Tamron's 15x superzoom for APS-C DSLRs — enormous range from wide to telephoto in one lens.
The Tamron 18-270mm f/3.5-6.3 Di II VC was introduced in 2008 and held the record for the highest zoom ratio in a DSLR lens at its release. Covering 27-405mm equivalent on APS-C bodies, it offered holiday shooters and travel photographers a genuine one-lens solution, eliminating the need to carry or swap lenses.
As with all extreme superzooms, optical quality involves compromises. Centre sharpness is acceptable at most focal lengths but corners are soft, particularly at the telephoto end. VC stabilisation helps compensate for the slow maximum aperture at longer focal lengths. Chromatic aberration and distortion are noticeable but correctable in post-processing software.
Canon EF-S mount version, APS-C only. Filter thread is 72mm. Weight is approximately 550 grams — reasonable given the enormous range. Build quality is plastic but functional. Several revisions exist including a PZD (piezo drive) version with faster, quieter autofocus. The lens extends significantly at 270mm.
Common and affordable on the used market. Check for zoom creep — a frequent issue on high-ratio zooms — and smooth AF operation. Not recommended for critical sharpness work, but unbeatable for convenience when travelling light. The Tamron 18-400mm later extended the concept even further.