Tamron 17-28mm vs 16-35mm f2.8 vs 16-35mm f4 - With downloadable Images

Tamron 17-28mm vs 16-35mm f2.8 vs 16-35mm f4 - Which Lens should I buy!? I’m still wondering which one but I tested all of these lenses out. Link for downloadable photos: bit.ly/tamVSsony
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[@stephenwoodburn2970]

Great review of these lenses, Mike. I always enjoy your perspective and love the extensive real world testing that you do. Keep it up.

[@mikesphotography]

Thanks so much Stephen! This was a fun one to do...apart from messing up the astro settings!! 😆 😁👍

[@VideoSlave01]

I always come back even years later to see if you have done a video on a topic I'm now reaching and so many times it's a perfect comparison or explanation for what I'm looking for. As always excellent content thank you

[@mikesphotography]

That's great to hear ... my video library is pretty extensive now! 😆 Great to hear I could help again with this video. Thanks for watching 😁👍

[@Donaldian2]

what more can I say, This is a perfect comparison review. I own a tamron 17-28 by the way. Thanks for the review mike!

[@mikesphotography]

Thanks so much Donald! I tried to be as fair and as thorough as possible. It was good fun as well...It's great to see that tamron are producing such great quality lenses!!

[@Nickporter17]

I like your videos Mike. I was searching for tamron reviews and got excited when I saw yours!

[@mikesphotography]

Awesome!! Thanks so much Nick, I'm glad I could help. 😁👍

[@jamesbell8730]

I liked the way you described the way your used, tested and detailed capabilities about the three lenses, nice job. Being just a hobbies and having the 16-35GM lens I always bring it with me. If I’m playing with primes lenses or big telephoto lenses that 16-35GM somehow gets used at some point in the day.

[@mikesphotography]

Thanks James, it was definitely a fun test to do... I was in the shop the other day debating on what to get and I think we were there for about an hour...I think my bank manager must have been sat on my shoulder!! 😆 Even though I now have the tamron, I may still end up switching it out for the gm. 16-35mm as it is such a useful range. Thanks for watching and commenting, much appreciated. 👍

[@mikkelschille160]

Great review. Bought the Tamron. Really happy, especially when working with a gimbal. Cheers from Norway!

[@mikesphotography]

That’s great, it is fantastic on a gimbal isn’t it. 👍

[@simonp8088]

I appreciate the clarity of your voice. You enunciate each word very clearly. I’m sure your international audience really appreciates your videos. Makes you very accessible! PS i ended up with the sigma 14-24 dg dn (mostly for real estate). I recently tried the tam 17-28. Both lenses tested on an a1. Long story short: i was disappointed with the tamron in the corners. The Sigma is other-worldly sharp in the corners and across the frame, even wide open.

[@mikesphotography]

Thanks very much Simon, I really appreciate your kind words. I am leaning more and more towards the 14-24mm sigma. It does seem to have really good IQ and that wider lens would be fantastic at night, for real estate and to just get more in the frame. Thanks for watching 😁👍

[@pracquet]

Thanks for the video Mike. I don't know about the other lenses but I've recently acquired the Sony 16-35 GM lens, and, after using it for a few days, I'm really impressed by the performance, versatility, and imagery that it produces when attached to my Sony A7Rii.

[@mikesphotography]

I bet! It's a power horse isn't it...if I could have justified the cost, I'd have got it as well. The tamron I now have is good, but not quite as good as the Gm. Thanks for watching. 😁👍

[@SeCyDBS]

I bought the 16-35gm f2.8 with my Sony a7III in hong-kong at a crazy low price. But this lens is a beast!! Thank you for your video. Always clear and concise. Thumbs up!

[@mikesphotography]

Thanks so much!! It is definitely a beast! I’ve used the gm quite a lot in the past so let’s see if the tamron can keep up... Thanks for watching and commenting, much appreciated! 😁👍

[@adrianalfordphotography]

Great video Mike - thanks for sharing the results from the test 👍🙏

[@mikesphotography]

No worries Adrian, was a fun one to do...And after an hour or so of standing in the shop switching between the two, I think I’ve made the right decision...but we’ll see how I feel in a few months. 👍

[@riz6392]

excellent video and very nice explain thank you sir, really you deserve more subscribers for informative videos and als which mic you are using in this video?

[@mikesphotography]

Thanks so much Riz! To film my videos I am using a rode ntg3...I did get the levels wrong in a few of them but I think I've sorted it for my latest ones. Thanks for watching. 👍

[@onikaimu]

Another great video full of useful information. Thank you!

[@mikesphotography]

Thanks so much Lance! It was a fun test to do!! 😁👍

[@Keyloggs1]

Perfect video. I was looking gor a lens I csn get for my iceland trip this year. Probably going for the tamron now! Thanks! Btw im looking for a mid zoom range lense too. Tamron 28-75 2.8 or 24-105 f4 what would you recommend? (In case you have a video about that, i will watch it in a min)

[@Jam-ew6lb]

Thanks for making this video. Thanks to you, the thought of buying the 1635gm disappeared. I'm determined to use the Tamron 1728 for a longer period of time.

[@mikesphotography]

The 16-35mm is a beast of a lens...I have the 17-28mm and the 35mm f1.8 and they really compliment each other well...if I had the 16-35mm, I wouldn't have been able to afford the 35mm which is one of my favorite lenses! Thanks for watching 😁👍

[@gregoryshaughnessy7541]

Hi Mike, Great video as always. I went through this same comparison and chose the Sony F4. I’m not a pro just an enthusiast and I’ve found the F4 to be a great compromise with fantastic performance but $1100 less than the F2.8. I love it. It’s my walk-around lens.

[@mikesphotography]

That’s awesome Gregory! It’s quite the debate to have isn’t it...I’ve nearly bought every one of these lenses at one point over the years. Even though I’ve gone with the tamron for now, I still may swap it out for something else. 😁👍

[@alanpoelman4228]

Nice review. Definitely wish the Tamron 17-28mm was out before I bought the 16-35GM. 12-24mm plus 17-28mm is the perfect wide angle combination for the system IMO.

[@mikesphotography]

Thanks Alan, I’ve almost pulled the trigger several times with the GM and it is a fantastic lens! Even though I have the tamron for now...we’ll see if I feel the same after a few months. Thanks for watching. 👍

[@donnydefenders]

Interesting video Mike. I have been debating this for a while now. Think I will end up going with the Tamron.

[@mikesphotography]

Hi Aaron, I was in the shop debating for hours...I think I’ve made the right decision but only time will tell...to be honest they are all fantastic lenses! 😁👍

[@luciegagnon1238]

An excellent comparison! You covered all the basis and your explanations are clear. Thank you! I will buy the Tamron 17-28. I am new to the Sony world, and now I just need to decide if I will get the Tamron 28-75 or the 28-200 as a 2nd lens.???

[@mikesphotography]

Hi Lucie, That is a good question, and it all depends on what you want to photograph. Personally I'd go for the 28-200mm as this gives you much more reach, but if you want better image quality and shoot in low light conditions, the 28-75mm would be the better option. Thanks for watching 😁👍

[@zenza7120]

best comparison of these TRIO! Thanks!

[@mikesphotography]

Thanks so much Zenza!! I'm glad you liked it!! 😁👍

[@lululimo]

Just bought 16-35f4 for real estate, yesterday done first shooting, fantastic!!! Bought it almost not used at all for a half price

[@mikesphotography]

Nice! It's always good to get a bargain! 😁👍

[@BuzzWorthy]

Great job as per usual, Mike! When I purchased my A7III about a year ago, Tamron had just come out with the 28-75 but didn't have the wide lens and so I ended up getting the 16-35 GM which I love along with the Tamron 28-75. If the 17-28 Tamron was available at the time, I'm sure I would have purchased that and then with the extra money saved I could have gotten a couple of prime lenses. I'm hoping to see an E mount Sigma 70-200 with Stabilization in the near future since I don't want to drop $2,600 on the Sony GM. I am not considering the Tamron 78-180 because it does not have Stabilization and it comes up short on the zoom range. I am also hoping for a quality 1.2/1.4 wide angle prime for astro, something between 14-18mm - the Sony 24mm is just a bit too narrow. Regarding your audio, I listen through desktop speakers and it sounds fine for me. Keep up the great work!

[@mikesphotography]

Thanks so much. It’s great to hear what you think. I was debating for over an hour in the shop between the gm and the tamron...it seems like a great little lens and I’ll see how I get on with it over the next few months. The 16-35mm is definitely the rolls Royce of the 16-35mm range!! 👍 You’re right about the telephoto, I’ll be giving the tamron a miss as well. let’s hope sigma deliver a good 70-200mm soon. I thinking of getting the 15mm Laowa for astro in the new year. ...and thanks for letting me know about the audio...good to know...I think it’s a little close to the edge if you listen to it on in ear headphones but with normal desktop speakers, it’s ok. 😁👍

[@cassiopeia21]

Great video, thanks! Seems like the main downside was the extra few mm on the higher end...but if you also have the Tamron 28-75 then you're covered! May involve changing lenses a little more often, but for saving hundreds, I think it's a reasonable sacrifice.

[@mikesphotography]

Most definitely William! I ended up getting the 35mm f1.8 as well and this gave me a better looking 35mm image...but like you say, it's just a little bit more hassle to change the lens more often. Thanks for watching 😁👍

[@JuanAgustinRMassa]

Great review Mike! I was looking for my first lense apart from the sony 28-70 on my a7II for landscape and night photography and I think I'll go for the Tamron

[@mikesphotography]

Awesome! If you already have the 28-75mm, the 17-28mm would be a great companion to it! Thanks for watching. 😁👍

[@JuanAgustinRMassa]

@@mikesphotography thanks for the reply Mike!! I will watch more of your videos ;)

[@gustavotorresvan]

I got the tamron 17-28 cause my first Lens was the 28-78 they match pretty nice together! Also the price was the biggest hint! I’m happy with it!

[@mikesphotography]

That’s awesome, the tamron is a great little lens isn’t it...and it matches perfectly with the 28-75mm. Thanks for watching Gustavo! 👍

[@michaelwhite1322]

Great video. I, too, went with the Tamron and find it works really well.

[@mikesphotography]

Hey Michael. How long have you had it? It seems the best choice for travel and having a good decent, small, wide angle. 👍

[@michaelwhite1322]

@@mikesphotography Since July. I think it is an excellent lens and have been very pleased with the results.

[@mikesphotography]

Great to hear. I'm looking forward to many more shoots with it! 👍

[@CREATIVIZOR]

Hello Mike! Really detailed review. Very informative and unbiased. Would you recommend the gmaster for 1) food videography- to get mouth watering on the face style footage. Will it have the fish eye effect on the edge on the wider side? Or it will be same as the 24-70 gm? Or.will you recommend some.other lense to pair with a macro? I have a7iii. Myspecific requirement is to get over the top shots along with Broll while prepping the food. Please suggest. 2) product review videos. For mobiles, white goods, etc

[@mikesphotography]

It won't have the fisheye on the wider end as its rectarlinear...for a true fisheye look, you'd need a superwide lens at about 10mm and not rectilinear. This with the 90mm macro would be a great combo. I use this and the 85mm with macro tubes all the time when I'm filming for clients. At 35mm, this should be good for birdseye view shots for prepping. 👍

[@reeeci]

Fantastic review. I am currently exactly where you ended this video. Leaning towards the tamron for its lower weight but I know I'm going to miss the 28-35mm focal length.

[@mikesphotography]

Most definitely...If it wasn't for the size of the 16-35mmGM, I would have gone for that, but I just couldn't justify having such a huge lens in my bag all the time...I definitely miss the 35mm though...👍

[@StanleyKowalski.]

Mr Smith really helped me made my decision , Tamron, thank you

[@mikesphotography]

Glad I could help Stanley! 😁👍

[@anirbanroy6150]

Hello. For street photography and documentary photography what is openion regarding 16-35 f4? Specially at 28mm and 35mm performance of 16-35 f4.

[@JeniaFabisuk]

Hi Mike! Following you channel for a year now, always educative and helpful videos. Living in Dubai, do you know any rooftop spots for shooting above the clouds in Dubai?

[@mikesphotography]

That’s awesome, I’m glad they’re helping! The best place is downtown Shangri La, but it’s 250dhs for a session on level 42...great views though. Thanks for watching. 👍

[@helencogan2187]

I LOVE the 16-35GM 2.8...I use it for landscape and ASTRO work....Worth the extra money!!!

[@mikesphotography]

Hi Helen, It is a fantastic lens isn’t it! Even though I’ve gone with the tamron for now, we’ll see how I feel in a couple of months time. I’ve rented the gm for a few jobs in the past so I know it’s an amazing lens so it’ll be interesting to see if the tamron can keep up. Thanks for watching and commenting, much appreciated. 😁👍

[@ralphboelen4807]

great test video thank you !

[@mikesphotography]

Thanks so much Ralph! 😁👍

[@gautammukherjee2141]

Hi Mike...I follow all your videos... very informative, objective & practicalI... presently have a 24 105 f4 lens & considering to buy a wide angle lens that can shoot both landscapes & astro hence larger aperture seems important... still torn between Tamron 17 28 f2.8 or a prime lens...please suggest the best option in reasonable budget...Thanks !!

[@mikesphotography]

Thanks so much for following my videos and tutorials!! IF you already have the 24-105mm you have a few options...if you are on a budget, I'd go with the 14mm samyang/rokinon f2.8 ... the tamron is a great little lens but it seems a little restricted on the wide end. If you can afford it, I'd say go for the 14-24mm sigma. This will give you much more range and after looking at the results, this one did have some amazing results ... I did a video on the ten that I have my eye on recently: kzbin.info/www/bejne/aYO3o4uaeLGFaqc&t and the sigma 14-24mm came out on top... The 20mm f1.8 from sony is a fantastic lens as well...

[@luigimedi]

Thanks Mike! What do you think about Samyang 18mm f2.8 for astrophotography? Would love to have your test/review/opinion on this lens. Thank you!

[@mikesphotography]

Hey Lui, I'd love to try it out under the stars as it looks really interesting...if I get my hands on it, I'll definitely be testing it out. 👍

[@dariordz688]

I was about to buy the sigma 1424, but then I realized that I would use it with the Crane 2 to chase cars & bikes, so that unprotected glass isn't my best option. I'm looking at some reviews like yours to be sure about the Tamron, and while I save some bucks on the wide lens, will try and get the not-so-nifty 55mm, although I think it's really expensive for what it is. Thanks for the review!

[@mikesphotography]

No worries Dario, sounds like a good plan. The 55mm is a fantastic lens as well...those would be a great combo for filming...wides and closeups in two lenses. 👍 Thanks for watching. 😁

[@garybennett7845]

Thanks for this. I almost pulled the trigger a month or so ago but decided to wait. Between your review, Jason’s review and some online research, I have decided on the Tamron. I’m ruling out the sigma 14-24 mainly because I’d have to invest in a new filter system (I do a bit of landscape and trying long exposure and would like to dabble in astro). At $1400 plus a more expensive filter system, the cost is less attractive, to me at least. The GM, while a wonderful lens, is just too far out of the budget and the G doesn’t seem to be a good choice for astro. Tomorrow is Saturday and I have the day off, early Christmas present for me.

[@mikesphotography]

Great to hear your thoughts Gary! A few people have mentioned the 12-24mm but I'm not so sure...I think the distortion might be a little bit ott on that one...I am going to try and borrow one to test it out though...It would be good to pit it against a few other lenses as well. I feel the same as you about the GM...I would love to get it but really can't justify spending that much money on it...If I was shooting events full time I'd probably think differently but for what I need, the tamron is more than enough. Enjoy your early Christmas shopping...It's always a christmas day when buying camera kit!! 😆👍

[@cenonmin]

Great discussion Mike, I too am torn between the tamron and the sony F4. I already have the sony F4 24-105 and its a great lens, I guess logically I should get the tamron but am wondering whether the ibis on the sony plus the 2.8 on the tamron is enough to make up for the lack of oss/steady shot on the tamron and also that 1mm difference at the wide end. so confused/torn :/

[@mikesphotography]

It’s a tricky one...I didn’t really notice the difference between the two when it came to stabilisation. It is a tricky one to make...the tamron is definitely sharper though. 👍

[@teesrakinara]

Great information thanks. Could you also review two viltrox lenses made for sony, 20mm manual and 85mm f1.8 AF if you had a chance of having them of course :)

[@mikesphotography]

Thanks. If I can get my hands on them I’ll definitely test them out. Thanks for watching. 👍

[@TomaszTwojFotograf]

Hi, nice set of information. Hi! Tamron have a FOCUS BY WIRE - will it work with my gimbal DJI RS 2 so I can controle the focus from gimbal?

[@mikesphotography]

Unfortunately most lenses nowadays have focus by wire with a logarithmic rotational graph (meaning the faster you turn it the quicker it goes through the focussing range). I'd avoid any of the modern fly by wire lenses for that system. I had one with my Zhiyun Crane 2S but never got it to be that reliable with focussing. Thanks for watching 👍

[@shirab868]

Really useful video, Mike. Thank you. You mentioned correcting the vignetting on the Tamron manually. What's your procedure for doing that briefly speaking?

[@mikesphotography]

Hi Shira, I basically tweak the settings in the manual tab of the Lens Corrections pull down menu, in the Develop module...Adobe haven't made a profile for this camera yet so that's a little annoying. The other way to do it is to find a lens profile like this made by tamron...I think there is another lens with a similar focal length...this seems to do an ok job. I hope that helps. 👍

[@shirab868]

@@mikesphotography Yes, so helpful! Thank you!

[@macartanmcquaid22]

Great video Mike, had a good giggle half way through as well 🤣 Keep up the great work 👍🏻

[@mikesphotography]

Haha!! That’s excellent!! 😆 Thanks so much Mac!! I hope all is well with you. 😁👍

[@ZisimosZizos]

Nice video Mike! In the next weeks ill order the Tamron. I have a few weeks now the a7iii and I think Tamron is the best wide lens for my camera. Next lens I think it will be the Tamron 28-75 and all we are waiting the 75-210. With these 3 lenses I think my gear will be ok!! Have a nice day!

[@mikesphotography]

That sounds like a good plan! The tamron is a great little lens and the 28-75mm is also a good allrounder. Let’s hope they deliver a great telephoto lens for us soon! 😁👍

[@ZisimosZizos]

@@mikesphotography I think soon Tamron will release the telephoto!!

[@mikesphotography]

Definitely...as well as 3 prime lenses...so it'll be interesting to see how they are as well.

[@jamportrait]

Hey mike just wondering were can i buy the backpack clip for the camera or the name of it thanks

[@mikesphotography]

Hi Jose, It is from a company called Peak Design, here's the link to it: amzn.to/2RaRGji I hope that helps. 👍

[@ShahbazAhmed]

Great sharpness in the Tamron , 17-28 and 28-75 the perfect combo to invest What mic was used to record the voice and if can make a video on the process to render the audio record, great voice though.

[@mikesphotography]

Thanks so much Shahbaz! I use the Rode NTG3 for this and then boost the levels in Adobe Audition. 😀👍

[@johnclaffey5912]

Great review Mike thanks for posting it. I have the Zeiss 16-35 I bought it second hand and am pretty happy overall, I have the GM 24mm 1.4 which is phenomenal and the manual focussing 15mm f2 Laowa which is really nice too both great for astro (yes I have GAS baaad) I probably have at least 1 lens too many but I'm thinking of trading the zeiss and buying the Sigma 14-24 I would love to see a review of that to help me decide :-)

[@mikesphotography]

Thanks John, this was an interesting one to make. Haha!! Nothing wrong with a bit of GAS!! 😆 and you’re can never have enough kit!! I’m trying to get my hands on the sigma to test it out. Would love to see how that performs. Thanks for watching and commenting, much appreciated!! 👍

[@IvanLeens]

hey, how would you compare the stabilization between the sony 2.8 and the tarmon ? Thx

[@mikesphotography]

Neither of these two lenses have image stabilisation, so they both rely on the in body image stabilisation ... so it all depends on the camera model you are using them with. 👍

[@lindakantes873]

Another great video Mike . Because of the weight of the 16-35 on A7iii Im selling and getting 17-28 f2.8. Tamron 28-200 is going as well replaced with Sigma 90mm Dg Dn. My rx10 will cover the rest ...

[@mikesphotography]

Sounds like a great plan! I love my 17-28mm, use it pretty much every day. Thanks for watching 😁👍

[@georgepopenkov9980]

Thank you! What lens do you recommend for full frame camera and that king of Talking head review video?

[@mikesphotography]

It depends really. I like the 35mm look but a lot of people will go a lot wider...I chop and change my talking head pieces between the 25mm and the 35mm. 👍

[@hanumanprasad5548]

Hi Mike, thanks for such a great comparison video. Need your advice. Just before watching your video, I bought an almost new 16-35 f2.8 GM lens for $1500. I already have a 16-35 f4 lens and thinking of selling out one. Do you think I got this GM for a better deal and is it worth? I got these questions after seeing your video. Thanks in advance.

[@mikesphotography]

If you can get the 16-35mm f2.8 for $1500, as long as it is working order, I'd go for that one. WIth the 17-28mm I do miss the 35mm end...I bought a 35mm 1.8 to fill that gap, but it would be so much better to have this lens just reach that much further. I hope that helps, and thanks for watching. 👍

[@findermanimages]

Could you make up the 7mm difference at the long end by a small crop in Lr, without losing too much image quality? It's all a bit technical for me! 😬

[@mikesphotography]

You could, but its more the feel of the 35mm focal length...it really is a useful length, but with the money saved, I'll be getting the 35mm f1.8...more bokeh and still less money for both than the GM. 😀👍

[@BrianWilliams-mh3eq]

I had the same problem with wanting the 35mm on the long end. But i decided on the Sony 24-105mm G and the Tamron 17-28mm. I get a bright f2.8, 17-28mm and a nice f4 G lens in the 24-105mm range. No decision on a long range lens yet!! Thanks!!

[@mikesphotography]

Hi Brian, That sounds like a great combo! I bet those two work really well together. As for the longer end, I'm looking at the 200-600mm at the moment...hopefully I'll be getting that soon. I hired the 100-400mm the other day and could have done with a little more reach. 😁👍

[@iz_no_good]

Mike, many thanks for the comparison. The Tamron is the most suitable for me, comparing to the Sony F4, but will it work fine with an A7 ii? i am concerned with the lens compensation features the camera has, will it be able to correct images in camera when using this lens? i noticed A7 iii had recently a firmware update (after Tamron lens release), but A7 ii, had its latest back in May 2019. (firmware updates site: alphauniverse.com/firmware/)

[@krislee4645]

thanks for the review

[@mikesphotography]

No worries, thanks for watching. 😁👍

[@Pavel__Shin]

Hey, Mike, thanks for a video! I have a chance to buy a brand new Zeiss for 850$ ( i don't know why, but it much cheaper in my country). So the price difference doesn't exist anymore. So do you think it is a good idea to buy the Zeiss instead of the Tamron in 2020?

[@mikesphotography]

Hi Pavel, As long as it is a good copy and you don't need the wider aperture, that's a great price. The Zeiss I had for this test did have a few focussing issues so make sure you check it first or buy it from a place you can return it if it is out at all. 👍

[@gladtal]

Thanks for the great video! I'm having such a hard time deciding between the Sony f4 and Tamron. Do you feel like the 28mm max focal length is an issue at all or something that you'd miss from the 35mm on the f4?

[@mikesphotography]

No worries Tal, I haven't missed it that much but I haven't really had a 35mm lens before so it's not a focal length I am used to shooting with...I'd probably go with the tamron and then save up for the 35mm prime lens from sony if I was unsure. 👍

[@gladtal]

@@mikesphotography thanks!

[@zenza7120]

@@mikesphotography if you crop 28 mm 2.8 to 35 mm, then one gets f3.5 and 15.3 mp on a7III.... I wonder how Tamron compares with Sony f4's 24 mp... :) I have Sony, but love to have 2.8... The range of the Sony is really great to have...

[@nashhall694]

Mike, I’ve got both the Sony f4 16-35 & the f2.8 gmaster, The f4 is only a 2nd lens/backup now! The advantage of gmaster other than being sharper is that you only need one lens for landscape & Astro. 😀👍

[@mikesphotography]

It is a fantastic lens isn’t it! I’ve rented the gm before, for a few different events, and love using it and even though I’ve gone with the tamron for now...we’ll see how I feel in a few months. Thanks for watching and commenting Nash, much appreciated. 👍

[@ItsJustNonsense]

Mike Smith how do you feel about the Tamron vs the GM now?? I’m looking for one of these lenses for real estate videography and photography :) is the GM worth the investment?

[@Zehnstern]

Great review. Thank you. At the end of the day it all comes down to money. If you are rich, you don't even need too much. I had to buy the Tamron.

[@mikesphotography]

Definitely...photography is an expensive hobby...and an even more expensive profession! 🤦🏻‍♂️ I got the tamron for that reason as well...it is much better value for money. 😁👍

[@mdc123-v2v]

I would love the Tamron but 17mm vs. 16mm makes a world of difference to me shooting landscapes. That extra mm is huge.

[@mikesphotography]

It does tighten it up a little at 17mm. I am tempted by the 14-24mm F2.8 from sigma...that would give so much more at the wide end. Thanks for watching. 👍

[@Docdug]

Thanks posting this review Mike. I’m looking at the Sony f4 lens... Cheers Doc

[@mikesphotography]

Hey doc...I did bad mouth it a little in this video but if you get a good copy, you’ll get some great images from it. I’m curious, why are you thinking of the f4...is it the range or the better build quality?

[@Docdug]

Thanks Mike - I do believe I got a good copy of the Sony f4. I preferred this lens for the zoom range and the lower cost. My normal lens is the Sony 24 f/1.4

[@mikesphotography]

Excellent...I think I had a bad copy...it definitely is a great focal range. 😁👍

[@georgemueller9681]

@@mikesphotography I owned the f/4 and wasn't happy with it due to excessive sun flare- - i.e. 90% of my shots are taken outdoors on sunny days.

[@mikesphotography]

George, some lenses aren't brilliant when it comes to flaring...thanks for letting us know. 👍

[@gfriend2015]

looking forward to the comparison with sigma 14-24 art sony😍

[@mikesphotography]

Haha! I was just looking at that yesterday! Definitely going to try and get my hands on one soon! 👍

[@rdtstudios]

Tamron has there own trilogy and the stick to there line of focus, i have the Tamron 28-70 so it will fit perfectly on my line of lenses but I'm still waiting for the 70-180 that's going to be a good lens for Tamron

[@mikesphotography]

That is true...It's great what tamron are doing as well as sigma...they are definitely providing us with great lenses at more affordable prices. 👍

[@ghouseedittingworks9441]

which lens purches sir plz tell me sir

[@BruceLauderdale]

This is really help Mike. Thank you. I have the Laowa 15mm Zero D and while I really like it for photography, it’s pretty useless for video. I was considering selling it and getting the Tamron. But I think it may be worth holding on to the Laowa and wait.

[@mikesphotography]

Hi Bruce, That's interesting...I also find anything wider than 16mm on a full frame doesn't do too well when filming. It does distort on the sides which is exacerbated when moving the camera. If I was you, I'd wait for a short while. Or take a look at the sigma and sony wide angle lenses as they have 14-24mm or 12-24mm...they might give you the wider angles for photography and then the narrower angles for videography. 👍

[@BruceLauderdale]

Mike Smith Hi Mike, it’s not really the fact for distortion (although there is some) it’s because of the fact that the lens is a manual lens, which is why for wide and Astro photography, it’s great but on video it’s just not good enough for focusing manually.

[@TheRoadtoGonzo]

Nice Mike, nice. I love it. Cant wait for their tele in the series its going to be a killer headshot lens.

[@mikesphotography]

Thanks so much Rich! Most definitely!! It'll be interesting to see how it performs again, compared to the G-master equivalent! Thanks for watching. :-)

[@TheRoadtoGonzo]

@@mikesphotography That lens has the same close focus and the mid-range too right, nice budget set of lenses right there. I am not sure why they are going so middle of the road on their new primes though, would have liked to have seen 250mm or a 14mm.

[@mikesphotography]

Rich Barrett most definitely! They would sell so many if they did that...and I’d buy both a 250mm and a 14mm prime off them!! 👍

[@pndamonium1241]

Great video Mike, thanks for the omparison, I always struggle to find astrophotography reviews for zoom lenses. I would have loved if you included in this comparison the new sigma 14-24mm 2.8 for FE. Hopefully you can review that one soon. Cheers from México.

[@mikesphotography]

Hi Carlos, I’m hoping to get the sigma to play with soon. When the milkyway season comes around again, I’ll get this set of lenses again and do a comparison...hopefully with the sigma as well. 👍

[@svencasu]

Thanks for a very good video 👍🏻

[@mikesphotography]

And thanks for watching Sven! 😁👍

[@DennisMoncla]

Mike, Have you tested the new Sigma 14-24 FE Art yet? At it's price point it is another head scratcher on which way to go! I own the Tam28-75 already and love it for travel work. However my next trip will be to Italy and will need a wider lens than that. I have a Battis 18 2.8 but I think I want more versatility on the trip. So I'm now struggling with the Sigma or the Tamron purchase! ?!?!?

[@mikesphotography]

Dennis, I haven't tried it yet but really want to get my hands on it...it would be a great focal range to have...I'm finding with the 17-28mm I do need a little more every now and then...especially since I dropped and smashed my samyang 14mm... I think it is a little heavier than the tamron though so if you're travelling that might be something to consider. Thanks for watching! 😁👍

[@DennisMoncla]

Mike Smith Thanks Mike! I think I’m leaning to the Sigma now. I think the benifits might outweigh the price and weight. I’ve started doing so real estate work and I think it will serve me better as well. It a such a tough call though. Two quality pieces of glass with different benefits

[@sed6717]

Hi Mike, if you have to choose between tamron 17-28mm and sony 16-35mm F4 which one will you choose?

[@mikesphotography]

Hi Sedko, I chose the 17-28mm and am happy with my purchase. 😁👍

[@romsky]

What microphone do you use? Audio is on fleek 👌

[@mikesphotography]

Thanks so much Romsky! I have the NTG3 from rode...its a little expensive but a fantastic shotgun mic!!😁👍

[@photoskazkiru7582]

Tamron 17-28 is superb! Have this one.. One little flaw is - back glass is moving, dust can go inside, when changing lens. Tamron 28-75 g2 has same thing.

[@mikesphotography]

Yep, I have that one also ... it does suck a bit of dust but the quality is excellent for the price! Thanks for watching 😁👍

[@UlpiusGergo]

Thanks for your review! Furthermore, could ask you guys who has this lens did you notice that the aperture is really loud and gives quite sick noise or just mine is faulty? There is a rubbing, scratching voice when I switch on or off the camera and the aperture goes open and close. When I'm just setting the aperture only has clicking voice. I never felt/heard anything like this before from any lenses. Thanks in advance for the answers.

[@mikesphotography]

The only way to see if it really different to others is to have it side by side. Mine makes a noise when it tests the mechanism on startup/shut down and is a bit louder than other lenses but nothing to worry about. If you could find a friend who also has the lens, then you could test it along side theirs to see if there is any difference...

[@UlpiusGergo]

@@mikesphotography Thanks Mike! Unfortunately I don't know anybody who has this lens, so no chance to comparison. However, it calmed me down if yours makes noise as well, so it could be normal and don't have to worry about it.

[@petrieme]

Do you think the f/4 resolution would hold up with the 7r4? Great comparison!

[@mikesphotography]

Thanks Don! I'm not sure the copy I had would, but if you get a good copy, I have heard they are pretty sharp. 👍

[@keithchan472]

Great review! I am wondering if there’s a vast difference between 17mm and 24mm. Is it worth the investment for the tamron lens or should I consider the Sony 12-24 wide angle lens. Thank you! I currently have a 24-105 f4 Sony lens

[@mikesphotography]

Thanks Keith. I'd say if you have the 24-105mm, get the 12-24mm...that would be a great range to have! I'm hopefully getting my hands on the 12-24mm soon and when I do, I'll be testing it out and posting a video here on it...😀👍

[@ghouseedittingworks9441]

who is the best lens sir

[@AngelaAndronache]

What microphone are you using in this video?

[@mikesphotography]

I use the Rode NTG3 for all my videos nowadays...and I tweak the settings in Adobe audition...sometimes is comes out better than others...I'm still learning how to use audition properly as well...so much to learn in that program!! 😆 Thanks for watching. 👍

[@chryseass.5143]

Great discussion, Mike! I have the Tamron on order but am not in a hurry to get it as I am ( hopefully ) receiving the Sony 24 f1.4 tomorrow. The only thing that would give me pause to buy the Tamron is that limited focal range! I am very pleased with my Tamron 28-75 but it is just not wide enough. With apologies to Kasey of Camera Conspiracies, "all I want is the perfect (wide angle) lens!"

[@mikesphotography]

Haha!! 🎶All we want is the perfect camera/lens combo!! 🎶 You’ll love the 24mm I was using one last week and I nearly instantly got rid of the batis 25mm for it...I may still make the switch! 😁 The 17-28mm should sit nicely along side your 28-75mm...I just wish they’d make the long end on all of them just that little bit longer. Especially the telephoto that’s coming soon... Thanks for watching. 😁👍

[@chryseass.5143]

@@mikesphotography Thanks Mike- I have been watching you since the start! And thanks for your endorsement of my latest purchase! Everyone who has used it says it is a "special" lens and I have been coveting it since it was released last year - just hard to get hold of, even now!

[@mikesphotography]

Thanks so much! Great to have you here from the start. 👌 I’m hoping it’ll deliver more and more great photos. I think I got one of the only ones in Dubai...And I was lucky I went to the shop on the same day it was delivered! 😁👍

[@chryseass.5143]

@@mikesphotography Hi Mike, Just a quick update - I ordered the the Tamron 17-28 f2.8 today as it has just came back into stock at my favourite camera store! I have been on the waiting list since August but lost my place in the first shipment as I was out of the country. I thought that I better grab it before they disappear again. As I already have the Tamron 28-75 f 2.8 getting its companion lens was an easy decision to make. Did you end up buying the Tamron, Mike? I was thinking that a very light two lens "walkaround" kit could be the Tamron 17-28 paired with the highly pocketable Sony 35 2.8.

[@mikesphotography]

Excellent! Hopefully you'll get it soon!! That would be a highly pocketable combo... Although I'm going to go for the 35mm f1. 8 to get that slightly wider aperture and more light, when needed. 👍

[@chiradeepg]

Experts please respond- I want to do cityscape and travel videos and use Sony A7iii... I already have a Tamron 28-75 f2.8, which is fairly versatile.. I now need a wide lens. Do I go for Tamron 17-28 f2.8 or maybe a prime lens 20mm but f1.8. Should I spend more on lower f stop or I can do without, and should go for versatility ?

[@mikesphotography]

As you're travelling I'd go with the versatility of the 17-28mm. You have the 28-75mm already so you know the image quality of the tamron lenses, so why not just add to that with the wider tamron. Thanks for watching. 👍

[@chiradeepg]

Mike Smith Thanks a lot Mike for the quick response, much appreciated. If I am not wrong, except low light photography, most likely I would not be needing very low F-stop lens isn’t it, especially for cityscape etc?

[@paoloblas8983]

I have the sony 16-35GM, bought it when the tamron 17-28 is not released yet, I'm thinking of selling my GM then get the 17-28 + 28-75 tamron, is it worth it? I'm only a hobbyist. I would gladly appreciate your recommendations. thanks

[@mikesphotography]

Hi Paolo, If you're getting both, it would definitely be worth it if you can get a good price for the GM. The quality of the 17-28mm is great and I've got some fantastic images with it. Also, if you're a hobbyist, the 28-200mm might be worth looking at...I know a few people have been raving about it... I'm hoping to get one to test it out soon. 👍

[@paoloblas8983]

​@@mikesphotography Thanks, I never pay much attention on the 28-200 since I had the 70-200 F4, but I will definitely look at it since it has a faster aperture and good focal range. I just started watching your videos these past few days, it was really helpful and I really learn a lot. Here is a subbed from me, Thank you.

[@cfagil]

I like my Sony 12mm-24mm f4. I would have bought the Tamron 28-75mm if it was available when I had to buy a 24-70mm f2.8 for a job. No choice but went for the Sony GM. All my zoom lenses for my Nikon DSLRs are Tamron's. What I want to know if there is anything close to Sony's 24mm f1.4 but cheaper?

[@mikesphotography]

I bet, 12-24mm is such a good range, I'm hoping to get one soon to review. 😁 The closest I've found to the GM 24mm is the 25mm batis but it's only f2. The GM is superior but the batis comes a close second...I picked a second hand one up for about $600 a few years ago. 👍

[@pedrosampinto]

Thanks for the superb review. I have a chance to get the Sony f4 version for £550 on eBay in ‘as new’ condition’. Would you think that’s a better deal than getting the Tamron at roughly £700? Thanks

[@mikesphotography]

No worries, thanks for watching! As long as it's a good copy then that is a great deal...just make sure it does take good photos before committing to it. 😀👍

[@egis7908]

Mike - Sony recalled the 16-35 GM with a range of serial #'s. Possible issue of mount on lens interfacing with camera. Ugh! my copy is impacted - my favorite lens.

[@mikesphotography]

Interesting...is this a recent announcement? That really is frustrating, especially when it’s your favourite...I hope they don’t take too long in getting it back to you. 👍

[@egis7908]

@@mikesphotography Announced yesterday - see Sony alpha rumors and/or Sony addict. Thanks for thoughts.

[@mikesphotography]

Thanks Louis! 👍

[@MrDamburger]

I had the 17-28 and found 17mm incredibly different to my 15mm laowa or even 16mm. It wasn't wide enough for landscapes especially astro. You're better off with a Laowa 15mm for special stuff and 24mm for most!

[@mikesphotography]

It is quite limiting isn't it. I'm saving up for the laowa 15mm so hopefully I can get that soon. 👍

[@1j007zm]

Tamron! easy, sharpness is the most important thing for me, and in many reviews I've seen, Tamron has been as sharp and in many cases even sharper than these two lenses, the extras you get from the two Sony's are insignificant in what I like about photography

[@mikesphotography]

Most definitely...for such a jump in price...and size...the GM is just not worth it! Thanks for watching. 👍

[@seniorbrusko]

Your audio is so good, what do you use for this video?

[@mikesphotography]

Thanks so much AJ. I have the rode NTG3 and that goes into a Juiced Link preamp and then straight into the camera with the levels all the way down to 1 (A7iii). Thanks for watching 😁👍

[@anulearntech]

I just bought the A7III along with the Tamron 17-28 f2.8. it was the closest to my budget. Works well. Light weight, small, low profile. But not the best for some quick portraits.

[@mikesphotography]

An excellent purchase!! For portraits, you might want to pick up the 85mm f1.8...that is a fantastic portrait lens and works really well along side the 17-28mm. Over the Christmas break, I mostly switched between these two when I was out shooting. 👍

[@anulearntech]

@@mikesphotography yes, the 85 1.8 seems to be a surprisingly great value lens, considering its a Sony. Also there is the Samyang 85 1.4 one may consider (I guess it's around the same price range).😊

[@mikesphotography]

Yep, it would be interesting to test those two against each other 😀👍.

[@dennisvandermast2593]

hm, but what about the sigma 14-24 f2.8?.. seems crazily sharp and wider than all of these while still keeping f2.8

[@mikesphotography]

Unfortunately I couldn’t get one in time for this comparison...as soon as I do, I’ll be testing it out. 👍

[@Theroadslesstraveled]

Hi Mike, just thought I'd share my experience with the Sony 16-35mm f4. I use it primarily for real estate photography and have found it a great workhorse lens. I would love to see a brief comparison between the three lenses as far as stabilazation goes as that is really the only point you made in favor of the Sony F4 :D. It's my go to for travel/personal photography and though it generally does well, I do regularly find myself wishing it had a little more zoom. When I'm not shooting for a client, I generally only have one lens with me so I would gladly trade the softer images for more usable focal lengths. That being said, I find that I don't really use the 16mm side of things, and plan to add something in the 25-100mm range. Currently looking at the Sigma 24-105mm F4.0 Art DG HSM, any thoughts?

[@mikesphotography]

Hi Tyler, I did bash the f4 a little but it is actually a great lens. When it first came out I had one but sold it a year or so later when I started shooting with primes. The sigma would definitely be a great addition and would give you so much more reach. I haven’t used it yet but being an art series lens, you know it’s going to be good quality. Thanks for watching and commenting, much appreciated. 👍

[@Theroadslesstraveled]

@@mikesphotography it's hard to not come down on it since it definitely lacks sharpness and isn't fast enough for astrophotography but it's been a great first full frame lens for me!

[@mikesphotography]

Most definitely...I definitely enjoyed using when I had it!! 👍

[@stevelink21]

Excellent comparison, sir! I have a question...As a landscape and product STILLS X-T3 shooter (no video), I have been debating on selling my Fuji kit (reluctantly), and moving into FF, specifically the Sony a7Rlll and lenses like the Sony 16-35 f/2.8 GM, and the 90mm f/2.8 G Macro . Since I shoot 99% tripod-mounted, neither IBIS nor video interests me. So, my question is, for large print output (around 24"x 36" prints), how much of an improvement in terms of image sharpness, detail rendition, dynamic range, base ISO performance, etc., would I see over the already excellent X-T3 (combined with the ultra-sharp Fujinon XF80mm f/2.8 Macro lens), when using the a7Rlll and the Sony 90mm f/2.8 G Macro or Sony 16-35 f/4 tripod-mounted? Thanks!

[@mikesphotography]

Unfortunately I haven't used the X-T3 so I can't really help. The best way is to look for example images on line from each in the scenarios you will be shooting in....and then compare them...also on forums you might come across people who have them both or who have converted across...they'd be the best people that could give you advice. Sorry I couldn't help more and thanks for watching. 👍

[@frankfeng2701]

I think the decision comes down to which lens you shoot more: If you shoot 24-70 (or 28-75) primarily, then get 17-28. Otherwise, get 16-35 (since you will most likely to carry 70-200).

[@mikesphotography]

That’s a good point frank. The 16-35mm and 70-200mm is a fantastic combo to have... Thanks for watching. 👍

[@luciegagnon1238]

One point that seems to never been mentioned when it comes to cost is the cost of filters. Personally, with a UWA lens, i want to be able to use a ND filter for waterfall photography for example. I already own 3 ND 77mm filters that I could use on the Tamron and the Sony 16-35 f/4. But on the Sony 16-35 f2.8, i would have to buy new filters that cost about 300 $ Cdn each + a UV filter maybe. That is a lot of added cost that has to be taken in consideration.

[@mikesphotography]

That is a good point Lucie, come to think of it, it was one of the things that did make me decide not to get the 16-35mm 2.8 because of that 82mm filter size...and I forgot to include it in this review!! 😆🤦🏻‍♂️

[@sed6717]

I hesitated a lot between the Sony and the Tamron, but I think the Sony 16-35 F4 is not sharp enough, it has been around for a very long time, I think Sony should update its lenses, yes there is a loss of focal, but my choice is Tamron, because lighter, smaller ... sharper. but don't forget that you can crop the image with your Sony, and that I am persuaded that in the years to come sony will further improve this.

[@mikesphotography]

Yep, I though the same, and the f4 16-35mm is pretty pricey for what it is. I'm enjoying using my tamron and it's getting used a lot! Between that and the 85mm, I'm pretty set for most shoots I've been doing recently. Thanks for watching 😀👍

[@thesaint1517]

Solid comments on all three lenses. Although you lose 7mm on the long end, this could be challenging for some. In my case, I have the sony 24-105 f4 so I just have to change the lens. Buying any of the 2 sony 16-35 lenses will give more overlap. The price difference is substantial even with the sony 16-35f4. Too me it makes more sense to get the Tamron based on my needs, not to mention the excellent reviews I've seen on the Tamron. Thanks for sharing your comments!

[@mikesphotography]

Thanks Antonio! That is a good point, and a lot of people will have a 24-70mm or the 24-105mm and the tamron will give less of an overlap. 😁👍

[@alansarpy]

which lens did you Go with? Will you do a final review??

[@mikesphotography]

Hi Al, I ended up with the Tamron and it's working out ok at the moment. I have a 6 month video planned as well so keep an eye out for that one...as well as a test with astrophotography. 😁👍

[@OneTradeMan]

Would love to see a review of the sigma 14-24 f2.8 in the future. Still waiting for lightroom profiles for the Tamron 17-28 ::angry face::

[@mikesphotography]

Yep, that’s annoying isn’t it...I might have to make my own profile and if I do, I’ll share it with you guys. 👍 I’m trying to get my hands on the sigma at the mo. Not many here in the Middle East at the moment. ☹️

[@markusjuhani71]

Is it out yet?

[@mauritsl84]

Taylor it is released in LR

[@bhng4248]

just bought the tamron 1728 few days ago. I am happy with it.😁

[@mikesphotography]

That's awesome! Great to hear it! 😁👍

[@SourPlanet]

Now, a few years later, we have the 16-35/F4 PZ which fixes the issues with the 16-35/F4 but loses OSS... But the 16-35/F4 OSS can be had used for under $500 lol. Also, Tamron 20-40/2.8 launching for $699. It's only gotten harder to choose!

[@mikesphotography]

Indeed, as well as some of the 14-24mm lenses from sigma as well as the 12-24mm from Sony ... plenty of wide angle choices out there now. Thanks for watching 😁👍

[@stevekupris4133]

I bought the Sony 16-35 f4 used mint for $100 less than a new Tamron 17-28 , I think I made the right choice. I do also own several Tamron's for my A7R ii & A7 III including, 28-200, 70-300, 24 f2.8 and 35 f2.8 primes. I love having the choices we do now.

[@mikesphotography]

Nice! Sounds like you got a great deal on the 16-35mm. 😁👍

[@stevekupris4133]

@@mikesphotography FYI, I really enjoy your reviews, short and sweet and fact filled👍.

[@jugodenaranja2010]

What do you think is a more specialized lens for real estate than a 16-35?

[@mikesphotography]

I'd say probably the Laowa 12mm zero distortion, or maybe the 15mm...they're both good solid lenses. Thanks for watching. 😁👍

[@sydlobo]

Mike what you think of Laowa 15mm lens?

[@mikesphotography]

I haven't used it yet but it's one I am saving up for at the moment! 😁👍

[@MumtazBahri]

thanks, it is really useful but honestly I will never think about the nipple because I am always shooting in the desert and my #1 rule is not to change lenses outdoor because of the amount of dust over there, specially with the mirrorless exposed sensor no way. if I really needed to change lenses I will do it in the car with light 😉