but the A1 has both animal & birds eye tracking. Even the A6100 has real time tracking and animal eye af tracking.Every forth generation Sony camera has Real Time Tracking and Animal Eye AF. Third generation like A7iii and A7Riii only has Animal eye AF but no real time tracking except A9. But in Canon Animal tracking modes include both birds and animals. In case of Sony its only animals. Only A1 can detect birds.But in Canon the animal tracking works better for birds than say lions, deers etc. It picks up their wet noses than eyes.

[@jan_wegener]

@@stripes_in_raw thanks for the info

[@erkkisiekkinen286]

Thanks Jan ,I use nowadays Tamron 150-50mm with a6700 which has fantastic birds eye AF. It is my travel combo together with Sony e 70-350mm. The advantage for Tamron is that it has reverse focus breathing compared to Sony 200-600 -so at MFD Tamron is more than 500mm and Sony is less than 600mm Cheers

[@aridlifestyles]

Hi Jan, totally appreciate the hard work and time put into the video, thanks Mate! One question is how do you think the Sony 200-600 would marry to a Sony A7ii? Thank you.

[@jan_wegener]

It's a great lens for sure. The AF will just be more limited by what the camera can do

[@aridlifestyles]

@@jan_wegener Copy that, I'm going to try before I buy with a local rental/camera shop

[@jobane2]

Thanks for the video! We will try this new Tamron on A7iii / A7c / A6400.

[@jan_wegener]

Yes, would be interesting to see how it works with them

[@ayfj4572]

Your reviews are superb. I wish Sony would do a firmware update to the a9II to include bird eye AF. I always use spot AF tracking on the a9II/a9 from the moment I've had them.

[@jan_wegener]

Thank you. I agree, that would be a much needed addition!

[@georgemahlum6542]

Right off the bat...I would not buy the Tamron because of its protruding focus/zoom feature...(dirt...moisture...easily bumped and possibly damaged). Cheers

[@erkkisiekkinen286]

Thanks Jan ,yesterday I tested Tamron 150-500mm with my a6700 crop body in low light at home. I have heard that VC 3 mode works better than mode 1 in photography ,and yes it seems work slightly better : at 500mm(750mm eqv.) it got nearly all sharp photos handheld at 1/160mm ,at 1/125 keeper rate drops a little. So that is the 2,5 stops efficiency that other reviews reveal. I was photographing bird pictures from my book at short distances and the birds eye af worked rapidly and flawlessly. So the Tamron is seems to be very good in these newer bodies :a6700 and a7RV and also A1 and a7IV. I do not make video ,so commetns on that topic. tCheers

[@ashtonturner5403]

Awesome video Jan, I have one question for you. is it possible to fully manual focus in bird photography? as in no auto focus if so have you ever tried it?

[@jan_wegener]

Why would you want to do that? You would get a lot of oof images for sure

[@ashtonturner5403]

@@jan_wegener yeah well the canon 75-300mm lens only allows me to get 4 fps with a 20fps camera so its a bummer for sure. But yes i was just thinkinf but thansk for replying 🙂

[@golamashraf1464]

Great video! Pairing it with the new A74 might be a very interesting study... Thanks

[@vimbro1]

Great video. I use Sony A7RIII these days but looking forwards when R6 is a little less expencive.

[@jan_wegener]

Yes, R5 and R6 are great cameras

[@MichalOlender]

Did you feel like you missed that extra 100mm when shooting with Tamron? I just ordered it but I'm wondering.

[@jan_wegener]

It's nice to have more, but the difference is basically one decent step forward, so not huge

[@1XX1]

I've decided on the Tamron for shooting video with my a7Siii in Hawaii. Thanks for clearing this up for me.

[@Patrick-vi9xr]

Do you still have tamron? Hows VC works in video for you? Because mine 150-500 + a6600 got a lot of "jumping" effect even on wide end, while 70-350 works a lot better in video, for stills there not much difference between them.

[@steveandnaz]

Hi, What are your thoughts about the 16700 with birds eye, compared to the a7siii without birds eye? Thanks!

[@frankfeng2701]

For compactness, Sigma 100-400 DN; for performance, Sony.

[@jan_wegener]

Thanks for sharing!

[@junichinomura4810]

Compactness yes I agree sigma 100-400 is but Autofocus Tamron is much better only heavy and shaky when you pan or follow the birds like what the KZbinr said in video. Sigma is still way to go right now compact and easy to bring, lightweight, decent Autofocus.

[@matteofranchini7195]

Hi Jan,thanks for the video and for the review. I have an a7r3 with the tamron 150/500, do you think is better to change the tammy for the Sony 200/600 or the a7r3 for the new a 7IV? I do only wildlife photograpy. Thank you a lot for the reply.

[@jan_wegener]

It depends on your budget and what you want to do. If I was a Sony shooter, I would definitely want a 200-600 personally

[@matteofranchini7195]

@@jan_wegener Thank you for the reply ❤️I live in the northern italy and my subjects are the mammals that live here, wolves,bears,chamois,marmots,deer..

[@FeathersinFocus]

A very interesting video and comparisons Jan. I use Sony A9 and Sony 200-600mm combo for birds and I really like it, mainly for the price and the quick autofocus, would love to try R5 sometime which I'm sure will give wonderful results. I would match Tamron 150-500 with Sony A7R4 if I have to.

[@jan_wegener]

Thanks for sharing and glad you liked the video :)

[@tdawg719]

I like the Tamron. Mostly because it’s so compact and can be used for macro as well. My complaint is it doesn’t seem like it focuses pin sharp. Might be flaw in the resolving power of the glass or the lens tech itself but I feel like it could definitely be sharper.

[@allonwne]

Which body are you using?

[@tdawg719]

@@allonwne a7r5

[@allonwne]

@@tdawg719 Hmm, I'm using the A6700 and thinking about the A7R V. Will review my results carefully.

[@minusinfinity6974]

Hang on Jan you've seen the light and switched to Sony? Will never swap the 200-600G for any zoom currently available. EOFY sales can get you the 200-600 for $2K and Canon wants nearly $5K for the 100-500L LOL. Such a shame the Tamron isn't for RF instead of FE. Jan I have the A9 and rarely use the tracking mode due to what you described. It's also poor when the bird is flying low over the ground or water and will easily jump to that instead. I still rely on expand flexible spot, or flexible spot (any size) or centre of zone. For swallows I use wide. But yes I can't wait to get A1 and hopefully R3. I also agree with what you said about h9igh ISO, A9 is excellent and with Topaz Denoise AI I can shoot upto 25600 if need be. I also agree if the Tamron was 100-500 it would be more tempting as I would probably sell my Sony 100-400. Note the Sony A9 AF is just as good as the A9II. The A9 II was truly disappointing update and did not improve AF, mostly connectivity. It is also rarely discounted unlike the A9.

[@jan_wegener]

Hahaha, no. Not at this stage. The A1 is a very nice camera. I will be making some more videos with it soon. I'd like an A1 + 200-600 combo in addition to my canon gear but it's a bit pricy. Yes, I can't say the A9 II impressed me much, nothing like A1

[@KenWoo]

Very informative review! As a Sony A7III owner, I picked the Tamron over the Sony FE 200-600 lens.

[@jan_wegener]

glad you liked it

[@knowyouryoga]

How's it so far I'm deciding for A7iii too

[@wildcat1065]

Very interesting as usual Jan. The big burning question is which do you prefer - R5 plus 100-500 or Sony A1 plus 200-600 ? ( I expect you are working on this obvious comparison ).

[@jan_wegener]

As you expected correctly I am working on that one :D

[@wildcat1065]

@@jan_wegener . Can't wait.

[@Lelandphotography]

Good review. I've rented the Sony iv with the 200-600, i liked it but i'm still a canon shooter. I think it all comes down which system you like best. I look forward to your upcoming reviews.

[@jan_wegener]

Yes, that what counts most in the end.

[@mickmckean7378]

As a Sony user (A7RIV + 200-600) it was great to see you as a Canon user made a very reasoned, fair review on the Sony system - well done Jan. Tamron make some excellent quality lenses, people are still suffering from the stigma of their bad old zooms from many years ago.

[@jan_wegener]

I agree. That's why this new lens surprised me a lot. I have a few more Canon/Sony videos coming :) It was fun to use both systems, to really be able to compare the two and understand where people in the comments come from when they talk about different systems

[@mickmckean7378]

@@jan_wegener We need to just think about how capable any of the latest camera bodies, sensors, AF and IS systems are compared to what NatGeo photographers were using only 20 short years ago. We have so much capability in our hands comparatively today, what even inexpensive modern gear can achieve is just amazing - but we always want more don't we? Looking forward to more gear reviews Jan, have a great weekend.

[@jan_wegener]

@@mickmckean7378 We do, and why not I suppose :D I think we're barely getting to the point where cameras are actually becoming helpers, rather than obstacles to overcome

[@nguyenhoangvu9609]

I had have the sigma 150-600 C as well...then sony native 200-600 is what i saving for, even good reviews on this tamron around, i think i was suffer enough through these third-party lens.

[@iofaimak5958]

good review, easy to understand! thanks a lot

[@jan_wegener]

Glad you enjoyed it!

[@ArminHirmer]

Nice. Yet I always wonder how photographers in the past were dealing with focus when there was no eye af and such :)

[@touchedbynature5445]

Brilliant Video, Very Helpful and Informative. Very Impressed With Presentation. Many Thanks For Sharing. 🇬🇧

[@jan_wegener]

Glad you enjoyed it!

[@UnluckyNewbie]

hello, Jan! I understand that this video is old but i have a question for you. - I have R7 With RF 100-400 and RF 800/ f11 - and A9 (get it used for 1500 USD). Does it makes any sense to try and buy Tamron 150-500 for sony A9 now? Or it's AF is outdated compare to R7 with RF lenses?

[@jan_wegener]

The A9 doesn't;t have the eye tracking, just normal tracking. It does it quite well tho

[@pankajvermacs]

Just after Sigma launched their 150-600mm for e-mount, I am here to ask you to review it and compare it against Tamron and Sony. Because when it comes to bird photography, we trust you more than anyone else.

[@jan_wegener]

Thanks! Don't have a good Sigma contact, but would like to :)

[@Wildlife__shorts]

It’s a good informative video as always. I’ve pulled the trigger on RF 100-500mm lens couple of months ago after watching your video and I’m loving it with my R5.

[@jan_wegener]

Great to hear! It's an amazing lens!

[@AngelusHD]

I got the A7III and the Tamron 150-500, AF is really snappy and the images are nice and sharp. What would you advice? Because i shoot landscape mainly and like to shoot birds 2. But i feel for hiking the 100-400 GM because of the same compactness and lighter would fit better then the Tamron. To be honest the RF 100-500 is a great lens and they did it right. But i wont switch systems and if i do i miss alot of other Sony features i need and want so the RF 100-500 is not an options :) I feel for 100-400 vs 150-500 the 100mm is better for landscape and the difference between 400-500 is negligible but it does make a difference, i test that already. The weight difference between the tamron and the GM is there so. Thanks for the review, really like it and the high ISO part for a non bird shooter really helps.

[@jan_wegener]

That's a tricky choice. Basically weight and wider vs more weight and longer

[@adarshsrivastava9000]

One huge thing you forgot to mention that with only Sony native lenses you can achieve the advertised top frame rates while shooting. That means, you can only achieve the 30 frames per second (A1) of speed with the Sony 200-600, not the Tamron 150-500.

[@jan_wegener]

I thought I said that. I must have cut it out from the take. You are correct! 15 fps max I believe

[@jmok007]

@@jan_wegener what is the max frame rate with the Tamron on A9II?

[@CamillaI]

A1 definitely better than A9II ! A good comparison I would agree with your analysis ! I Always go for reach, but can see the flexibility in the 150-500 . I often use the 100-400 Sony with the A1 now having the 50MP crop capability ! Awesome well done Jan 👍😍

[@jan_wegener]

Thanks for watching!

[@Shutter_heart]

Your video and information with canon is awesome and cant see any other brand !! please come back with more canon video.

[@jan_wegener]

This will be an exception for sure. All my other videos should include Canon. I have some planned for Canon vs Sony, which I found quite interesting

[@marcosbaumann9522]

hi Jan ; Thank you very much for the detailed review. It comes in the right time for me since I decided to move from Nikon D850 + 500 f4 G to Sony A1 + 200-600. I had the chance to try an A1 camera and was very surprised with the fast, responsive shutter, speed and AI autofocus. The most difficult part is to be willing to loose the crispiness and bokeh from the 500 f4 and move to an extremely fast and versatile rig from Sony. Looking forward to check more of your videos, very interested in the image quality performance between your Canon prime and the Sony 200-600. Cheers from Chile Marcos Baumann

[@stevemiller9291]

I tested my 500 F4 against the 200-600 and the Sony was right there with the big prime. Only the bokeh was better at F4 by 5.6 on the nikon and above I preferrred the Sony bokeh @ 6.3

[@marcosbaumann9522]

@@stevemiller9291 That's very good news Steve, thank you for the report ! Cheers

[@jan_wegener]

Yes, It's been interesting to use the different combos. The main difference between zoom and primes these days is the background. My 600/4 has far superior backgrounds to any zoom around.

[@marcosbaumann9522]

@@jan_wegener Thank you

[@jcphenix1]

Long and extensive review, nice job. But, you're so close to your subject in your country, I'm always wondering how to translate your reviews in my location, where being close is an exception ;) so I think that, with current prices, the big advantage goes to the Sony. (Despite the fact that it seems not to be always a real 600mm)

[@jan_wegener]

It's not easy to be close to birds here either. I am just doing a lot of research and find the right birds in the right places

[@samderry26]

What stabilisation mode did you find worked best for birds in flight?

[@blimages2]

which lens do you shoot outdoor

[@alpinist3178]

Nice video! But not for me as i have 400mm f5.6 Which is better canon 1dx or 5d iv?

[@jan_wegener]

The original 1Dx?

[@alpinist3178]

@@jan_wegener yes

[@GeorgeDekker]

only started 2 years ago. Got an a7c because at that time all the youtubers were reviewing that one... Going to get a7rv soon. Anyway, I have a back filled with Tamron lenses, this one came out just after I bought the 70-300. Been on the fence for both. The Tamron would fit in my back with all the other lenses and gear, but the Sony has the appeal of extending... Although, I saw some reviews that the extender has relatively poor image quality and some people mention poorer autofocus. Currently I find myself having the 70-300 on my camera most days and often running it in aps-c mode, even though the quality of the 10mp pictures it produces is limited. I'm still not sure if the 500 vs 600 is a big enough difference to leave other lenses at home... thoughts?

[@haak737]

Will you test the Tamron 50-400mm Di III VC? It gets good reviews, sharp all the way, with semi macro, compact and only 1100+ grams. Also work well for video with the latest firmware update (on a sony body)

[@jan_wegener]

Don’t have any plans for that atm

[@dainesefreak]

So it's better to initially spend more on the Sony 200-600G, than to spend less on the Tamron and have to use it with an A1 for it to be as sharp and not miss? Makes my A7RV and 200-600 look a bargain. 😉

[@6gwilliams]

For me, the Sony 200-600mm. Internal zooming and short zoom rotation with the Sony 200-600mm win out over the Tamron. Cant shoot 20fps with A9/A9II or 30fps with the A1 with the Tamron. A deal-breaker for fast wildlife or any fast action. When you need the reach, 600mm matters, and you cant use any TCs with the Tamron but can use both 1.4X and 2X TCs with the Sony 200-600mm lens. So you can have 840mm and 1200mm with the Sony 200-600mm, not at all with the Tamron. A no-brainer which lens is more versatile. Cheers

[@jan_wegener]

agreed

[@tpg5974]

I see others commented on it, but what are your thoughts of using the Tamron 150-500 with the Sony a6600?

[@Rascallucci]

Sony FE 200-600mm all day. While the difference in sharpness is not night and day, the AF works better, its reach is superior and gives you the flexibility of using teleconverters. One thing you didn't talk about much is how much better it is to shoot with an internal zoom in terms of having a much smoother and shorter throw for action shots like BIF. I keep saying it, is like the old EF 70-200mm, you simply cannot beat that internal zoom action. Last but not least, price point. I don't know about Australia, in Hong Kong the Tamron is only HK$2K or A$340 cheaper than the Sony which is peanuts. It isn't as if the FE 200-600mm cost as much as the RF 100-500mm, if it did then it would be different. In that situation, I would definitely pick the Tamron. So, that's my two cents. Can't wait until the biggie, A1/FE 200-600mm vs R5/RF 100-500mm. This will determine on my next move.

[@jan_wegener]

hehe, the internal zoom. It's better for sure, but I don't mind either way, cause external zoom makes it a lot more compact! I have been using A1 200-600 & R5 100-500 for a while now, video coming soon hehe. TBH.

[@Rascallucci]

@@jan_wegener I tried to do the responsible thing at the time which was why I went with the R5 as I felt the A1 was overpriced. And to be fair, I still think the R5 is a great camera especially considering I don't shoot videos. But, I also checked with a KZbin reviewer back then whether there was any issue adapting the Sigma 150-600mm to the R5/R6 before I pulled the trigger and he told me no which unfortunately is not true. There are communication issues. So, I am at a point I must work out what to do next. Again, if I am trying to be sensible, I will wait until Sony announce the A7R V and/or A9 III and see what the specs are like. If is good, pull the pin then and grab the FE 200-600mm at the same time. However, if the specs aren't good, I have 2 options: 1) trade in everything go for broke to get the A1 and FE 200-600mm or 2) force myself to buy the RF 100-500mm. However, we all know the A7R V has been delayed given Sony has just updated the A7R III and IV with the new higher res LCD screen, so we could be talking about Q3 if not later next year. But, can I wait that long? Probably not. Incidentally, Tony and Chelsea just posted a new video in reviewing all the superzooms and low end primes on the market and they ranked them all from 10th to 1st. Quite an interesting take. Tony also made a body pairing recommendation in ascending order based on budget too. Well, Chelsea picked the R5 and RF 800mm f/11 while Tony picked the A1 and FE 200-600mm f/5.6-6.3. Interestingly, they didn't even mention the RF 100-500mm. If you were to do it again, would you still pick the R5 and RF 100-500mm? I have to say, I am leaning towards Tony's pick. Is not my fault, if Canon had a lens identical to the FE 200-600mm, even if they want to charge me at that ridiculous RF 100-500mm price point, I will buy it right here right now!! Instead, they want to charge me an exorbitant amount for a lens that is 100mm shorter in focal length with an inferior external zoom design that comes with a much stiffer and longer throw. Unless there are major issues with the A1, I think I will find it extremely hard to convince myself to cough up US$3.5K for the RF 100-500mm.

[@jan_wegener]

@@Rascallucci As you know I will make a full video about the two lenses, soon. But let me put it this way, for what I do, a lot of video & photo for KZbin I could not live without the 100-500. But I also have a big 600mm prime lens when I need maximum reach.

[@jan_wegener]

I had similar issues when trying the 150-600, didn't do very well on the R5

[@Rascallucci]

@@jan_wegener Will super look forward to your review on the 2 combos! LOL.

[@reels_on_wheels]

Thankyou buddy 💫💫💫💫💫🙌🏻🙌🏻🙌🏻🙌🏻. Awesome review

[@jan_wegener]

My pleasure 😊

[@philipgowdy]

The Tamron seems very good but like the Sigma 100-400 E mount, which I use with the Sony A9 and A73, may not transfer focus information as quickly as Sony native glass. Having spoken with techno at Sigma for Sony, the focus speed and sharpness can be different with how many frames a second you are shooting at. For example 20 fps in silent mode will only give optimum results with Sony Native glass. You need to be more like 10 fps for non native glass..although images on the whole are good if you need the sharpest image on subjects like Birds in Flight with these super new fast bodies, it has to be native glass. Please keep up the great work...regards.

[@jan_wegener]

Agreed. I don't think there's any questions that in most cases native glass will perform better, but also cost more. I think Sony limits third party lenses to 15fps

[@philipgowdy]

@@jan_wegener 15 Fps was exactly what I was told. The Animal Af on the A9 does work sporadically with larger Birds like raptors.

[@jan_wegener]

@@philipgowdy Yes, it worked at times, but just too unreliable

[@MarkusGebhard]

Will you review the Sony a7iv at some point? I'd say there are a lot of people who'd love to hear your opinion on the a7iv (including me), since it is way more affordable than an a9II or a1 and it has bird eye AF too. :)

[@jan_wegener]

It’s not in my current plans, but I might. In the end it also comes down to what gear I can get my hands on. I can’t buy every single camera 😆

[@ryankwan1934]

The Tamron is so close, yet so far. It either needed to a) start 100mm like you said or b) weigh in at around 1400g like the RF lens. Then it would clearly distinguish itself from the Sony lens. As it currently stands, it really doesn't have anything to stand out against the Sigma or Sony except for packing size.

[@jan_wegener]

Yes, that's how I kinda felt as well.

[@inmouchar]

Funny how money doesn't seem to matter to some people. That's one point where the Tamron definitely stands out. Here in Canada, at the moment you can get the Tamron for $1550, while the Sony costs $2600. Granted, the Tamron is on sale, but even at its original price, it's still way cheaper, and that's not a minor detail for hobbyists like myself.

[@stefanschutt8358]

Hi, very nice video I have to decide Sony 200-600 or Tamron 150-500 have the a7III. Greetings from Germany

[@jan_wegener]

Cool 👍

[@AkinaMedia]

I think you get better video results if you turn off the IBIS and just rely on lens stabilization. Thanks for the review 😊

[@jan_wegener]

Interesting, thanks

[@R.Hogarth]

I realize that this is an older video, but I would be interested in seeing this lens (in Nikon Z Mount) compared to the Nikon 180-600mm lens.

[@HeroShotz]

Can you do a video of the nikon version of this lens ? Vs the nikon 180-600mm

[@cryhavoc38]

excellent and informative. thanks! on a side note, I kept hearing Korg.

[@jan_wegener]

Glad it was helpful!

[@SandeepReddyKatkuri]

Which one is best for my sony A7iii Sony GM 100-400 or Tamron 150-600 ?

[@jan_wegener]

haven't tried the Sony, but a native lens is usually best

[@bryanstephens6007]

Interesting video. I just wish that $$ wasn't a concern for me. Anyways I have the A6600 and have tried 2 copies of the Tamron and wasn't that impressed especially against my Sig 100-400 DN. But I do want to give the Tamron another chance and have one on order and If it can produce as sharp shots as yours then I'll be happy and keep it. So some testing of the Tamy on an A6600 would be nice :)

[@jan_wegener]

Let us know how you go

[@8EPZ8]

I had a6600 +70-350 G and wasn't very satisfied with the results(too many blury shots, about 50%). Then I switched to a7r3 +70-350G and now I get more than 75% keepers. Very surprising that an older full frame body with slightly lower AF points performed better than a6600. Af of Sigma 100-400 is not fast enough for action photography but I've seen many videos confirming that AF of Tamron 150-500 is almost like Sony lenses.

[@bryanstephens6007]

Ok ... just got my real 2nd copy to try yesterday and I'm a happy camper now. Haven't fully tested it but I have no issues with IQ now and AF seems snappier then my Sig 100-400. It's a keeper

[@JCustom]

I have the a1 and r5 and lenses for both, so i have some serious GAS. Looking to dump a system to be like a normal person. I watched many of your videos in getting my R5 setup right for shooting birds. Now that I have the A1 I feel like the bird eye af is faster to acquire on the R5 but the A1 just makes it sooooo easy with 30 fps and as starter in the bif hobby and my wild panning the sensor read out speeds helps quite a bit. However, I am addicted to the RF glass and R5 ergos. Are you moving to the A1 yourself?

[@jan_wegener]

I actually wouldn't mind having an A1 & 200-600, but I would not want to sell any of my Canon gear for it. But it would be a great addition. Price point is the main issue.

[@andyyao1774]

Great review and comparision.

[@jan_wegener]

Glad you think so!

[@RAMBLE_ON]

Informative and very nice pics.

[@jan_wegener]

Many thanks

[@afanasieguler7833]

I bought the 150-500 for the A7 III, mostly because of price and a discount, but I think I'm going to return it, the sharpness seems fine, the macro capabilities make it a nice lens. But the AF is super annoying, especially if the subject is further away, I had no luck with getting birds in air, always missed focus even when the bird was the only subject in the image, also a lot of hunting, if you forget to lock the AF to 15m+ then forget about any pictures. Also the VR is pretty of weak, I could get good results at night handheld at 1/50 while trying to be steady, but making 1/1000 while tracking a subject resulted in moved pictures. I'll probably go for sigma 100-400.

[@jan_wegener]

The lens was pretty fast to lock on with the cameras I used, but sounds like you are having some issue. 1\1000 on a flying bird can easily still have motion blur

[@Jostian7x]

Also, the A7III hasn't got the best AF system for birds etc. The A9 II and A1 AF systems are in another league, so that could also be the issue (to some degree at least).

[@blackmamba3427]

Awesome video and commentary 👌

[@jan_wegener]

Thanks 😁

[@cameraprepper7938]

About sharpness, you use a FF 24 Mp camera, the difference will be larger with FF of 36 to 61 Mp and APSC cameras with 24 MP !

[@jan_wegener]

yeh

[@TheGreatGandalf09]

The TamRon also matches nice on my a6400...

[@cloojure]

Don't forget about the a7iv. Might be the best match for the 150-500.

[@jan_wegener]

Wasn’t out then

[@DalsPhotography]

Beautiful images! Excellent video, and I eagerly away the high ISO vlog! Thank you for posting this one. Best for you and the family.

[@jan_wegener]

Thanks! I talked a bit about high ISO in my last video with Glenn

[@DalsPhotography]

@@jan_wegener I'll watch that then :) Thank you !

[@DalsPhotography]

@@jan_wegener What do you think about using that tamron with a sony a 7rIII ? I'm on the verge of buying one of those cameras... I would appreciate your input, and take into account I am 60 yrs old, therefore I welcome less weight :) thank you.

[@jan_wegener]

@@DalsPhotography I have never used an A7III, so hard for me to comment on it

[@thomasmayer3903]

Very informative video, thank you sir!

[@jan_wegener]

Glad it was helpful!

[@redzone8618]

hi jan did u try the sigma 150-600 sports ?

[@jan_wegener]

no

[@billthomas7644]

Just need Tamron to make and RF mount version of the lens.

[@jan_wegener]

Have not seen many Rf third party lenses at all. Will probably take a good while

[@lorenzo4262]

have you tryed on a7r3? how is af accuracy with this camera?

[@DinoChuah]

Definitely go for 200600🎉

[@jakesdewet3567]

I use Sony and other brands for specific applications. Just one observation about the big storm about the amazing AF performance offered by Canon and Sony. Also looking at the posts on Social media sites on the images taken with these high end bodies. It is all about how good the technology is. How fast the AF etc. Then I look at pictures posted by other brands, Fuji, Nikon, Canon etc and the images reflect the light, composition, mood. Yes there is a great deal of technical aspects to photography, but is that were photography is heading. The AF is now so good that it is almost point and shoot. Set the camera on Manual, increase the Shutter speed, and press the shutter. 20 fps we have a series of a bird or rabbit at high speed all in focus.. I don't say it is bad, I also enjoy that aspect of the Sony gear, but a lot of time the Fuji with its humble AF system creates pictures that hang on the walls of happy clients. that is why photography is so great, a place and equipment for all.

[@jan_wegener]

I see it more like that the camera is finally not as big of an obstacles anymore. In the past I could perfectly track a bird and have the action shot of a life time in front of me and the camera would miss focus. Equipment isn't everything for sure, but I enjoy getting all the support I can from my gear.

[@ducGrom6262]

sorry. what happen when I set AF mode and rotating focusing ring, will it damaged? thank you!

[@NikCan66]

Excellent thoroughly enjoyed this video

[@jan_wegener]

Awesome, thank you!

[@cameraprepper7938]

If you can afford Sony A1 or even A9II, then I guess you also can afford a 400mm 2.8 or 600mm 4.0 ! We need some very good to excellent prime tele Lenses like 300mm 4.0 (or 4.5), 400mm 4.5 (or 4.5) and 500mm 5.6 ! I use the Sony 200-600mm on my Sony A7RIV, most in APSC mode, but sometimes in FF mode, I really need prime tele Lenses !!! I think for most wildlife photographers a Sony A6600 will be the best camera !

[@jan_wegener]

The 200-600 is a pretty sweet lens

[@cameraprepper7938]

@@jan_wegener I not quite into the Sony 200-600, I miss a lock for the focal length and it could be more compact and light, I am often hiking, so many times I leave the 200-600 behind, I will love to see more compact tele prime Lenses soon, a new improved version of Minolta 400mm 4.5 will be great, also 300mm 4.0 and 500mm 5.6 :)

[@antoniofumagalli3869]

Very good review but any lens would do well at f8 with the subject filling the frame and being in sun. You should see pictures of a farer subject, taken in a wood, under the trees, in a grey day...

[@PatrickWithCamera]

In wood and in grey day to get good photo u need some lazy or nearly dead animal willing to stay in frame for long time, or fast prime ;D All slow superzooms in bad lightning are crap.

[@jakeahud476]

Hello, is it possible to use Sony a mount lens on canon eos r ?