In this Sony E-Mount Lens Review I will compare the Sony 18-200mm f/3.5-6.3 OSS Lens vs the Tamron 18-200mm f/3.5-6.3 Di VC III Lens while using my Sony Nex-7 for a camera body. Which lens is Best? I put these two e-mount lenses through the paces by taking a bunch of video footage in all different situations as well as photos at all focal lengths and apertures. I also tried comparing both version of image stabilization to see which actually performs better in the real world.
Below the video I will put all the comparison photos so you can see with your own eyes at 100% what each lens results look like in detail. To be honest it’s pretty hard to tell, but I will reserve my opinion to the conclusion at the bottom so you can come up with your own judgement first!!
First let’s take a quick look at these killer E-mount zooms lenses encase you have not seen them yet!
Now for the Video Review/ Comparison:
Sample Photos at 100% for comparison purposes:
As always be sure to Click on the images for the true 100% crops!!
Sony 18-200mm f/3.5-6.3 OSS Lens
Tamron 18-200mm f/3.5-6.3 Di VC III Lens
Sony 18-200mm f/3.5-6.3 OSS Lens
Tamron 18-200mm f/3.5-6.3 Di VC III Lens
Sony 18-200mm f/3.5-6.3 OSS Lens
Conclusion:
After using both these lenses extensively for both video and photos I would have to give my vote to the Sony 18-200mm f/3.5-6.3 OSS Lens. Although the Tamron has the huge weight and size advantage, which to some is very important considering the camera size/ weight, I would still much rather have the Sony. You don’t get something for nothing, and I think these image samples show that very clearly. The Sony is much sharper in almost all the real world shots. Also, don’t forget that the Tamron 18-200mm has two extra glass elements inside that the light has to travel through.
In addition to the better overall image quality, the color and contrast also seems to be a tad better in the real world photos. The #1 reason I would go with the Sony over the Tamron though is simple the build quality. The smoothness of the zoom and focus on the Sony 18-200mm is significantly better, although the Sony does self zoom as you saw in the video which is not a desired feature by me!
The Tamron 18-200mm is a solid performer overall though and I would not mind using it all as the weight and size savings are very significant for such a versatile zoom lens. If I was going on an all day hike or something the Tamron would be a better choice for sure! In addition to that if any of these photos were printed 8×10 or smaller you would very hard pressed to notice a difference.
I hope you guys got something out of this comparison review, and be sure to check out all the Sample Photos from these lenses in the articles below:
- Sony E-Mount 18-200mm f/3.5-6.3 OSS Lens – Sample Photos and 100% crops >>
- Tamron E-Mount 18-200mm f/3.5-6.3 DI VC III Lens – Sample Photos and 100% crops >>
Also Be sure to Check out the New Sony 18-200mm f/3.5-6.3 OSS Lens Review Here >>
