Tamron's fast ultra-wide zoom — 16-30mm f/2.8 G2 for Sony E and Nikon Z.
The Tamron 16-30mm f/2.8 Di III VXD G2 (model A064) is a fast ultra-wide zoom for full-frame Sony E and Nikon Z mirrorless cameras, announced on 1 July 2025 with the Sony E version shipping 31 July and the Nikon Z version 22 August 2025. It replaces the well-regarded 17-28mm f/2.8 Di III RXD and completes Tamron's second-generation 'G2 trinity' alongside the 28-75mm G2 and 70-180mm G2, stretching the wide end to a true 16mm.
Optically it uses 16 elements in 12 groups and keeps the compact form Tamron's trinity is known for: 440g, 101.8mm long in Sony E fit (103.9mm Nikon Z) and a shared 67mm filter thread common to the whole trinity. Autofocus is Tamron's VXD linear motor, quick and effectively silent, replacing the older lens's stepping-motor RXD. Minimum focus is 0.19m at 16mm for 1:5.4 magnification, there is no optical stabilisation, and the moisture-resistant barrel adds a USB-C port for the Tamron Lens Utility app, letting owners customise the focus ring and function behaviour and update firmware without a dock.
The G2 matters because it gives Sony and Nikon shooters a genuinely wide 16mm f/2.8 at 440g for $929 new - notably wider than the 17-28mm it replaces and far cheaper and lighter than the Sony 16-35mm f/2.8 GM II or Nikkor Z 14-24mm f/2.8 S. For Nikon Z users it is one of very few fast third-party ultra-wides available natively. That combination of price, weight and the common 67mm filter size makes it a natural used-market favourite for landscape and astro shooters building a lightweight f/2.8 kit.
On a used copy, confirm the mount version first, as E and Z versions are distinct and cited model numbers may just say A064. Test wide-open corners at 16mm on a starfield or distant lights if possible, since ultra-wides show decentring and coma most obviously there. Check the USB-C port works with the Tamron Lens Utility software and update to current firmware; early Z-mount stock benefited from AF refinement updates. Inspect the bulbless (flat, filter-friendly) front element for cleaning swirl, confirm the hood is present, and work the short zoom throw for grit. With UK new pricing around £899-£949, a lightly used example should offer a meaningful saving; check for remaining Tamron UK five-year warranty, which requires the original receipt.