Tamron's revolutionary all-in-one zoom with a fast f/2-2.8 aperture across 35-150mm.
The Tamron 35-150mm f/2-2.8 Di III VXD was released in 2021 for Sony FE full-frame mounts, covering wide-standard through portrait telephoto with a variable aperture that begins at f/2 at 35mm — the widest maximum aperture available in any consumer zoom lens at launch. The 35-150mm range spans environmental portrait at 35mm, head-and-shoulders at 85-105mm, and compressed telephoto at 150mm in a single lens without focal length change. The VXD (Voice-coil eXtreme-torque Drive) linear motor provides fast, quiet AF.
The optical design uses 21 elements in 15 groups, including four LD (Low Dispersion) and three GM aspherical elements. Nine aperture blades produce smooth bokeh. The 82mm filter thread is the large-format professional standard for high-end primes and zooms. At 1,165g the lens is heavy — the wide aperture range and large focal length span account for the complex construction and weight. Minimum focus distance of 0.33m at 35mm. Variable aperture ranges from f/2 at 35mm to f/2.8 at 150mm. VXD linear motor enables fast, near-silent AF suited to video.
The f/2 maximum aperture at 35mm is the defining practical feature: at 35mm f/2 provides background separation comparable to a dedicated fast prime, in a zoom that also covers 85mm and 150mm. For portrait, event, and wedding photographers who use the 35-85mm range frequently in variable and lower light, the f/2-2.8 aperture extends the working conditions meaningfully versus f/2.8-4 alternatives. The 1,165g weight is the primary trade-off — heavier than most prime alternatives in the same focal range.
On the used market the Tamron 35-150mm f/2-2.8 Di III VXD is available at moderate prices. Condition checks: VXD motor response across the full zoom range, front element for coating marks at the large 82mm thread, and zoom ring smoothness. The 82mm filter thread requires a large-format filter investment. Compatible with all Sony FE-mount full-frame and APS-C E-mount bodies; on APS-C the equivalent range is 52-225mm.