NEW YORK — Tamron has officially released its 70-180mm f/2.8 Di III VC VXD G2 lens for the Nikon Z mount, completing its fast-aperture zoom trinity for Nikon mirrorless users. Priced at $1,149, the lens arrives as a cost-effective alternative to Nikon’s own 70-180mm f/2.8, which is widely believed to be a Tamron design itself.
Sony E-mount
Initially released for Sony E-mount in 2023, the second-generation 70-180mm f/2.8 now supports Nikon’s full-frame Z system with the same high-performance features. These include Tamron’s VXD linear motor focus system for fast and quiet autofocus, built-in vibration compensation (VC), and a minimum focusing distance of just 11.8 inches. The lens weighs under 2 pounds (865g), making it a lightweight, travel-friendly option for professionals and enthusiasts alike.
G2 lens
The new G2 lens also features a weather-resistant build, a 67mm filter thread, and optical performance that completes Tamron’s trio of f/2.8 zooms: 17-28mm, 28-75mm, and now 70-180mm. Together, they offer a full-frame solution that rivals first-party glass at a lower cost.
While Nikon already sells a nearly identical 70-180mm f/2.8 lens, likely manufactured by Tamron under license, this new release puts the Tamron brand front and center for Z shooters who want the original at a better price point—about $50 less than Nikon’s version.
Lens Wars Heat Up: Sigma Challenges Sony on Fast Glass
In a parallel development, Sigma has filed a patent for an 85mm f/1.2 lens for Sony E-mount, a move that ups the ante in the fast prime category. Sony has yet to offer a native 85mm f/1.2, despite producing several top-tier lenses in its G Master series.
If realized, Sigma’s new optic would join its existing 50mm f/1.2 and 35mm f/1.2 offerings, potentially positioning the third-party lens maker as the go-to brand for extreme aperture primes on Sony bodies. The absence of an 85mm f/1.2 from Sony is increasingly conspicuous.
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Joseph has served as a senior executive at several Silicon Valley startups. He has been a senior leader at respected technology brands, most recently at Mozilla, where he served as vice president. Joseph consults on strategy and marketing for a number of leading technology companies and startups on innovation, artificial intelligence and robotics, the attention economy, and blockchain. He speaks regularly at industry conferences, universities, and schools and to corporations and Boards of Directors.