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Tamron SP 70-300mm f/4-5.6 DI VC USD Autofocus Lens for Nikon {62} A005

Model #349541
  • $197.00

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New in box complete with manufacturer's USA warranty. Not previously owned or used.
Essentially new with no signs of use. “Open box.” In manufacturer's packaging with original accessories and instructions. 180-day warranty.
Barely used with virtually no traces of wear. Only the closest inspections will reveal slight use. Lens glass could contain light dust or debris. Excellent picture quality. Accessories usually not included, unless noted in listing. 180-day warranty.
Lightly used with limited signs of wear. Exceptionally nice but may have slight wear on finish visible. Lens glass could contain light dust or debris. Excellent picture quality. Accessories usually not included, unless noted in listing. 180-day warranty.
Noticeably used with average signs of wear. Shows moderate wear for the age of the item, with the possibility of blemishes and/or minimal dings. Lens glass may have average dust and zoom/focus ring tension may have slight looseness or tightness overall, but will not affect picture quality. Accessories usually not included, unless noted in listing. 180-day warranty.
Frequently used with above-average wear. May have dents, dings, or finish loss. Lens glass may have small scratches, dust, and blemishes, and zoom/focus ring tension may have moderate looseness or tightness overall, but should not affect picture quality. Accessories usually not included, unless noted in listing. 180-day warranty.
Heavily used with extensive visible wear. Equipment is rough, with multiple impressions in the finish, excessive finish loss and brassing. Glass will have marks, fungus and/or heavy/cloudy haze which could affect picture quality. Accessories usually not included, unless noted in listing. Not covered under KEH warranty.
Non-functional or damaged. Equipment will not work. Usable for parts. Not covered under KEH warranty and non-returnable.
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Proven 70-300mm telephoto with optical stabilization and silent AF

The Tamron SP 70-300mm f/4-5.6 Di VC USD covers the telephoto range that matters most to working shooters, tight portraits at 70mm, compressed backgrounds at 200mm, and full reach at 300mm. Vibration Compensation (VC) gives you real-world stability at the long end, where handholding without stabilization costs you keeper rate fast. The Ultrasonic Silent Drive (USD) autofocus motor is quick and quiet, which matters when you're tracking birds or shooting near subjects who'd notice a hunting, grinding lens.

Full-frame compatibility via Tamron's Di designation means this glass works across the Nikon F ecosystem without vignetting concerns, and the internal focusing design keeps the barrel length fixed throughout the zoom and focus range. The 62mm filter thread is a practical size with solid third-party filter support. At f/4 through the mid-range and f/5.6 at 300mm, the exposure math is predictable, and in good light this focal length range rewards patient shooters who know how to work it.

This is a time-tested optic that Nikon F shooters have relied on for wildlife, sports, and travel photography for well over a decade. The combination of VC stabilization, silent USD autofocus, and 300mm reach at this price point is a straightforward case for anyone who needs telephoto reach without the weight or cost of a prime.

Who It's For

Wildlife and bird photographers get meaningful use from the 300mm reach paired with VC stabilization, which buys back shutter speed in variable light without a tripod. Travel photographers benefit from the internal focusing design, the barrel never extends, so it packs predictably and handles cleanly. Sports shooters working outdoor events in daylight will find the USD autofocus responsive enough for moving subjects. Portrait photographers who want compression and subject separation at 70-135mm with stabilization for longer handheld sessions will find the short end of this range earns its keep.

Key Features

  • 70-300mm telephoto zoom with f/4 aperture at 70mm
  • Vibration Compensation (VC) stabilization for handheld telephoto work
  • Ultrasonic Silent Drive (USD) autofocus motor
  • Di full-frame compatible across Nikon F mount
  • Internal focusing design keeps barrel length fixed
  • 62mm filter thread with broad third-party support

FAQ

Does this lens work on full-frame Nikon bodies?
Yes - the Di designation means it's optimized for full-frame cameras across the Nikon F mount without vignetting. It also works on DX bodies, where the 70-300mm range gains effective reach.
How much does vibration compensation actually help at 300mm?
VC stabilization buys you roughly 2-3 stops of handholding margin at the long end, which is the difference between a keeper and motion blur when you're shooting in overcast conditions or indoors. It's not a replacement for fast shutter discipline, but it extends your working window significantly.
Is the autofocus really silent?
The USD motor is quiet and fast compared to older AF mechanisms - you won't hear a hunting grind or loud servos. If you're shooting near wildlife or recording ambient sound, you'll notice the difference immediately.
What's the filter size, and are there good third-party options?
62mm thread - practical size with abundant filter support. You'll find quality ND, polarizer, and UV options from most major filter makers without paying a premium.
Does the barrel length change when you focus or zoom?
No. The internal focusing design keeps the barrel fixed, which matters if you're using a tripod collar or need predictable balance on a monopod.
How does f/4-5.6 aperture limit low-light shooting?
The widest aperture varies with focal length - you get f/4 from 70-140mm, then it steps to f/5.6 as you approach 300mm. This is typical for telephoto zooms at this price point. In bright daylight or with fast film (high ISO), exposure is straightforward; dim interiors or fast-moving subjects will push your ISO higher than you might want.
Is this lens still usable in 2025, or is it outdated?
It's a 2011 design, but optical quality and stabilization haven't become obsolete. The USD autofocus is still responsive, and the VC system works as designed. If you need current autofocus technology or weather sealing, newer options exist - but this lens still delivers 300mm reach and stabilization for the money.
SpecificationValue
Focal Length70-300mm
Max Aperturef/4
Min Aperturef/5.6
MountNikon F

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 62mm
Focus Type Autofocus (lens motor)
Lens Mount Nikon F Mount G Type
Lens Type Telephoto / Long
Max Focal Length 300mm
Min Focal Length 70mm