Tamron 17-50 f2.8 VC // decisions....decisions...

[cminus]

So I have read this lense is not as sharp as its non VC counterpart, but I can get one for 450 almost new, shipped.

Few questions tho:

1. If I shut off VC, will sharpness improve?
2. Should I jump on this deal either way?

I'm so torn lol, help me TPF..your my only hope

/end Star Wars reference.

 

[jaomul]

Sharpness won't improve turning off vc.
I wouldn't

 

[orb9220]

Nope as more about lens design and element layout. Tho many say the non-VC is sharper at f2.8. Where not talking a lot of difference here. Pixel peepers might notice a tad softness at f2.8 wide open. But sharpens up quite nicely at f4.

But the other advantage of the non-VC is smaller and smaller front element for more common filter size and less bulky.
And can find one in the $250-$350 used.

So I would probably pass for cheaper used non-VC would be fine by me. As paid $300 for mine used.
.

 

[cminus]

I read tthat some of the sharpness issues were from not letting the VC "settle" before snapping..

Hmmm...this isn't making it much easier lol.....anyone else

Thx for the replies so far.

 

[cminus]

Ttt, anyone else?

 

[pixmedic]

We have the tamron 17-50 f/2.8 non-vc and love it. I cant imagine the VC version not being great as well.

 

[Fox_Racing_Guy]

I was just trying to make the same decision myself, I went in the opposite direction and purchased the Sigma instead. The $75 rebate on the Tamron currently does make it more attractive though.

 

[sovietdoc]

Don't do it.

 

[bobandcar]

I got non vc for 225 a month ago, love it

 

[cminus]

Cool thanks everyone, I think ill go used non vc off adorama for 339 in almost mint condition instead.

 

[MLeeK]

I have the non VC version of it and while I really like the lens, it's not TACK sharp. It's by far sharper than a consumer grade lens, but it's not all that and a bag of chips either. If the VC version isn't as sharp as the non VC version it's getting way to close to consumer grade for me.

It also isn't a full frame lens and that's my biggest regret with it. Wish I had gotten the 28-75 instead. Now I really want to upgrade it to the 24-70 f/2.8 VC

 

[cminus]

Excellent, I have a D7000 so full frame is not a big deal for me.

I'm convinced, buying the non vc tonight. TPF is the best, thanks!

 

[MLeeK]

Excellent, I have a D7000 so full frame is not a big deal for me.

I'm convinced, buying the non vc tonight. TPF is the best, thanks!

I thought the same thing when I bought mine. "Eh, I'll never go full frame..."

 

[orb9220]

Be sure to test it out throughly during the return/exchange period. As cheaper 3rd party have a tendency to have more lemons in the wild. And always buy from a know reputable dealer with good return/exchange policies.

But me thinks you'll love the lens.


Red Blast by Orbmiser, on Flickr
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