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Tamron 17-50mm f/4 Di III VXD Full-Frame Lens for Sony E-Mount {67} A068
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$482.00
Tamron 17-50mm f/4: one lens from architecture to portraits.
The 17-50mm range sounds simple on paper, but the execution here earns attention. Starting at 17mm gives you a field of view wide enough for interiors, architecture, and handheld vlogging at arm's length, territory that most standard zooms can't touch. Stopping at 50mm means you finish the range at a genuinely useful focal length for portraits and street work, not some awkward 35mm compromise. The constant f/4 aperture keeps the lens compact and light at 460g, and the internal zoom design means balance stays consistent on a gimbal or handheld rig.
The VXD (Voice-coil eXtreme-torque Drive) motor is Tamron's fastest autofocus system, and it shows in both stills and video, tracking is quiet and responsive, which matters for run-and-gun hybrid shooters. The 15-element, 13-group optical formula includes Tamron's close-focus engineering: 7.5 inches at the wide end gives you 1:4.6 maximum magnification, meaning product shots and detail work are genuinely in play. The 9-blade aperture produces smooth out-of-focus rendering at closer distances. A 67mm filter thread keeps polarizer costs reasonable. Moisture-resistant construction makes it a realistic option for outdoor documentary work. For a single-lens travel or event kit on Sony Alpha bodies, this range covers more ground than most photographers expect.
Who It's For
Travel photographers working from Sony Alpha bodies get a single lens that covers architecture interiors at 17mm through environmental portraits at 50mm, without swapping glass. Hybrid shooters and vloggers benefit from the quiet VXD motor and internal zoom, which keeps footage clean and gimbal balance stable. Documentary and street photographers running light will appreciate 460g and a hood-included package that takes a standard 67mm filter. Macro-curious portrait shooters can work at 7.5 inches minimum focus distance for tight detail shots that a standard kit lens won't allow.
Key Features
- 17-50mm focal length covers interiors, architecture, and normal portraiture
- Constant f/4 aperture throughout entire zoom range
- VXD Voice-coil motor delivers silent, fast autofocus for video
- 7.5-inch minimum focus distance enables 1:4.6 magnification at wide end
- 9-blade circular aperture diaphragm for smooth bokeh rendering
- Internal focus and zoom design maintains consistent balance on gimbals
- 460g weight with 67mm filter thread for portability and affordability
- Moisture-resistant construction suitable for documentary and outdoor use
FAQ
- What makes 17-50mm different from a standard 18-55mm zoom?
- The 17mm start gives you a full two stops wider field of view compared to 18mm, which is the difference between tight interiors and genuinely covering a room. The 50mm end lands on a focal length photographers actually use for portraits and street work, not an awkward compromise focal length.
- Is the VXD autofocus fast enough for video?
- Yes. VXD is Tamron's fastest focus motor and delivers smooth, quiet tracking during video capture. It's built specifically for run-and-gun hybrid shooting where AF speed and silence both matter.
- How close can this lens focus?
- 7.5 inches at 17mm, 11.8 inches at 50mm. That's close enough for product shots, detail work, and real 1:4.6 magnification play without needing a macro lens.
- Will this work for event photography?
- On full-frame Sony bodies, yes. The range covers ceremony to reception without zoom hunting, the f/4 constant aperture holds through the whole range, and the VXD motor is silent during speeches and vows.
- What's the filter size?
- 67mm. Standard size, affordable filters and polarizers, and the weight penalty is minimal compared to larger thread lenses.
- Does moisture resistance mean weather-sealed?
- Moisture-resistant construction handles outdoor documentary work and light weather exposure, but it's not full weather sealing. Treat it respectfully in rain.
- How much does it weigh on a gimbal?
- 460g (1.01 lb) keeps it light enough for extended handheld or gimbal work. The internal zoom design means the balance point doesn't shift during the zoom range.
| Specification | Value |
|---|---|
| Focal Length | 17-50mm |
| Max Aperture | f/4 |
| Min Aperture | f/22 |
| Mount | Sony E |
| AF System | Yes |
| Lens Type | Zoom |
| Zoom Method | Rotary (Internal) |
| Focus Method | Internal |
| Elements | 15 |
| Groups | 13 |
| Diaphragm Blades | 9 |
| Minimum Focus Distance | 190 mm |
| Maximum Magnification | 1:4.6 |
| Filter Thread | 67 mm |
| Weight | 460 g |
| Diameter | 75 mm |
| Length | 114 mm |
| Color | Black |
This description was generated using AI based on KEH's internal product standards, product expertise, and knowing what customers care about most. While we strive for accuracy, details may vary by individual item.
| Brand Name | Tamron |
|---|---|
| Filter Size | 67mm |
| Focus Type | Autofocus (lens motor) |
| Lens Mount | Sony E Mount |
| Lens Type | Ultrawide |
| Max Focal Length | 50mm |
| Min Focal Length | 17mm |