Tamron Intros World’s First 17-70mm F2.8 Zoom Lens with VC for APS-C Mirrorless Cameras

Tamron this morning announced the launch of the new Tamron 17-70mm F/2.8 Di III-A VC RXD (Model B070), a zoom lens for Sony E-mount APS-C mirrorless cameras. The new Tamron 17-70mm F/2.8 Di III-A lens is slated to go on sale on January 14, 2021 for $799. (Due to the current global health crisis, the release date or product supply schedule could change, Tamron noted.)

The new 17-70mm F2.8 is Tamron's first high-speed zoom lens for mirrorless cameras with APS-C size sensors. It features a maximum aperture of F2.8 across the entire 4.1x zoom ratio covering a focal length of 17-70mm (a full-frame equivalent of 25.5-105mm) designed for everyday photography use, and superb optical performance, according to Tamron. It is a small, lightweight lens that is also equipped with Tamron's VC (Vibration Compensation) mechanism to minimize camera shake. This VC mechanism leverages AI technology when shooting video.

The lens features Moisture-Resistant Construction, Fluorine Coating and a Ø67mm filter size – the same as the Tamron series of lenses for full-frame mirrorless cameras. '

"Compatible with many of the features that Sony builds into its cameras, including Fast Hybrid AF and Eye AF, the lens is the ideal everyday zoom for a multitude of situations," Tamron said in a press announcement this morning. "It is a highly practical lens that enables photographers to attain high image quality while enjoying the benefits of the large F2.8 aperture."

Here are some of the product highlights of the new Tamron 17-70mm F/2.8 Di III-A VC RXD from Tamron's press announcement this morning.

"1. World’s first high-speed standard zoom lens for APS-C cameras with the focal length range of 17-70mm 4.1x zoom ratio

The Model B070 has a focal length range of 17-70mm, equivalent to 25.5-105mm on full-frame cameras. It is the first F2.8 high-speed zoom lens in the world for APS-C mirrorless cameras to achieve a 4.1x zoom ratio.

2. Outstanding optical performance

The optical construction of the new 17-70mm F2.8 features 16 elements in 12 groups. Two GM (Glass Molded Aspherical) lens elements and one hybrid aspherical lens element are precisely arranged to maintain high-resolution performance from edge to edge. 

3. Upgraded VC effective in combination with Sony APS-C mirrorless cameras, leveraging AI for video shooting

The 17-70mm F2.8 features Tamron's proprietary VC mechanism. Additional sophisticated algorithms optimized for this model and a dedicated, independently operating MPU all combine to superbly compensate for vibration. This feature is available when the lens is used with cameras with or without in-body image stabilization. When shooting video, by leveraging AI technology, image stabilization performance improves compared to conventional models.

4. Close focusing−MOD is just 7.5” at the wide-angle end

The 17-70mm F2.8 zoom focuses close, down to 7.5” MOD (Minimum Object Distance). This is far superior to the performance achieved by conventional high-speed zoom lenses for APS-C cameras. In addition, the 15.4” MOD at the 70mm telephoto end ensures good close-range shooting performance allowing photographers to enjoy compelling close-up shots.

5. A highly portable compact design

The 17-70mm F2.8 zoom measures a scant 4.7” in length and 74.6mm in maximum diameter and weighs only 18.5 oz. The lens also maintains the same small Ø67mm filter size of each lens in the Tamron mirrorless lens line-up. This is remarkable for a lens with built-in VC image stabilization. When used with Sony's APS-C mirrorless cameras, this zoom is nicely balanced and provides a comfortable user experience.

6. The RXD (Rapid eXtra-silent stepping Drive) stepping motor unit is exceptionally quiet and perfect for video use

7. Moisture-Resistant Construction and Fluorine Coating provide extra protection

8. Compatible with many camera-specific features and functions, including Fast Hybrid AF and Eye AF"

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