Tamron 150-600mm G2 Review - The AFFORDABLE Wildlife Lens - Can You Take Nice Shots?

[@mohitrastogi4515]

I like the way you show the raw file and post processing right through from it.

[@lesleyh2007]

I have never used Canon cameras but I can comment on using this lens on a Nikon DSLR. I use a Nikon D500 with my Tamron 150-600 G2. Before I bought the Tamron I used a Nikkor 70-300mm but wanted more reach so over a period of time I rented a Nikon 200-500mm lens. I really loved the lens. It focused accurately and the image quality was real good. It was a bit slow in focusing though which was my only real complaint. My other concern was a lack of weather seals. Not so much for rain concerns but for dust intrusion as these zooms can be real air pumps as you zoom in and out. I have had other photographers complain that over time the Nikkor does gather internal dust. I rented the Tamron 150-600 G2 and found that it definitely focused faster than the Nikkor 200-500. It was slightly lighter and the lens diameter was smaller which for me meant it was easier to hold. The image quality was identical when I examined them or at least so close I couldn’t determine a difference. Both lenses tracked well and with the Tamron I didn’t experience the focus issues on my D500 that you describe. I honestly really liked both lenses but I decided on the Tamron for a few reasons. The weather sealing was important to me plus the 600mm reach over 500mm meant a lot on my DX camera(750mm on Nikkor to 900mm on Tamron). I have had the Tamron for quite some time and you can see how far the lens extends when extended to 600mm so my concern over it pumping dust meant a lot. I haven’t had an internal dust issues yet at all plus I have used the lens in wet conditions without issue either. I wish Nikon had sealed the 200-500. I also like the Arca Swiss lens foot. I sometimes use a tripod but often use my Benro SupaDupa Pro monopod which has an Arca Swiss mount. This is a real plus being able to directly mount the foot to the monopod or tripod. Here is one last plus for many of these lenses. I bought mine barely used because the selling party was switching to mirrorless and selling off their Nikon gear. I am a hobbyist and for the price I can’t justify a higher priced 500 or 600 prime. Anyway I agree to check your lens calibration which I did. My Tamron came with the Tap in Consul that helps in calibrating the lens to your DSLR. In my case I was fortunate in that the match was spot on with my D500. Lucky I guess. I hope this answers any concerns on the Tamron at least for anyone considering using this lens on a Nikon D500. It is well matched to this camera.

[@SteakOSaurier]

That sounds lovely! i own a D500 aswell and can't decide between 200-500 and the Tamron 150-600 G2 and your comment is promising for the Tamron! Do you have some sample photos uploaded on instagram or something so i could check them out? Cheers!

[@lesleyh2007]

@@SteakOSaurier Sorry, I don’t post online photos. I really think you would be happy with either lens. In actual photo quality even at 100% I don’t see a difference. Like you, I was back and forth between the Nikkor and Tamron which is why I rented them before deciding. The constant 5.6 on the Nikkor might be important to you or something else depending on how you shoot or where you shoot in what conditions. The Nikkor and Tamron both track focus real well but that is largely due to the D500 which brings out the best focus quality of both lenses. As I said the Tamron focuses and locks on quicker but the difference isn’t really huge but noticeable. The real thing for me was the weather sealing. The Tamron advertises thorough seals throughout the body of the lens and because they are both external zooms I really felt that the seals on the Tamron would make a difference in dusty or wet conditions but this may be less important to you. The new Z180-600 has internal zooming which would be the total answer. For the price (I buy used generally because it is a hobby) they sell very close to each other and Tamron just adds a few more features such as the Arca Swiss foot which, again, worked for me but may not be important to you. Both the Nikkor and Tamron are good choices for the D500. You could really buy either and be perfectly happy. Possibly if it is possible just try both by either renting or just bring your D500 to a camera shop as ask to shoot a bit in the store. That may decide for you. Renting did for me and I chose the Tamron. I hope this helps you to decide.

[@lesleyh2007]

@@SteakOSaurierI should add that if you are wondering about theVR vs the VC on both. Actually, again, they are both very similar in use. Tamron has always had very good VC and the 200-500 has really good vibration reduction by Nikon standards. The Tamron gives you three different settings however you will most often use the first setting most often just as in the Nikkor most people use the regular VR most often. I have used the position 3 on the Tamron at times and found it gives a bit more leeway on slower shutter speeds being possible but in birding I mostly use quick fast shutter speeds anyway. Just thought I would add that bit in case you are wondering.

[@SteakOSaurier]

@@lesleyh2007 thank you so so much for this fast and thoroughly thought out answer! I'm leaning towards Tamron, will see and rent it the next time i can. Thanks again!

[@lesleyh2007]

Glad I could be of help. Trying a lens before you actually buy always can cement a decision on whether it suits you or not. Lenses are never a cheap purchase for sure.

[@ClaudeV1234]

I have used the 150-600 G2 lense on my Canon 5d IV for some time with great results, the only thing I think it's a bit slow at focusing when doing birds in flight. I now have the EOS R5 and did some comparison tests with the 150-600 G2 and the Canon 100-500. The result were quite pleasing. The Canon lense was slightly better than the Tamron lense but all shots were taken of objects which were static. I think the Tamron lense is fantastic for the price.

[@Duade]

Claude, thanks for sharing your experience, Cheers, Duade

[@albertjackson8468]

I bought the G1 version a couple of years ago and it really is my go to lens for both birding and land mammal photography. I have been consistently impressed with the quality of the photographs. I also use an old Tokina 300 f2.8, so the weight of the Tamron was actually a relief to me after lugging that Tokina around. I just ordered a Tamron G2 version after trying the Nikon 200-500mm for a few weeks this summer. You are trading a stop of light for a longer reach, but I really thought the Tamron did a better job of rendering the images on my D500 and D800 cameras. My daily carry will still keep both the Tamron 90mm macro and the Nikon 70-300 close at hand, but the lens on the camera is the Tamron 150-600mm when I am either in a hide or wandering about. I found it to be razor sharp on a good tripod and very good handheld w/VC if the light is available. Mostly I set it at f8-f11, but even wide open it will do the job nicely.

[@Duade]

Albert, thanks for taking the time to share your experience with the lens, its great to hear it has worked so well for you. Cheers, Duade

[@rvnmedic2709]

I recently got this lens to use on my Fuji X-T5. I took comparison shot with my Fuji 100-400 w/1.4TC and the Tamrom set at 560 to make them roughly equivalent. Shots at F8 (minimum for thFuji), 125sec, ISO 640. When pixel peeping at 300% I surprisingly found the Tamron sharper. And I didn't have to squint to see the difference. I used the Tamron for Canon with the Fringer EF ll Pro adapter.

[@Anthonyhawthornephotography]

Absolute great review. I've been looking at this lens and trying to compare to other lens in the same focal range. Every review I read goes in depth on laboratory results and pixels at the edges and other areas that quite frankly most of us won't really notice. I really needed an in the field review to talk and show how good it is at capturing photos. Thank you. Going to look at some of your other reviews on lens within the same focal length (the sigma lenses) and decide which to purchase.

[@jubailijoseph6971]

I use canon 6d mark 2 . I struggled a lot with focus but after calibration i have no issue no more ... i calibrated it like four times until it was satisfying to shoot with this lens. I am no professional but i am very happy that now maybe 2 or 3 images out of 15 are soft ...

[@dr.himanshu23makwana]

Dear I appreciate your work. Please...I am thinking of buying this combo. May I have your email id so that I will discuss with you about your recent issue and how come you calibrated the lens and all.

[@jubailijoseph6971]

@@dr.himanshu23makwana check videos for lens calibration. You need to print out an a4 paper with numbers and lines to check the focus . You need to calibrate it at long distance and short distance depending on the focal length

[@myspud9254]

Greetings from southern Arizona, an outstanding birding location year around. I am not an expert at this, but I use my Tamron 150-600 a little differently on my Canon 5D Mark IV. I often use the Canon 1.5x or 2.0x extender, put the lens on manual focus and take multiple shots (yes, same issues with soft focus AF or not without extender). And, I only use this lens in the 9am - 3pm time frame when the sun is the brightest here. I use with and without tripod and Wimberly Gimbal. Works well in this scenario since birds aren’t moving around so much anyway. I need the distance and the image quality is acceptable. Canon 100-400 IS II is my most used lens however, with and without extenders, because AF makes a huge difference for sharp details. Duade, you’re the best. Thank you so much for your great videos and teaching. 5 stars!

[@Duade]

and thanks for sharing your experience, it sounds like you have found a system which works well for you. One day I would love to visit the US and photograph your wonderful birds. Cheers, Duade

[@myspud9254]

I forgot to mention I turn off lens aberration correction when I use this lens. It seems to help. I don’t know why. It’s monsoon season here in the Arizona desert. Birds are bountiful from July through September when we have good rains and despite ongoing drought, this year we are having a good amount of moisture. I’m hoping to get some rare bird photos this year as the birds begin migrating. Duade, if you are able to come to the US you won’t be disappointed. I have been there to Australia, unfortunately never more than a month at a time. There are a lot of similarities and surprisingly wonderful differences.

[@1911sg]

I love your review, you covered the APS-C cameras and pointed out the 'imperfection' of the lens which many other reviews don't.

[@Duade]

Thank you for your comment, Cheers, Duade

[@galesaunders7228]

I am so glad I found your review, I have been beating myself up, blaming my camera and gettting really ticked off with soft images. Your explanation of the focus issues is on point, thank you. Time to change

[@Duade]

Thanks Gale, it does have some issues on mirrorless and at 600 motion blur can be an issue. Good luck with your next lens. Cheers, Duade 👍

[@joydeepdas8980]

I use this lens with Canon 80D.Quite happy.Yes the focus issue happens sometimes.

[@Duade]

Thanks Joydeep, Cheers, Duade

[@lorenzwildlife9726]

You have calibrate the focus? Because I have same problem with the first tamron 150-600 version.

[@joydeepdas8980]

Incase of tiny birds the focus issue happens sometimes

[@lorenzwildlife9726]

@@joydeepdas8980 you have calibrate?

[@joydeepdas8980]

@@lorenzwildlife9726 Ok

[@stevenrubin820]

I think this was a pretty honest review and matches what I’ve found with the lens. I’ve rented the 100-500 from Canon and absolutely loved it not only because of quality but also because of weight. I’m retired and the weight is getting to be a bigger factor. The only problem is that its been backordered for some time so I still use the Tamron while I wait for the Canon.

[@Duade]

Hi Steven, the Canon will be worth the wait, as you know it is a great light lens. Cheers, Duade

[@2x2_wildlife]

Awesome review. Nearing 1 year with mine. Your earlier video on IQ is what put me on to stopping it down to f8 or 9 and made a big impact with this lens! Most days, my 90D and the Tamron are on the same page with AF, especially using 9 point. There are times where it’ll go full cycle trying to hunt for focus and will pass up the subject. Sometimes I’ll switch it’s focus range to combat that if it’s doing that cycle too much. Overall, I enjoy it!

[@Duade]

Jacob, that is great to hear, I'm glad the video helped. Thank you for the ongoing support, Cheers, Duade

[@Shynrato]

Hi mate. I also have a 90D, I'm looking for informations because I want to buy a new lens and this Tamron 150-600 G2 looks like very interesting. With your experience, do you think this lens fits very good on the 90D (for the quality of the image/video) ? Are you happy with the results with the 90D and this lens ? What are the main defects ? Thanks.

[@skylerjade9093]

I've only owned this lens for a few days and I'm already in love with it. 😊

[@sazlisidik6592]

Its good in low light sir ?

[@skylerjade9093]

@@sazlisidik6592 In low light, it does struggle a bit with focus hurting. But you can still get a great shot once it focuses. :)

[@sazlisidik6592]

Ok thanks for feedback . Will find one for me later :)

[@skylerjade9093]

@@sazlisidik6592 No problem! This lens is amazing for its price and it takes some great, sharp shots. :)

[@Mr48374837]

Always heart warming to see you come up with your sincere review. Thanks 😊

[@Duade]

It is my pleasure, Cheers, Duade

[@niclasbagenheim7181]

I´ve got this lens and I shoot it on a Nikon D500 and a Z6. I´m am very pleased with it and have taken many great shots with it! I also shoot it at f/8 for the extra sharpness and it´s very sharp att 600mm. I can find two things that could be improved with it though. The buttons for AF, AF-limit and VC constantly gets bumped causing the lens to end up in the wrong settings. I have solved this by putting on rubber armbands over the buttons. And they could have made the zoom go all the way from 150 to 600 with a shorter throw. Sometimes I have to let go and turn it again to go all the way to the other end. Now I can´t compare it to the Nikon or Sigma variants, because I haven´t tried them, but I would say that at that cost it´s really worth it:-) The G1 version not so much.

[@Duade]

Niclas, thanks for sharing your experience, I agree with what you have said, the throw of the zoom could be shorter. I understand the new Tamron 150-500 for Sony addresses this issue. Cheers, Duade

[@Alphaphotographer]

Probably my next lens. Impressed with the results.

[@Duade]

yes, it performed well for the price, the focus issue is a downside but if you shoot in bursts it will help overcome this. Cheers, Duade

[@lachlangraham1062]

Great video. I’ve used a Sigma 150-500 mm for about 10 years, I guess the older generation of this kind of lens and I can get results I’m happy with. I reckon these lenses are a great option for budget and portability reasons and the image quality is good enough for many people. The zoom flexibity and minimum focal distances are plus points.

[@Duade]

G'day Lachlan, completely agree with you, they are an affordable option. Glad to hear you enjoy your lens. Cheers, Duade 👍

[@Alsmir]

I've been using my Tamron for almost a year now. Shifting focus is definitely a thing. Definitely not a dealbreaker, as I'm always shooting in bursts. It's just annoying when I examine photos and realise that for 1-2 pictures out of 10 focus moved slightly for whatever reason. Overall I'm really happy with my Tamron. It really helped me take another step into wildlife photography. I simply couldn't afford anything more expensive, since the prices in Poland for most of the photography equipment are just sick. I really like it with my 90D. They work really well together. As mentioned in the videos - shoot at f/8 and ideally in good light. That makes the biggest difference.

[@Duade]

Alsmir, thanks for sharing your experience, yes it would be great on an APSC body as 960mm would make the subject very big which is nice. Cheers, Duade

[@pepper1046]

Use for aviation photography and do shoot at f8 quite a bit. Always sharp. Focus keeps up with my hummingbirds around the feeder and planes and bigger birds...

[@Duade]

Thanks Rob, great to hear stopping down helps and the lens is performing well for you, Cheers, Duade

[@karenjackson344]

I have had the lens for 12 months, and thought it was me with the auto focus jumping out. Now I understand the lens does it at full 600 sometimes. I have started using it again in the past week, and will continue to. I am a hobby photographer and $ where a consideration when I purchased it. Thanks once again.

[@Duade]

Karen, the AF of these third party lenses is their weakness unfortunately. The IQ in good conditions is very good, Cheers, Duade

[@HussamNasser]

Hello Bro I have a question please Does this Tamron 150-600mm G2 lens work on the Canon R7 camera or not? Does it also work on the Canon T6i camera released 2016 or not? And thank you very much

[@omerhazar]

I have same question 🤔

[@lorinj1]

It works on any Canon full frame or APS-C DSLR and on any Canon RF mount camera with the appropriate EF-RF converter.

[@sedevacante966]

9:02 I have the same problem with my Sigma 150-600. It is unfortunate. I use the M6 II. I rely more on one-shot for stationary birds and servo for birds in flight or fast-moving birds. I also use C1 on the mode dial for birds in flight (set the minimum shutter speed to 1/2000 since the custom modes aren't fully manual). This way (with a single turn of the mode dial) I can set the exposure compensation two stops higher, have a faster shutter speed, and also switch from having a large square in one shot to using the whole AF area in servo. I also have the dock where I can adjust the focusing range to be 15m to infinity (which is a little faster than 10m to infinity, the default) by switching the custom mode switch on the lens. So I have to train myself to simultaneously flick the switch on the lens and turn the mode dial to be prepared for birds in flight.

[@Duade]

Sede, it sounds like you have a system which works well, thanks for sharing. Cheers, Duade

[@jurgenwittmann2905]

I use this lens with 5dIII and 7dII. With the 7dII there is some issue at 600mm so I stop at 550mm. In general there are no problems with the 5dIII. With the advantage of ISO400 (7dII) to 600 (5dIII) the images with the 7dII are much sharper. So I think it's worth to use the lens with the faster 7dII with the crop factor for wildlife. I think it needs fast shutter speed at 1/1200s even in stbilizer mode 3, and f7.2. What bothers me more is the large angle of rotation to zoom from 150 to 600mm.

[@Duade]

Jürgen, thank you for sharing your experience, yes on an APSC it gives you a lot of reach. Yes, it would be nice to adjust how much you need to turn the ring to zoom. Cheers, Duade

[@jurgenwittmann2905]

@@DuadeEdit: Just switched to the R6II - now I miss the crop factor and I'm thinking of the Tamron TC-X14E. How does this combination work together? Edit: I bought it. This converter is specially calculated for the 150-600 G2 and not a simple standard TC for any lens. Testing so far has shown no problem. Only aperture 9 hurts a bit.

[@Duade]

G'day, it may struggle a little to be honest, I think it will work but I have never tried it. These zooms are often not the best with teleconverters and of course you will lose a stop of light also. Sorry I cannot be more specific. Cheers, Duade@@jurgenwittmann2905

[@guyjackson4143]

I have the G1 model of tamrons 150 600. I decided to upgrade to the G2 and was disappointed. For the small amount of difference I could see in the images I couldn't justify a 1200.00 upgrade. I returned it and purchased the Sigma 150 600 contemporary with the USB dock. What a difference, the focus is much faster and the photos I have taken so far show a higher quality of definition especially at the 600 setting. I may have gotten a bad lense the first time but I'm sticking with the Sigma.

[@Duade]

Guy that is great to hear, it is always nice getting a lens that works well. I really would like to test the Sigma at some stage, I just hope they reach out to me. Cheers, Duade

[@alokekumardutta3763]

I use this lens with Canon 7D mark ii from Nov 2020 and feel happy for its performance.

[@Duade]

Thanks for sharing Aloke, I appreciate it. Cheers, Duade

[@briansbuildsandoutdoors4936]

Nice review Duade, thanks for taking the time to do it. It certainly gives a bloke something think about. Aall the best, Brian.

[@Duade]

Thanks Brian, I appreciate the feedback. Cheers, Duade 👍

[@toriwiley3888]

You are awesome and amazingly knowledgable! Thank you so much for taking the time to post these videos.

[@Duade]

Tori, it is my pleasure, Cheers, Duade

[@PeterGrace2013]

Yep, I have the Tamron 150-600 G2 connected via EF-RF converter to an EOS R, also experience the same focus issues consistently. If the subject is stationary enough I even swap to manual focus at times to try to improve it.

[@Duade]

Thanks for sharing your experience Peter, sounds like it is an issue with most copies of the lens. Cheers, Duade

[@PeterGrace2013]

@@Duade No problem -- if people are looking for more examples of the shots from a Tamron 150-600 G2, pretty much all of my pics in pog.birds instagram are done on the tamron. There's also a #tamron600mm instagram tag.

[@bestpix100]

Thanks for your time and effort, I am lucky enough to have the RF100-500

[@Duade]

Yes that is a beautiful lens. Cheers, Duade

[@timmiller521]

Great review, if I didnt already have this lens then I would go and buy it. Great for a hobbyist like myself. Used on canon 5d mk4, 90d and 7d, best results with 5d. Very pleased with image quality sometimes hard to tell much difference between canon 100-400 mk2 image quality, but not as good focus. However no problems taking bird in flight pictures, I find this my go to lens with 5d for birds, if I require max reach I use apsc camera. I had the sigma contemporary 150-600 a few years ago for awhile but found image and focus inconsistent, so I was reluctant to go back to this type of lens. Glad I did, thoroughly recommended.

[@Duade]

Tim, thanks for sharing your experience, I am sure it will assist others, Cheers, Duade

[@duncandrake2580]

Thanks! It's helpful because am considering both this lens and the Sigma 150-600 Contemporary. Here they have basically the same price. I would use it on an 80D. Did you experience out of focus images in bursts when on the 90D as Duade reports?

[@hp2084]

I have this lense on my D500 and i have had really good images with it. What i have found is lense is sharp even at f/7.1 but for subjects that are less then 7 meters for 7 meters to 10m f/8 and beyond that to infinity its f/9. For close in i have god really really good imagines of birds.

[@Duade]

Hiren, thanks for sharing your experience, some great advice. Cheers, Duade

[@tofu684]

Thanks for the very nice review. I use my Tamron on a Nikon Z6 ii and have the same focus problems, where it jumps from sharp to soft and back again within same seconds of shooting. It drives me crazy, but when the focus is correct I’m very satisfied with the picture quality. I also like the build quality and weather sealing.

[@Duade]

Steffen, thanks for sharing, I am glad to hear you are enjoying the lens. Cheers, Duade

[@cstevenett2779]

Hey Duade, New to your channel! Great content! Just found this video. I use this lens myself and find it takes good images with the limiting factor being the missed focus. It is currently attached to a Nikon D500 and works quite well. I have to agree about the auto focus issues though. A friend of mine has a Nikon 200-500 and in my observations, both lenses take comparable quality images most of which I am quite happy with. The Tamron works fairly well in low speed shots but the Nikon shines when things get quicker! The biggest, very noticeable difference, is that the Nikon 200-500 has faster reacting auto focus capabilities. It grabs focus much faster and doesn't lose it as often. (at least on my D500) At literally the same price point and with very similar image quality as the Tamron, I feel the Nikon would be a better choice. My next purchase is going to be the Nikon 200-500......right after I sell the Tamron! As much as I would love a prime, the budget says no for now! Enjoying your channel! Cheers from Alberta Canada! Craig.

[@Duade]

Thanks for sharing Craig, I have only used the 200-500 once and need more time with it, good luck with the lens purchase, Cheers, Duade

[@patrickehrenholm]

This is exactly why I just bought the RF 100-500 and the 1.4x. The Tamrons AF seems to slow to keep up with my R6. I instantly noticed how much better the AF was with the native lens. I also got aaaaalot of soft out of focus pics with the Tamron. If ive seen this video before i purchased the RF 100-500 this would have been the nail in the coffin for the Tamron. But this video just confirmes that I was right. Thanks for a great channel Duade!

[@Duade]

Patrick, congrats on the RF100-500, a beautiful lens, I have recently invested in it myself, now I need to save for an R5. Cheers, Duade

[@theorncampbell4432]

I have the Tamron 150 -600mm. I use it on a 5D MK III and an EOS R. The Tap in Console helped me to sort out my auto focus problem. My copy of the lens seems to be either in focus or out of focus, it doesn't seem to be inconsistent. If you get a chance to try this lens after calibration, I think you might like it a lot more. The Tap-in console is a MUST for any g2 Tamron lens. I think it's their solution to tricky autofocus algorithms and variation between camera bodies. I use this lens for surf video as well. The VC is, IN MY EXPERIENCE, the best that I've ever used. The 3rd mode works amazingly well for panning and I'm able to maintain focus with the subject against spraying waves and foam. AND THANK YOU for posting your photos with settings. I'm so used to shooting with short fast lenses and stopping down to about 5.6 or 6.3 to get the sharpest images. I have to keep in mind that I'm going to be sitting around f 11 on this lens.

[@Duade]

Thanks for sharing your experience Theorn, it sounds like the console helps a lot. It is unlikely I will get the lens again so thanks for sharing for others. Cheers, Duade

[@ronbrendel8366]

Yes, I consistently have the same focusing issues with this lens even with mirrorless R, and yes, very frustrating. In manual focus, I can get things razor sharp.but not practical.

[@Duade]

Ron, yes, the focus issues are unfortunate, I was able to get plenty of sharp shots when shooting in bursts. Cheers, Duade

[@shack109]

I use this lens with the EOS R, I have the same in and out of focus during burst shots. My sharpest images comes from F/9 and back the zoom down to 500mm or less.

[@Duade]

Thanks AJ, sounds like it is a common issue, yes I shot mostly around f9-10, Cheers, Duade

[@faithisrising]

Thanks Duade for this review! I love taking photos of our birds at the feeders and this lens has made a wonderful difference. It is heavy and I’m handholding it but consistently happy with the photos. Once the weather warms up I will take it out with my tripod.

[@blaiseduff]

This lens is perhaps the best "bang for the buck lens" for wildlife. Used it for several years on my 7D Mk II and no issues. It compares to my R5 with my 100-400mm II

[@Duade]

Thanks for sharing, yes, the 7d2 and the 150-600 sure does give you plenty of reach that is for sure. Cheers, Duade

[@jaynepainter9743]

Morning from the UK. I have the same issue with the Tamron on DSLR and mirrorless, great video thank you.

[@Duade]

Jayne, thanks for your input, Cheers, Duade

[@gpfeiffer1]

I have both the Tamron 150-600 and the RF 100-500. My observations are generally consistent with yours. The Tamron often gives soft results. Since I shoot almost exclusively in the early morning, I almost always shoot wide open. The Canon lens is definitely better, though as you correctly point out, it should be, at more than twice the price. The Tamron is a nice lens, but does suffer by comparison.

[@Duade]

Thank you, yes I had the same experience as you. Cheers, Duade

[@raylander6329]

Hi Duade, First of all, thank you for a good down to earth review; I did shoot this lens on the Canon 5D IV and liked the 600 mm and sharpness; Took it to Africa and got some keepers; 600 mm a big plus, and zoom a plus; nowadays I shoot Canon R5 and Canon 100-500 and this combo is, as you said, very good, very sharp and lighter. Some images are absolutely great, and from 45 MP I can crop anytime to get to what the 600 used to give me in terms of size of image on screen. Agree with all your points.

[@Duade]

Ray, thanks for your feedback, I appreciate it, yes, the 100-500 is a great lens. Cheers, Duade

[@rreichar1]

Nice review! I have the Sigma 150-600mm that I’m using with the R6. It seems quite similar to your experience with the Tamron. It misses focus occasionally as well. I do think it my copy may be a little sharper at 6.3 than the Tamron you had. Hard to say on KZbin. I may eventually buy the Canon 100-500mm but the Sigma is hard to beat for $900 USD. I do a fair amount of BIFs and it works pretty well for that. It may be a little slower to grab focus than a native lens but I have no complaints at all for the price. I seriously considered buying the 60-600mm and I actually rented both lenses for a week. The 60-600mm was just too heavy for me to handhold comfortably and to be honest 95% of my photos are at 600mm anyway. So I am really happy with it. Too bad Sigma wouldn’t send you one to try. I have been a M43 shooter for a while and and got a deal on an R6 so I have been trying it out a month or so. I had an f11 Canon initially (it came bundled with the camera) and I got some good shots with it but it was not good at golden hour. The Sigma is a lot better. Focus is similar. I feel it is sharper and the limited focus area on the f11 lens was annoying. I have not tried the Tamron but it sounds extremely similar to the Sigma. I would absolutely recommend the the Sigma though. It may not be the last lens you’ll ever buy but it’s a very nice bird lens for most people.

[@Duade]

Rod, thank you very much for your detailed comment, it sounds like the Sigma has worked very well for your needs. I suspect all of the zooms in this price bracket will be similar. Glad to hear you picked up an R6. Cheers, Duade

[@msyuan1124]

Thank you for the review. I love your videos because you show the Un-cropped raw files and not just the post-processed files. I have a Canon 600 f4, and bought this Tamron lens after hiking 4 miles with the 600 f4 attached to a Wimberley and 3-Series Gitzo tripod. Portability and the ability to shoot handheld were the key qualities I was looking for. Yes, the 600 prime IQ is better, but there are hikes where I no longer want to take all that weight into the field, especially when I’m new to an area and I’m just scouting it out. I love being able to walk around without a tripod and still be able to reach out with 600 mm when the need arises.

[@Duade]

G'day Mark, thanks for your support and feedback. Yes, I recently got the RF100-500 to go with my prime for the exact same reasons you mention. I am just hoping Canon release an R7 which would go perfect with a zoom. Cheers, Duade

[@f1xzor]

I bought the lens last month, I have Canon 80D with the Tamron 150-600mm g2, have lots of issue with the autofocus, mainly back/front focusing... Did some AF microadjustment and still doesn't help. I really love this lens, and for its price its a great lens for value! But these issues don't need to happen, you pay 1000$+ for it and you would excpect for the best from the factory. I'll send it to be issued at thr local tamron dealer hope they will fix it. Great video bud you helped me alot, thanks!

[@Duade]

, sorry to hear you are having focusing issues, they do appear to need some adjusting so I hope they can match it to your 80D for you. Cheers, Duade

[@f1xzor]

@@Duade Made some microadjustment, seems that's working better :) And started to use Single Focus Point, looks already better :)

[@raghunathsingh8909]

Good review. Having used it earlier, all I can say in good light it's a good deal, really suffers in low light and also the weight is on the heavier side. However, when it comes down to the money, this is very worthy contender, especially for the ones on tight budget and hobbyist photographers.

[@Duade]

Thanks Raghunath, I agree, it is a very affordable option for people wanting to get into birding or wildlife. Cheers, Duade

[@soumyakundu5341]

Have been using Tamron 150-600mm G2 on Nikon D7500 extensively over the last 2.5 yrs. Your field review resonates perfectly with my experience with this lens. Focussing is extremely erratic. However, when it does lock focus accurately, the sharpness is excellent. Have missed lot of shots due to the erratic nature of the focus. Also, my lens got affected by fungus in just 2.5 yrs. A lot of nonsensical reviews have been made on this lens but you hit the nail on the head.

[@Duade]

Thanks for the feedback and sharing your experience, Cheers, Duade

[@hp2084]

Depends on weather. I live just 5 mins walk from the sea, very humid here and i have fungus in just a year.

[@DC.images]

I have had mine about 2 years and teamed up with a 5D iv and love it, mine was front focusing very slightly but once calibrated I've not had any real issues regards focusing.

[@Duade]

Thanks for sharing Dean, yes it is a very capable lens for its price, thanks for sharing, Cheers, Duade

[@JohnDrummondPhoto]

I've owned the Tamron zoom for several years. It's pretty good, especially for the money. But I must agree with all the points you mentioned. In the last year, I've upgraded to Canon mirrorless bodies and started a KZbin channel. The Tamron's very jumpy VC makes it almost unusable for video. If the Canon RF 100-500 is a lot smoother as you say, that's just one more reason to move along. Funny, my own first birding lens was also the 400mm F/5.6L. I traded it in for the Tamron to get length and VC, but I still miss it.

[@Duade]

John, yes, the RF100-500 is a great lens for hand held filming. I love my 400 5.6 and even though I no longer need it I don't think I can bring myself to sell it. Good luck with the channel. Cheers, Duade

[@uwehoffmann9255]

I've used the Tamron 150-600mm G2, as well as their first generation lens of the model, and both the old Sigma 150-500mm and their new 150-600mm contemporary lens, on a Canon EOS 6D, Canon EOS 5DSR, and a Canon EOS 1DX Mk II, and out of the bunch I prefer the Tamron 150-600mm G2. What I don't like about the lens, and that goes for all the lenses I listed, is that they all don't produce decent pictures with tele extenders/converters which is the definite advantage with the faster Canon primes. Enjoyed your review, most of all your pictures of different kinds of birds, different from what we have here in the Rockies of North America.

[@wildcat1065]

Another great review, you put a lot of effort into them. Thanks.

[@Duade]

John, thanks for the feedback, yes, they do take a lot of time but luckily, I enjoy the process. Cheers, Duade

[@thereandbackagain2022]

Would you suggest VC on or off at high shutter speed. Note the tamron 150-600 g2 is on a R5Mk2

[@kennetht66]

Thanks for your review was wondering how it worked on birds in flight. Have been looking at this lense. Love your show

[@Duade]

Kenneth, I am happy to hear it was helpful, Cheers, Duade

[@gatotherliyanto2093]

Thanks for the review ... just bought the Tamron 150-600 and will try soon on Canon Eos R5 ... Warm Regards from Jakarta Indonesia

[@Duade]

Gatot, congrats on the lens, good luck with it. Just remember to try and shoot at f/8 to increase sharpness. Cheers, Duade

[@malcolmrendle6622]

Hi Duade, I was nearly seduced by this lens after watching countless reviews including yours but was concerned by the number of comments from people relating to the "hit and miss" quality of the lens it seems that it rests on the flip of a coin as to getiing a good one or troublesome one with soft focus issues with a 50/50 split. In the end I watched your other videos and have settled on a second hand Canon 400mm prime lens. I noted with interest your closing comment regarding buying the Tamron or saving for a better lens and I think, I have followed that advice. Thanks for yet another informative and intelligent video

[@Duade]

G'day Malcolm, congrats on the lens, I am sure you will enjoy it and good luck saving for the new lens. Cheers, Duade 👍

[@michaelktori5178]

@@Duade Hope it's OK for me to comment here. I have the G1 and the G2 150 - 600 on Canon 6D, 5Dsr and 7D2 and I found it absolutely essential to micro adjust these lenses to the individual bodies. The only way around this is to use the Tamron 'tap in' module that basically does same thing. I purchased the G2 to replace the earlier model when it's AF became intermittently unreliable.I use these for 'birding'.

[@paulinefollett3099]

This video was packed full of good information. Thanks for the honest real world review.

[@Duade]

Pauline, it is my pleasure and thank you for the ongoing support, I always smile when I see your Chat image :-)

[@paulinefollett3099]

@@Duade I love them but up here in the mallee (Mildura Vic) we see them very infrequently.

[@snertius]

Good review and quite consistent with how mine is. I'm the target audience, a hobbyist wildlife photographer with a family to feed so the cost\performance ratio of this lens fits for me. I always believe that I have to adapt to my equipment, I have to learn my equipment and when I do, I can get the most out of it. Whatever it is. This lens is no exception. Mine operates very well at around 550mm at f8 on a 6D mk2. I just bought an R7 and I'm re-learning how to use the lens with it's limitations on this body. My keeper rate is up already and I'm still practicing. I aspire to the RF 100-500. Anyone want to trade for a child? house trained and can do dishes\wash cars, walk dogs etc... 🤣

[@kupol887]

what u mean about limitations on R7? I got R7 with RF100-400 and looking for something much brighter

[@samueldutrieux5291]

Hello from France, I discovered your channel today. I watch the videos about photo lenses for wildlife photography. The Nikon 200-500mm must be very good, I just regret the shorter focal length and the fact that it is not "tropicalized" but you can not have everything. I'll subscribe to your channel and watch your well-detailed videos, great job.

[@Duade]

Samuel, hello from Australia, welcome to the channel, I am happy you found it. The Nikon is a good affordable option for the Nikon system. Its downsides being its weight and the 500mm focal length. But it does offer very good value and when paired with say a D500 it works well. Cheers, Duade

[@Agnivolok1]

Really enjoy ure videos and info! Thank u so much ! Cheers

[@Duade]

Thanks Alex, it is my pleasure, Cheers, Duade

[@geirralle]

Great video and Review going to by an used one one of this days!! Best regards from Norway :)

[@andrewwordsworth5364]

I have just traded in my canon 300mm f2.8L mkii for this Tamron lens mainly for Air Shows, possible wildlife when my 600mm f4 is too heavy for a long track. My 100-400 is to short and the tamron 600 will come in handy handled all day long, with aircraft filling the frame. With a canon 5DS-R attached or my 1DX

[@andrewstuijfzand2816]

Nice review, thanks! I just bought this lens a couple of months ago and experimenting with it (Canon 80D and just started as an amateur photographer😅). Just the info I needed. I struggle with the sharpness of my pictures; knowing that most of the time I am walking around trying to take pictures of wildlife and shooting out of hands. I know, using a tripod will improve the sharpness, but there has to be a way to manage whilst shooting out of hands? I now realise that I have to use more the sweet spot of this lens (f8-10/11) instead of f6.3 at 960 mm and that pictures taken from a greater distance most of time will miss sharpness. And a shutter speed minimal 1.6 x 960 mm to prevent motion blur. Better a sharp picture that can be managed in a photo editing program, thans an unsharp picture…

[@CelebratingOutdoors]

Thank you for your presentation, lots of valuable info : )

[@sscoolssingh80]

Very nice review Duade. Thank you. :) I have Tamron 15-600 G2 and as you have already mentioned, I face the same issue of moving focus points within the same shots with my Canon 7D Mark II. As a workaround, I always take a couple of shots at a time.

[@Duade]

Thanks Sumit, it appears to be an issue with the lens but like you say it is easily worked around by shooting in bursts. Cheers, Duade

[@WashburnDK]

@@Duade The Tamron 100-400 also has this issue, latets firmware didn't fix it.

[@roncadillac3987]

Thanks for review! I have a Sigma 150-600 Contemporary lens and have same issue with soft focus on over 50% of my shots. It is frustrating. I’m glad you named problem. I’m using the R6 which does give me more good shots. Focus was better with my Sigma lens, but I dropped it and had it repaired last fall. The number of sharp photos was better with my 70D and 5D iii before lens was dropped. On a side note for other Sigma 150-600 C users the Wimberley P-30 Arca-Swiss quick release plate works well for me with the Whimberley MonoGimbal Head (MH-100). It is a good monopod system.

[@Duade]

Thanks for sharing Ron, sorry about the lens, I think everyone who has been shooting wildlife for any period of time has an unfortunate gear story or two. ;-)

[@photoapeal]

Dan Walters on Instagram uses theTamron G2 lens and he gets a lot of quality shots with the R6 combo, I've seen a few of his shots get published. I experienced the bird disappearing when close problem today and I missed a few shots with my R5 because of it. I did check & my lens was set for close shots and not infinity. Thanks for reminding us to refocus on the ground then try it, i forgot about that trick. I was using a 600mm f/4 with a 1.4x so that may have been part of my issue as well. possibly just too close for that setup.

[@Duade]

Yes it can be an issue with long lenses, but knowing how to overcome it is the key. Good luck with your photography, Cheers, Duade

[@nageshdeshpande4891]

Thanks for the quick review I too faced similar focussing issues on the lens , I improved my technique and also gave the lens to service where they did a firmware upgrade ( that's what they told me) and a calibration done. Seems it's holding up as of now ...

[@Duade]

Nagesh, that is good to hear, I am happy to hear the lens is performing better for you. Have fun with your birding, Cheers, Duade

[@jhgfghjfuzrtfchchghgf]

has this actually fixed the issue?

[@bmuses6092]

yes - - I have the focus issue - just a hobby with me but I have gotten some really excellent bird pics...mine is an older model - and I'm just using it on a Rebel T6i - but I am happy with the shots

[@Duade]

Barbara, that is great to hear, thanks for sharing your experience, Cheers, Duade

[@lillyjohn1573]

Very good review with out fancy explanations .. thanks

[@Duade]

Lilly, my pleasure, Cheers, Duade

[@arupian666]

Regarding the inconsistent focus, I think the lens you used might be broken.... the part at 2:51 where you're operating the zoom ring with that white line below it exposed: on mine, pushing the zoom ring forward and exposing that line, locks the zoom ring. No way can I do what you're doing, on mine. Regardless, I love my G2 lenses. I have the 70-200 and the 150-600. Compared with what you'd pay for equivalent "L" series glass, they're both amazing bang for your buck. I'm an "enthusiast" not a pro, for me, they're a no brainer. Especially with the pretty sweet deal I got from my local Canon dealer when I bought both lenses together. I shoot with a Canon 90D. I personally haven't come across any focus issues, it's been a pretty stout performer all round.

[@Duade]

the lock did work when I pushed it forward, not sure what is going on there. Great to hear you have had a good experience with your lens, Cheers, Duade

[@aalosttechie]

I have used the Tammy for 5 years plus wirh the 77D and the 80D. Calibration is needed (with 80D possible) and it was good both at static subjects and BIF. However the 100-400 being a bit lighter was better at BIF. Never had any issues in focusing as well as low light. Yes, it is sharpest at f8 for me. With the mirrorless, it worked flawlessly with the R after the firmware upgrade (lens). However I had the focus missing issues with the R5 initially. Also the R5 used to freeze. However somehow this has disappeared now with the latest FW and some configuration changes (for freezing issue). I have decided to hold on to the 100-500 spending as am managing with my EF zooms till then.. This lens is a favorite with bird photographers getting to the world of DSLRs and mostly with Canon. Not everyone can afford the Canon zooms and primes..

[@thomaskarlsson7446]

Hi Duade, Just another great review. :-) I own a eos 5DMKIV with the tamron 150-600 G2 and after some microadjustments on the lens and some AF settings on my 5dmkiv I got it to work sooooo much better. These things made my combo work so much better :-). The EF 500mm f/4 L IS have to wait a while longer ;-)

[@Duade]

Thomas that is great to hear, I suspect many lens focus/softness issues are down to incorrect calibration and settings. Good luck with your kit, Cheers, Duade

[@chrisgaynor4940]

I have used this lens on a Nikon D7200 for a couple of years now and have had the same problem with the auto focus being hit and miss. Thanks for clarifying that it is not my shooting style. Would like to add that as frustrating as it can be with soft images I have learnt to recompose and shoot lots of images to maximise the chances of nailing the shot. Using on a crop sensor I have the range of 225-900 which is fantastic

[@Duade]

Chris, yes its not just this lens, my 5D4 had some focus issues and I do as you mention, take shots, refocus take another burst. Doing this means some of the shots are going to be sharp. I do miss the crop factor I must admit, hoping the R7 happens. Cheers, Duade

[@Sparkchaser1200]

Duane, Great review. I have had both Tamron 150-600mm. I still own the G2 model I love it! I also take a lot of bird photos as well as other wildlife. I had some of these soft focus issues. I took the lens and one of my Canon 6D’s had had the lens calibrated. Made a big difference. I like your idea of higher ISO like 400. Still have my old film habits trying to use the lowest ISO. I found I have better results using ISO 400 or 800. Again thanks for the review.

[@Duade]

Shawn, getting your DSLR calibrated is great idea and will ensure the sharpest shots. Great to hear it is working well. Cheers, Duade

[@paulhastings288]

I've had this lens for about 7 months now on a Nikon D500, I'm a newbie bird photographer, but have found it brilliant. The focus issue does happen, but is really quite rare for me, strangely enough it seems to happen for a couple of days, then be okay, I don't know if that's just a coincidence or not. Either way, I've learned to focus on something close by, then I can get the bird in the view finder. I keep thinking I'd love a better lens, but frankly, I think the differences in quality will be minimal for me. I've also got a lot of improving to do before I am better than the lens :). Especially for shots that are largely going to be viewed on Insta, I don't think an amateur photographer needs much more.

[@Duade]

Paul, that is great to hear, the D500 is a great camera for wildlife, good luck out there with the birds. Cheers, Duade

[@elementarypenguin0]

Hi Paul, I'm a newbie bird photographer as well. I have just ordered a D500 and the Tamron 150-600 G2 - hopefully I can get some good shots. A $5000 investment is about as much as I can justify and even that is a lot of money for a hobbyist.

[@paulhastings288]

@@elementarypenguin0 it’s great- believe me.

[@markparnell7615]

@@elementarypenguin0 Ditto. I've had this same setup for the last year and am really happy with it. It was my retirement present to myself. I managed to get it under $4K. Watching this video has helped me with some settings, which I'll now experiment with, not least of which is using f8 rather than shooting wide open. I may get my lens and camera calibrated too. Also, shooting more bursts to get hopefully one in better focus and being heavy handed with the delete button. I'm looking forward to hearing from Duade at the Gold Coast conference this weekend.

[@elementarypenguin0]

@@markparnell7615 That's great to hear Mark. My order still hasn't arrived in Darwin, been waiting a few weeks and they say it won't be here until the end of the month. Recently bought the Sigma 18-35 f1.8 Art Series lens from Hong Kong and it was $200 cheaper and arrived in 4 days! Seriously thinking of cancelling my order from Sydney and saving $300 on the Tamron. I have also ordered the Tamron Tap-in Console $152 on sale at present which allows you to adjust lens settings and calibrate focus - investigate that if you haven't come across it. Best wishes.

[@Ilovetheworld221]

I Just want to say THANK YOU. I've got this lens and could not find any solid info on how it performed on the R6.

[@Duade]

My pleasure, Cheers, Duade

[@anoopchaudhary8732]

Hi, how is the af performance with r6?

[@GediAstro]

I just got mine for fun. As you say, I have the same issues with focusing. However I'm really enjoying the lens!

[@Duade]

Yes, I was happy with the images I was able to obtain during my testing. A great lens for people getting into birding. Cheers, Duade 👍

[@Wildlifebydrdharmesh]

Xc

[@skalco88]

I own the g2 and the 400 5.6. (my machines are 80d and 5dsr). When shooting in BIF, 50% of the photos are blurred. the times never go below 1/2500, and ONLY if I find myself freehand I always use vc mod 2 (for stationary subjects instead vc 1 or 3). I realized that the biggest problem with this lens is the continuous refresh during the tracking of the subject (the autofocus briefly loses the subject and then hangs it up). This continuous refresh during the chase then inevitably causes problems when you press the shutter button, leaving you with a lot of choppy shots. With the 400 5.6 this HAPPENS MUCH MUCH LESS, because the af is simply better and more reliable. the 400 5.6 can be considered much more "sniper" from this point of view. the g2 hook the subject very quickly, but the real problem is that it is very hard to stay "hooked" during the chase. What do you think of my experience dear Duade? do you agree?

[@Duade]

Niccolò, my experience is the same as yours, the 400 5.6 is a sharp, quick and accurate lens making it an excellent option for BIF. The Tamron is a good option for stationary birds or when you need that extra focal length. Cheers, Duade

[@Vincentions]

I shoot this lens with a Nikon D5600. I also shoot a lot at f6.3 and usually get sharp images. I definitely shoot in bursts to help with the focus issue and keep my shutter speed up.

[@Duade]

Thanks Joshua, great to hear you are getting sharp images. Yes, the focus issue seems to be a common issue with this lens. Cheers, Duade

[@cardiacade]

I still use my Sigma 150-600mm C when I can't be bothered to lug around my 500mm f4. Still really impresses me how sharp it can be for it's relatively low price.

[@Duade]

That is great to hear, I am still to try that lens out, but it sounds like good value. Cheers, Duade

[@cardiacade]

@@Duade I like the lens apart from the awful manual focus ring and slightly underwhelming image stabilisation.

[@DeputyNordburg]

This is my situation as well. I have a Canon 200-400, and it is at times too big and heavy. It's not for casual hiking. But I do have a low end kit, a 7D2 and a few lenses including a 300mm f4 that lives in my car. It's for when opportunities pop up, or to give to a second shooter like my son when I drag them along on a real wildlife shoot. A Sigma 150-600, or this Tampon might make a nice replacement for the 300. Especially if I upgrade that camera to something FF.

[@Mr09260]

I loved my Tammie G2 on my old D850 .. it was sharp and good value but I had to sell to afford Nikon Mirrorless upgrade .. I may still get one again

[@Mr09260]

I mainly do African Wild Life so my new 70-200 on a 45 M Pixel Z7 is plenty on the big stuff and on DX goes to 300mm F2.8 and I have the new 1.4 x which gives me 420mm f4

[@Duade]

Thanks for sharing your experience Peter, glad to hear you are enjoying the Z7. Cheers, Duade

[@marieta.s]

I couldn’t agree more with what you said. This is a fair review and you did it justice. I have a few remarks, this would be a good option for an amateur who wants to go out have fun and come back with a few good pictures. Not everybody can afford to buy the big primes so this is a good deal. Also weight wise it is easy to carry around. The pros with the big primes often end up carrying their gear in specialized carts because of their weight. Also people should remember that this is a third party lens. Of course it won’t be the same as the big dedicated lenses. One final remark is that I have heard but have not tested personally is that the Nikon version is better than the Canon one. I am looking forward to getting this one as it fits my needs. 😀

[@Duade]

Thank Marieta, yes, the weight is a big advantage over the heavy primes, I could hand hold this lens quite comfortably. Cheers, Duade

[@douglaswetzel3221]

I agree with you on the focus issues. Sometimes I'm happy with it, other times I'm not. Thanks for confirming my thoughts but it's worth for the money like you said. I'm a birder First and photographer Second, so I'm fine with it and will keep it I'm sure. Come on down to SE Texas sometime now.....ya 'hear!

[@Duade]

Douglas, thanks for sharing your thoughts, yes this lens is a great one for birders who want the reach and want a good record of their sightings. I would love to visit Texas someday. Cheers, Duade

[@Rizznato]

I have been using the Tamron 150-600G2 for about 2 years now, mostly with the 80D without any issues. I am having an issue when using the Tamron with the R5. When waking up the camera, it has difficulty focusing on a subject. It shutters in and out making a loud noise even squeaking at times. The lens’ firmware was updated with the latest version (2018) and the R5 has also had the firmware updated. Turning the camera off and on solves the issue, for a while. I know other photographers are having the same problem. As well, the same problem has been reported with the R6. It’s strange as the R5 works well with all my Canon lenses.

[@Duade]

Nato, sorry you are experiencing this issue and unfortunately it appears you are not alone, I did not have any issues at all but many mention the autofocus not working and a power off/on fixing it. I hope Tamron can fix this via firmware. Cheers, Duade

[@sajudevassy2900]

Good Feedback Duade ! Appreciate the time you take out to do these comparison series, wish Sigma heard you and you can do another Sigma-Tamron Comparison series as well.

[@Duade]

Thanks Saju, yes, I would have loved to have both the Sigma and the Tamron to compare. Cheers, Duade

[@ralfseidler7141]

As always, a very nice and honest video Duade! Thank you! I can confirm the focus issues with my Sigma 150-600 C, but if you spray and pray (especially in silent 20fps) you get a lot of good and sharp images. I also used mine to shoot some birds in flight and it struggles a lot when you activate the IS. So my advice would be to keep it either in mode 2 (panning) or deactivate it all together for best results. But considering, I only payed 550 Euros for mine on the used market, it is working pretty good and was definitely a bargain. It produces very pretty and stunning images and with the R6 my keeper rate is very good, especially compared to my old and trusty 6D. I am looking forward for a R7 with 32Mpix and the AF of the R6 and this would be a very cool combo. Cheers Ralf

[@Duade]

Thanks for sharing your experience Ralf, I should have tried with the IS turned off to see if it helped as it sounds like it may have. Yes, I too am very interested to see if an R7 is released. Cheers, Duade

[@marcuscaruana6772]

I have it with a 5DM4 and it is a keeper lens. You'll get a few less hits than the more expensive lenses but you get the reach. It is a compromise. I am buying an R7 and if I get more hits than I am getting on the 5DM4 I will be more than happy. Image quality is amazing even at the far end and I had some really great shots even with birds in flight.

[@njbmods]

Cheers for this review Duade. I have the exact Tamron on my EOS R, and love it. I got intrigued with more expensive glass, so i got a Canon 300mm f2.8 L mk1 to compare to with a Canon 2x iii tc, and did some testing at 600mm on both against each other and actually found the Tamron to be a smidge sharper. Without the TC comparing 300mm wide open, and the Tamron, the tamron needed to be at least f8 to match the Canon. It was a very interesting test, but actually sold the Canon to keep the tamron. I love the 600mm length of the Tammy, and didnt find the canon to impress too much with TC attached, hence the sale. I do also experience the issue you mentioned about missing focus occasionally, however its not too often for me 😜 Have to mention Lilydale Lake in your video, i love that spot, it's literally 5min from home and its where i tested the 300mm during sunrise a few weeks ago! Gotta love local 🙂 Cheers again and stay safe mate ✌️

[@Duade]

thanks for the comment, yes, the lake is a good spot to try out gear, the 300 2.8 II was a big improvement over version 1, it is very sharp, and the AF is far better with a 2x III extender. I remember using the older version and wondering if there was something wrong with the AF it was that slow. Great to hear that the Tamron lens is getting you lovely shots. Cheers, Duade

[@njbmods]

@@Duade i could imagine so. I was super lucky to grab the mk1 at such a bargain, but i just had a soft spot for the Tamron. Maybe one day ill get the mk2 🤞 Checked out a few of your other videos too, and following you on insta. Keep up the great work 👏 Stay safe mate 👍

[@DhirajKumar-ss4gq]

Nice and very good review. I have this lense and its a value for money.

[@Duade]

Thanks Dhiraj, glad to hear the lens is working well for you. Cheers, Duade

[@DUTTAPRASUN]

I had tamron G2.I faced the same focussing issue several times. Literally getting frustrated with the lens for its inconsistent performance. Then I sold it and bought nikkor 200-500mm lens.

[@Duade]

Prasun, by all accounts the Nikon lens is very nice, how have you found it? Cheers, Duade

[@gkrausphoto]

Excellent review! This review justified the need for me to be patient and wait for the Canon RF100-500mm lens I ordered. I hope I get it soon. It has been a month since I ordered it. Thanks!🙏🏼😊

[@Duade]

Gareth, it will be worth the wait, it is a lovely lens. Cheers, Duade

[@gkrausphoto]

@@Duade Thank you, Duade!🙏🏼😊Just getting a little anxious.😆

[@Echoesofwild]

Duade, as expected another great video. I can tell that you are one of the professional that I´m follow closely. I do appreciate your style, your clear language and above all on this video, your honesty. At the moment I have a Canon 90D paired with this Tamron. As I had the opportunity to already share my frustration with your friend Jan. All my photos are soft and either in front or at the back of the subject and I don´t remember to get a single photo which I can say is sharp. I´m a professional beginner so I have to assume that for some phots I´m the root cause of those mistakes but not even single sharp picture?!! I have asked some of friends of mine to try it and they got similar results. I´m leaving in Norway and for a significant number of days the light is not what I would like to have to photograph small birds. That being said and with your experience is my odd experience is this a sign that I might have a significant calibration issue? My apologies for the long message and looking forward to hearing from you. Keep the good work and keep transparency and clear language. Thank you. José Neves

[@Duade]

G'day Jose, definitely sounds like a calibration issue. Tamron do sell a tap in console to calibrate the lens. Or there is lensalign which is harder to do on you own. Or send your kit to Tamron to calibrate perhaps. One way to test this is to photograph a ruler on an angle and take a shot, use manual focus on a tripod and live view, and use a 10 second timer. If part of the ruler is sharp then it's front or back focus. If none of the ruler is sharp then it's not a calibration issue and could be the lens. Also are other lenses sharp on your camera. Have you tried the Tamron on another camera. Good luck, Cheers, Duade 👍

[@jankompan]

Same focus issue here on EOS R, yet focus system is fast and great and problems are sporadic

[@Duade]

Thanks for sharing your experience, Cheers, Duade

[@richerich8007]

I owned this lens and paired it with a Canon 5DsR and a 7D MKII I found it to be soft at 600mm and even sent it to Tamron to have them look at it. It came back soft at 600mm and when using the 1.4 T. C. it was at f/9, very difficult shooting in Alaska.

[@Duade]

Rich, yes, when using the TC the maximum aperture becomes f/9 so you need to add a stop to that so in theory f/11+ is needed when using a TC which as you say makes it hard in low light. Cheers, Duade

[@ScottPDX]

Thanks for the excellent review Duade. Not sure if you still have the lens, but I've heard that turning the VC off for images over 1/500 will help with that inconsistent focusing issue. I've read, but not tested that VC on images over 1/500 doesn't really help. Though with VC-On it looks better in the viewfinder and video.. Especially with the IS that you have in the R6. FWIW- I have this lens on a R6, and I get a lot of soft images, but I'm sure it's my technique (hand holding, walking in parks in low light etc.) as when I get good light with a and subject it can make a great image. If I slowed down, used a tripod and got in good light and subject I'm sure I could get better results way more than a more expensive lens, which I think you were saying too.

[@Duade]

Thanks Scott, good point, I didn't actually try the lens with VC turned off, I suspect the viewfinder would have been very jumpy in the R6 making it an unpleasant experience. Good to hear you are making the most of the lens. Cheers, Duade

[@JohnAvantiBK]

You will never print as much as the images are zoomed in this video. This is a very good video.

[@krisc9300]

I used this lens on my D7500 for about a year and a half and had pretty much the same experience. Upgrading recently to a D500 has improved my keeper rate by quite a bit.

[@Duade]

Kris, that is great to hear, congrats on the D500, a wonderful birding camera. Cheers, Duade

[@fredrikfindahl1184]

I also have the 150-600 G2 and a D7500 and experience a lot of out-of-focus shots. Sometimes it's the majority of shots of a phototrip and sometimes just some. Did the problem almost go away for you when you switched to the D500?

[@krisc9300]

@@fredrikfindahl1184 I would have to say yes. The autofocus capabilities on the d500 are incredible. So fast and accurate. That alone was well worth the upgrade. Also, I would say the low light capability is a bit better as well.

[@fredrikfindahl1184]

@@krisc9300 Very tempted to upgrade...do you still use the tamron 150-600mm g2?

[@krisc9300]

@@fredrikfindahl1184 Yes I do.

[@SammyWo]

You make amazing videos. I have this lens and have the “focus jump” issues every time I go shoot and it renders over half my photos soft. Disappointing, but the rest of the lens is fantastic for the price

[@Duade]

Sam, thanks for sharing, I had the same experience, Cheers, Duade

[@WildAlberta]

First off, great review. I love the real-world review over technical reviews. I have this lens running on an old 60D crop sensor.. Prior to this lens, I was using the kit lens 17-200 the difference is night and day.. I did notice some soft photos thought it was me, I will have to watch for this issue. If you could do one of these real world reviews between yhe R5 & R6 that would be great.. One of them will be my next purchase nit sure which one yet..

[@Duade]

Thanks Shayne, great to hear you are enjoying the lens, 600mm is the sweet spot for birds that is for sure. I reckon it might be worth waiting to see if Canon release an APSC mirrorless, that might be a great upgrade for you. Cheers, Duade