Lens Reviews - Tamron SP AF180mm F3.5 Di LD (IF) 1:1 Macro

Overview

Di: Digitally Integrated Design, is a designation Tamron puts on lenses featuring optical systems designed to meet the performance characteristics of digital SLR cameras.

This lens employs an IF (Internal Focusing) system that maintains the overall length of the lens during focusing. Uses two LD (Low Dispersion) glass elements that effectively compensate for Chromatic aberration. Provides high-Contrast, outstanding image quality and a soft out-of-focus background effect. Incorporates an AF/MF one touch switchover mechanism built into the focus ring(for Canon & Nikon only). Super performance series provides high performance through outstanding design specifications.

FEC (Filter Effect Control): Features the new FEC (Filter Effect Control) function that enhances operational ease of Polarizing Filter use. The new Filter Effect Control is designed to rotate the filter to the desired position while the hood is attached. This is accomplished by turning the FEC ring that in turn rotates the portion of the filter mount where the filter is mounted.

Optical/Mechanical Feature Key

Lens Specifications

Generic Lens Specifications

Lens Type: Prime
Lens Special Features: Macro
IS / VR / OS: None
Min Focal length (mm): 180
Max Focal Length (mm): 180
Number of Elements: 14
Element Groups: 11
Max Aperture: 3.5
Diaphragm Blades: 7
Closest Focus Distance (m): 0.47
Maximum Magnification: 1.1
Filter Type: Screw In
Filter Diameter (mm): 72
Diameter at widest (mm): 84
Lens Length (mm): 165
Weight (g): 920

Details


Model	B01
Lens Construction (Groups/Elements)	11/14
Angle of view	14°
Diaphragm Blade Number	7
Minimum Focus Distance	0.47m (18.5")
Macro Magnification Ratio	1:1
Filter Diameter	ø72
Weight	920g (32.5oz.)
Diameter x Length	ø84.8mmx165.7mm (3.3in x 6.5in)
Accessory	Lens hood & Case
Mount	Canon AF, Sony/Maxxum AF-D, Nikon AF-D

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User Lens Reviews

Average user rating from: 5 user(s)


Overall rating (weighted)		4.6
Sharpness		4.8
Build Quality		4.2
AF Speed		4.8
Value for Money		4.4

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0 of 0 people found the following review helpful

Price vs Quality = Worth it, Thursday, 05 August 2010


Overall rating (weighted)		4.5
Sharpness		5.0
Build Quality		4.0
AF Speed		5.0
Value for Money		4.0

I am using the lens with a Nikon D80 Camera.
As its been reviewed by others, it is a well-made lens. If you don't mind the extra weight (usually you will use the tripod so I don't think the weight would be an issue), this lens is highly recommended. Just be aware that the lens is a little Bit slow when it's in AF mode. I mostly use the manual focus when doing macro so that was not an issue for me.

I have tried Tamron before and after using the 180mm Macro, I could safely say Tamron is one of the best companies when it comes to lenses. When you weigh the quality verse the price, Tamron differently would be a winner. No wonder most of its lenses are award winners.

Thumbs up :)

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Fantastic lens and a great price, Thursday, 22 April 2010


Overall rating (weighted)		4.3
Sharpness		4.0
Build Quality		4.0
AF Speed		5.0
Value for Money		4.0

I was a little worried about buying a Tamron lens because I have not purchased one previously. I am sure glad I took a leap of faith. Fantastic auto focus capability and very easy to switch to manual focus. From every focal point your subject is brought into a clear, sharp and well defined image. I am using this lens on a Nikon D300. This lens is everything it is advertised to be. Don't spend the extra bucks on a higher priced lens you will be waisting your money.

1 of 1 people found the following review helpful

Great close up lens, Saturday, 07 November 2009


Overall rating (weighted)		4.8
Sharpness		5.0
Build Quality		4.0
AF Speed		5.0
Value for Money		5.0

This lens is amazing, I am a commercial shooter specializing in medical, and have been a pro since 1980. My philosophy is real simple, buy the best lens for the purpose, and the money is an important part of this. This lens is sharper then the Nikkor 85 mm 2.8 shift lens, ( I have owned 2 of these lenses). Actually sharper then any Nikkor lens I have owned.

my first macro lens!!, Tuesday, 12 May 2009


Overall rating (weighted)		5.0
Sharpness		5.0
Build Quality		5.0
AF Speed		5.0
Value for Money		5.0

even tho this is my first macro lens, i have already taken fantastic pictures!! this lens would zoom close up into an flower, insect, or any other small things with great detail!!. i love the picture quality.
i have to say though i can not compare it to other macro lens out there due to the fact this is my first one. but i could say that its is quite heavy, its long with the hood *this may be a good thing because you could get closer up without scaring the bee or butterfly away*, and the biggest problem with it is that the A-AF is really slow... like REALLY.... you must have alot of light for it to correctly focus it on something. but it dont really matter because you prob would just manual focus it because its faster and more sharp. EITHER WAY i really do love the lens!!

4 of 4 people found the following review helpful

Excellent tele-macro lens, Thursday, 08 February 2007


Overall rating (weighted)		4.3
Sharpness		5.0
Build Quality		4.0
AF Speed		4.0
Value for Money		4.0

This is a superb lens, with a good solid build and a smooth manual focus. Because it's made from polycarbonate rather than metal, it's also surprisingly lightweight. The tripod collar is easy to remove but solid. The filter effect control is a nice convenience.

The Automatic Focus is not particularly fast, but this is not much of a disadvantage since most photographers use manual focus in macro work anyway.

Highly recommended.