Tamron budget telephoto with macro at 70-300mm Di, close-focus versatility across mounts at zero cost — verify mount.
The Tamron AF 70-300mm f/4-5.6 Di Tele-Macro is a full-frame telephoto zoom with a dedicated macro switch enabling 1:2 (half life-size) reproduction at the 300mm end. The Di designation confirms a full-frame image circle; Tele-Macro indicates the close-focus switching mechanism. Available in Canon EF, Nikon F, Sony A, Pentax K, and other mounts. The macro capability extends the lens beyond standard telephoto use into moderate close-up photography without a separate macro lens.
70-300mm focal length, f/4-5.6 variable aperture. Full-frame Di image circle. 62mm filter thread. At approximately 435-460g depending on mount variant. Standard minimum focus distance 1.5m. Macro mode (switch-activated, operational at 200-300mm only): MFD reduces to approximately 0.95m, enabling 1:2 magnification at 300mm. Conventional DC motor AF — functional for stills, audible during operation. No vibration compensation. Variable aperture from f/4 at 70mm to f/5.6 at 300mm. No weather sealing.
The macro switch activates close-focus at 200-300mm focal lengths only; the lens operates in standard telephoto mode at 70-200mm. At 1:2 magnification the working distance of approximately 0.95m provides practical clearance for photographing insects, flowers, and small wildlife without disturbing the subject. The Di full-frame circle allows use on full-frame bodies; the 105-450mm APS-C equivalent extends reach on crop-sensor bodies. Without VC, a tripod or fast shutter speed is required for macro work at 300mm.
On the used market the Tamron AF 70-300mm Di Tele-Macro is widely available at low prices. Condition checks: macro mode switch engagement and release confirm the mechanism moves cleanly; confirm macro mode achieves close focus at the 300mm end; DC motor AF response at both zoom extremes; 62mm front element for marks. Confirm the correct mount variant matches the target body — available in Canon EF, Nikon F, Sony A, Pentax K, and others. A tripod collar is advisable for macro use given the absent VC and the extended 300mm focal length.