Focal length, zoom lock feature, autofocus speed, size (much smaller than it''s predecessor and brand-name rivals), only 354 grams, aspherical design, lens hood included.

Questionable manufacturing techniques in regards to microscopic anomalies in the inside lens coatings.

I feel that this lens is a good choice for those of us who don''t have enough bread to get the really fast name-brand models. Music is my living but this is my hobby and when I sell a bass to get a camera I can''t imagine selling two to get a great lens. The versatility of the lens really comes to light when you have a space or weight issue and it''s the only one you have with you. I couldn''t believe that it is macro too! I haven''t had it too long but so far I have had nothing but luck. I did notice some anomalies in the coating on the inside of the front few elements in the lens. They proved to be negligible and didn''t affect the picture quality as far as I could tell. That''s another thing. I don''t think I could even tell the difference so why spend $1,000? It does have very quick autofocus (I have the Canon mount). The zoom could be considered by some to be sticky. It is a new lens, but I like that you have to make an effort to change the focal length. Oh yeah, one little added feature: zoom lock so when you are walking around with the camera on yourself and the lens doesn''t zoom out from gravity and knock against something. Just remember to take it off when you try to shoot. If that''s not enough they also make a 28-300! I would highly recommend this lens.

Customer Service

So far so good.

Similar Products Used:

Tamron MF 80-200 f/2.8, Canon AF 28-90 USM, Canon AF 35-80.

1. Light fall-off not noticeable when stopped down to f8. 2. Very light weight and suitable for travelling. 3.Good zoom range coverage. 4. Good color, contrast and sharpness (much better than old versions). 5. Good price. 6. Come with Tamron UV filter & hood.

1. Althought light weight and compact, but not as rugged as its predecessors.

I''ve been thinking for a while before making up my mind for this lens. I''ve had a Tamron 28-200 zoom lens (previous version)for 2 years and I really don''t like the poor sharpness and contrast given by it. However, I found the XR lens have much better coating on the first lens element, as well as better/faster AF when used with my EOS 1V/EOS30 and EOS D30. During my recent trip to China, I''ve taken this lens ONLY so that I could test it all the times. It performed so well and didn''t fail me. I enjoy the very good colorful, contrasty and sharp pictures produced at the lens. Pictures are very sharp at its wide end and a bit soft towards its long end but not too bad. You''ll have to consider this is a 7.1X zoom and try not compare it with other expensive zooms. If you need to take 1 lens with you this is it. I haven''t regreted taking it with me while leaving my 28-70 2.8 L lens at home.

Customer Service

None relating to this lens.

Similar Products Used:

Tamron 28-200 3.8-5.6 Asp LD (old version)