1/800 sec, f/7.1, 260mm, iso 200
I got the DA zoom as a replacement for my previous zoom with Tamron 70-300mm f/4.0-5.6 Di LD Macro 1:2 zoom. I have been missing my old Tamron zoom for its lightweight, good image quality and surprisingly good close up at 1:2. The DA zoom is priced higher as in two times the cost of Tamron Zoom and it is without the close up in Tamron zoom. In terms of build quality, the Pentax DA zoom is better especially in the zoom ring that is tight and unlike the Tamron zoom, the zoom position pretty much stays in place reliably.
Both zooms share the quality of sharp images and good to use in traveling with single zoom lens that cover the long end needs while my short ends are covered with primes. The DA zoom has another positive advantage in not fringing which I have a difficult time with the Tamron zoom.
1/125 sec, f/6.3, 260mm, iso 200
In terms of value, I think the cheaper Tamron zoom is more a value lens if one can live with occasional fringing. There is no doubt that I miss my old Tamron zoom especially on the quality with its close up photos. When I carry one tele zoom in outing, it is quite ready for both tele and close up needs on flowers.
1/40 sec, f/5.0, 120mm, iso 640
1/250 sec, f/8.0, 107.5mm, iso 400
1/500 sec, f/7.1, 55mm, iso 100
1/100 sec, f/8.0, 150mm, iso 100
1/160 sec, f/6.3, 230mm, iso 320
1/500 sec, f/6.3, 260mm, iso 320
Impressions & Notes
- Build quality is better in the Pentax DA zoom than the Tamron zoom especially on the zoom ring
- Close up is a disappointment when compared to the Tamron zoom that can go to 1:2.
- Fringing is absent in my use with the Pentax DA zoom
- Auto Focus is just as slow and noisy if not slower than the Tamron zoom
- Quick Shift focus is handy with the Pentax DA zoom
- Size is small and compact in the Pentax DA zoom
- In terms of value, I favor the Tamron zoom as I do like the close up ability in the Tamron zoom for half the cost of the DA zoom.
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