Canon RF24- vs Tamron 150-
Updated July 2026 — Canon RF24- wins on price and versatility, Tamron 150- wins on weight.
The Canon RF24-70mm offers superior low-light performance and versatility, while the Tamron 150-500mm provides excellent value and a longer zoom range.
Why Canon RF24- is better
Low-light performance
Canon's f/2.8 aperture excels in low-light conditions.
Versatility
Canon's 24-70mm range is suitable for various photography styles.
Autofocus
Canon's Nano USM technology provides smoother autofocus.
Why Tamron 150- is better
Price
Tamron is significantly cheaper at $1,199.
Zoom range
Tamron offers a longer focal length of 150-500mm.
Compact size
Tamron remains compact for a super-telephoto lens.
Overall score
Specifications
| Spec | Canon RF24- | Tamron 150- |
|---|---|---|
| Aperture | f/2.8 | f/5-6.7 |
| Focal Length | 24-70mm | 150-500mm |
| Stabilization | Yes | Yes |
| Weather Resistance | Yes | Yes |
| Minimum Focus | 0.69 ft | 23.6 in |
Dimension comparison
Introduction
When it comes to high-quality camera lenses, the Canon RF24-70mm F2.8 L is USM Lens and the Tamron 150-500mm F/5-6.7 Di III VC VXD are two standout options. Each lens serves different photographic needs and styles, making them suitable for various types of photographers. The Canon lens is priced at $2,599.00, while the Tamron lens offers a more budget-friendly option at $1,199.00, presenting a price difference of about 54%.
Design and Build Quality
The Canon RF24-70mm F2.8 L is USM Lens features a dust- and weather-resistant construction, ensuring durability in various shooting conditions. Its compact design optimizes portability while maintaining high image quality. In contrast, the Tamron 150-500mm lens is also designed with a moisture-resistant construction and includes a fluorine coating for added protection. The Tamron lens extends to 11.3 inches when fully zoomed, remaining remarkably compact for a super-telephoto lens. Overall, both lenses showcase excellent build quality, catering to photographers who need reliability in challenging environments.
Image Quality
When it comes to image quality, the Canon RF24-70mm F2.8 L is USM Lens excels with its bright f/2.8 aperture, providing exceptional clarity and low-light performance. This lens is engineered to reduce focus breathing, ensuring smooth transitions during video recording. On the other hand, the Tamron 150-500mm lens promises remarkable image quality with thoroughly controlled aberrations and high resolving power across its zoom range. Additionally, its BBAR-G2 coating enhances clarity and contrast. Photographers seeking versatility and sharpness will find both lenses deliver impressive results, though each caters to different focal lengths and subjects.
Autofocus Performance
The Canon RF24-70mm F2.8 L is USM Lens utilizes Canon's Nano USM technology, which delivers high-speed, smooth, and quiet autofocus—ideal for both photography and videography. This feature is particularly beneficial for tracking moving subjects, enhancing the overall shooting experience. Conversely, the Tamron 150-500mm lens features a VXD linear motor autofocus mechanism that provides precise and rapid autofocus capabilities, making it a great choice for spontaneous shooting opportunities. While both lenses offer advanced autofocus systems, the preference may depend on the specific shooting scenarios a photographer encounters.
Versatility in Focal Length
The Canon RF24-70mm F2.8 L is USM Lens offers a versatile zoom range of 24-70mm, making it suitable for various styles of photography, including portraits, landscapes, and everyday moments. Its minimum focusing distance of 0.69 ft (wide) allows for close-up shots, adding to its adaptability. In contrast, the Tamron 150-500mm lens covers an impressive focal length range from 150mm to 500mm, making it perfect for wildlife and sports photography. This expansive range facilitates capturing distant subjects with ease. Ultimately, the choice between these lenses will hinge on the preferred photography style and the subjects being captured.
Price Comparison
Price is a significant factor when evaluating these two lenses. The Canon RF24-70mm F2.8 L is USM Lens comes with a premium price tag of $2,599.00, reflecting its high-end features and build quality. Meanwhile, the Tamron 150-500mm lens is considerably more affordable at $1,199.00, representing a savings of about $1,400. This makes the Tamron lens approximately 54% cheaper than its Canon counterpart. For photographers on a budget or those looking for great value, the Tamron lens presents an appealing option without sacrificing image quality.
Target Audience
The Canon RF24-70mm F2.8 L is USM Lens primarily caters to professionals and enthusiasts who seek high-performance optics for a variety of photography genres. Its superior low-light capabilities and advanced features justify its higher price point, making it an ideal choice for serious photographers. On the other hand, the Tamron 150-500mm lens is designed for photographers who require a robust and versatile telephoto option without breaking the bank. Its lightweight design and impressive zoom range make it suitable for both casual and more serious photographers who want to explore super-telephoto shooting.
Which should you buy?
Choosing between the Canon RF24-70mm F2.8 L is USM Lens and the Tamron 150-500mm F/5-6.7 Di III VC VXD ultimately boils down to your photography needs and budget. If you prioritize versatility, low-light performance, and are willing to invest in high-end features, the Canon lens is the right choice. However, if you seek a more affordable option with an impressive zoom range for wildlife or sports photography, the Tamron lens stands out as an excellent value. Both lenses offer exceptional quality, so your decision should reflect your specific photographic goals and preferences.

