Sony SEL2470GM E-Mount Camera Lens: FE 24- vs Tamron 70-

Price Comparison

When it comes to pricing, the Tamron 70-300mm F/4.5-6.3 is significantly more budget-friendly than the Sony SEL2470GM. The Tamron retails for $399.00, while the Sony is priced at a hefty $1,798.00, making the Sony lens about 351% more expensive than the Tamron. This substantial price gap is a key factor for many photographers who are looking for quality without breaking the bank. While the Sony lens offers advanced features and superior optical performance, those on a tighter budget may find the Tamron to be a more sensible investment.

Optical Performance

In terms of optical performance, the Sony SEL2470GM stands out with its impressive design. It features three aspherical elements, including a highly precise XA element that minimizes aberration and maximizes resolution throughout its zoom range. The lens is designed to deliver natural, lifelike imagery with its ED and Super ED glass elements, ensuring minimal chromatic aberration. In contrast, the Tamron 70-300mm offers good image quality as well, with 15 elements in 10 groups aimed at correcting aberrations. However, it may not achieve the same level of resolution and detail as the Sony lens, particularly in challenging lighting conditions.

Build Quality and Design

The build quality of the Sony SEL2470GM is notably robust, featuring a dust and moisture-resistant design that appeals to professional photographers who often shoot in varying environments. It includes a focus hold button and a direct drive autofocus mechanism for smooth operation. The Tamron 70-300mm also boasts a moisture-resistant construction but is designed primarily for lightweight portability, making it easier to handle during extended shooting sessions. Weighing just 19.2 oz, it is one of the lightest telephoto zoom lenses available, which could be a deciding factor for those prioritizing ease of use.

Focusing Mechanism

The focusing mechanisms of both lenses differ significantly. The Sony SEL2470GM employs a Direct Drive Super Sonic wave Motor (DDSSM), which provides quick and quiet autofocus, making it suitable for both still photography and videography. On the other hand, the Tamron 70-300mm incorporates the RXD (Rapid eXtra-silent stepping Drive), which also promotes silent and fast autofocus. While both lenses excel in this area, professionals who require absolute precision may prefer the Sony’s advanced focusing system, especially in dynamic shooting environments.

Versatility

Versatility is a strong point for both lenses, but they cater to different photographic needs. The Sony SEL2470GM, with its 24-70mm focal range, is ideal for portrait, event, and travel photography, allowing for creative freedom in various settings. It provides a 35 mm equivalent focal length of 36-105 mm, making it suitable for a wide array of shooting scenarios. In contrast, the Tamron 70-300mm shines in telephoto applications, particularly for wildlife, sports, and landscape photography. With a focal length equivalent to 105-450mm on APS-C cameras, it offers a unique advantage for distant subjects.

Close-Up Performance

The close-up capabilities of the lenses are another area of difference. The Sony SEL2470GM has a minimum focus distance of 1.24 feet, which allows for decent close-up shots, but it is not specifically designed for macro photography. The Tamron 70-300mm excels in close-up performance with a minimum focusing distance of 31.5 inches at its wide end and 59.1 inches at its telephoto end. This feature enables more creative control for photographers looking to capture fine details from a distance, making the Tamron a more versatile option for those interested in both portrait and nature photography.

Image Stabilization

Neither the Sony SEL2470GM nor the Tamron 70-300mm includes built-in image stabilization. This absence might concern some photographers who are accustomed to relying on stabilization features for handheld shooting, particularly in low-light conditions or at longer focal lengths. However, the lenses are still designed to deliver excellent image quality, and users may compensate for the lack of stabilization with faster shutter speeds and careful shooting techniques.

Which should you buy?

Ultimately, the decision between the Sony SEL2470GM and the Tamron 70-300mm boils down to your specific needs and budget. If you're a professional photographer seeking top-tier optical performance and versatility for a range of shooting scenarios, the Sony lens is worth the investment despite its higher price. However, if you're looking for a lightweight, budget-friendly lens that excels in telephoto applications, the Tamron is an excellent choice. Each lens offers unique advantages, making them suitable for different styles and situations in photography.