Which is Better? Tamron 28-75mm f/2.8 Di III VXD G2 vs Sigma 28-70mm f/2.8 DG DN Contemporary Comparison

Standard zoom lenses are versatile lenses that can cover a wide range of subjects and situations, from landscapes and architecture to portraits and events. They are often the first lens that many photographers buy or use, as they offer a convenient and flexible focal range that can adapt to different scenarios.

In this article, we will compare the Tamron 28-75mm f/2.8 Di III VXD G2 vs Sigma 28-70mm f/2.8 DG DN Contemporary in detail and help you decide which one is better for you.

Tamron 28-75mm f/2.8 Di III VXD G2

Two of the most popular standard zoom lenses for Sony E mount cameras are the Tamron 28-75mm f/2.8 Di III VXD G2 and the Sigma 28-70mm f/2.8 DG DN Contemporary. Both lenses offer a fast f/2.8 aperture, a high-quality build and performance, and a competitive price.

But how do they compare in terms of features, specifications, image quality, and size? Which one should you buy for your standard zoom needs?

Features and Specifications: Tamron 28-75mm f/2.8 Di III VXD G2 vs Sigma 28-70mm f/2.8 DG DN Contemporary

The table below summarizes the main features and specifications of the Tamron 28-75mm f/2.8 Di III VXD G2 and the Sigma 28-70mm f/2.8 DG DN Contemporary.

As you can see from the table, the two lenses have similar features and specifications, with some minor differences. Neither lens has image stabilization, so you will need to rely on your camera’s in-body image stabilization (IBIS) or use a tripod for sharper images.

The main difference between the two lenses is the focal length range. The Tamron lens has a slightly wider focal range of 28-75mm, which can give you more versatility and flexibility for different subjects and situations.

The Tamron 28-75mm lens can also create a slightly more flattering perspective and compression effect for portrait photography, as well as a slightly shallower depth of field for isolating the subject from the background. The Sigma lens has a slightly narrower focal range of 28-70mm, which can limit your options for telephoto shots or group photos.

The Tamron lens also has fewer lens elements than the Sigma lens (15 vs 16), which can affect the optical performance and quality of the lens. The Tamron lens also has a higher maximum magnification ratio than the Sigma lens (Wide:1:2.7 vs Wide:1:3), which can be useful for close-up shots or macro photography.

The Sigma 28-70mm lens is slightly smaller and lighter than the Tamron lens (470g vs 540g for E-mount), which can make it more portable and comfortable to carry around or use for long periods of time.

The two lenses have the same price, which makes them both very affordable and competitive options for standard zoom lenses.

Sigma 28-70mm f/2.8 DG DN Contemporary

Image Quality

Both lenses deliver excellent image quality in terms of sharpness, contrast, color rendition, distortion, vignetting, flare, and bokeh. They are both very sharp across the frame, even at wide open apertures. They also have minimal chromatic aberrations and field curvature. They also handle diffraction well up to f/16.

The bokeh quality of both lenses is smooth and pleasing, thanks to their fast f/2.8 aperture and rounded diaphragm blades. The out-of-focus areas are rendered softly and naturally, especially at close distances and wide apertures.

The distortion and vignetting of both lenses are very low and can be easily corrected in post-processing or by applying lens profiles. The flare resistance of both lenses is also very good, thanks to their anti-reflective coatings and lens hoods.

The main difference between the two lenses in terms of image quality is the focal length range. The Tamron lens has a slightly wider focal range of 28-75mm, which can give you more versatility and flexibility for different subjects and situations.

The Tamron 28-75mm lens can also create a slightly more flattering perspective and compression effect for portrait photography, as well as a slightly shallower depth of field for isolating the subject from the background.

Sigma 28-70mm lens has a slightly narrower focal range of 28-70mm, which can limit your options for telephoto shots or group photos. The Sigma lens can also create a slightly narrower angle of view and a slightly deeper depth of field for keeping more of the scene or subject in focus.

Conclusion

The Tamron 28-75mm f/2.8 Di III VXD G2 and the Sigma 28-70mm f/2.8 DG DN Contemporary are both excellent standard zoom lenses that can cover a wide range of subjects and situations, from landscapes and architecture to portraits and events. They both offer a fast f/2.8 aperture, a high-quality build and performance, and a competitive price.

The Tamron lens has some advantages over the Sigma lens, such as a slightly wider focal range, fewer lens elements, higher maximum magnification ratio, and a longer warranty (6 years vs 4 years). However, it is also slightly larger and heavier than the Sigma lens.

The Sigma lens has some advantages over the Tamron lens, such as a slightly smaller size and weight, more lens elements, and a fluorine coating on the front element to repel water and oil. However, it does not have a slightly wider focal range, fewer lens elements, higher maximum magnification ratio, or a longer warranty.

The choice between the two lenses depends on your personal preferences, needs, and budget. If you want a more versatile lens that can cover a slightly wider range of subjects and situations, especially if you need telephoto shots or shallow depth of field effects, you may prefer the Tamron lens.

If you want a more compact and lightweight lens that can still perform well in most scenarios, especially if you don’t need telephoto shots or shallow depth of field effects, you may prefer the Sigma lens.

Both lenses are highly recommended for standard zoom enthusiasts who use Sony E mount cameras. You can’t go wrong with either of them.