Canon RF100- vs Tamron 17-

Overview of the Canon RF100-400mm and Tamron 17-70mm

The Canon RF100-400mm F5.6-8 is USM is a telephoto lens ideal for capturing distant subjects, while the Tamron 17-70mm f/2.8 Di III-A VC RXD is a versatile standard zoom lens perfect for everyday photography. The Canon lens is priced at $699.00, making it about 17% more expensive than the Tamron lens, which is available for $599.00. Both lenses cater to different photographic needs, with the Canon focusing on long-range shots and the Tamron excelling in a broader range of everyday situations.

Design and Build Quality

The Canon RF100-400mm features a compact and lightweight design, making it easier to handle during prolonged use, particularly in wildlife and sports photography. This lens is designed for EOS R series cameras and is optimized for high image quality. Conversely, the Tamron 17-70mm lens is noted for its moisture-resistant construction and fluorine coating, which enhance durability and usability in various environments. While both lenses are designed for optimal performance, the Canon lens emphasizes portability, and the Tamron lens focuses on versatility and resilience.

Focal Length and Zoom Range

The Canon RF100-400mm offers an impressive zoom range of 100-400mm, which is particularly beneficial for photographers who need to capture distant subjects clearly. It allows for extreme close-up shots at a maximum magnification of 0.41x at 400mm. In contrast, the Tamron 17-70mm provides a focal length range of 17-70mm, equivalent to 25.5-105mm in full-frame terms. This lens covers a standard zoom range that is versatile for everyday photography, making it suitable for landscapes, portraits, and street photography. Those who prioritize long-range capabilities may prefer the Canon, while those looking for an all-around lens might opt for the Tamron.

Aperture and Low Light Performance

A major advantage of the Tamron 17-70mm is its constant maximum aperture of f/2.8 across its zoom range, facilitating better performance in low-light situations and creating shallow depth-of-field effects. This feature is particularly useful for indoor photography and in dim conditions. The Canon RF100-400mm, on the other hand, has a maximum aperture of f/5.6-8, which may limit its effectiveness in low-light environments. Photographers who often shoot in challenging lighting may find the Tamron lens more suitable, while those specializing in daylight and well-lit conditions may still benefit from the Canon's long-range capabilities.

Autofocus and Image Stabilization

The Canon RF100-400mm incorporates Canon’s Nano USM technology, providing fast, smooth, and quiet autofocus, which is crucial for wildlife and sports photography where subjects can move unpredictably. Additionally, it features optical image stabilization with up to 5.5 stops of shake correction, enhancing image clarity when shooting handheld. Meanwhile, the Tamron 17-70mm boasts an upgraded Vibration Compensation (VC) system that works effectively with Sony APS-C cameras, leveraging AI for improved video shooting. While both lenses offer robust autofocus and stabilization features, the Canon may have an edge in dynamic scenarios, while the Tamron excels in video applications.

Close Focusing Capabilities

The Tamron 17-70mm lens has an impressive minimum focusing distance of just 7.5 inches at 17mm and 15.4 inches at 70mm. This allows for stunning close-up shots, making it ideal for capturing intricate details in subjects. The Canon RF100-400mm, while not specifically designed for macro photography, has a minimum focusing distance of 2.89 feet at 200mm. This means that while the Canon lens is capable of achieving decent close-ups, it cannot match the close focusing capabilities of the Tamron. Photographers who value macro capabilities will likely prefer the Tamron lens for its superior performance in this area.

Price Comparison

The Canon RF100-400mm is priced at $699.00, while the Tamron 17-70mm is available for $599.00. This represents a price difference of $100, making the Tamron lens about 14% cheaper than the Canon option. Given that both lenses cater to different photographic needs, potential buyers should weigh whether the additional features of the Canon justify the higher price. For those operating on a budget or seeking a versatile everyday lens, the Tamron may represent a more attractive option.

Which should you buy?

The choice between the Canon RF100-400mm F5.6-8 is USM and the Tamron 17-70mm f/2.8 Di III-A VC RXD largely depends on your photography needs. If you require a long-range telephoto lens for wildlife or sports photography, the Canon is the clear choice with its impressive zoom range and advanced autofocus capabilities. However, if you need a versatile lens for everyday photography with excellent low-light performance and close focusing abilities, the Tamron is a more budget-friendly option that excels in various shooting situations. Ultimately, both lenses have unique strengths tailored to different types of photography.