Tamron 17-50 f2.8 a good kit lens upgrade?

[10 Gauge]

Looking at replacing my 18-55 IS kit lens with this lens in the title. How are people liking this lens. From the sample images I've seen it looks like quite a capable lens.

Any opinions whether this is a good upgrade or not?

Thanks!

 

[Big Mike]

Yes, it's absolutely a good upgrade.

 

[orb9220]

Yep originally replaced my 18-55 on my D40 with this lens. And now is my main workhorse 3yrs. later on my D90. Best bang for the buck. Achieves 80%-90% of the Nikon 17-55 f2.8 for Image Sharpness,Color and Image IQ. Depending on who you talk too. Build not as good but for under $500 is a big winner in my eyes.


Past Playing the Past by orb9220, on Flickr


Holding the Beads Series 1 of 5 -ReDux by orb9220, on Flickr


Red Blast by orb9220, on Flickr

Of course would love the build of the Nikon. But at $1200 or so just can't justify it for me. As just a hobbyist and don't make money doing photography.

Just make sure you buy from a reputable dealer with good return/exchange policies. As 3rd party have a tendency to have higher lemons out in the wild. And would put at a 1-3 out of 10 kind of thing. Have had two so far bought used on craigslist and no problems with either.
.

 

[bazooka]

I like mine... it gets some pretty strong vignetting wide open, but it's a sharp piece of glass.

 

[10 Gauge]

Very nice photo's. I've decided this is what I will get! Thanks for the input.