When it comes to versatile standard zoom lenses for full-frame mirrorless cameras, the Sigma 24-70mm f/2.8 DG DN Art and Tamron 28-75mm f/2.8 Di III RXD stand out as two of the most popular options on the market today. As a professional photographer who has shot extensively with both lenses, I can tell you that choosing between these two optics isn’t just about specifications—it’s about finding the right tool that matches your specific shooting style and needs. The Sigma 24-70 vs Tamron 28-75 debate has raged among photographers since both lenses hit the market, with passionate advocates on both sides.
In this comprehensive comparison, I’ll break down every aspect of these lenses based on my personal experience in real-world shooting scenarios. Whether you’re a wedding photographer, portrait artist, or content creator looking for your go-to lens, this guide will help you make an informed decision about which of these excellent zooms deserves a place in your camera bag.
A Tale of Two Powerhouses
Before diving into the details, let me give you a quick overview of these lenses. The Sigma 24-70mm f/2.8 DG DN Art, released in 2021, represents Sigma’s commitment to delivering premium optical quality in a compact package for mirrorless systems. The Tamron 28-75mm f/2.8 Di III RXD, launched in 2018, was one of the first third-party f/2.8 standard zooms designed specifically for mirrorless cameras and quickly gained a reputation for exceptional value.
I remember when both lenses were announced—the photography community was excited about having more affordable alternatives to manufacturer-branded lenses. As someone who has used both lenses extensively across various photography genres, I’ve discovered that each has distinct advantages that make it better suited for certain types of photography and photographers.
Focal Range and Versatility
Sigma 24-70mm: The Complete Package
The Sigma 24-70mm offers a more traditional standard zoom range that covers everything from wide-angle to short telephoto. This 2.9x zoom range makes it incredibly versatile for various shooting situations. During a recent wedding I photographed, I found myself using this lens for everything from wide shots of the venue to intimate portraits of the couple.
What I particularly appreciate about the Sigma’s range is the true 24mm wide end. During a landscape photography workshop in Zion National Park, I was able to capture expansive vistas that would have been impossible with the Tamron’s 28mm starting point. The difference between 24mm and 28mm might not sound like much, but in practice, it provides significantly more versatility for wide-angle compositions.
The 70mm telephoto end is also useful for portraits and details. During a product photography shoot, I found that 70mm provided a comfortable working distance and natural perspective for capturing small products without distortion.
Tamron 28-75mm: The Lightweight Contender
The Tamron 28-75mm offers a slightly more limited but still very useful 2.7x zoom range. While it doesn’t have the wide-angle reach of the Sigma, it covers the most commonly used focal lengths for general photography. During a street photography workshop in Chicago, I appreciated how the 28-75mm range encouraged me to be more deliberate with my compositions.
The 28mm starting point (42mm full-frame equivalent on APS-C) is slightly less wide than the Sigma but still perfectly usable for most situations. I’ve used it successfully for environmental portraits and street scenes where a moderate wide angle is needed.
The 75mm telephoto end (112.5mm full-frame equivalent on APS-C) provides a bit more reach than the Sigma, which I found useful during a portrait session where I wanted tighter framing without moving closer to my subject.
The Verdict on Focal Range
If versatility and maximum coverage are your priorities, the Sigma 24-70mm is the clear winner. Its wider 24mm starting point provides significantly more flexibility for wide-angle compositions, making it a more versatile all-around lens. However, if you primarily shoot within the 28-75mm range and value the slightly longer telephoto reach, the Tamron’s range might be sufficient, especially when size and weight are concerns.
Build Quality and Handling
Sigma 24-70mm: Premium Construction
The Sigma 24-70mm features a robust construction with a metal mount and high-quality plastics throughout its body. During a rainy day wedding shoot, I appreciated the weather sealing, which kept the lens functioning perfectly despite the damp conditions.
The lens has a substantial feel that inspires confidence, weighing in at 830g (29.3oz). While not lightweight, I found the weight distribution excellent, with a good balance on my Sony a7 IV. The zoom and focus rings are well-damped and provide just the right amount of resistance for precise adjustments.
One feature I particularly appreciate is the zoom lock mechanism, which prevents lens creep when carrying the camera. During a hike in the Rocky Mountains, this feature proved invaluable as I moved the camera in and out of my backpack.
The Sigma also includes a customizable AFL button, which I’ve programmed to activate eye autofocus—a feature that has saved numerous shots during fast-paced portrait sessions.
Tamron 28-75mm: Lightweight and Compact
The Tamron 28-75mm takes a different approach with its lightweight and compact design, tipping the scales at just 550g (19.4oz). During a two-week trip through Europe, I barely noticed this lens in my bag, making it my go-to for all-day shooting sessions.
Despite its light weight, the Tamron doesn’t feel cheap. The construction uses durable plastics with a metal mount that provides a secure connection to the camera body. While it lacks the extensive weather sealing of the Sigma, it does have basic moisture resistance that held up during an unexpected drizzle in Paris.
The zoom and focus rings are smooth but slightly less damped than those on the Sigma. However, they’re perfectly functional for most shooting situations. The lens doesn’t have a zoom lock, but I didn’t experience any significant lens creep during my time with it.
The Verdict on Build Quality
Both lenses are well-built, but they prioritize different aspects. The Sigma 24-70mm offers more robust construction, better weather sealing, and professional features like the AFL button. The Tamron 28-75mm excels in compactness and lightweight design, making it ideal for travel and everyday carry. If you frequently shoot in challenging conditions or value a more substantial feel, the Sigma is the better choice. If portability is your priority, the Tamron’s compact design is hard to beat.
Optical Performance
Sigma 24-70mm: Exceptional Art Quality
The Sigma 24-70mm delivers impressive optical performance across its entire focal range. During a product photography session, I was consistently impressed with the sharpness, even when shooting wide open at f/2.8. The center sharpness is excellent from the start, with the corners catching up nicely when stopped down to f/4 or f/5.6.
What I’ve noticed about the Sigma is its consistent performance regardless of focal length. Whether shooting at 24mm or 70mm, the image quality remains remarkably uniform. During a landscape photography workshop, participants were amazed at the corner-to-corner sharpness in the images, even when shooting at wider apertures.
Chromatic aberration is well-controlled, though visible in high-contrast situations when shooting wide open. However, it’s easily corrected in post-processing with minimal effort. Vignetting is present at wider apertures but decreases significantly when stopped down.
The lens produces pleasant bokeh with a natural transition from in-focus to out-of-focus areas. During a recent portrait session, the subject separation at f/2.8 was impressive, with smooth rendering of background elements.
Tamron 28-75mm: Surprisingly Capable
The Tamron 28-75mm delivers surprisingly good optical performance considering its more compact size and lower price point. During a detailed studio test, I found the center sharpness to be excellent, even when shooting wide open at f/2.8. While not quite matching the Sigma’s wide-open performance, it’s more than adequate for most situations.
The corners are softer when shooting wide open but improve significantly when stopped down to f/4. During landscape photography sessions, I found that stopping down to f/5.6 yielded excellent corner-to-corner sharpness.
Like the Sigma, the Tamron exhibits some chromatic aberration in high-contrast scenes, but it’s well-controlled and easily correctable in post-processing. Vignetting is slightly more pronounced than on the Sigma but adds character to images and decreases when stopped down.
The bokeh rendering is one of the Tamron’s standout features. During a recent engagement shoot, the background rendering at f/2.8 was exceptionally smooth, with pleasing circular highlights and natural transitions.
The Verdict on Optical Performance
Both lenses deliver excellent optical performance, but with different characteristics. The Sigma 24-70mm offers more consistent performance across the frame and throughout its focal range, making it a more versatile all-around performer. The Tamron 28-75mm delivers excellent center sharpness and beautiful bokeh rendering, making it particularly well-suited for portraits and detail work. If you need consistent performance across various shooting scenarios, the Sigma is the better choice. If you prioritize center sharpness and beautiful bokeh, the Tamron has the edge.
Autofocus Performance
Sigma 24-70mm: Fast and Quiet
The Sigma 24-70mm features a stepping motor autofocus system that delivers fast and nearly silent operation. During a wildlife photography session, I was impressed by how quickly and accurately the lens acquired focus, even on moving subjects.
What I particularly appreciate about the Sigma’s autofocus is its consistency. Whether shooting still subjects or tracking movement, the performance remains reliable. During a recent sports event, the lens kept up with the action, maintaining focus on fast-moving athletes across the frame.
The autofocus is also remarkably quiet, making it ideal for video recording. During an interview session, the lens operated silently, ensuring that no motor noise was picked up by the camera’s microphone.
The lens also features excellent close-up capabilities, with a minimum focusing distance of just 18cm (7.1 inches) at the wide end and 30cm (11.8 inches) at the telephoto end. During a product photography shoot, I was able to capture detailed close-ups without switching to a macro lens.
Tamron 28-75mm: Responsive and Accurate
The Tamron 28-75mm employs Tamron’s RXD (Rapid eXtra-silent stepping Drive) autofocus motor, which delivers exceptionally fast and quiet operation. During a street photography session in New York, I was amazed at how quickly the lens locked onto subjects, even in challenging lighting conditions.
What stands out about the Tamron’s autofocus is its precision. During portrait sessions, eye detection was consistently accurate, ensuring sharp focus on the subject’s eyes even when using wide apertures. During a recent fashion shoot, the lens tracked moving models with remarkable accuracy, maintaining focus precisely where needed.
Like the Sigma, the Tamron’s autofocus is nearly silent, making it suitable for video work. During a documentary project, the lens operated quietly, allowing me to capture clean audio without motor noise interference.
The Tamron also offers respectable close-up capabilities, with a minimum focusing distance of 19cm (7.5 inches) at the wide end and 39cm (15.4 inches) at the telephoto end. During a food photography session, I was able to capture detailed close-ups that highlighted the textures and colors of the dishes.
The Verdict on Autofocus Performance
Both lenses offer excellent autofocus performance, but with slight differences. The Sigma 24-70mm provides consistent and reliable autofocus across various shooting scenarios, with the added benefit of a customizable AFL button. The Tamron 28-75mm offers slightly faster and more precise autofocus, making it particularly well-suited for fast-paced situations like street photography and events. If you value customization options, the Sigma has the edge. If absolute speed and precision are your priorities, the Tamron is the better choice.
Image Stabilization
Sigma 24-70mm: Effective OS System
The Sigma 24-70mm features Sigma’s OS (Optical Stabilizer) image stabilization system, rated for approximately 5 stops of compensation according to CIPA standards. During a low-light photography session in a dimly lit cathedral, I was able to capture sharp images at shutter speeds as low as 1/15s at 70mm—a feat that would have been impossible without stabilization.
What I’ve found particularly useful about the Sigma’s stabilization is its effectiveness during video recording. During a travel documentary project, handheld footage was remarkably smooth, with minimal jitter even when walking slowly.
The OS system has two modes: standard and panning. During a motorsports event, the panning mode proved invaluable, allowing me to capture sharp images of moving cars while panning horizontally. The standard mode is perfect for general handheld photography, providing just the right amount of stabilization without creating a “floating” feeling.
Also Read: Nikon Z 24-70 f/2.8 vs f/4
Tamron 28-75mm: No Built-in Stabilization
The Tamron 28-75mm does not include built-in image stabilization, relying instead on the in-body stabilization (IBIS) of compatible camera bodies. During testing with a Sony a7 IV, which has IBIS, the combination provided effective stabilization comparable to the Sigma’s OS system.
However, when used with cameras that lack IBIS, such as certain Canon RF bodies, the absence of built-in stabilization becomes more noticeable. During a test with a Canon R6, I found myself needing to use higher shutter speeds or a tripod to ensure sharp images in low light.
For video work, the lack of built-in stabilization means that smooth handheld footage depends entirely on the camera’s IBIS capabilities. During a test with a stabilized camera body, results were good, but not quite as smooth as with the Sigma’s dedicated system.
The Verdict on Image Stabilization
The Sigma 24-70mm has a clear advantage with its built-in OS system, providing effective stabilization regardless of the camera body used. This makes it a more versatile option, especially for photographers who use multiple camera bodies or work with cameras that lack IBIS. The Tamron 28-75mm’s lack of built-in stabilization isn’t a significant issue when used with stabilized camera bodies, but it does limit its versatility with non-stabilized bodies.
Price and Value
Sigma 24-70mm: Premium Performance at a Fair Price
As of 2025, the Sigma 24-70mm typically retails for around $1,099. While this represents a significant investment, I’ve found that the lens’s performance and build quality justify the price. During a year of professional use, this lens has become one of my most-used optics, covering everything from landscapes to portraits.
What I appreciate about the Sigma is its value proposition. For less than the cost of many manufacturer-branded lenses, you get constant f/2.8 aperture, image stabilization, weather sealing, and excellent optical performance. During a budget-conscious period in my photography business, this lens provided professional results without breaking the bank.
The Sigma also holds its value well in the used market, making it a sound investment for photographers who might upgrade in the future.
Tamron 28-75mm: Exceptional Value
The Tamron 28-75mm is typically priced at around $699 as of 2025, making it significantly more affordable than the Sigma. During a period when I was building my lens collection, this lens provided exceptional performance at a price that didn’t strain my budget.
What impresses me about the Tamron is how it delivers optical performance that rivals lenses costing twice as much. During a comparison test with a manufacturer-branded lens costing over $1,500, the Tamron held its own in terms of sharpness and overall image quality.
The Tamron’s compact size and lightweight design also add to its value, making it a lens you’ll actually want to carry with you. During a two-week trip through Europe, this lens was mounted on my camera 90% of the time, delivering excellent results without weighing me down.
The Verdict on Price and Value
Both lenses offer excellent value, but in different ways. The Sigma 24-70mm provides more features and versatility for its price, making it an excellent all-around investment. The Tamron 28-75mm offers exceptional optical performance and portability at a more affordable price point. If you need the versatility of a wider focal range and image stabilization, the Sigma is worth the extra investment. If you prioritize compactness and optical quality within a more limited focal range, the Tamron represents outstanding value.
Personal Experiences with Both Lenses
Having spent extensive time with both lenses, I’ve developed a nuanced perspective on their strengths and weaknesses. During a recent three-week trip through national parks, I brought both lenses to test them side by side.
For landscape photography, the Sigma 24-70mm became my primary lens. The wider 24mm focal length allowed me to capture expansive vistas, while the 70mm reach was perfect for isolating distant elements. The image stabilization also proved invaluable during early morning and late evening shoots when light was limited.
However, when I switched to street photography in urban areas, I found myself gravitating toward the Tamron 28-75mm. Its compact size made it less intimidating to subjects, and the excellent center sharpness ensured that my images were crisp and detailed.
During a portrait session with a local musician, both lenses performed admirably, but with different characteristics. The Sigma’s wider 24mm focal length allowed me to capture more environmental portraits, while the Tamron’s slightly longer 75mm reach provided more intimate headshots.
For event photography, the Sigma’s versatility shone, allowing me to capture wide group shots and then zoom in for candid moments without changing lenses. The image stabilization also helped in low-light indoor situations where flash wasn’t permitted.
During a product photography assignment, I appreciated the Sigma’s close-up capabilities and consistent performance across the focal range, which made it easier to maintain a consistent look across a series of product shots.
Who Should Buy Which Lens?
The Sigma 24-70mm Is For You If:
- You’re a professional photographer who needs maximum versatility in a single lens
- You shoot in low-light conditions and need image stabilization
- You frequently shoot in challenging weather conditions and need weather sealing
- You value the flexibility of a wider focal range starting at 24mm
- You want a premium all-around lens that can handle most photographic situations
The Tamron 28-75mm Is For You If:
- You’re a travel photographer who values compactness and lightweight design
- You primarily shoot portraits and value beautiful bokeh rendering
- You’re on a tighter budget but don’t want to compromise on optical quality
- You already have a camera with effective in-body stabilization
- You prioritize portability and frequently carry your camera for extended periods
Also Read: Fujifilm GFX 100S vs Sony A7R V
Pro Tips for Getting the Most Out of Either Lens
For Sigma 24-70mm Users:
- Leverage the OS System: Make the most of the image stabilization by experimenting with slower shutter speeds. I’ve captured sharp handheld images at 1/15s at 70mm—something that would be impossible without stabilization.
- Customize the AFL Button: Take advantage of this customizable feature by programming it for your most-used function. I’ve set mine to activate eye autofocus, which has significantly improved my hit rate during portrait sessions.
- Use the Zoom Lock: Prevent lens creep when carrying the camera by engaging the zoom lock at 24mm. This simple feature has saved me from missed shots when quickly pulling out my camera.
- Stop Down for Maximum Sharpness: While the lens is sharp wide open, stopping down to f/4-f/5.6 yields exceptional corner-to-corner sharpness. During landscape sessions, this small adjustment makes a significant difference in overall image quality.
- Experiment with Close-Up Photography: Take advantage of the lens’s impressive close-up capabilities. During a recent trip, I captured detailed flower macros without needing to carry a dedicated macro lens.
For Tamron 28-75mm Users:
- Maximize the Center Sharpness: This lens excels in center sharpness even wide open. Use this to your advantage by placing your subject in the center of the frame for maximum detail, especially in portraits.
- Embrace the Compact Size: The lens’s small form factor makes it perfect for discreet photography. During street photography sessions, I’ve found that subjects are less likely to notice me, resulting in more natural candid shots.
- Pair with IBIS for Low-Light Shooting: If your camera has in-body stabilization, learn to use it effectively. During a recent night photography session, I combined the Tamron with my camera’s IBIS to capture sharp images at surprisingly slow shutter speeds.
- Stop Down for Better Corners: While the center is excellent wide open, the corners improve significantly when stopped down to f/4 or f/5.6. During architectural shoots, this small adjustment ensures edge-to-edge sharpness.
- Use the Beautiful Bokeh Creatively: This lens produces gorgeous bokeh, especially at f/2.8. During portrait sessions, I’ve used this characteristic to create dreamy backgrounds that make my subjects stand out.
FAQ
Which lens is better for professional photography?
Both lenses are excellent for professional photography, but they excel in different areas. The Sigma 24-70mm is better for professionals who need maximum versatility, weather sealing, and image stabilization. It’s ideal for wedding, event, and documentary photographers who need a single lens that can handle various situations. The Tamron 28-75mm is better for professionals who prioritize compactness and exceptional optical quality within a more limited focal range. It’s ideal for portrait, street, and studio photographers who value portability and stunning image quality.
Do these lenses work with APS-C cameras?
Yes, both lenses are fully compatible with APS-C mirrorless cameras. When used on APS-C bodies, the effective focal range becomes approximately 36-105mm for the Sigma and 42-112.5mm for the Tamron. While this makes them less wide, they still deliver excellent performance and can be useful as normal to short telephoto zooms on APS-C cameras.
How do these lenses compare to manufacturer-branded options?
Both the Sigma 24-70mm and Tamron 28-75mm offer performance that rivals or exceeds many manufacturer-branded options at a lower price point. In my experience, the Sigma competes favorably with Sony’s own 24-70mm f/2.8 GM lens, offering similar optical quality with the added benefits of a more affordable price and lighter weight. The Tamron 28-75mm matches or exceeds the optical quality of many manufacturer-branded standard zooms while being significantly more compact and affordable.
Are these lenses weather-sealed?
The Sigma 24-70mm features moisture-resistant construction with sealing at various points, including the mount and switches. This makes it suitable for use in light rain and dusty conditions. The Tamron 28-75mm has basic moisture resistance but doesn’t offer the same level of weather sealing as the Sigma. If you frequently shoot in challenging weather conditions, the Sigma is the more durable option.
Which lens is better for video work?
Both lenses perform well for video work, but with different strengths. The Sigma 24-70mm’s built-in image stabilization provides smoother handheld footage, making it ideal for run-and-gun video situations. Its wider focal range also offers more versatility for video. The Tamron 28-75mm’s compact size makes it excellent for gimbal work and situations where weight is a concern. Both lenses feature quiet autofocus motors suitable for video recording, but the Sigma’s additional stabilization modes give it an edge for handheld video.
Conclusion
After extensively using both the Sigma 24-70mm and Tamron 28-75mm, I can confidently say that they’re both exceptional lenses that serve different needs and preferences. The right choice depends entirely on your specific shooting style, subjects, and priorities.
The Sigma 24-70mm is the versatile workhorse, offering a more traditional focal range, constant f/2.8 aperture, image stabilization, and weather sealing. It’s the perfect “do-it-all” lens for photographers who need maximum flexibility and want to minimize lens changes. During my year of professional use, it has proven itself in countless situations, from landscapes to portraits to events.
The Tamron 28-75mm is the compact specialist, delivering exceptional optical quality in a small, lightweight package. It’s ideal for photographers who prioritize portability and stunning image quality within a more limited focal range. During street photography sessions and travel adventures, its compact size has allowed me to capture moments that might have been missed with a larger, more conspicuous lens.
Ultimately, the choice between these two lenses comes down to your specific needs. If versatility, a wider focal range, and stabilization are your priorities, the Sigma 24-70mm is the clear winner. If compactness, optical quality, and value are more important, the Tamron 28-75mm is hard to beat.
I recommend handling both lenses if possible, as size and weight are difficult to appreciate from specifications alone. Whichever you choose, both lenses represent excellent options for full-frame mirrorless photographers, delivering professional results at reasonable prices.
Pro Photography Tips
Before you go, here are a few bonus tips to elevate your photography regardless of which lens you choose:
- Master Your Equipment: Both lenses have their quirks and strengths. Spend time learning how to get the most from your chosen lens through practice in various shooting conditions.
- Invest in Quality Filters: Both lenses accept front filters. A high-quality UV filter can protect your investment, while a circular polarizer can enhance colors and reduce reflections in landscape and outdoor photography.
- Consider a Lens Hood: While both lenses come with lens hoods, many photographers leave them at home. Using a lens hood can improve contrast by reducing flare and protect your lens from accidental impacts.
- Regular Maintenance: Keep your lenses clean with a proper lens brush, blower, and microfiber cloth. Avoid using harsh chemicals or excessive pressure when cleaning the front element.
Did you find this comparison helpful? Bookmark this page for future reference, as I’ll be updating it with new insights as I continue to use both lenses in various professional scenarios. Happy shooting!