Tamron 17- vs TTArtisan AF

Price Comparison

The Tamron 17-70mm f/2.8 lens is priced at $599.00, while the TTArtisan AF 27mm f/2.8 lens is significantly cheaper at $159.99. This makes the TTArtisan about 73% less expensive than the Tamron. For budget-conscious photographers or those just starting out, the lower price point of the TTArtisan can be a decisive factor. However, the Tamron offers a broader focal range and advanced features that may justify its higher cost for serious enthusiasts or professionals.

Focal Length and Versatility

The Tamron 17-70mm lens offers a versatile focal length range of 17-70mm, making it suitable for a wide array of photography styles, from landscapes to portraits. This 4.1x zoom ratio allows for significant flexibility in framing and composition. In contrast, the TTArtisan AF 27mm lens has a fixed focal length of 27mm, which can be limiting for certain types of photography. While 27mm is great for street photography and environmental portraits, the Tamron’s zoom capability provides an edge in versatility, catering to a broader range of shooting situations.

Optical Performance

Tamron's 17-70mm f/2.8 lens boasts outstanding optical performance with 16 elements arranged in 12 groups, including two glass molded aspherical elements. This design is aimed at minimizing optical aberrations and enhancing image quality. Although the TTArtisan's lens does not specify the number of elements or groups, it emphasizes its STM stepping motor for smooth focusing. While both lenses are designed to deliver quality images, the Tamron likely has the upper hand in optical sophistication due to its advanced construction aimed at professional results.

Autofocus Capabilities

The TTArtisan AF 27mm lens features eye-detection autofocus, which is beneficial for portrait shooters who want to ensure sharp focus on their subjects' eyes. This advanced autofocus technology is particularly useful in dynamic shooting environments. The Tamron lens is compatible with Sony’s Fast Hybrid AF and Eye AF systems, providing reliable autofocus performance as well. However, the specific focus technology of the Tamron is not detailed as extensively as that of the TTArtisan. Thus, while both offer autofocus, the experience may vary depending on the camera body used.

Close Focusing Ability

When it comes to close focusing, the Tamron lens has a minimum object distance (MOD) of just 7.5 inches at 17mm and 15.4 inches at 70mm. This capability allows photographers to get remarkably close to their subjects, which is an advantage for macro and detail-oriented photography. The TTArtisan lens, meanwhile, has a closest focusing distance of 0.35 meters (about 13.8 inches), which is decent but does not match the Tamron's flexibility. The closer focusing distance of the Tamron lends itself to creative photography techniques that require proximity to the subject, enhancing its appeal.

Build Quality and Features

The Tamron 17-70mm lens includes moisture-resistant construction and a fluorine coating, making it suitable for various weather conditions and environments. This ruggedness is a significant advantage for photographers who often shoot outdoors. On the other hand, the TTArtisan lens features a USB-C interface for firmware upgrades, which can enhance performance over time. While the TTArtisan is lightweight and compact, its build quality may not match the Tamron’s durability, particularly in challenging shooting conditions.

Target Audience

The Tamron 17-70mm lens is primarily aimed at serious photographers and videographers looking for a high-quality, versatile lens to complement their Sony APS-C mirrorless cameras. Its advanced features and robust construction make it suitable for those who prioritize image quality and performance. In contrast, the TTArtisan AF 27mm lens targets casual photographers and enthusiasts who desire a lightweight and cost-effective lens for everyday shooting scenarios, particularly within the Fujifilm ecosystem. This segmentation reflects the differing needs of potential users based on budget and photographic intent.

Which should you buy?

Choosing between the Tamron 17-70mm f/2.8 lens and the TTArtisan AF 27mm f/2.8 lens ultimately depends on your specific needs and budget. If you're looking for versatility, advanced optical performance, and robust features, the Tamron is the clear choice, despite its higher price at $599.00. However, if you're a Fujifilm user seeking a budget-friendly option for general photography, the TTArtisan, priced at $159.99, offers a solid solution with its compact design and useful autofocus capabilities.