Tamron SP 15-30mm F/2.8 Di VC USD (Nikon F)

Superb corner-to-corner image quality from an ultra-wide-angle zoom

Tamron aims for the highest standards with the SP (Super Performance) lens series. And the new 15-30mm F/2.8 full-frame ultra-wide-angle zoom is a worthy addition.

This high-performance zoom lens equals the performance of fixed focal length lenses from 15mm to 30mm, an unprecedented achievement made possible by the development of its unique XGM (eXpanded Glass Molded Aspherical) lens element that effectively controls aberrations and enhances sharpness. In addition, the 15-30mm is the first zoom to combine such a wide range of coverage, a fast F/2.8 aperture, and to offer image stabilization, further proof of Tamron’s commitment to innovation and excellence.

XGM lens element for exquisite images

Compared to a previous Molded-Glass Aspherical element (left), XGM has a larger aspherical surface.

A large diameter XGM (eXpanded Glass Molded Aspherical) lens element is placed in the first lens group of a system that also includes several LD (Low Dispersion) elements in its 18-element, 13-group optical design. This combination effectively controls distortion and chromatic aberrations that typically affect wide-angle lenses.

XGM (eXpanded Glass Molded Aspherical):
The XGM (eXpanded Glass Molded Aspherical) lens element is capable of efficiently correcting aberrations in the angle of view that changes significantly with an ultra-wide-angle zoom lens. It has an especially significant impact on minimizing distortion and enhancing the sharpness of the image at its periphery.
Furthermore, the molded-glass manufacturing method allows the fabrication of a wider range of lens shapes than the composite aspherical lens method. Moreover, XGM also effectively controls aberrations and reduces total lens size. (LeftConventional Molded-Glass Aspherical lens element, RightXGM lens element)

eBAND and BBAR Coating

Tamron’s proprietary eBAND (Extended Bandwidth & Angular-Dependency) Coating suppresses tangential reflections, while a new generation of BBAR (Broad-Band Anti-Reflection) Coating has been optimized for ultra-wide angles of view. Together, they effectively correct ghosting and flare, yielding vivid images of extraordinary clarity.

VC (Vibration Compensation) enhances photo opportunities

Responding to the demand for a wide-angle lens suited for handheld shooting at slow shutter speeds, Tamron has created the world’s first F/2.8 ultra-wide-angle zoom lens with image stabilization. The result is a lens able to capture sharp images even when shooting handheld under low light conditions.

This system employs three coils that move the optical compensation system electromagnetically via three ceramic ball bearings. It offers excellent stability and enables smooth movement with little friction. When equipping 15-30mm with VC, the design of the VC unit was optimized for a fast F/2.8 aperture ultra-wide-angle zoom lens.

The VC unit was made compact to prevent the body of the lens from becoming too large when equipping this fast F/2.8 aperture ultra-wide-angle zoom lens with the Vibration Compensation mechanism. Each VC unit is exclusively designed and optimized for each lens that incorporates this exclusive feature.

Fluorine coated front element

Resistance to grime (oil-based felt marker)
Left: Without fluorine coating
Right: With fluorine coating

Since its large diameter and prominent convex profile prevents deployment of a protective filter, the front element of this lens has a fluorine coating that repels water and dirt, and makes it much easier to remove smudges as well.

Box damaged stock isstock that is perfect and brand new, it is literally just the box that is damaged.