Tamron SP AF 180mm f/3.5 XR Di LD IF Macro lens
by Paul Fisher

tell a friend about this article

SUMMARY

In my opinion, there is no doubt the Tamron SP AF 180mm f/3.5 Di LD [IF] Macro 1:1 is a superb lens, with many fine features. It is capable of producing excellent pictures in both the close-up and telephoto ranges.
.

Wasp Tamron SP AF 180mm F/3.5 XR Di LD [IF] Macro 1:1 lens on Nikon D100

The build quality is excellent, as is the detachable tripod collar.

The optical performance is exceptional – it leaves absolutely nothing wanting. 

The manual focus is exceptionally good, as is the manual / auto switching. 

Autofocus is of secondary importance in a lens of this type. Users will typically use the excellent manual mode, and change into auto to “touch up” the focus. Used this way, the autofocus is very adequate, and extremely accurate.


Finally

Would I buy one?  

The answer is "Yes, I have already ordered one". 

The lens is so good at what it does, and produces images which are outstanding in all respects, you wouldn't get a sharper macro lens this side of a Nikkor.  

At half the price of a Nikkor 200mm micro, the Tamron is an unbeatable value for the money. It is sure to join Tamron’s 90mm macro as one of the outstanding macro lenses on the market.