Tamron 70-180 vs Sony 70-200 f/2.8 GM Lens: Comparison and Review

In this video I compare my experience with the new Tamron 70-180 f/2.8 lens for Sony full-frame E-mount against the Sony 70-200 f/2.8 GM, a lens that is more than twice as expensive. I compare general handling, sharpness, bokeh, and the basic differences.

If you'd like to skip to the part that you're interested in, here's a quick index:

0:00 Intro
0:20 - A few basics and prices
1:30 - Magnification difference between 180mm and 200mm
2:42 - Tamron 70-180mm general performance in the field
4:41 - Sony 70-200 GM general performance over past two years
5:49 - A few intangibles
7:15 - Resolution and sharpness differences at 180mm end of zoom range
9:50 - Resolution sharpness differences at 70mm end of zoom range
12:25 - Bokeh
13:56 - Body and handling differences
15:44 - Conclusion & Summary
17:43 - What's Next?
18:08 - Pretty picture of Sunset?
18:17 - Closing Credits

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Music:

[MatthewGore]

What do you think? Is the compact size and the excellent center resolution enough for you to give up 20mm or reach at the long end? Having used the lens for a few months, I find myself wanting to use the Tamron for just about everything.

[CO_]

Exactly on point about the white lenses. I bought the Tamron 70-180 precisely because I don’t want people to start giving me a hard time at my kids soccer games

[Nicofoto]

The trinity lens from Tamron will make switching system to Sony mirrorless easier and cheaper.

[jackofblades]

I went with the tamron. I’ve seen Sony reviews with hunting focus and soft at f2.8. Tamron got another 💎 along with 28-70 which also had amazing review.

[sarahmay]

BEST REVIEWER ON YOUTUBE. This was by far the most helpful review of these lenses. My decision is solidified. I CAN SLEEP AGAIN!

[RCodyWanner]

dedicated to the craft man - wow. those field/farm shots blew my mind

[niclasniclas]

Forget about the lens, your photos looks really great man!

[Jsnwy]

Getting this lens in a few hours, can't wait. One of the best reviews I've seen.
Also just found your channel and subscribing.

[.studio]

Wow, one of the best reviews on these two lenses. Amazing work. Thank you! Subscribed.

[marramraabe]

Great to see you posting another comparison video, Matt - outstanding as usual. And although I'm still in the Canon camp (7D II & 5D III), the Tamron lens made switching to Sony look just that much more attractive. Keep up the awesome work - and watch out for teargas!

[rickrowell]

I shoot a lot of sports with my Sony A9's. The Tamron being so much sharper at f2.8 is a big deal for me as I shoot in low light most of time. 20mm difference is not a big deal for me as long as the resolution is good. Right now I'm shooting Canon lenses that are adapted to my Sony A9's with the Sigma MC-11. The Sigma adapter does a fairly good job, but with some limitations. I think after seeing your reviews and talking with other pros. I'm going to sell my Canon lenses and get the trifecta of Tamron lenses. Thanks for doing these comprehensive reviews, it's very important to the professionals to understand that there are choices out there that can get the job done for you with high quality results without putting a major dent in your pocketbook. Third party lenses have come a long way from the 1970's when I started out as a pro. The quality is so far superior in comparison to even just a few years ago. Thanks Matthew and stay safe.

[AlergicToSnow]

Great review. You’ve given me all the info I need to make a decision.

[santoshvk]

An excellent and a detailed review. Was waiting for a detailed comparison.

[louismeluso]

I appreciate the good review. I went with the Tamron, and I'm getting excellent results. One difference with the new Sony bodies is high-speed frame rate is limited to 15 FPS with the Tamron while the Sony allows 30 FPS. Not an issue for me, but it might be for some.

[bridgewatercontract]

This is a great channel with breathtaking photography (all be it understated) with an uncomplicated relatable approach to review,

[JayBVideos]

Love the details - one of the best videos on this topic. thank you!

[DanielDuyCao]

Wow those shots from Eastern Washington are beautiful! I'm going to have to check it some time. Thanks for the comparison!

[mohamadameenah]

Hi I just got a new Tamron 70-180 when I take it out of the box, I felt something shaking inside it also Made in Vietnam, I’ve 28-75 lens without any problem it is Made in Japan! Any idea if this a problem and what is this weird sound? Does anyone have a Tamron lens made in Japan? Thanks

[DennisMoncla]

Thanks for the video. I have owned the GM for almost 2 years now and have loved it except for the weight. I've thought about selling it to get the Tamron and putting the difference towards a new body. Plus the weight savings would be great on top of some extra resolution. But as a relatively new professional photographer the GM buys me some gravitas from some people as you mentioned. My practical side is arguing with my vanity side LOL.

[gtht]

Thanks for the review, the images 4:05 - 4:40 are amazing.