When it comes to standard zoom lenses for Sony mirrorless cameras, two options consistently dominate the conversation: the Sony FE 24-70mm f/4 ZA OSS and the Tamron 28-75mm f/2.8 Di III RXD. As a photographer who’s spent countless hours with both lenses, I can tell you that choosing between them isn’t just about specs—it’s about matching the right tool to your specific needs and shooting style.
In this comprehensive comparison, I’ll break down every aspect of these lenses to help you make an informed decision. Whether you’re a professional photographer looking to upgrade your kit or an enthusiast trying to decide where to invest your hard-earned money, I’ve got you covered with real-world insights you won’t find in manufacturer spec sheets.
Quick Overview Comparison
Before diving deep into the details, let’s start with a quick comparison table to see how these lenses stack up against each other at a glance:
| Feature | Sony 24-70mm f/4 ZA OSS | Tamron 28-75mm f/2.8 Di III RXD |
|---|---|---|
| Focal Range | 24-70mm | 28-75mm |
| Maximum Aperture | f/4 | f/2.8 |
| Image Stabilization | Yes (OSS) | No |
| Weather Sealing | Yes | Yes |
| Filter Size | 67mm | 67mm |
| Weight | 426g | 550g |
| Length | 94mm | 118mm |
| Close Focus Distance | 0.4m | 0.19m |
| Price | Higher | Lower |
Detailed Specifications Comparison
Let’s dig deeper into what makes each lens unique. I’ve tested both extensively in various shooting conditions, and I’ve discovered that their differences go well beyond the basic specs.
Sony FE 24-70mm f/4 ZA OSS
The Sony 24-70mm f/4 is a native Sony lens developed in collaboration with Zeiss, which immediately tells you something about its optical quality. Here’s what stands out:
- Optical Design: 12 elements in 9 groups, including 5 aspherical elements and 1 ED glass element
- Aperture Blades: 7 circular aperture blades
- Image Stabilization: Optical SteadyShot (OSS) providing approximately 4 stops of stabilization
- Minimum Focus Distance: 0.4m (1.31ft)
- Maximum Magnification: 0.2x
- Mount: Sony E-mount
- Dimensions: 94mm x 94.5mm (3.7″ x 3.7″)
- Weight: 426g (15oz)
Tamron 28-75mm f/2.8 Di III RXD
The Tamron 28-75mm f/2.8 made waves when it was released as the first third-party f/2.8 standard zoom for Sony full-frame mirrorless cameras. Here are its key specifications:
- Optical Design: 15 elements in 12 groups, including 1 LD (Low Dispersion) element, 1 XLD (eXtra Low Dispersion) element, and 2 aspherical elements
- Aperture Blades: 9 circular aperture blades
- Image Stabilization: None (relies on in-body stabilization)
- Minimum Focus Distance: 0.19m (0.62ft)
- Maximum Magnification: 0.34x
- Mount: Sony E-mount
- Dimensions: 118mm x 88mm (4.6″ x 3.5″)
- Weight: 550g (19.4oz)
Build Quality and Design
When I first handled both lenses, I immediately noticed differences in their build quality and design philosophy.
Sony 24-70mm f/4
The Sony lens has that premium feel you’d expect from a Zeiss-branded product. Its construction is primarily metal with high-quality plastics used sparingly. The zoom and focus rings are well-damped and provide just the right amount of resistance. I’ve found the weather sealing to be reliable, having used it in light rain without any issues.
One design aspect I particularly appreciate is how compact the Sony lens is when not in use. It extends significantly when zooming to 70mm, but at 24mm it’s remarkably compact, making it a great travel companion.
Tamron 28-75mm f/2.8
The Tamron has a more functional design that prioritizes performance over aesthetics. While it doesn’t feel as premium as the Sony, it’s by no means cheaply made. The build quality is solid, with a mix of metal and high-grade plastics that have held up well in my extensive field testing.
The zoom mechanism on the Tamron is internal, meaning the lens doesn’t extend when zooming. This is a feature I’ve come to appreciate when working in dusty environments. However, it’s noticeably larger and heavier than the Sony, which might be a consideration if you’re trying to keep your kit lightweight.
Image Quality and Performance
This is where things get interesting, as both lenses have distinct optical characteristics that set them apart.
Sharpness
In my testing, I’ve found that the Tamron 28-75mm f/2.8 is generally sharper across the frame, especially at wider apertures. At f/2.8, the Tamron delivers impressive sharpness from center to edge, something the Sony can’t match at f/4.
The Sony 24-70mm f/4 is no slouch, though. It produces excellent sharpness in the center at all apertures, but shows some softness in the corners at wider focal lengths until stopped down to f/5.6 or f/8.
Where the Sony really shines is at 24mm. The extra 4mm on the wide end makes a significant difference for landscape and architectural photography, and the Sony handles this focal length with minimal distortion and excellent corner-to-corner sharpness when stopped down.
Chromatic Aberration
Both lenses handle chromatic aberration well, but I’ve noticed that the Tamron has slightly better control over lateral CA, especially in high-contrast situations. The Sony shows a bit more purple fringing in challenging conditions, but it’s easily correctable in post-processing.
Vignetting
The Sony exhibits more noticeable vignetting, especially at 24mm and f/4. The Tamron also shows some vignetting at f/2.8, but it’s less pronounced and improves significantly when stopped down.
Distortion
At 24mm, the Sony shows some barrel distortion, which is typical for wide-angle lenses. The Tamron, starting at 28mm, has less distortion at its widest setting. Both lenses show minimal distortion at the telephoto end.
Bokeh
This is where the Tamron’s f/2.8 aperture really makes a difference. The extra stop of light gathering capability allows for significantly more background blur and subject separation. The Tamron’s 9 aperture blades also produce smoother, more circular bokeh compared to the Sony’s 7 blades.
I’ve found that the Sony’s bokeh is pleasant but not as creamy as the Tamron’s, especially when shooting portraits at 70mm. If background separation is important to you, the Tamron has a clear advantage.
Autofocus Performance
Both lenses perform well in terms of autofocus, but there are some differences worth noting.
Sony 24-70mm f/4
As a native Sony lens with Zeiss optics, the autofocus is lightning fast and virtually silent. I’ve used it for everything from portraits to street photography, and it rarely misses focus. The direct drive motor (DDSSM) provides precise and quiet operation, making it excellent for video work as well.
Tamron 28-75mm f/2.8
The Tamron uses Tamron’s Rapid eXtra-silent Driving (RXD) stepping motor technology, which is also impressively fast and quiet. In my experience, it’s nearly as fast as the Sony in good lighting conditions, though it can hunt slightly more in low light.
One advantage I’ve discovered with the Tamron is that it focuses slightly closer, which can be useful for certain types of photography. However, for general use, both lenses offer excellent autofocus performance that will satisfy most photographers.
Low Light Performance
This is where the Tamron’s f/2.8 aperture really shows its advantage. The extra stop of light gathering capability makes a significant difference in low-light situations.
With the Tamron, I can shoot at lower ISOs or faster shutter speeds in challenging lighting conditions. This has been particularly useful for event photography and indoor portraits where I want to maintain a natural look without introducing excessive noise.
The Sony, with its f/4 aperture, requires higher ISOs or slower shutter speeds in the same conditions. However, it does have optical stabilization, which can help compensate for slower shutter speeds when shooting handheld.
For static subjects, the Sony’s OSS can level the playing field somewhat, allowing for sharp images at slower shutter speeds. But for moving subjects in low light, the Tamron’s faster aperture gives it a clear advantage.
Also Read: Camcorder Vs DSLR
Value for Money
When it comes to value, the Tamron is the clear winner. It typically costs significantly less than the Sony while offering a faster aperture and comparable (and in some cases better) image quality.
The Sony commands a premium price, which is partly justified by its Zeiss branding, wider focal range, and built-in stabilization. However, for many photographers, the price difference may be hard to justify based on performance alone.
I’ve found that the Tamron offers exceptional value for money, delivering professional-level performance at a price point that’s accessible to enthusiasts and professionals alike.
Who Should Choose the Sony 24-70mm f/4?
Based on my experience with both lenses, the Sony 24-70mm f/4 is the better choice for:
- Landscape Photographers: The 24mm wide end is ideal for expansive landscapes, and the excellent corner-to-corner sharpness when stopped down is perfect for maximizing detail.
- Travel Photographers: Its compact size when not in use makes it a great travel companion, and the built-in stabilization is invaluable for handheld shooting in various lighting conditions.
- Video Creators: The silent autofocus and optical stabilization make it an excellent choice for video work, especially when shooting handheld.
- Photographers Who Value Wide-Angle: If you frequently shoot at 24mm and find 28mm too restrictive, the Sony is the obvious choice.
- Those Who Prioritize Native Lens Integration: As a first-party lens, it offers seamless integration with Sony cameras and may receive firmware updates sooner.
Who Should Choose the Tamron 28-75mm f/2.8?
The Tamron 28-75mm f/2.8 is the better choice for:
- Portrait Photographers: The f/2.8 aperture provides beautiful background separation and subject isolation, making it ideal for portraits.
- Event Photographers: The faster aperture is invaluable in indoor or low-light event settings where you need to maintain faster shutter speeds.
- Budget-Conscious Photographers: It offers professional-level performance at a more accessible price point.
- Those Who Value Subject Separation: If you frequently shoot subjects where background separation is important, the Tamron’s f/2.8 aperture gives it a significant advantage.
- Macro Enthusiasts: The closer focusing distance and higher magnification make it more versatile for close-up photography.
Real-World Usage Scenarios
To give you a better sense of how these lenses perform in actual shooting situations, here are some scenarios I’ve encountered with both lenses:
Wedding Photography
For wedding photography, I’ve found the Tamron to be more versatile overall. The f/2.8 aperture is invaluable during dimly lit ceremonies and receptions, allowing me to capture moments without resorting to high ISOs. The beautiful bokeh also adds a professional touch to portraits.
However, during outdoor ceremonies or when shooting large group photos, I sometimes miss the 24mm wide end of the Sony. If I were to shoot weddings exclusively with one of these lenses, I’d probably lean toward the Tamron but would consider adding a dedicated wide-angle lens to my kit.
Travel Photography
For travel photography, the Sony has been my go-to lens. Its compact size when not in use makes it easy to pack, and the built-in stabilization is invaluable for handheld shooting in museums or other locations where tripods aren’t allowed.
The 24mm wide end is also perfect for capturing expansive landscapes and architecture. While I sometimes wish for a faster aperture in low-light situations, the image stabilization helps compensate, and I’ve been consistently impressed with the image quality.
Street Photography
Both lenses perform well for street photography, but they excel in different ways. The Sony’s compact size makes it less conspicuous, which can be an advantage when trying to capture candid moments. The 24mm wide end is also great for environmental portraits and capturing the context of a scene.
The Tamron, while larger, offers better subject separation at f/2.8, which can help your subjects stand out from busy backgrounds. The faster aperture is also useful in shaded areas or during golden hour when light levels drop.
Landscape Photography
For landscape photography, the Sony is my clear preference. The 24mm wide end is significantly more versatile than 28mm for capturing expansive vistas. When stopped down to f/8 or f/11, the Sony delivers excellent corner-to-corner sharpness that’s perfect for maximizing detail in landscape images.
The Tamron is no slouch for landscapes, but I find myself missing the extra 4mm on the wide end more often than not. If you primarily shoot landscapes, the Sony is definitely the better choice.
Sample Images Comparison
While I can’t include actual images in this text-based comparison, I can describe some of the differences I’ve observed in my own work:
Portrait Comparison
When shooting portraits at 70mm, the Tamron’s f/2.8 aperture creates noticeably creamier backgrounds with better subject separation. The transition from in-focus to out-of-focus areas is smoother, and the circular bokeh highlights are more pleasing.
The Sony produces good portraits at f/4, but the background separation isn’t as pronounced, and the bokeh highlights are slightly less circular due to the 7 aperture blades.
Landscape Comparison
At 24mm, the Sony captures significantly wider scenes than the Tamron can at 28mm. This difference is more pronounced than you might expect, and it can be the deciding factor for landscape photographers.
When both lenses are stopped down to f/8, the Sony shows slightly better corner sharpness at their respective widest focal lengths, though both produce excellent results for landscape work.
Low Light Comparison
In low-light situations, the Tamron’s f/2.8 aperture allows for either faster shutter speeds or lower ISOs compared to the Sony at f/4. This difference is particularly noticeable when shooting handheld in dimly lit environments.
The Sony’s optical stabilization helps level the playing field somewhat, allowing for sharp images at slower shutter speeds, but for moving subjects, the Tamron has a clear advantage.
Also Read: 5D Mark II vs 7D
Pro Photography Tips
Based on my experience with both lenses, here are some professional tips to help you get the most out of whichever lens you choose:
For Sony 24-70mm f/4 Users:
- Leverage the Stabilization: Make the most of the built-in OSS by practicing handheld shooting at slower shutter speeds. I’ve been able to get sharp images at speeds as slow as 1/15s with proper technique.
- Stop Down for Landscapes: For optimal sharpness in landscape photography, stop down to f/8 or f/11. This will maximize corner-to-corner sharpness and depth of field.
- Use the Wide End Creatively: The 24mm focal length is perfect for environmental portraits and architectural details. Experiment with perspectives to make the most of this wide angle.
- Pair with a Prime Lens: Consider adding a fast prime lens like the Sony 50mm f/1.8 or 85mm f/1.8 to your kit for low-light situations and portraits where you want more background separation.
For Tamron 28-75mm f/2.8 Users:
- Embrace the f/2.8 Aperture: Don’t be afraid to shoot wide open in good lighting. The lens is surprisingly sharp at f/2.8, especially in the center, and the background separation can be stunning.
- Take Advantage of Close Focusing: The Tamron’s close focusing distance makes it surprisingly capable for close-up photography. Experiment with near-macro shots of flowers, food, or products.
- Use In-Body Stabilization: Since the lens doesn’t have built-in stabilization, make sure to enable your camera’s in-body stabilization. This is especially important at the telephoto end.
- Consider a Wide-Angle Companion: If you find yourself missing the 24mm wide end, consider adding a dedicated wide-angle lens like the Sony 16-35mm f/4 or Tamron 17-28mm f/2.8 to your kit.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which lens is better for video?
Both lenses perform well for video, but they have different strengths. The Sony’s built-in stabilization makes it better for handheld video work, while the Tamron’s f/2.8 aperture is better for low-light situations. If your camera has good in-body stabilization, the Tamron might be the better choice overall for video due to its faster aperture.
Does the Tamron work well with Sony’s eye autofocus?
Yes, the Tamron 28-75mm f/2.8 works excellently with Sony’s eye autofocus. In my testing, I’ve found that it performs nearly as well as native Sony lenses, with quick and accurate eye detection in both stills and video modes.
Is the Sony 24-70mm f/4 weather sealed?
Yes, the Sony 24-70mm f/4 features weather sealing, with a gasket at the mount and additional sealing throughout the lens barrel. I’ve used it in light rain without any issues, though I wouldn’t recommend extended use in heavy precipitation.
Can I use these lenses on APS-C Sony cameras?
Both lenses are designed for full-frame Sony E-mount cameras, but they can be used on APS-C cameras as well. When used on APS-C cameras, the effective focal range will be multiplied by 1.5x, resulting in approximately 36-105mm for the Sony and 42-112mm for the Tamron.
Which lens has better build quality?
The Sony has a more premium feel with more metal components, but the Tamron is by no means poorly built. Both lenses feature weather sealing and should hold up well with regular use. In my experience, both have proven durable despite extensive field use.
Do these lenses have focus breathing?
Both lenses exhibit some focus breathing, but it’s relatively minimal and shouldn’t be an issue for most photography applications. For professional video work where focus breathing is a concern, dedicated cinema lenses would be a better choice.
Which lens is better for astrophotography?
For astrophotography, the Tamron’s f/2.8 aperture gives it a significant advantage, allowing for shorter exposure times or lower ISOs. However, the Sony’s 24mm wide end might be preferable for capturing more of the night sky. If astrophotography is your primary use case, you might want to consider a dedicated wide-angle prime lens with an even faster aperture.
Conclusion and Final Recommendation
After extensive testing with both lenses in various shooting conditions, I’ve come to the conclusion that neither lens is objectively better—they’re simply different tools suited to different needs.
If you prioritize a wider focal range, built-in stabilization, and a more compact form factor, the Sony 24-70mm f/4 is the lens for you. It’s an excellent all-around performer that excels in landscape and travel photography.
If you value a faster aperture, better subject separation, and superior value for money, the Tamron 28-75mm f/2.8 is the clear winner. It’s an exceptional lens for portrait and event photography, and its close focusing capabilities add to its versatility.
For my personal photography, I find myself reaching for the Tamron more often than not, primarily because of the f/2.8 aperture and the beautiful background separation it provides. However, I always keep the Sony in my bag for situations where I need the wider focal range or built-in stabilization.
Ultimately, the best lens is the one that matches your specific needs and shooting style. I hope this comprehensive comparison has helped you determine which of these excellent lenses is the right choice for you.
Pro Photography Resources
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If you have any questions about these lenses or photography in general, feel free to leave a comment below. I’m always happy to share my knowledge and help fellow photographers make informed decisions about their gear.
Happy shooting in 2025