Tamron 70- vs TTArtisan Auto Focus

Overview of the Tamron 70-300mm F/4.5-6.3 Di III RXD

The Tamron 70-300mm F/4.5-6.3 Di III RXD is a versatile telephoto zoom lens designed for Sony mirrorless cameras. With a price tag of $399.00, this lens offers a wide focal range and excellent image quality. It weighs just 19.2 oz, making it portable and easy to handle for various photography needs. The lens features a moisture-resistant construction, making it suitable for outdoor shooting in varying conditions.

In contrast, the TTArtisan Auto Focus 35mm F1.8 Mark II is priced significantly lower at $125.00. It is a compact APS-C lens specifically designed for Fuji X-mount cameras, offering a maximum aperture of F1.8 that excels in low-light conditions. With a weight of 176g, it is lighter than the Tamron lens, catering to photographers looking for a more lightweight option.

Image Quality Comparison

The Tamron 70-300mm lens is engineered with 15 elements in 10 groups, focusing on delivering uncompromising image quality. Its design allows for minimal chromatic aberration and other lens aberrations, enhancing the overall sharpness and clarity of images. This lens is particularly effective for landscapes, wildlife, and portrait photography due to its ability to provide stunning bokeh effects.

On the other hand, the TTArtisan 35mm lens, with its F1.8 aperture, produces beautiful bokeh, making it ideal for portrait photography. The lens's improved minimum focusing distance of 0.4m allows photographers to capture intricate details in close-up shots. While both lenses offer excellent image quality, the Tamron excels in versatility with its zoom capabilities, whereas the TTArtisan shines in low-light and close-focus situations.

Autofocus Performance

The Tamron 70-300mm lens incorporates the RXD (Rapid eXtra-silent stepping Drive) unit, which provides a high-speed and quiet autofocus system, making it suitable for capturing fast-moving subjects during sports or wildlife photography. Its autofocus performance is designed to cater to various shooting conditions, ensuring precision and speed.

Conversely, the TTArtisan 35mm lens features an advanced autofocus system that utilizes a lead screw-type stepping motor. This design contributes to smoother and quieter focusing, enhancing the overall shooting experience, especially in quiet environments. While both lenses offer advanced autofocus capabilities, the Tamron's zoom functionality and range may be more beneficial for dynamic shooting scenarios.

Portability and Design

Weighing 19.2 oz, the Tamron 70-300mm lens is designed for portability, yet it is still bulkier compared to the TTArtisan 35mm lens, which weighs only 176g. The compact nature of the TTArtisan lens makes it an excellent choice for photographers who prioritize lightweight gear for travel or street photography.

Both lenses have practical designs, but the Tamron's moisture-resistant construction adds a layer of durability for outdoor use. The TTArtisan lens, while lighter, does not emphasize weather sealing, making it less suitable for challenging environments. Depending on your shooting style and location, one design may serve you better than the other.

Price Comparison

With a current price of $399.00, the Tamron 70-300mm lens is positioned as a higher-end option compared to the TTArtisan, which is priced at $125.00. This marks a price difference of about 68%, making the TTArtisan lens significantly more affordable for budget-conscious photographers.

While the Tamron lens offers more versatility and a broader focal range, the cost difference is substantial. Photographers should consider how often they will utilize the additional features of the Tamron lens versus the straightforward approach of the TTArtisan.

Ideal Use Cases

The Tamron 70-300mm lens is ideal for a wide range of photography styles, including landscapes, sports, and wildlife. Its zoom capabilities allow photographers to capture distant subjects with clarity and detail, making it a versatile choice for varying shooting scenarios.

In contrast, the TTArtisan 35mm lens is perfect for portrait photography and everyday shooting. Its wide aperture of F1.8 allows for excellent low-light performance and beautiful background blur, making it a great option for capturing people and details in different settings.

Brand Reputation and Warranty

Tamron is well-regarded in the photography community for producing high-quality lenses, and the 70-300mm lens comes with a 6-year limited USA warranty. This extended warranty provides peace of mind for users who want assurance on their investment.

TTArtisan, while gaining popularity, does not have the same extensive history as Tamron. The warranty specifics are less clear, which may be a consideration for buyers looking for long-term reliability and support.

Which should you buy?

Choosing between the Tamron 70-300mm F/4.5-6.3 Di III RXD and the TTArtisan Auto Focus 35mm F1.8 Mark II ultimately depends on your photography needs and budget. If you require a versatile telephoto lens for dynamic shooting scenarios and are willing to invest in higher quality, the Tamron is the clear choice. However, if you are looking for a budget-friendly, lightweight lens primarily for portrait and everyday photography, the TTArtisan offers excellent value. Both lenses have their strengths; your decision should align with your specific photographic goals.