I’ve spent countless hours testing both the Tamron 35-150mm and Canon 24-105mm lenses in real-world scenarios, and let me tell you – this is one battle that’s been raging in the photography community for years! As someone who’s shot everything from weddings to wildlife with both these lenses, I’m here to give you the definitive comparison that’ll help you make the right choice for your photography needs.
Why This Comparison Matters?
When I first started looking for a versatile walk-around lens, I was overwhelmed by the options. The Canon 24-105mm has been the gold standard for years, but then Tamron came along with their 35-150mm and completely changed the game. I remember holding both lenses in my hands at the camera store, thinking, “How do I choose between these two incredible pieces of glass?”
After months of testing both lenses extensively, I’ve discovered that each has its strengths and weaknesses, and the right choice really depends on your specific photography style and needs. Let me break down everything I’ve learned so you can make an informed decision.
Quick Specs Comparison: Tamron 35-150 Vs Canon 24-105
Before we dive deep into the nitty-gritty details, let me give you a quick overview of what each lens brings to the table:
| Feature | Tamron 35-150mm F2.8-4 | Canon 24-105mm F4L |
|---|---|---|
| Focal Range | 35-150mm | 24-105mm |
| Max Aperture | F2.8-4 | F4 |
| Weight | 790g | 795g |
| Length | 127mm | 118mm |
| Filter Thread | 77mm | 77mm |
| Image Stabilization | Yes (VC) | Yes (IS) |
| Weather Sealing | Yes | Yes |
| Min Focus Distance | 0.45m | 0.45m |
| Max Magnification | 0.27x | 0.24x |
Tamron 35-150 Vs Canon 24-105: Build Quality and Handling
Tamron 35-150mm: The Robust Performer
I’ve got to hand it to Tamron – they’ve really stepped up their game with the build quality of the 35-150mm. When I first picked up this lens, I was immediately impressed by its solid construction. The lens feels substantial in my hands, but not overly heavy. I’ve shot with it for hours during wedding sessions, and while it’s not the lightest lens out there, the weight distribution is excellent.
One feature I absolutely love is the zoom lock switch. I can’t tell you how many times my Canon 24-105mm would creep on me when I was walking around, but the Tamron stays exactly where I leave it. This might seem like a small thing, but when you’re in the middle of a shoot and need to quickly grab a shot, the last thing you want is your lens extending unexpectedly!
The focus and zoom rings are well-damped and provide just the right amount of resistance. I’ve found that manual focusing is a breeze with this lens, and the zoom action is smooth without being too loose or too tight.
Canon 24-105mm: The Familiar Favorite
Canon’s 24-105mm F4L has been around for years, and there’s a good reason why it’s so popular. The build quality is exactly what you’d expect from an L-series lens – professional, durable, and reliable. I’ve dropped this lens (accidentally, of course!) more times than I’d like to admit, and it just keeps on working.
However, I have to mention the lens creep issue. It’s a well-known problem with this lens, and it’s something that’s driven me crazy on numerous occasions. When I’m hiking or walking around with the camera hanging from my shoulder, I often find that the lens has fully extended by itself. It’s not a deal-breaker, but it’s definitely annoying.
The ergonomics are excellent, and the lens balances well on most Canon camera bodies. The focus ring is smooth, and the zoom action, while prone to creeping, is otherwise quite nice to use.
Tamron 35-150 Vs Canon 24-105: Image Quality and Performance
Sharpness and Clarity
This is where things get really interesting! I’ve tested both lenses extensively in various shooting conditions, and I’ve got to say – both are incredibly sharp, but they have different characteristics.
Tamron 35-150mm: I was blown away by the sharpness of the Tamron right from the get-go. At 35mm and f/2.8, this lens produces stunningly sharp images with beautiful contrast. I’ve used it for portraits, and the detail in the eyes and skin texture is remarkable. Even at 150mm, the lens maintains excellent sharpness, though you do notice a slight drop-off in the corners at the longest focal lengths.
What really impressed me was how consistent the sharpness is across the zoom range. I’ve shot with lenses that are great at one end but mediocre at the other, but the Tamron delivers excellent performance from 35mm all the way to 150mm.
Canon 24-105mm: The Canon 24-105mm is no slouch either. This lens has been a workhorse for many professionals for years, and for good reason. The sharpness is excellent throughout the zoom range, though I’ve found it’s slightly better in the middle range (around 50-70mm) than at the extremes.
One area where the Canon really shines is corner-to-corner sharpness. Even at 24mm, the corners remain remarkably sharp, which is something I really appreciate when shooting landscapes. The Tamron, while excellent, can show some softness in the corners at the widest apertures.
Color Accuracy and Contrast
I’ve always been particular about color rendering, and both lenses have their own unique characteristics.
The Tamron 35-150mm produces colors that are slightly warmer and more saturated straight out of the camera. I’ve found this to be particularly pleasing for portrait work, as it gives skin tones a nice, healthy look. The contrast is excellent, with deep blacks and vibrant highlights that really make images pop.
The Canon 24-105mm, on the other hand, produces more neutral and accurate colors. This is actually a strength when you need to capture colors exactly as they appear, such as in product photography or when shooting for clients who require accurate color reproduction. The contrast is slightly more subdued compared to the Tamron, but this gives you more flexibility in post-processing.
Low Light Performance
This is one area where the Tamron really pulls ahead, and it’s not even close. The extra stop of light at the wide end (f/2.8 vs f/4) makes a significant difference in real-world shooting.
I’ve shot numerous indoor events with both lenses, and the Tamron consistently delivers cleaner images at higher ISOs. When I’m shooting in dimly lit venues, the f/2.8 aperture allows me to keep my ISO lower, resulting in less noise and better overall image quality.
The Canon 24-105mm, while capable, struggles more in low light situations. I’ve found myself having to push the ISO higher to maintain acceptable shutter speeds, which inevitably leads to more noise in the images.
Both lenses have excellent image stabilization systems, and I’ve been able to get sharp handheld shots at surprisingly slow shutter speeds with both. However, the combination of the Tamron’s wider aperture and effective VC system gives it the edge in low light scenarios.
Autofocus Performance: Tamron 35-150 Vs Canon 24-105
Speed and Accuracy
Autofocus performance is crucial for most photographers, and both lenses deliver in this area, though with some differences.
The Tamron 35-150mm features Tamron’s VXD (Voice-coil eXtreme-torque Drive) autofocus motor, and I’ve got to say – it’s impressive. The autofocus is fast, accurate, and virtually silent. I’ve shot everything from fast-moving toddlers to sporting events, and the lens has rarely missed focus.
What I really appreciate is how well the autofocus performs in low light. Many lenses struggle when the light gets dim, but the Tamron continues to perform admirably. Eye detection works well, and subject tracking is reliable.
The Canon 24-105mm uses Canon’s USM (Ultrasonic Motor) technology, which has been proven over many years. The autofocus is fast and accurate, though not quite as silent as the Tamron. In good light, both lenses perform similarly, but I’ve found that the Canon can occasionally hunt in very low light conditions.
One area where the Canon has an advantage is with older camera bodies. The Tamron’s autofocus performance can vary depending on the camera body you’re using, while the Canon tends to be more consistent across different Canon cameras.
Versatility and Use Cases
Portrait Photography
This is where the Tamron 35-150mm really shines in my opinion. The focal range is perfect for portrait work, covering all the classic portrait focal lengths (35mm, 50mm, 85mm, 105mm, and 135mm) in one lens.
I’ve shot countless portrait sessions with this lens, and I love the flexibility it provides. I can start with environmental portraits at 35mm, move closer for classic headshots at 85mm, and then capture tight details at 150mm – all without changing lenses. The f/2.8-4 aperture range provides beautiful background separation throughout the zoom range.
The Canon 24-105mm is also capable for portrait work, but the fixed f/4 aperture means you don’t get the same level of background separation at the wider focal lengths. However, the 24mm wide end can be useful for environmental portraits where you want to include more of the surroundings.
Wedding and Event Photography
Both lenses are excellent for wedding and event photography, but they excel in different ways.
The Tamron 35-150mm has become my go-to lens for wedding receptions. The focal range is perfect for capturing everything from wide group shots to intimate moments across the room. The fast autofocus and excellent low light performance make it ideal for the challenging lighting conditions often found at events.
The Canon 24-105mm, with its wider 24mm starting point, is better for capturing the overall scene and venue shots. Many wedding photographers use this as their primary lens, pairing it with a longer telephoto for ceremonies.
Landscape Photography
For landscape photography, the Canon 24-105mm has a clear advantage due to its wider 24mm focal length. Being able to capture sweeping landscapes at 24mm is something the Tamron simply can’t match.
However, the Tamron’s longer reach can be useful for landscape details and compressed perspectives. I’ve found that both lenses produce excellent landscape images when stopped down to f/8-f/11.
Travel and Street Photography
This is a tough one, as both lenses have their strengths for travel and street photography.
The Canon 24-105mm is more versatile for travel due to its wider focal range. The 24mm wide end is perfect for architecture and street scenes, while the 105mm reach is great for compressing perspectives and capturing details.
The Tamron 35-150mm, while lacking the wide end, makes up for it with its longer reach and faster aperture. I’ve found it to be excellent for street portraits and capturing candid moments from a distance.
Value for Money
Tamron 35-150mm: The Budget Champion
One of the most impressive things about the Tamron 35-150mm is its price point. At around $799, it offers incredible value for money. You’re getting a lens that competes with lenses costing twice as much, with features and performance that rival much more expensive options.
I’ve recommended this lens to many photographer friends who are looking to upgrade from kit lenses but don’t want to break the bank. The combination of versatile focal range, fast aperture, and excellent image quality makes it a standout value proposition.
Canon 24-105mm: The Premium Investment
The Canon 24-105mm F4L is more expensive, typically retailing for around $1,099. However, you’re paying for Canon’s build quality, weather sealing, and the peace of mind that comes with buying a first-party lens.
The resale value of Canon L lenses tends to hold up better over time, which is something to consider if you’re the type of photographer who upgrades regularly. The Canon also benefits from better compatibility with older camera bodies and more consistent autofocus performance across different cameras.
Real-World User Experiences: Tamron 35-150 Vs Canon 24-105
My Personal Journey
I’ll be honest – when I first bought the Tamron 35-150mm, I was skeptical. I’d been using Canon lenses for years and was worried about third-party compatibility and quality. But I have to say, this lens completely won me over.
I remember shooting a wedding with both lenses side by side, and by the end of the day, I found myself reaching for the Tamron more often. The extra stop of light made a huge difference in the dim reception hall, and the longer focal range meant I could capture moments I would have missed with the Canon.
That said, I still keep the Canon 24-105mm in my bag for situations where I need that wider 24mm focal length. It’s not about one being better than the other – it’s about having the right tool for the job.
What Other Photographers Are Saying?
I’ve talked to numerous photographers who use both lenses, and the consensus is pretty clear:
Tamron 35-150mm users love:
- The versatile focal range
- The fast f/2.8 aperture at the wide end
- The excellent value for money
- The sharp image quality
- The effective image stabilization
Canon 24-105mm users appreciate:
- The wider 24mm starting point
- The proven reliability and build quality
- The consistent performance across different camera bodies
- The excellent color accuracy
- The strong resale value
Technical Deep Dive
Optical Design
The Tamron 35-150mm features a sophisticated optical design with 19 elements in 14 groups, including several low dispersion and aspherical elements to control aberrations and maintain sharpness throughout the zoom range.
The Canon 24-105mm uses 17 elements in 12 groups, with similar optical technologies to ensure excellent image quality. Both lenses feature advanced coatings to reduce flare and ghosting.
Close-Up Performance
Both lenses offer respectable close-up capabilities, but the Tamron has a slight edge with a maximum magnification of 0.27x compared to the Canon’s 0.24x. This means you can get slightly closer to your subjects with the Tamron, which can be useful for detail shots and small product photography.
Vignetting and Distortion
Like most zoom lenses, both exhibit some vignetting and distortion, particularly at the widest apertures and focal lengths. The Tamron shows slightly more vignetting at f/2.8, but this is to be expected given the faster aperture. Both lenses perform very well when stopped down to f/5.6 or smaller.
The Verdict: Which One Should You Choose?
After extensive testing and real-world use, I’ve come to the conclusion that both lenses are excellent, but they serve different purposes and photographers.
Choose the Tamron 35-150mm if:
- You primarily shoot portraits, events, or weddings
- You need excellent low light performance
- You want the best value for money
- You prefer a longer focal range over a wider one
- You want a lens that can potentially replace both a 24-70mm and 70-200mm
Choose the Canon 24-105mm if:
- You shoot a lot of landscapes or architecture
- You need the widest possible focal range
- You prioritize build quality and weather sealing
- You want consistent performance across different camera bodies
- You prefer more neutral color reproduction
My Personal Recommendation
If I had to choose just one lens for general purpose photography, I’d go with the Tamron 35-150mm. The combination of versatile focal range, fast aperture, and excellent image quality makes it an incredible value proposition. However, I’d recommend having a wider prime lens (like a 24mm or 28mm) in your bag for situations where you need to go wider than 35mm.
That said, if you’re a landscape photographer or someone who frequently shoots in tight spaces, the Canon 24-105mm might be the better choice for you.
Pro Tips for Getting the Most Out of Your Lens
For Tamron 35-150mm Users:
- Use the zoom lock! I can’t stress this enough. The zoom lock prevents lens creep and ensures your lens stays where you want it.
- Take advantage of the f/2.8 aperture for beautiful background separation in portraits. This is one of the lens’s strongest features.
- Experiment with the longer focal lengths for compressed landscapes and unique perspectives. The 150mm reach can create stunning images.
- Keep the lens hood on to reduce flare and protect the front element. The included hood is excellent and does a great job.
For Canon 24-105mm Users:
- Be mindful of lens creep and consider using a rubber band or lens strap to keep it from extending when not in use.
- Stop down to f/5.6-f/8 for maximum sharpness, particularly at the wide end.
- Take advantage of the 24mm focal length for environmental portraits and architecture shots.
- Use the image stabilization to its full potential – this lens can produce sharp handheld shots at surprisingly slow shutter speeds.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Tamron 35-150mm compatible with all Canon cameras?
The Tamron 35-150mm F2.8-4 Di VC OSD is designed for Canon EF mount cameras, so it’s compatible with all Canon DSLRs that use the EF mount. However, if you’re using a Canon mirrorless camera with the RF mount, you’ll need an EF-to-RF adapter. The lens works well with adapters, but you may experience slightly slower autofocus performance compared to native RF lenses.
Which lens is better for video work?
Both lenses can produce excellent video, but they have different strengths. The Canon 24-105mm has smoother focus transitions and less focus breathing, making it slightly better for video work. However, the Tamron’s faster aperture and image stabilization make it better for low-light video situations. For professional video work, I’d recommend the Canon, but for casual video and run-and-gun shooting, the Tamron performs admirably.
How do these lenses compare in terms of weather sealing?
Both lenses offer weather sealing, but the Canon 24-105mm F4L has more robust weather sealing due to its L-series designation. I’ve shot with both in light rain and dusty conditions, and both have held up well. However, for extreme weather conditions, I’d trust the Canon slightly more. That said, I always recommend using a rain cover or protective gear when shooting in adverse conditions, regardless of the lens.
Can I use these lenses for astrophotography?
The Canon 24-105mm is better suited for astrophotography due to its wider 24mm focal length, which allows you to capture more of the night sky. The f/4 aperture is decent for astrophotography, though not ideal. The Tamron 35-150mm, with its 35mm starting point, is less ideal for astrophotography but can still be used for constellation shots or detailed lunar photography. For serious astrophotography, I’d recommend a dedicated wide-angle lens with a faster aperture.
Which lens has better bokeh?
Both lenses produce pleasing bokeh, but they have different characteristics due to their aperture designs. The Tamron 35-150mm, with its f/2.8-4 variable aperture, produces creamier bokeh at the wider focal lengths and apertures. The Canon 24-105mm, with its constant f/4 aperture, produces more consistent bokeh throughout the zoom range. I find the Tamron’s bokeh to be slightly more pleasing for portrait work, while the Canon’s is more consistent for general photography.
Final Thoughts
After months of testing and real-world use with both the Tamron 35-150mm and Canon 24-105mm, I can confidently say that both are excellent lenses that serve different purposes and photographers.
The Tamron 35-150mm is a fantastic value proposition that offers incredible versatility and performance for the price. It’s particularly well-suited for portrait, wedding, and event photographers who need a single lens that can do it all.
The Canon 24-105mm F4L is a proven workhorse that offers excellent build quality, reliable performance, and the versatility of a wider focal range. It’s ideal for landscape photographers and those who need the widest possible focal length in a single lens.
Ultimately, the choice comes down to your specific needs and shooting style. I recommend considering what type of photography you do most often and choosing the lens that best aligns with those needs.
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 in the right hands.
Pro Photography Tips
Before I wrap up, here are a few additional tips to help you get the most out of whichever lens you choose:
- Always shoot in RAW – Both lenses produce excellent JPEGs, but shooting in RAW gives you maximum flexibility in post-processing.
- Invest in a quality UV filter – Protecting your front element is crucial, especially when shooting in challenging conditions.
- Learn to use manual focus – While autofocus is excellent on both lenses, there are times when manual focus is preferable, particularly for landscape and macro work.
- Practice with different apertures – Understanding how each lens performs at different apertures will help you make the most of its capabilities.
- Keep your lenses clean – Regular maintenance will ensure optimal performance and longevity.
Save This for Later
Photography gear decisions can be overwhelming, and it’s always good to have reference material handy. I recommend bookmarking this article so you can come back to it when you’re ready to make your purchase decision.
The camera lens market is constantly evolving, with new models and updates being released regularly. I’ll be updating this article periodically to ensure you have the most current information available.
Feel free to share your own experiences with these lenses in the comments below – I’d love to hear about your real-world results and any tips you’ve discovered!