lightdow EF/EF-S 420- vs Tamron
Updated July 2026 — lightdow EF/EF-S 420- wins on focal length and aperture, Tamron wins on length and weight.
The Lightdow lens is an affordable option for long-distance photography, while the Tamron lens offers superior build quality and versatility for close-ups. Choose based on your camera system and shooting style.
Why lightdow EF/EF-S 420- is better
Price
The Lightdow lens is significantly cheaper.
Focal Length
Offers a longer focal length for distant subjects.
Manual Focus
Allows for precise manual control.
Why Tamron is better
Build Quality
Moisture-resistant and dirt-resistant features.
Portability
Compact and lightweight design.
Optical Performance
Superior optical quality with macro capabilities.
Overall score
Specifications
| Spec | lightdow EF/EF-S 420- | Tamron |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $65.69 | $199.00 |
| Focus Type | Manual | Auto |
| Max Aperture | F8.3 | F2.8 |
| Min Object Dist. | N/A | 4.7 in |
| Camera Type | DSLR | Mirrorless |
Dimension comparison
Overview of the Lenses
The EF/EF-S 420-800mm F8.3 Telephoto Zoom Lens is priced at $65.69, while the Tamron 24mm F/2.8 Di III OSD M1:2 Lens comes in at $199.00. This price difference of about 203% highlights the varying target markets and functionalities of these two lenses. The Lightdow lens is designed for Canon DSLR cameras, focusing on long-range telephoto photography, while the Tamron lens targets Sony full-frame and APS-C mirrorless cameras, emphasizing compactness and wide-angle capabilities.
Design and Build Quality
The Lightdow lens features a fully manual focus design, which may appeal to photographers looking for greater control and artistic expression. It is a robust telephoto zoom lens, compatible with a wide range of Canon cameras. In contrast, the Tamron lens boasts a compact and lightweight design, measuring 2.5 inches in length and weighing only 7.6 ounces. This makes the Tamron lens an excellent choice for on-the-go photographers who prioritize portability without sacrificing quality.
Focal Length and Aperture
The EF/EF-S 420-800mm lens offers an impressive focal length range, making it ideal for capturing distant subjects such as wildlife or landscapes. With an aperture range of F8.3 to F16, it allows for versatile shooting conditions. On the other hand, the Tamron lens has a fixed focal length of 24mm with a wider aperture of F2.8, enabling stunning close-ups with beautiful bokeh. This significant difference in focal length and aperture means that the Lightdow lens is suited for long-distance shots, while the Tamron lens excels in capturing broader scenes and intricate details up close.
Optical Performance
Both lenses claim to deliver excellent optical performance, but they cater to different photography needs. The Lightdow lens is designed for detailed long-range photography, making it suitable for capturing high-quality images of distant objects. It employs UMC technology to minimize aberrations and flare. In contrast, the Tamron lens features special glass materials, including Low Dispersion and Glass Molded Aspherical elements, ensuring sharp images throughout the frame. Its 1:2 maximum magnification ratio allows for detailed macro-style shots, particularly enhancing the visual quality of close-up images.
User Experience
The EF/EF-S 420-800mm lens requires photographers to manually adjust settings, which can enhance the learning experience and artistic control. However, this may not be ideal for everyone, especially those who prefer quick shooting. Meanwhile, the Tamron lens offers a more user-friendly experience with its lightweight design and ease of use, making it suitable for casual photographers and professionals alike. The minimum object distance of 4.7 inches allows for unique close-up photography, adding to its versatility.
Weather Resistance and Durability
The Tamron lens features a moisture-resistant construction and a dirt-resistant fluorine coating, enabling photographers to confidently shoot outdoors in various weather conditions. This durability is particularly advantageous for adventure and landscape photographers. On the contrary, the Lightdow lens does not mention any weather-sealing features, which may limit its use in challenging environments. For those prioritizing outdoor photography, the Tamron lens provides a clear advantage in durability.
Price Comparison
The price difference is significant: the Lightdow lens is available for $65.69, making it about 67% cheaper than the Tamron lens, which is priced at $199.00. This affordability can be appealing for amateur photographers or those experimenting with telephoto photography without a hefty investment. However, the Tamron lens, while more expensive, offers advanced features and build quality that justify its price for serious photographers seeking a reliable, versatile lens.
Which should you buy?
Ultimately, the choice between the EF/EF-S 420-800mm F8.3 Telephoto Zoom Lens and the Tamron 24mm F/2.8 Di III OSD M1:2 Lens depends on your photographic needs and preferences. If you are a Canon DSLR user focused on long-distance photography and are on a budget, the Lightdow lens provides a low-cost entry point. Conversely, if you own a Sony mirrorless camera and seek a versatile, compact lens capable of delivering high-quality images in various situations, the Tamron lens is worth the investment.