The Tamron 17-50/2.8 Di II VC is an update of the earlier, non stabilized Tamron 17-50/2.8 Di II. "VC" or Vibration Compensation is Tamron's equivalent to Canon's IS (Image Stabilization) and Nikon's VR (Vibration Reduction).

The Tamron AF 17-50mm F/2.8 SP XR Di II VC is an optically stabilized version of Tamron's 17-50/2.8 Di II, though the two lenses do not share exactly the same optical design. The "VC" version has one less XR glass element, but one more LD and one more aspherical element.

Yes, I would recommend this to a friend

Consistent Output; Strong Construction

Heavy; Loud

Features & handling This is a well-designed lens that feels really nice. The zoom ring is a good size and has a positive feel to it. The focusing ring is very loose in manual mode, which is a bit disappointing considering the rest of the build.

A fast aperture standard zoom with Vibration Compensation for Nikon or Canon APS-C sensor digital SLR cameras.

Excellent resolution in the centre at most apertures and focal lengths; Vibration Compensation is very effective; Good value for money

Falloff in resolution at 50mm and f/2.8; Flare control

Tamron's SP AF17-50mm f/2.8 XR Di II VC lens is designed exclusively for cameras with APS-C sized sensors and covers the popular standard zoom range of focal lengths. On Nikon cameras it is equivalent to 26-78mm in 35mm format, while on the Canon EOS 40D body we used for our tests, the equivalent...

The Tamron AF 17-50mm f 2.8 XR Di II is a lens designed specifically for digital SLRs and their smal

Moderate pricing for a fast lens.

Loose manual focus ring

Yes, I would recommend this to a friend

Easy To Use

Loud motor

Besides the motor being rather loud, I really can't complain about this lens. The price is great for the quality. I have this lens on my camera 70% of the time and I am definitely impressed with how well it works in low light.

Easy To Use

Loud motor

Steve's SnapShot Cons Bottom Line Pick This Up If...

Very well built; Comfortable controls; Capable VC system; Fast f/2.8 maximum aperture; Produces beautiful results when stopped down; Appealing focal range; Half the price of it's Nikon and Canon competitors

Quite soft when wide open; Small amount of visible CA; I felt the zoom ring had a bit too much resistance; AF and VC systems make a good amount of noise; Some front focusing was noted while capturing indoor portraits