Tamron reveals fast 20-40 mm zoom lens

Tamron has confirmed that it is developing a new zoom lens for Sony E-mount full-frame mirrorless cameras. The 20-40mm F/2.8 Di III VXD zoom lens has the model number A062. Tamron claims the new lens is the smallest and lightest in its class and ideal for video.

The Tamron 20-40mm F/2.8 Di III VXD looks compact and lightweight

Tamron is advertising the 20-40mm Di III VXD zoom as a versatile, walkabout lens that you can keep on your camera all day. As such, they have made it compact and lightweight, measuring only 3.4 inches in length and weighing under 13 ounces. The lens also has a moisture-resistant construction and fluorine coating on the glass to protect it in use.

What about the Tamron 20-40mm F/2.8 Di III VXD’s zoom range?

The lens’ 20 mm-40 mm zoom range increases its versatility. For vloggers, the 20 mm end of the zoom means you can shoot selfies that include the background. It’s also a great focal length for filming landscapes and architecture. In addition, the 40 mm focal length is great for portraits and close-ups with the background out of focus. If your camera has a crop function or you’re using an APS-C camera, then the zoom range will be 30-60 mm.

It’s got a fast aperture

The 20-40mm Di III VXD zoom lens has a fast maximum aperture of F/2.8. This means it will be great for low filming in low light. You will also be able to get a shallow depth of field when desired. Tamron hasn’t released any details of how many aperture blades the lens will have but has stated that it will give beautiful bokeh, especially at 40 mm.

Let’s focus on autofocus

The 20-40 mm zoom lens incorporates Tamron’s VXD (Voice-coil eXtreme-torque Drive). This is an autofocus drive system that uses a linear motor focus mechanism. Tamron claims that the autofocus system has superior quietness and agile performance. The company also states that the VXD achieves high-speed and high-precision autofocus. In addition, the 20-40 mm lens is compatible with Fast Hybrid AF and Eye AF. It’s great for close-ups, focusing to 6.7 inches at 20 mm and only 11.4 inches at 40 mm.

Verdict

The Tamron F/2.8 Di III VXD zoom lens looks to be an exciting new release. As well as being a great run and gun or vlogging lens, its compact size and weight should make it ideal for use on a gimbal. The fast, accurate and quiet autofocus will also be great for video.

Pricing and availability

Tamron has not yet announced a release date or selling price for the 20-40mm F/2.8 Di III VXD zoom lens. The press release says the launch is planned for Fall 2022.

Pete Tomkies
Pete Tomkies
Pete Tomkies is a freelance cinematographer and camera operator from Manchester, UK. He also produces and directs short films as Duck66 Films. Pete's latest short Once Bitten... won 15 awards and was selected for 105 film festivals around the world.

Related Content