Sony 24-70mm II vs Sigma 24-70mm II vs Tamron 28-75mm G2 Comparison Best Lens. Breaking down which 24-70mm f2.8 ish lenses are the best, best value, and pluses and minuses about each of the Sony mount autofocus lenses for you.
In the world of photography, the choice of lens is just as crucial as the camera body. A good lens can elevate the quality of your images, providing sharpness, clarity, and versatility. Among the popular choices for mid-range zoom lenses are the Sony 24-70mm f/2.8 II, Sigma 24-70mm f/2.8 II, and Tamron 28-75mm f/2.8 G2. Each of these lenses has its own strengths and weaknesses, making the decision on which to purchase a challenging one for photographers. This comprehensive comparison aims to provide a detailed look at these three lenses, helping you make an informed decision.
1. Overview of the Lenses
Sony 24-70mm f/2.8 GM II: This lens is part of Sony’s esteemed G Master series, known for its exceptional optical performance, build quality, and advanced features. The 24-70mm focal length is a versatile range suitable for various types of photography, from landscapes to portraits.
Sigma 24-70mm f/2.8 DG DN Art II: Sigma’s Art series is renowned for its image quality, and this lens is no exception. It promises sharpness, clarity, and beautiful bokeh, making it a favorite among many photographers who seek high performance at a more accessible price point.
Tamron 28-75mm f/2.8 Di III VXD G2: Tamron offers a slightly different focal range with this lens, starting at 28mm instead of 24mm. Known for its compact design and affordability, the Tamron 28-75mm f/2.8 G2 is a popular choice among photographers who need a reliable, versatile zoom lens without breaking the bank.
2. Build Quality and Design
Sony 24-70mm f/2.8 GM II: This lens boasts a robust build typical of the G Master series. It features a weather-sealed construction that can withstand challenging shooting conditions. The ergonomics are well thought out, with a smooth zoom ring, responsive focus ring, and a customizable focus hold button. It’s slightly heavier than the other two lenses but offers a professional feel and durability.
Sigma 24-70mm f/2.8 DG DN Art II: Sigma has made significant improvements in the build quality of their lenses in recent years. This lens features a sleek, modern design with a metal barrel and a dust and splash-proof structure. The focus and zoom rings are smooth and precise, making it a pleasure to use. It’s slightly lighter than the Sony but still feels solid and durable.
Tamron 28-75mm f/2.8 Di III VXD G2: The Tamron lens is the most compact and lightweight of the three, making it ideal for travel and long shoots. It features a moisture-resistant construction and a fluorine coating on the front element to protect against dirt and smudges. The zoom ring is smooth, but some users might find it less robust compared to the Sony and Sigma lenses.
Thanks to Christopher Frost for his great video.
3. Optical Performance
Sharpness:
Sony 24-70mm f/2.8 GM II: This lens is known for its exceptional sharpness throughout the zoom range. Center sharpness is outstanding even at f/2.8, and the edges are impressively sharp as well. The lens maintains excellent performance even when shooting wide open, making it a favorite among professionals.
Sigma 24-70mm f/2.8 DG DN Art II: The Sigma lens also delivers excellent sharpness, particularly in the center. Edge sharpness is very good, though it can’t quite match the Sony at wider apertures. Stopping down to f/4 or f/5.6 results in sharp images across the frame.
Tamron 28-75mm f/2.8 Di III VXD G2: While the Tamron lens is sharp, it lags slightly behind the Sony and Sigma lenses in terms of edge sharpness at f/2.8. However, it delivers very good performance overall, especially when considering its compact size and lower price point.
Bokeh:
Sony 24-70mm f/2.8 GM II: The G Master series is known for its beautiful bokeh, and this lens is no exception. The out-of-focus areas are smooth and creamy, with pleasing background separation that enhances portrait shots.
Sigma 24-70mm f/2.8 DG DN Art II: The Sigma lens also produces attractive bokeh, with round and smooth out-of-focus highlights. While it may not be quite as refined as the Sony, it is still excellent for portrait and low-light photography.
Tamron 28-75mm f/2.8 Di III VXD G2: The Tamron lens delivers good bokeh, though it can be slightly busier compared to the Sony and Sigma lenses. For most practical purposes, it performs admirably, especially considering its price and size.
4. Autofocus Performance
Sony 24-70mm f/2.8 GM II: Sony’s lens features an advanced autofocus system that is fast, accurate, and virtually silent. It excels in both still photography and video applications, making it a versatile choice for various shooting scenarios. The autofocus performance is top-notch, with excellent tracking capabilities.
Sigma 24-70mm f/2.8 DG DN Art II: The Sigma lens offers a reliable and fast autofocus system. It performs well in most situations, including low light. While it may not be as quick as the Sony, it is more than adequate for most photographers, including professionals.
Tamron 28-75mm f/2.8 Di III VXD G2: Tamron has significantly improved the autofocus performance with the VXD (Voice-coil eXtreme-torque Drive) motor. The autofocus is fast, accurate, and quiet, making it a great option for both stills and video. It may not be as fast as the Sony, but it is close and performs very well overall.
5. Price and Value
Sony 24-70mm f/2.8 GM II: This lens is the most expensive of the three, reflecting its premium build quality, advanced features, and top-tier optical performance. It is a worthwhile investment for professionals and serious enthusiasts who demand the best.
Sigma 24-70mm f/2.8 DG DN Art II: The Sigma lens offers excellent value for money, providing high-end performance at a lower price point than the Sony. It is a fantastic option for photographers who want great image quality without the premium price tag.
Tamron 28-75mm f/2.8 Di III VXD G2: The Tamron lens is the most affordable of the three, offering good performance and versatility at a budget-friendly price. It is an excellent choice for photographers who need a reliable, everyday zoom lens without spending a fortune.
6. Conclusion
Choosing between the Sony 24-70mm f/2.8 GM II, Sigma 24-70mm f/2.8 DG DN Art II, and Tamron 28-75mm f/2.8 Di III VXD G2 depends on your specific needs, preferences, and budget.
If you are a professional or a serious enthusiast who prioritizes the best possible image quality, build quality, and autofocus performance, the Sony 24-70mm f/2.8 GM II is the top choice. Its exceptional performance comes with a higher price tag, but it delivers unmatched quality and reliability.
For those looking for excellent performance at a more accessible price, the Sigma 24-70mm f/2.8 DG DN Art II is an outstanding option. It offers great sharpness, attractive bokeh, and solid build quality, making it a valuable addition to any photographer’s kit.
The Tamron 28-75mm f/2.8 Di III VXD G2 is ideal for photographers who need a versatile and affordable zoom lens. While it may not match the absolute performance of the Sony and Sigma lenses, it provides very good image quality and autofocus performance in a compact and lightweight package.
Each of these lenses has its own strengths, and the best choice ultimately depends on your individual requirements and budget. Whether you prioritize top-tier performance, value for money, or a balance of both, one of these lenses will undoubtedly meet your needs and help you capture stunning images.