BENOISON vs Tamron

Overview of the Lenses

The 85mm f1.8 Portrait Lens for Nikon is priced at $96.22, while the Tamron 24mm F/2.8 Di III OSD Lens for Sony costs $199.00. The significant price difference of about 52% indicates that the Nikon lens is much more budget-friendly. Both lenses cater to different photography styles and needs, with the Nikon lens focusing on portrait photography and the Tamron lens excelling in wide-angle shots. Each lens brings unique features to the table, making them appealing to specific types of photographers.

Design and Build Quality

The Nikon 85mm f1.8 Portrait Lens features a manual focus design, which requires users to operate the focus ring to achieve sharpness. This design allows for a compact and lightweight feel, ideal for photographers who appreciate simplicity and control. In contrast, the Tamron 24mm F/2.8 lens boasts a compact design as well, measuring only 2.5 inches in length and weighing 7.6oz. The Tamron lens also includes moisture-resistant construction and a dirt-resistant fluorine coating, making it suitable for outdoor shooting. While both lenses are designed for specific uses, the Tamron offers added durability for adventurous photographers.

Optical Performance

In terms of optical performance, both lenses deliver impressive results for their respective purposes. The Nikon 85mm lens features a large F1.8 aperture, which is perfect for achieving a shallow depth of field and beautiful background bokeh, especially in portrait photography. This lens is particularly well-suited for half-body and full-body portraits, as well as detailed close-ups. On the other hand, the Tamron 24mm lens provides a maximum magnification ratio of 1:2, allowing for detailed macro-style shots. The F2.8 aperture creates attractive bokeh, enabling expressive close-ups. Each lens is optimized for different photography styles, making their optical performance tailored to their intended uses.

Compatibility and Use Cases

The Nikon 85mm f1.8 Portrait Lens is compatible with a wide range of Nikon DSLR cameras including the D3500, D850, and D7500, among others. However, it is important to note that this lens is not compatible with Nikon's Z-series mirrorless cameras. This lens is ideal for photographers focusing on portraits and street photography, where a longer focal length is beneficial. In contrast, the Tamron 24mm lens is designed for Sony full-frame and APS-C E-mount mirrorless cameras, making it versatile for landscape photography, urban scenes, and candid snapshots. Its wide-angle perspective is perfect for capturing expansive views and everyday moments.

Focusing Mechanism

The focusing mechanism is a key differentiator between the two lenses. The Nikon 85mm lens operates with manual focus only, meaning photographers must manually adjust the focus ring to achieve sharp images. This can be a rewarding experience for those who prefer hands-on control but may deter beginners who are accustomed to autofocus systems. Conversely, the Tamron 24mm lens does not specifically mention a manual focus feature, suggesting it may be more user-friendly for those who favor quick adjustments. The ease of use with the Tamron lens can appeal to a broader audience, especially casual photographers.

Price and Value

The Nikon 85mm f1.8 Portrait Lens is priced at $96.22, making it a cost-effective choice for those focused on portrait photography. In comparison, the Tamron 24mm lens is priced at $199.00, which is about 52% higher. While the Nikon lens provides excellent value for portrait photographers, the Tamron lens justifies its higher price with its versatility in wide-angle photography and additional features such as moisture resistance. Both lenses offer good value within their respective niches, but the choice ultimately depends on the photographer's specific needs and budget.

User Experience and Instruction

Using the Nikon 85mm lens requires some adjustment, as it is a manual focus lens. Photographers might encounter a 'Lens not attached' error on their camera, which can be resolved by switching to manual mode. This lens encourages photographers to engage more deeply with their craft, as manual focus necessitates a more attentive shooting style. The Tamron 24mm lens, on the other hand, is designed for ease of use, providing a straightforward experience without the complications of manual adjustments. This difference in user experience can significantly influence a photographer's preference based on their comfort level and familiarity with manual focusing techniques.

Which should you buy?

Choosing between the Nikon 85mm f1.8 Portrait Lens and the Tamron 24mm F/2.8 Di III OSD lens ultimately hinges on your photography style and equipment. If you are a Nikon DSLR user focused on portrait photography and looking for a budget-friendly option, the Nikon lens at $96.22 is an excellent choice. However, if you are a Sony E-mount mirrorless camera user seeking versatility for various photography styles, including landscapes and close-ups, the Tamron lens, albeit at a higher price of $199.00, could be the better investment. Each lens offers unique strengths, making the decision largely dependent on the specific needs of the photographer.