Tamron 17- vs TTARTISAN AF

Overview

When comparing the Tamron 17-70mm f/2.8 Di III-A VC RXD Lens for Sony E APS-C mirrorless cameras and the TTARTISAN AF 27mm f2.8 APS-C Frame Lens, it's clear that they cater to different photography needs. The Tamron lens, priced at $599.00, offers a versatile zoom range, while the TTARTISAN lens is a compact, more budget-friendly option at $159.99.

The Tamron lens is designed for those who want a high-speed standard zoom lens with a focal length range of 17-70mm, making it ideal for various shooting situations. In contrast, the TTARTISAN lens focuses on portability and ease of use, particularly appealing to travelers and casual photographers.

Design and Build Quality

The Tamron 17-70mm lens showcases a robust design with moisture-resistant construction, ensuring durability in various shooting conditions. It features a fluorine coating which aids in repelling water and oils, making it easier to clean. In contrast, the TTARTISAN AF 27mm lens is ultra-compact and lightweight, emphasizing portability. Its pancake design allows for easy transportation, making it ideal for travel photography.

While the Tamron lens is larger due to its zoom capabilities, the TTARTISAN's sleek design makes it a convenient option for photographers who prioritize mobility. Both lenses are well-constructed, but their design philosophies cater to different types of photographers.

Focal Length and Versatility

The Tamron 17-70mm lens boasts a versatile focal length range of 17-70mm, equivalent to 25.5-105mm on full-frame cameras, making it suitable for a wide variety of photography styles, from landscapes to portraits. This lens's 4.1x zoom ratio allows photographers to quickly adapt to different scenes without changing lenses.

On the other hand, the TTARTISAN AF 27mm lens has a fixed focal length of 27mm, which translates to a more specialized use case. While it excels in street photography and everyday shots, its versatility is limited compared to the Tamron lens. Therefore, if you require a lens that can handle various situations, the Tamron lens is the better choice.

Optical Performance

When it comes to optical performance, the Tamron lens stands out with its advanced design featuring 16 elements in 12 groups, including two Glass Molded Aspherical elements and one hybrid aspherical element. This complex construction contributes to outstanding image quality and sharpness across its entire zoom range.

Conversely, while the TTARTISAN lens also provides solid image quality, it does not offer the same level of optical sophistication. The design focuses more on compactness than on advanced optical features. Thus, for photographers seeking superior image quality and performance, the Tamron lens is the clear winner.

Autofocus and Shooting Experience

The Tamron 17-70mm lens is equipped with an upgraded Vibration Compensation (VC) system, which enhances stability, especially beneficial when shooting video. It also supports Fast Hybrid AF and Eye AF features found in Sony cameras, making it a great choice for capturing fast-moving subjects.

In comparison, the TTARTISAN lens utilizes an STM stepping motor for smooth and quiet focusing. It features eye recognition focus, which can be advantageous for portrait photography. The independent clicked aperture ring allows for convenient adjustments during shooting. For those who prioritize autofocus performance, the Tamron lens offers a more advanced system, while the TTARTISAN lens caters to those who appreciate manual control.

Price Point

The price difference between the two lenses is significant. The Tamron 17-70mm lens is priced at $599.00, whereas the TTARTISAN AF 27mm lens is available for $159.99. This makes the TTARTISAN lens about 73% cheaper than its Tamron counterpart. While the Tamron lens justifies its higher price with advanced features and versatility, the TTARTISAN lens offers great value for those who need a simple, effective lens without breaking the bank.

Compatibility

The Tamron 17-70mm lens is designed specifically for Sony E APS-C mirrorless cameras, making it a perfect match for users of that system. It leverages the camera’s capabilities to enhance performance, especially in video recording situations.

In contrast, the TTARTISAN AF 27mm lens is compatible with various Fuji X mount cameras, including popular models like the Fujifilm XS10 and X-T4. This lens's compatibility is limited to the Fuji ecosystem, which may be a deciding factor for photographers who already own Fuji cameras.

Which should you buy?

Choosing between the Tamron 17-70mm f/2.8 and the TTARTISAN AF 27mm f/2.8 ultimately depends on your photography needs and budget. If you require a versatile, high-performing lens that can adapt to various shooting scenarios, the Tamron lens is worth the investment at $599. However, if you are looking for a lightweight, affordable option for casual photography, the TTARTISAN lens at $159.99 presents an excellent choice. Each lens has its strengths, catering to different types of photographers and shooting styles.