The market wasn’t exactly short of 35mm lenses before Tamron introduced the second of its new range of fixed-focal-length optics. Damien Demolder investigates whether we need another.
Tamron SP 35mm f/1.8 Di VC USD review
Tamron SP 35mm f/1.8 Di VC USD – Handling
Like Tamron’s 45mm lens in the same series, this 35mm is pretty big and heavy when compared to the average models of its focal length and aperture. I used it on the Canon EOS-1D X and it looked perfectly at home working with a body equally bulky and bulbous.
Weight doesn’t always equate to good build, but this lens really does feel very well made and as though it’ll endure the knocks and bumps of life without dramatic effects.
The lens is clearly designed to be used at wider apertures – it’s nicely sharp even at f/1.8
The external design of the barrel is really rather nice, with the company mixing a soft- sheen black paint with the fine ribbed rubber of the focusing ring. The focusing ring is easy to find should you need it, and the AF/MF and VC switches are well positioned for the thumb of the left hand. These switches are hard to knock accidentally, even though they sit proud of the barrel so they can be found easily.
The lens looks good, feels good and is very nice to use.