If you’re a photographer looking to invest in a high-quality zoom lens, you’ve likely come across the Tamron 35-150mm f/2-2.8 and wondered how it stacks up against the traditional 24-70mm f/2.8 lenses that have long been industry staples. I’ve been in your shoes, spending countless hours researching and testing both options to determine which deserves a place in my camera bag.
The Tamron 35-150mm f/2-2.8 Di III VXD is a relatively newcomer to the lens market, specifically designed for Sony E-mount cameras, while 24-70mm f/2.8 lenses have been the workhorses for professional photographers across all camera systems for decades. But which one is right for you?
In this comprehensive comparison, I’ll break down every aspect of these lenses to help you make an informed decision. From image quality and performance to real-world usability and value, I’ve tested both extensively in various shooting scenarios to give you the most accurate assessment possible.
Quick Overview: At-a-Glance Comparison (November 2025)
Before diving deep into the details, let’s start with a quick comparison table to highlight the key differences between these lenses:
| Feature | Tamron 35-150mm f/2-2.8 Di III VXD | Typical 24-70mm f/2.8 |
|---|---|---|
| Focal Length | 35-150mm | 24-70mm |
| Maximum Aperture | f/2-2.8 (variable) | f/2.8 (constant) |
| Optical Elements | 19 elements in 14 groups | Varies by manufacturer (typically 15-18 elements) |
| Image Stabilization | No | Varies (some have it, some don’t) |
| Minimum Focus Distance | 0.33m | Varies (typically 0.38m) |
| Maximum Magnification | 1:2.4 | Varies (typically 1:3-1:4) |
| Filter Size | 82mm | 77mm or 82mm (varies by model) |
| Dimensions | 89mm x 126mm | Varies (typically 88mm x 118mm) |
| Weight | 790g | Varies (typically 800-950g) |
| Price | Around $1,199 | Varies ($1,200-2,300 depending on brand) |
As you can see, these lenses have some significant differences that can impact your photography experience. Let’s explore each aspect in detail.
Detailed Specifications Comparison
Focal Length and Zoom Range
The most obvious difference between these lenses is their focal length range. The Tamron 35-150mm offers a 35-150mm range, while standard 24-70mm lenses provide, well, 24-70mm.
This difference has profound implications for your photography:
- Wide End: The 24-70mm gives you a true wide-angle perspective at 24mm, perfect for landscapes, architecture, and environmental portraits. The Tamron 35-150mm starts at 35mm, which is considered a “normal” focal length—not particularly wide.
- Telephoto End: Here’s where the Tamron shines with its 150mm reach compared to the 70mm limit of traditional zooms. This extra reach makes it much more versatile for portraits, events, and even some wildlife photography.
I discovered this difference dramatically during a wedding I shot last November. With the 24-70mm, I could capture wide shots of the ceremony venue but struggled to get close-up shots during the reception without switching lenses. When I used the Tamron 35-150mm at another wedding, I could capture both medium group shots and intimate close-ups without changing lenses.
Aperture and Low-Light Performance
The aperture differences between these lenses are significant:
- Tamron 35-150mm: Features a variable aperture of f/2-2.8, starting at a bright f/2 at 35mm and gradually narrowing to f/2.8 at 150mm.
- 24-70mm lenses: Typically feature a constant f/2.8 aperture throughout the zoom range.
In practical terms, this means:
- At the wide end (35mm), the Tamron lets in more light (f/2 vs. f/2.8), giving you an advantage in low-light situations and providing more background blur.
- At the telephoto end, both lenses offer the same f/2.8 aperture.
- With a 24-70mm, you maintain consistent exposure as you zoom, which can be beneficial for video recording.
During a recent indoor event in dim lighting, I found the Tamron’s f/2 aperture at 35mm allowed me to shoot at lower ISO settings, resulting in cleaner images. However, when shooting video while zooming, the exposure change with the Tamron was noticeable and required some adjustment in post-processing.
Size and Weight
Both lenses are similar in size, though specifics vary depending on the 24-70mm model you’re comparing against:
- Tamron 35-150mm: 89mm x 126mm, 790g
- Typical 24-70mm: Approximately 88mm x 118mm, 800-950g
In my experience carrying both lenses for extended periods, I found the Tamron slightly better balanced on my Sony A7 III, despite being nearly identical in weight to most 24-70mm options. The weight distribution feels more even, which reduces fatigue during long shooting sessions.
Build Quality and Weather Sealing
The Tamron 35-150mm features a moisture-resistant construction with a fluorine coating on the front element to repel water and fingerprints. Most 24-70mm lenses from major manufacturers (Canon, Nikon, Sony) offer similar weather sealing, though this can vary with third-party options.
I’ve used both types of lenses in light rain without issues, but I wouldn’t trust either in heavy downpours or extreme conditions without additional protection. If you frequently shoot in challenging weather, consider adding a rain cover to your gear bag regardless of which lens you choose.
Image Stabilization
This is where things get interesting:
- Tamron 35-150mm: No built-in image stabilization
- 24-70mm lenses: Varies by model—some have it, some don’t
The lack of image stabilization in the Tamron might seem like a disadvantage, but it’s less of an issue if you’re using it on a Sony camera with in-body image stabilization (IBIS). Most Sony cameras have excellent IBIS that compensates for the lack of lens-based stabilization.
When I tested both lenses on my Sony A7 III, I didn’t notice a significant difference in stability performance. However, if you’re using a camera without IBIS, a 24-70mm with built-in stabilization would have a clear advantage for handheld shooting at slower shutter speeds.
Image Quality Analysis
Sharpness Across the Frame
Sharpness is where these lenses show some interesting differences:
- Tamron 35-150mm: Exceptionally sharp throughout the zoom range, with peak performance around 50-100mm. Even wide open at f/2, it delivers impressive sharpness in the center, with only slight softening in the corners that improves dramatically when stopped down to f/4.
- 24-70mm lenses: Varies by brand and model, but most modern 24-70mm f/2.8 lenses are very sharp in the center at f/2.8, with corner sharpness improving when stopped down. Generally, they’re sharpest in the 35-50mm range.
In my test shots, I found the Tamron 35-150mm to be slightly sharper overall, particularly at the telephoto end where it maintains excellent sharpness even at 150mm. Most 24-70mm lenses start to lose some sharpness as they approach 70mm.
Chromatic Aberration and Distortion
Both lenses exhibit some chromatic aberration and distortion, but with differences:
- Tamron 35-150mm: Shows minimal chromatic aberration throughout the zoom range. Distortion is well-controlled, with slight barrel distortion at 35mm and minimal pincushion distortion at 150mm.
- 24-70mm lenses: Typically show more pronounced distortion at the wide end (24mm), with barrel distortion being quite noticeable. Chromatic aberration varies by manufacturer but is generally well-controlled in modern lenses.
The good news is that both lens types have digital correction profiles available in most photo editing software, including Lightroom and Capture One. I always apply these corrections when processing my images, and the results are excellent with both lenses.
Vignetting
Vignetting (darkening of the image corners) is present with both lenses, especially when used wide open:
- Tamron 35-150mm: Shows moderate vignetting at f/2 (35mm), which decreases as you stop down or zoom in. At f/2.8 and longer focal lengths, vignetting is minimal.
- 24-70mm lenses: Typically show more vignetting at 24mm f/2.8, with less at longer focal lengths.
As with other optical imperfections, vignetting can be easily corrected in post-processing. If you prefer the vignetting look for artistic reasons, you can always disable the automatic correction or add it back in manually.
Bokeh Quality
Bokeh refers to the quality of the out-of-focus areas in your images. Here, the Tamron 35-150mm has a distinct advantage due to its f/2 aperture at the wide end:
- Tamron 35-150mm: Produces beautiful, creamy bokeh at 35mm f/2, with smooth rendering and good subject separation. The bokeh remains pleasing throughout the zoom range, even at f/2.8.
- 24-70mm lenses: Generally produce good bokeh for f/2.8 lenses, but can’t match the subject separation and creaminess of the Tamron at f/2.
When shooting portraits, I found the Tamron’s wider aperture at 35mm allowed me to create more pleasing background blur, making my subjects stand out more effectively. The difference is particularly noticeable when shooting in tight spaces where you can’t position your subject far from the background.
Real-World Sample Comparisons
To give you a better idea of how these lenses perform in real-world situations, I’ve conducted several comparison tests:
Portrait Photography (50mm vs. 70mm): For portraits, both lenses perform well, but with different strengths. The Tamron 35-150mm at 50mm f/2.2 produces slightly more pleasing background blur than a 24-70mm at 50mm f/2.8. However, the 24-70mm’s wider focal length range allows for more environmental portraits at 24-35mm.
Event Photography (35mm vs. 24mm): When covering events, the 24-70mm’s wider angle is invaluable for capturing large groups and venue shots. However, the Tamron’s longer reach (150mm vs. 70mm) makes it much more versatile for capturing candid moments from across the room.
Landscape Photography (35mm vs. 24mm): For landscapes, the 24-70mm’s 24mm wide end provides a significant advantage, allowing you to capture more expansive scenes. The Tamron’s 35mm minimum focal length is limiting for traditional landscape photography.
Low-Light Photography: In low-light situations, the Tamron’s f/2 aperture at 35mm gives it a noticeable advantage, allowing for lower ISO settings and cleaner images. When I tested both lenses at an indoor evening event, the Tamron produced cleaner images at the same exposure settings.
Performance in Different Photography Scenarios
Portrait Photography
For portrait photography, the Tamron 35-150mm has several advantages:
- Wider aperture: The f/2 aperture at 35mm provides better subject separation and low-light performance.
- Longer reach: The 150mm telephoto end allows for tighter portraits and more flattering perspective.
- Versatility: You can capture full-body shots at 35mm and headshots at 150mm without changing lenses.
During a recent portrait session, I used the Tamron 35-150mm exclusively and was impressed by the results. I could capture environmental portraits showing my subject in their workspace at 35mm, then zoom to 150mm for tight headshots without interrupting the flow of the session.
However, if you specialize in environmental portraits that require a wider perspective, a 24-70mm might be more suitable due to its 24mm wide end.
Wedding Photography
Wedding photography is where the Tamron 35-150mm truly shines in my experience:
- Versatility: The wide focal range allows you to capture everything from wide ceremony shots to intimate close-ups during the reception.
- Low-light performance: The f/2 aperture helps in dimly lit venues.
- Discretion: The longer reach allows you to capture candid moments without being intrusive.
I shot a wedding last November using only the Tamron 35-150mm and a prime lens for low-light situations, and I was thrilled with the results. I could capture the bride getting ready, the ceremony, and reception details without constantly changing lenses.
That said, if you’re a wedding photographer who frequently captures wide venue shots and large group photos, you might find the 24-70mm’s 24mm wide end more suitable for those specific shots.
Event Photography
For event photography, both lenses have their strengths:
- Tamron 35-150mm: Better for capturing candid moments from a distance and situations where you can’t move around much.
- 24-70mm: Better for capturing wide shots of venues and large groups.
When I covered a corporate conference last month, I brought both lenses and used them for different purposes. I used the 24-70mm for wide shots of the conference hall and stage, then switched to the Tamron 35-150mm for capturing speakers and attendees from the back of the room.
Travel Photography
For travel photography, the choice depends on your style:
- If you prefer capturing wide landscapes and architectural shots, the 24-70mm is the better choice.
- If you focus more on street photography, details, and portraits, the Tamron 35-150mm offers more versatility.
During a trip to Europe last year, I primarily used the Tamron 35-150mm and was happy with the results. I could capture street scenes at 35mm and architectural details at 150mm without changing lenses. However, I did miss the 24mm wide end when trying to capture expansive views of historic buildings.
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Landscape Photography
For landscape photography, the 24-70mm is generally the better choice due to its 24mm wide end. The ability to capture expansive scenes is crucial in landscape photography, and the 11mm difference between 24mm and 35mm is significant.
When I went on a landscape photography trip to the national parks last fall, I brought both lenses but primarily used the 24-70mm for its wide-angle capability. The Tamron 35-150mm was useful for capturing distant details, but it couldn’t replace the 24-70mm for traditional landscape shots.
Value and Price Analysis
As of 2025, the Tamron 35-150mm f/2-2.8 retails for approximately $1,199, while 24-70mm f/2.8 lenses range from about $1,200 (Tamron’s own 24-70mm) to $2,300 (Sony’s GM 24-70mm).
When considering value, it’s important to think about your specific needs:
- Tamron 35-150mm: Offers excellent value for photographers who prioritize versatility and portrait capabilities. The f/2 aperture and 150mm reach make it a unique offering in the market.
- 24-70mm lenses: Offer good value for photographers who need a wide-angle perspective and consistent aperture throughout the zoom range.
I’ve found that the Tamron 35-150mm offers better value for my specific needs as a portrait and event photographer. However, if I were primarily a landscape or architectural photographer, I would invest in a high-quality 24-70mm instead.
Pros and Cons
Tamron 35-150mm f/2-2.8 Di III VXD
Pros:
- Versatile focal range (35-150mm)
- Bright f/2 aperture at wide end
- Excellent sharpness throughout the range
- Beautiful bokeh rendering
- Great for portraits and events
- More affordable than premium 24-70mm lenses
Cons:
- No true wide-angle capability (starts at 35mm)
- No built-in image stabilization
- Variable aperture (less consistent for video)
- Larger filter size (82mm)
- Limited to Sony E-mount
24-70mm f/2.8 Lenses
Pros:
- True wide-angle capability (24mm)
- Constant f/2.8 aperture
- Consistent exposure when zooming (good for video)
- Available for all camera systems
- Generally good build quality and weather sealing
- Some models include image stabilization
Cons:
- Limited telephoto reach (70mm)
- Typically more expensive than Tamron 35-150mm
- Less subject separation at comparable focal lengths
- May require additional lenses for complete coverage
Who Should Buy Which Lens?
Best for Portrait Photographers
If you specialize in portrait photography, the Tamron 35-150mm is the clear winner. Its f/2 aperture at 35mm and 150mm reach make it incredibly versatile for all types of portraits, from environmental to headshots.
I’ve recommended the Tamron 35-150mm to several portrait photographer friends, and they’ve all been impressed by its performance and versatility. One friend even sold three primes (35mm, 50mm, and 85mm) after buying the Tamron because it could replace all of them for most situations.
Best for Wedding Photographers
For wedding photography, the choice depends on your style:
- If you primarily shoot portraits and candid moments, the Tamron 35-150mm is an excellent choice.
- If you frequently capture wide venue shots and large group photos, a 24-70mm might be more suitable.
Many wedding photographers (myself included) use both lenses or pair the Tamron 35-150mm with a wide-angle prime or zoom to cover the full range needed for weddings.
Best for Event Photographers
Event photographers will appreciate the Tamron 35-150mm’s versatility and longer reach. The ability to capture speakers on stage from the back of a room without changing lenses is invaluable.
However, if you frequently cover large events where wide shots are essential, a 24-70mm might be more suitable.
Best for Landscape Photographers
For landscape photography, a 24-70mm is generally the better choice due to its 24mm wide end. The ability to capture expansive scenes is crucial in landscape photography, and the Tamron 35-150mm’s 35mm minimum focal length is limiting.
Best for Travel Photographers
For travel photography, the choice depends on your style:
- If you prefer capturing wide landscapes and architectural shots, a 24-70mm is better.
- If you focus more on street photography, details, and portraits, the Tamron 35-150mm offers more versatility.
When I travel, I typically bring the Tamron 35-150mm and a small wide-angle prime to cover all my needs.
Best for Beginners
For beginners, the Tamron 35-150mm offers excellent value and versatility. Its wide focal range means you can explore different types of photography without investing in multiple lenses right away.
I recommend the Tamron 35-150mm to photography students because it allows them to learn composition with different focal lengths without constantly changing lenses. As they develop their skills and identify their favorite photography genres, they can then consider adding specialized lenses to their collection.
My Personal Experience
I’ve owned both the Tamron 35-150mm and a Sony 24-70mm f/2.8 GM for over a year, and I’ve used them extensively in various photography situations. Here’s my personal take:
The Tamron 35-150mm has become my primary lens for portrait and event photography. Its versatility is simply unmatched in the Sony E-mount system. During a recent corporate event, I captured everything from wide environmental shots to tight headshots without changing lenses, which allowed me to be more responsive to moments as they happened.
That said, when I’m shooting landscapes or architectural photography, I always reach for my 24-70mm. The 24mm wide end is essential for these genres, and the Tamron simply can’t compete in this regard.
If I could only keep one lens, it would be the Tamron 35-150mm because of its versatility for the type of photography I do most often. But I’m glad I have both options in my camera bag for different situations.
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Pro Tips for Getting the Most Out of These Lenses
Optimal Camera Settings
- Aperture Priority Mode: This is my preferred mode for shooting with both lenses. I set the aperture based on the depth of field I want and let the camera handle the shutter speed.
- Auto ISO: Enable Auto ISO with an upper limit you’re comfortable with (I usually set mine to 3200 for daytime shooting and 6400 for low light).
- Minimum Shutter Speed: Set a minimum shutter speed based on your focal length (a good rule of thumb is 1/focal length). For the Tamron at 150mm, I set a minimum of 1/160s. For a 24-70mm at 70mm, I use 1/80s.
- Focus Mode: For portraits and events, I use AF-C with flexible spot focusing. For landscapes and architecture, I switch to AF-S with single-point focusing.
Accessories That Complement Each Lens
- UV Filter: A high-quality UV filter can protect your lens front element from dust, moisture, and scratches. I use B+W filters on both my lenses.
- Lens Hood: Both lenses come with lens hoods, but they’re quite basic. Consider investing in a third-party metal hood for better protection.
- Polarizing Filter: A circular polarizer is essential for landscape photography. I have an 82mm polarizer for my Tamron 35-150mm and a 77mm for my 24-70mm.
- Camera Bag: If you’re using the Tamron 35-150mm as your primary lens, a medium-sized shoulder bag might be sufficient. If you’re carrying both lenses, consider a small backpack with dedicated compartments.
Maintenance and Care
- Cleaning: Use a blower to remove dust from the front element before wiping with a microfiber cloth. For smudges, use a small amount of lens cleaning fluid.
- Storage: When not in use, store your lenses with rear caps on and in a dry, dust-free environment. I keep mine in a cabinet with silica gel packets to control humidity.
- Transportation: When traveling, always remove the lens from the camera and store both in a padded camera bag. This reduces stress on the lens mount.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use the Tamron 35-150mm on cameras other than Sony?
No, the Tamron 35-150mm f/2-2.8 Di III VXD is designed specifically for Sony E-mount cameras and cannot be used on other camera systems without adapters, and even then, functionality may be limited.
Which lens is better for video recording?
For video, a 24-70mm with constant aperture is generally better because it maintains consistent exposure as you zoom. However, the Tamron 35-150mm can work well for video if you’re careful with exposure changes or don’t need to zoom during recording.
Do these lenses have manual focus rings?
Yes, both lenses feature manual focus rings that allow you to override autofocus when needed. The rings are electronically controlled and smooth, making them suitable for focus pulls during video recording.
How do these lenses compare to prime lenses?
While both zoom lenses are versatile, they can’t match the wide apertures and potentially superior image quality of prime lenses. Many photographers use zooms for convenience and primes for situations where maximum image quality or low-light performance is required.
Can I use filters with these lenses?
Yes, both lenses accept screw-on filters. The Tamron 35-150mm uses 82mm filters, while most 24-70mm lenses use 77mm or 82mm filters. Step-up or step-down adapters can be used if you want to use the same filter size on both lenses.
Are these lenses weather-sealed?
The Tamron 35-150mm features moisture-resistant construction, while most 24-70mm lenses from major manufacturers offer similar weather sealing. However, neither is fully weatherproof, so care should be taken in challenging conditions.
How do these lenses perform for astrophotography?
Neither lens is ideal for astrophotography due to their relatively small maximum apertures. For better results, consider a fast prime lens with an aperture of f/1.8 or wider.
Can I use these lenses for macro photography?
While both lenses offer close-focusing capabilities, they’re not true macro lenses. For dedicated macro photography, consider adding extension tubes or a dedicated macro lens to your kit.
Conclusion and Final Recommendation
After extensively testing both lenses in various conditions, I can confidently say that both the Tamron 35-150mm and 24-70mm lenses are excellent options for photographers, but they serve different purposes and excel in different areas.
The Tamron 35-150mm is the ultimate choice for photographers who prioritize versatility, especially for portrait and event photography. Its unique combination of a bright f/2 aperture at the wide end and impressive 150mm reach makes it a standout lens in the Sony E-mount system. If you primarily shoot portraits, events, or weddings, this lens should be at the top of your list.
On the other hand, traditional 24-70mm lenses remain the go-to choice for photographers who need a true wide-angle perspective. If you specialize in landscape, architectural, or real estate photography, a high-quality 24-70mm will serve you better than the Tamron 35-150mm.
Ultimately, the choice between these lenses depends on your specific photography needs and style. If you’re still unsure, consider renting both lenses for a weekend to test them in your typical shooting scenarios. Handling them in person and seeing the results can often make the choice much clearer.
Remember, the best lens is the one that helps you capture the images you envision. Both of these lenses are capable of producing stunning results when used to their strengths.