Canon & Nikon Digital SLR and Lens Reviews at The-Digital-Picture.com
Tamron 18-270mm f/3.5-6.3 Di II VC LD Lens Review
Tamron 18-270mm f/3.5-6.3 Di II VC LD Lens Review
  Review
  Sample Pictures
  ISO 12233 Crops
  Vignetting   Tamron 18-270mm f/3.5-6.3 Di II VC Lens Vignetting - Thumbnail View  Tamron 18-270mm f/3.5-6.3 Di II VC Lens Vignetting - Test Results Contour View
  Lens Flare
  Lens Distortion
  Lens Specifications
  Lens Images
Buy the Tamron 18-270mm f/3.5-6.3 Di II VC Lens   Rent the Tamron 18-270mm f/3.5-6.3 Di II VC Lens
 
Manufacturer ID: B0003
Review Date: 2010/05/17

At review time, the Tamron 18-270mm f/3.5-6.3 Di II VC Lens holds the world record for longest focal length range in all camera mounts it supports including Canon's APS-C mount. The 15x focal length range is, without a doubt, very impressive. It is definitely the highlight feature of this lens. Other nice Tamron 18-270 features include VC (Vibration Control), a modest size & weight and a reasonable cost.
 
There is no perfect lens. All lenses represent a compromise of features - size, weight, price, focal length range, image quality, autofocus performance, build quality and other features. In a lens with a super focal length range, wide open aperture image quality is usually one of these sacrifices. And this is indeed the case with the Tamron 18-270. But it is not the only weakness of this lens.
 
The Tamron 18-270mm f/3.5-6.3 Di II VC Lens review got off to a rough start. Canon camera and lens reviews are currently my top priority for the site, but I love evaluating the third party lenses as time permits. I had a block of time available between new Canon gear introductions and decided to try a group of super zoom lenses - including the Tamron 18-270mm f/3.5-6.3 Di II VC Lens. Unfortunately, tested on two camera bodies, my first two copies of this lens had significant focus calibration problems at the wide end of the focal length range (one front-focused, one back-focused). The testing, returning and re-purchasing additional copies of this lens was time consuming, but alas, my third copy functions properly. As you probably deduced, quality control is apparently an issue for this lens.

Tamron 18-270mm f/3.5-6.3 Di II VC Lens Sample Picture

This casually-captured portrait of a dog and her girl were taken with the Tamron 18-270mm f/3.5-6.3 Di II VC Lens mounted to a Canon EOS 50D. The focal length was 65mm, the aperture f/8 and the ISO was 320. A just-set sun provides the broad, warm-colored light.
 
Though not exceptional overall, the Tamron 18-270mm f/3.5-6.3 Di II VC Lens' overall image quality is decent for a super zoom lens.
 
Tamron 18-270mm f/3.5-6.3 Di II VC Lens images are sharp in the center at 18mm with a wide open aperture. Stopping down does not improve center-of-the-frame sharpness. Corners are somewhat soft, but improve slowly through f/8 where the most of the frame is sharp. The bottom right corner shows improvement continuing at f/11.
 
At 28mm, the center of the image frame remains reasonably sharp wide open, but the mid and corner areas of the frame are very soft. Stopping down the aperture to f/5.6 makes a significant difference in image quality and the entire frame is sharp at f/8.
 
The wide open center-of-the-frame sharpness shows even further degradation by 35mm and the mid and corners remain very soft. Image sharpness improves significantly at f/5.6 and even more at f/8 where the entire frame is sharp. 50mm results are, across the frame, slightly softer than 35mm results. 70mm results are slightly softer yet wide open, but somewhat better stopped down. 100mm results are similar to 70mm results with the corners showing further degradation.
 
200mm results are similar to 100mm results with the mid-frame areas showing a little further sharpness degradation. Also, the left 20% or so of the frame is quite soft at f/8 and still soft at f/11. Again at 270mm, the mid area of the frame becomes softer yet. At 270mm, the entire image is soft wide open and especially soft in the mid and corner areas of the frame. The left 20% or so of the frame remains quite soft at f/8 and is still soft at f/11. The balance of the frame is reasonably sharp at f/8.
 
In summary, the Tamron 18-270mm f/3.5-6.3 Di II VC Lens is soft wide open and reasonably sharp when stopped down at least 1 stop or better yet, to f/8. Overall, image sharpness degrades as the focal length increases. For my tastes, this is an f/8 lens.
 
My real world experience was not always as good as the lab image quality results. I suspect focusing errors came into play in these shots, but I could not confirm this from the specific shots I deemed not as good as they should be.
 
CA (Chromatic Aberration) is somewhat strong in the mid and corner portions of the frame at 18mm, improves until CA is essentially gone at 50mm. By 200mm, CA is once again obvious and by 270mm, it is very strong. The Tamron 18-270mm f/3.5-6.3 Di II VC Lens' CA characteristics are in-line with the other currently available super zooms. Plan on needing to post process the long focal length shots (and possibly the wide ones as well) in your favorite non-Canon editing software to remove the CA.
 
Distortion begins at 18mm as rather strong barrel distortion (moderately bulged-in-the-middle / wavy) that quickly transitions to neutral around 25mm and continues into mild pincushion distortion by 27mm. Pincushion distortion becomes strong by 40mm and slowly transitions back to mild at 270mm.
 
Only a minor amount of vignetting is apparent in the corners of the frame at wide open apertures at the two ends of the focal length range.
 
Bokeh (OOF background blur quality) seems reasonable for the lens class. I am seeing a bright rim around OOF highlights and some concentric rings inside.
 
The Tamron 18-270mm f/3.5-6.3 Di II VC Lens is not flare-free, but is closer to Canon's 18-200mm lens than to Sigma's super telephoto lenses. You can view the Canon-Mount Super Zoom Lens Flare Comparison to draw your own conclusions.
 
Like the rest of the super zoom lenses, the Tamron 18-270mm f/3.5-6.3 Di II VC Lens is not a fast (wide aperture) lens. Utilizing a narrow max aperture opening keeps the size, weight and cost down. Also like the rest of the super zoom lenses, the Tamron 18-270mm f/3.5-6.3 Di II VC Lens is a variable max aperture lens. Here is a table showing the focal length ranges for the max aperture of various 18-something mm zoom lenses.
 

Modelf/3.5f/4.0f/4.5f/5.0f/5.6f/6.3
Canon EF-S 15-85mm f/3.5-5.6 IS USM Lens15-17mm18-26mm27-37mm38-60mm61-85mm 
Canon EF-S 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 IS Lens18-23mm24-28mm29-38mm39-46mm47-55mm 
Canon EF-S 18-135mm f/3.5-5.6 IS Lens18-21mm22-30mm31-40mm41-63mm64-135mm 
Canon EF-S 18-200mm f/3.5-5.6 IS Lens18-23mm24-39mm40-49mm50-89mm90-200mm 
Sigma 18-125mm f/3.8-5.6 DC OS HSM Lens 18-27mm28-40mm41-72mm73-125mm 
Sigma 18-200mm f/3.5-6.3 DC OS Lens18-20mm21-30mm31-50mm51-77mm78-153mm154-200mm
Sigma 18-250mm f/3.5-6.3 DC OS HSM Lens18-23mm24-34mm35-49mm50-79mm80-146mm147-250mm
Tamron 18-200mm f/3.5-6.3 XR Di II Lens18-30mm31-46mm47-59mm60-72mm73-124mm125-200mm
Tamron 18-270mm f/3.5-6.3 Di II VC Lens18-29mm30-45mm46-58mm59-90mm91-237mm238-270mm

 
There is generally a 1/3 stop difference at most between these similar lenses. I don't see the differences influencing the purchase decision for most people.
 
Holding a narrow aperture lens steady enough for sharp pics in low light can be a problem. Tamron uses VC (Vibration Control) to address this issue. This VC implementation is audible and not as well behaved as most of the recent lens stabilization systems I've been using - the viewfinder image frequently jumps when engaging, when disengaging and during lens motion.
 
I'll admit - Testing lens stabilization is not my favorite task. In this case, I carefully shot 651 shots handheld as motionless as possible - and then evaluated the results. What I learned is:
 
I needed a shutter speed of .4 seconds for a high percentage of sharp shots at 18mm. My sharpness rate was still good enough to go after shots at .6 seconds. I even have a very sharp shot taken 1.3 seconds. That compares to my needed 1/25 shutter speed without VC.
 
At 120mm, 1/13 second was about my handholding limit with VC assistance. Without VC, I needed 1/120. And at 270mm, my Tamron 18-270mm f/3.5-6.3 Di II VC Lens handholding limit is 1/30 second with some sharp images at 1/15. Without VC, 1/250 to 1/320 gave me a good keeper rate.
 
As usual, my conclusion is that vibration control is very useful for handholding a lens in low light with a still subject (VC cannot stop subject motion). My testing shows that I personally am seeing about 3.5 stops of help from VC on this specific lens.

Tamron 18-270mm f/3.5-6.3 Di II VC Lens Sample Picture

The AF system is a Tamron 18-270mm f/3.5-6.3 Di II VC Lens weakness. I mentioned earlier in this review that I had to buy three lenses before I found one that was properly calibrated at 18mm. On top of this, AF is slow and audible. Focus accuracy has proven to be reasonable, though not perfect at the wide end.
 
As usual for this type of lens, FTM (Full Time Manual) focusing is not enabled which also means that manual focusing requires the AF/MF switch to be positioned to the MF setting. And also as usual for non-FTM focus lenses, you need to keep your fingers clear of the MF ring as it turns during autofocusing to prevent damage to the internal gears. The zoom ring is adequately sized so this is not a significant problem during actual use.
 
The Tamron 18-270mm f/3.5-6.3 Di II VC Lens' manual focus ring is one of the worst I've used. To begin with, the MF ring has a short rotation between MFD (Minimum Focus Distance) and infinity (common for this lens class), which raises the need for precision focusing at longer focal lengths. Unfortunately, the 18-270's focus ring is very imprecise - it is spongy and sticky with play in the movement.
 
On a positive AF note, the Tamron 18-270mm f/3.5-6.3 Di II VC Lens is an internal focusing lens and filters attached to the front of this lens do not rotate (helpful when using certain types of filters including circular polarizer filters).
 
All of the compatible APS-C Canon Digital SLR Cameras require a max aperture of f/5.6 for autofocus to function. The Tamron 18-270mm f/3.5-6.3 Di II VC Lens autofocuses at all focal lengths including those with an f/6.3 max aperture on these cameras.
 
Here is a comparison table showing the MFD and MM (Maximum Magnification) of some comparable lenses.
 

ModelMFDMM
Canon EF-S 15-85mm f/3.5-5.6 IS USM Lens13.8"(350mm).21x
Canon EF-S 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 IS Lens9.8"(250mm).34x
Canon EF-S 18-135mm f/3.5-5.6 IS Lens19.3"(490mm).21x
Canon EF-S 18-200mm f/3.5-5.6 IS Lens17.7"(450mm).24x
Sigma 18-125mm f/3.8-5.6 DC OS HSM Lens13.8"(350mm).26x
Sigma 18-200mm f/3.5-6.3 DC OS Lens17.7"(450mm).26x
Sigma 18-250mm f/3.5-6.3 DC OS HSM Lens17.7"(450mm).29x
Tamron 18-200mm f/3.5-6.3 XR Di II Lens17.7"(450mm).27x
Tamron 18-270mm f/3.5-6.3 Di II VC Lens19.3"(490mm).29x

 
Another great spec for a lens that attempts to be a one-lens solution - a .29x MM value. This is one of the best MM specs available from a non-true-macro lens. Tightly-framed pictures of medium-sized flowers are not a problem for this MM. Unfortunately, image quality at 270mm and MFD is not as impressive as the spec. See the Tamron 18-270mm f/3.5-6.3 Di II VC Lens Specifications page to review more specs and comparisons.

Tamron 18-270mm f/3.5-6.3 Di II VC Lens Sample Macro Picture

Tamron 18-270mm f/3.5-6.3 Di II VC Lens Product Images

Review Lens:  MFD |    MFD |    w/ Hood:  MFD |    MFD |    Rotated        Compare >

 
The Tamron 18-270mm f/3.5-6.3 Di II VC Lens gives the impression of a very nicely built lens when you pick it up. There is essentially no play in the extending barrel. Unfortunately, like the focus ring, the short throw zoom ring movement is rough. It frequently gets stuck and requires gravitational help to release it. And by stuck, I mean I'm putting a significant amount of rotational torque on the lens with no change in focal length. Enough force that I fear breaking something.
 
As usual with a long-extending lens, gravity has an effect on the rotational force required to change focal lengths. Extending the lens when pointed downward is much easier than when pointed up - and vice-versa. Note that the 18-270 zoom ring rotates in the Nikon direction (opposite of Canon Zoom Lenses).
 
A zoom lock switch is available to hold the retracted lens position (only). I do experience gravity-extending/zooming while carrying the 18-270. This happens most when the focal length is set in the mid to long focal length range or there is a little momentum behind the lens such as when lowered quickly. Gravity extending (or retracting) is especially a problem when shooting upward or downward from a tripod using a hands-off approach (carry some gaffer's tape).
 
The included plastic hood is small - and as usual with this class of lens, will not offer much protection against flare at longer focal lengths. Protection from damage is always a good reason to keep it installed.
 
Like the rest of the below-compared lenses, the Tamron 18-270mm f/3.5-6.3 Di II VC Lens' size and weight are very nice for take-with-you-everywhere use.
 

ModelWeightDimensions w/o HoodFilterYear 
Canon EF-S 15-85mm f/3.5-5.6 IS USM Lens20.3 oz(575g)3.2 x 3.4"(81.6 x 87.5mm)72mm2009
Canon EF-S 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 IS Lens7.1 oz(200g)2.7 x 2.8"(68.5 x 70mm)58mm2007
Canon EF-S 18-135mm f/3.5-5.6 IS Lens16.1 oz(455g)3.0 x 4.0"(75.4 x 101mm)67mm2009
Canon EF-S 18-200mm f/3.5-5.6 IS Lens21.0 oz(595g)3.1 x 4.0"(78.6 x 102mm)72mm2008
Canon EF 28-135mm f/3.5-5.6 IS USM Lens19.1 oz(540g)3.1 x 3.8"(78 x 97mm)72mm1998
Sigma 18-125mm f/3.8-5.6 DC OS HSM Lens17.8 oz(505g)2.9 x 3.5"(74 x 88.5mm)67mm2008
Sigma 18-200mm f/3.5-6.3 DC OS Lens21.5 oz(610g)3.1 x 3.9"(79 x 100mm)72mm
Sigma 18-250mm f/3.5-6.3 DC OS HSM Lens22.2 oz(630g)3.1 x 4.0"(79 x 101mm)72mm2009
Tamron 18-200mm f/3.5-6.3 XR Di II Lens14.0 oz(398g)2.9 x 3.3"(73.8 x 83.7mm)62mm
Tamron 18-270mm f/3.5-6.3 Di II VC Lens19.4 oz(550g)3.1 x 4.0"(79.6 x 101mm)72mm2008

 
The Tamron 18-270mm f/3.5-6.3 Di II VC Lens is, at review time, the lightest stabilized lens in the 18-2XXmm super telephoto lens class, but only barely so. The Tamron 18-200 is notably smaller/lighter, but it lacks image stabilization. Pictured below from left to right (ordered by extended size with lens hoods) are the:
 
1. Canon EF-S 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 IS Kit Lens
2. Tamron 18-200mm f/3.5-6.3 XR DI II Lens
3. Sigma 18-200mm f/3.5-6.3 DC OS Lens
4. Canon EF-S 18-200mm f/3.5-5.6 IS Lens
5. Sigma 18-250mm f/3.5-6.3 DC OS HSM Lens
6. Tamron 18-270mm f/3.5-6.3 Di II VC Lens

Tamron 18-270mm f/3.5-6.3 Di II VC Lens and Super Zoom Lens Size Comparison

 

Here is another look at the super zooms mounted to a Canon EOS 50D. Use the mouseover links below to compare the Canon EF-S 18-200mm f/3.5-5.6 IS Lens, Sigma 18-250mm f/3.5-6.3 DC OS HSM Lens, Sigma 18-200mm f/3.5-6.3 DC OS Lens, Tamron 18-270mm f/3.5-6.3 Di II VC Lens and Tamron 18-200mm f/3.5-6.3 XR DI II Lens.

Tamron 18-270mm f/3.5-6.3 Di II VC Lens and Super Zoom Lens Comparison

Canon: 18-200mm: Retracted | Extended

Sigma: 18-200mm: Retracted | Extended 18-250mm: Retracted | Extended

Tamron: 18-200mm: Retracted | Extended 18-270mm: Retracted | Extended
 

Again, I don't feel that size and weight are good differentiators between these lenses. And the focal length range remains the most compelling reason to buy a super zoom lens.
 
The Tamron 18-270mm f/3.5-6.3 Di II VC Lens is a "DI II" lens, which means it delivers an image circle designed to cover an APS-C (1.6x FOVCF) sensor. Unlike Canon EF-S Lenses, the Tamron 18-270 will actually mount to a full frame body, but there is significant vignetting. On an APS-C body, the 18-270's 35mm-equivalent AOV (Angle of View) equates to a drool-worthy 28.8-432mm lens. Below is an example of what this incredible focal length range looks like (use the mouseover links below the image).

Tamron 18-270mm f/3.5-6.3 Di II VC Lens Focal Length Range Example

Focal Length in mm:   18 | 24 | 30 | 35 | 50 | 60 | 70 | 80 | 90 | 115 | 130 | 150 | 200 | 235 | 270
 

At 18mm, a small shape can be seen in what otherwise appears to be a landscape picture of a green field and partly-cloudy sky. Running your mouse over the "270" link in the mouse-over bar below the pictures clearly reveals the identity of this small shape. This is simply an impressive focal length range.
 
Pictures shot at 18mm with a close subject will give the viewer a sense of presence in the scene. 270mm will bring distant subjects in close - compressing the details in the image and potentially blurring the background. From moderately wide landscapes to portraits to wildlife photography, the right focal length is available in one lens.
 
This focal length range is in-arguably excellent, but as we saw in the Canon EF-S 18-200mm f/3.5-5.6 IS Lens Review, all lens focal lengths at less-than-infinity focus distances are not necessarily equal. Focal lengths are rated at an infinity focus distance, but here is a table that shows the moderate distance required to frame a 47.25" x 31.5" (1200 x 800mm) test target at maximum focal length when mounted on an EOS 50D.
 

ModelDistance
Canon EF 200mm f/2.8 L II USM Lens424.9"(10792mm)
Canon EF 200mm f/2.0 L IS USM Lens425.1"(10798mm)
Canon EF-S 18-200mm f/3.5-5.6 IS Lens369.9"(9395mm)
Sigma 18-200mm f/3.5-6.3 DC OS Lens369.6"(9389mm)
Sigma 18-250mm f/3.5-6.3 DC OS HSM Lens476.0"(12,090mm)
Tamron 18-200mm f/3.5-6.3 XR Di II Lens384.7"(9771mm)
Tamron 18-270mm f/3.5-6.3 Di II VC Lens500.3"(12708mm)

 
Calculations based on the two prime lens figures indicate that 250mm should have a distance of about 531.1" (13,490mm) and 270mm should have a distance of about 573.6" (14,569mm). So, all of the zoom lenses seem to be similarly short of their named max focal length at this test distance, but the 250mm and 270mm variants do indeed have longer max focal lengths than the 200mm variants - which are similar to each other.
 
Due to popularity, the super zoom lens market is a somewhat crowded one. And the extra 50-70mm max focal length is a product differentiator. Here is a visual max focal length comparison between these super zoom lenses.

Super Zoom Lens Maximum Focal Length Comparison

 

The above images were shot from a stationary EOS 50D with each lens set to the maximum focal length. They are listed from left to right in the order they were taken. The difference between 200mm and 250/270mm is noticeable, but not dramatic when looking at the overall range covered by these lenses. And regardless of their true maximum focal lengths at any distance, all of these super zoom lenses have an awesome focal length range.
 
At review time, the Tamron 18-270mm f/3.5-6.3 Di II VC Lens is the highest priced of this group of super zoom lenses - before rebate. This lens has very consistently had a significant rebate available for it, bringing the price down below the Canon 18-200 but still above the Sigma 18-250.
 
If you decide the irresistible focal length range is what you want, your next decision is - which is the best super zoom lens, overall? As I mentioned in the Sigma 18-250mm DC OS HSM Lens Review, I spent far more days than I want to think about trying to create a set of outdoor image quality comparisons to show you in addition to the ISO 12233 Chart Tool results. But thus far, I am not satisfied with how my test shots compare the complex image quality from these lenses. I may still add an outdoor comparison to this review, but in the meantime, I'll leave you with my personal preferences.
 
I personally would give up some of the Tamron 18-270mm f/3.5-6.3 Di II VC Lens' focal length range for the Canon EF-S 18-200mm f/3.5-5.6 IS Lens. I like how it performs overall best.
 
My second choice would be for the Sigma 18-250 - primarily because of the AF and build quality advantages of this lens. The Sigma has less distortion than the Tamron, but the Tamron has less flare and at least as good or better f/8 image quality.
 
The Sigma 18-200 OS and the Tamron 18-200 would be my last choices among the group of lenses I reviewed. The newer lenses are showing improved optical characteristics. The Tamron 18-200 is a really small, light and inexpensive lens - and has a really low price. This is one clear advantage it has. The Sigma 18-200 has OS.
 
Like the other stabilized super zoom lenses, the Tamron 18-270mm f/3.5-6.3 Di II VC Lens, with a huge 15x focal length range and VC, is like two lenses and a tripod in the package of a medium-small lens (making it great for travel). And if you are willing to give up the ultimate image quality and wide apertures a multi-lens solution will provide for the convenience of a super zoom lens, the Tamron 18-270 is one of the top three Canon-mount models currently available right now. And for some, it may be a good choice.
 
Even image quality aficionados can need a casual-use super zoom lens in their kits.
 
At review time, the Tamron 18-270mm f/3.5-6.3 Di II VC Lens is available in Canon (tested) and Nikon mounts. Tamron USA offers an impressive 6 Year Warranty on this lens.

 
 Buy the Tamron 18-270mm f/3.5-6.3 Di II VC Lens   Rent the Tamron 18-270mm f/3.5-6.3 Di II VC Lens
 
Tamron 18-270mm f/3.5-6.3 Di II VC Lens Sample Pictures
 

My Recommended Shopping Resources  (Using these links to make any purchase supports this site)
Rent the Tamron 18-270mm f/3.5-6.3 Di II VC Lens  (Using these links for your rental supports this site)
More Tamron 18-270mm f/3.5-6.3 Di II VC Lens Reviews & Information
 
Share |


 
Canon Logo * Canon EOS 1D X Digital SLR Review Buy
Canon EOS 1Ds Mark III Digital SLR Review Buy
Canon EOS 1D Mark IV Digital SLR Review Buy
Canon EOS 5D Mark III Digital SLR Review Buy
Canon EOS 5D Mark II Digital SLR Review Buy
Canon EOS 7D Digital SLR Review Buy
Canon EOS 60D Digital SLR Review Buy
Canon EOS Rebel T3i / 600D Digital SLR Review Buy
Canon EOS Rebel T2i / 550D Digital SLR Review Buy
Canon EOS Rebel T3 / 1100D Digital SLR Review Buy
* Canon PowerShot G1 X Digital Camera Review Buy
more Canon Digital SLR Camera Reviews ...
 
Canon EF 8-15mm f/4 L USM Fisheye Lens Review Buy
Canon EF 16-35mm f/2.8 L II USM Lens Review Buy
Canon EF 17-40mm f/4.0 L USM Lens Review Buy
* Canon EF 24-70mm f/2.8 L II USM Lens Review Buy
Canon EF 24-70mm f/2.8 L USM Lens Review Buy
Canon EF 24-105mm f/4.0 L IS USM Lens Review Buy
Canon EF 28-135mm f/3.5-5.6 IS USM Lens Review Buy
Canon EF 28-300mm f/3.5-5.6 L IS USM Lens Review Buy
Canon EF 70-200mm f/4.0 L USM Lens Review Buy
Canon EF 70-200mm f/4.0 L IS USM Lens Review Buy
Canon EF 70-200mm f/2.8 L USM Lens Review Buy
Canon EF 70-200mm f/2.8 L IS II USM Lens Review Buy
Canon EF 70-300mm f/4-5.6 L IS USM Lens Review Buy
Canon EF 70-300mm f/4.0-5.6 IS USM Lens Review Buy
Canon EF 70-300mm f/4.5-5.6 DO IS USM Lens Review Buy
Canon EF 75-300mm f/4.0-5.6 III USM Lens Review Buy
Canon EF 100-400mm f/4.5-5.6 L IS USM Lens Review Buy
* Canon EF 200-400mm f/4 L IS USM Extender 1.4x Lens
Review

more Canon Zoom Lens Reviews ...
 
Canon EF 14mm f/2.8 L II USM Lens Review Buy
Canon EF 15mm f/2.8 Fisheye Lens Review Buy
Canon TS-E 17mm f/4 L Tilt-Shift Lens Review Buy
Canon EF 20mm f/2.8 USM Lens Review Buy
Canon EF 24mm f/1.4 L II USM Lens Review Buy
* Canon EF 24mm f/2.8 IS USM Lens Review Buy
Canon EF 24mm f/2.8 Lens Review Buy
Canon TS-E 24mm f/3.5 L II Tilt-Shift Lens Review Buy
Canon EF 28mm f/1.8 USM Lens Review Buy
* Canon EF 28mm f/2.8 IS USM Lens Review Buy
Canon EF 28mm f/2.8 Lens Review Buy
Canon EF 35mm f/1.4 L USM Lens Review Buy
Canon EF 35mm f/2.0 Lens Review Buy
Canon TS-E 45mm f/2.8 Tilt-Shift Lens Review Buy
Canon EF 50mm f/1.2 L USM Lens Review Buy
Canon EF 50mm f/1.4 USM Lens Review Buy
Canon EF 50mm f/1.8 II Lens Review Buy
Canon EF 50mm f/2.5 Macro Lens Review Buy
Canon MP-E 65mm 1-5x Macro Lens Review Buy
Canon EF 85mm f/1.2 L II USM Lens Review Buy
Canon EF 85mm f/1.8 USM Lens Review Buy
Canon TS-E 90mm f/2.8 Tilt-Shift Lens Review Buy
Canon EF 100mm f/2.0 USM Lens Review Buy
Canon EF 100mm f/2.8 USM Macro Lens Review Buy
Canon EF 100mm f/2.8 L IS USM Macro Lens Review Buy
Canon EF 135mm f/2.0 L USM Lens Review Buy
Canon EF 135mm f/2.8 With Soft Focus Lens Review Buy
Canon EF 180mm f/3.5 L USM Macro Lens Review Buy
Canon EF 200mm f/2.8 L II USM Lens Review Buy
Canon EF 200mm f/2.0 L IS USM Lens Review Buy
Canon EF 300mm f/4.0 L IS USM Lens Review Buy
Canon EF 300mm f/2.8 L IS II USM Lens Review Buy
Canon EF 400mm f/5.6 L USM Lens Review Buy
Canon EF 400mm f/4.0 DO IS USM Lens Review Buy
Canon EF 400mm f/2.8 L IS II USM Lens Review Buy
* Canon EF 500mm f/4.0 L IS II USM Lens Review Buy
Canon EF 500mm f/4.0 L IS USM Lens Review Buy
* Canon EF 600mm f/4.0 L IS II USM Lens Review Buy
Canon EF 600mm f/4.0 L IS USM Lens Review Buy
Canon EF 800mm f/5.6 L IS USM Lens Review Buy
Canon Extender EF 1.4x III Review Buy
Canon Extender EF 2x III Review Buy
more Canon Lens Reviews ...
 
Canon EF-S 10-22mm f/3.5-4.5 USM Lens Review Buy
Canon EF-S 15-85mm f/3.5-5.6 IS USM Lens Buy
Canon EF-S 17-55mm f/2.8 IS USM Lens Review Buy
Canon EF-S 17-85mm f/4-5.6 IS USM Lens Review Buy
Canon EF-S 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 IS II Lens Review Buy
Canon EF-S 18-135mm f/3.5-5.6 IS Lens Review Buy
Canon EF-S 18-200mm f/3.5-5.6 IS Lens Review Buy
Canon EF-S 55-250mm f/4-5.6 IS Lens Review Buy
Canon EF-S 60mm f/2.8 Macro USM Lens Review Buy
more Canon EF-S Lens Reviews ...
Sigma Logo Sigma 8-16mm f/4.5-5.6 DC HSM Lens Review Buy
Sigma 10-20mm f/3.5 EX DC HSM Lens Review Buy
Sigma 10-20mm f/4-5.6 EX DC HSM Lens Review Buy
Sigma 17-50mm f/2.8 EX DC OS HSM Lens Review Buy
Sigma 17-70mm f/2.8-4 DC Macro OS Lens Review Buy
Sigma 18-250mm f/3.5-6.3 DC OS HSM IF Lens Review Buy
Sigma 20mm F/1.8 EX DG Lens Review Buy
Sigma 30mm f/1.4 EX DC HSM Lens Review Buy
Sigma 50mm f/1.4 EX DG HSM Lens Review Buy
Sigma 85mm f/1.4 EX DG HSM Lens Review Buy
more Sigma Lens Reviews ...
 
 
Tamron Logo Tamron 10-24mm f/3.5-4.5 Di II Lens Review Buy
Tamron 17-50mm f/2.8 XR Di II Lens Review Buy
* Tamron 17-50mm f/2.8 XR Di II VC Lens Review Buy
Tamron 18-270mm f/3.5-6.3 Di II VC Lens Review Buy
Tamron 28-75mm F/2.8 XR Di Lens Review Buy
Tamron 70-200mm f/2.8 Di Macro Lens Review Buy
Tamron 70-300mm f/4-5.6 Di VC Lens Review Buy
Tamron 90mm f/2.8 Di Macro Lens Review Buy
more Tamron Lens Reviews ...
 
 
Tokina Logo Tokina 11-16mm f/2.8 AT-X Pro DX Lens Review Buy
 
 
Zeiss Logo Zeiss 18mm f/3.5 Distagon T* ZE Lens Review Buy
Zeiss 21mm f/2.8 Distagon T* ZE Lens Review Buy
Zeiss 35mm f/1.4 Distagon T* ZE Lens Review Buy
Zeiss 35mm f/2.0 Distagon T* ZE Lens Review Buy
Zeiss 85mm f/1.4 ZE Planar T* Lens Review Buy
Zeiss 100mm f/2.0 Makro-Planar T* ZE Lens Review Buy
 
 
Nikon Logo  (standardized results only at this time)  
 
Samyang Logo Samyang Logo  
* Canon Speedlite 600EX-RT Flash Review Buy
Canon Speedlite 580EX II Flash Review Buy
Canon Speedlite 430EX II Flash Review Buy
Canon Speedlite 320EX Flash Review Buy
Canon Speedlite 270EX II Flash Review Buy
* Canon Speedlite Transmitter ST-E3-RT Review Buy
Canon Speedlite Transmitter ST-E2 Review Buy
more Flash & Lighting Accessory Reviews ...
 
Tripod, Monopod, Ballhead & Accessory Reviews
UV, Circular Polarizer & Other Filter Reviews
Camera & Lens Accessory Reviews
Lens & Sensor Cleaning Supplies Reviews
Camera Bag, Backpack & Lens Case Reviews
What I Use: Digital Cameras and Lenses
What I Use: Photography Accessories
 
* Text portion of this review is not complete
filter: Canon News only    Follow Canon_News on Twitter
filter: Nikon News only     Follow Nikon_News on Twitter
filter: Photography Deals only   
filter: Exclude Photography Deals   
 
Introduction - Canon lens choosing is confusing!
What Focal Length(s) Do You Need?
What Maximum Aperture Do You Need?
Canon General Purpose Lens Recommendations
Canon Portrait Lens Recommendations
Canon Wedding Lens Recommendations
Canon Outdoor Sports Lens Recommendations
Canon Indoor Sports Lens Recommendations
Canon Macro Lens Recommendations
Canon Wildlife Lens Recommendations
Canon Landscape Lens Recommendations
 
ISO 12233 Resolution Chart Sample Crop Comparison
Vignetting Test Results Comparison
Lens Flare Comparison
Lens Distortion Comparison
Lens Specifications and Measurements Comparison
Lens Product Image Comparison
 
Used Canon Cameras and Lenses
Where To Buy Used Canon Cameras and Lenses
Where To Buy Canon Cameras and Lenses
Field of View Crop Factor (Focal Length Multiplier)
Canon L Lens Series
USA vs. Gray Market/Imported Canon Lenses - the difference?
Zoom vs. Fixed Focal Length (Prime) Lenses
Canon Lens Date Codes - How old is that lens?
Canon Lens Vignetting (Light Fall-off)
Lens Hoods - Do I really need to use one?
Canon Lens Rebates
UV Filters - Should they be used?
 
Canon Digital SLR Camera Sample Pictures
Canon Zoom Lens Sample Pictures
Canon Lens Sample Pictures
Canon EF-S Lens Sample Pictures
Sigma Lens Sample Pictures
Tamron Lens Sample Pictures
Tokina Lens Sample Pictures
Zeiss Lens Sample Pictures
Flash & Lighting Accessory Sample Pictures
Filter Sample Pictures
Best of the Site Pictures
Sensor Cleaning
Watch the Background!
Exposure Basics
Digital Workflow - Using Canon Digital Photo Professional
Fireworks Photography Tips
Photography Equipment & Liability Insurance
Packing for a Landscape Photography Trip
Counterfeit Camera Accessories Warning
Camera & Lens Focus Calibration Testing
How To Use a Gray Card
Circular Polarizing Filters Can Make A Huge Difference
How to Remove a Stuck Lens Filter
Air Show Pictures & Photography Tips
More Photography Tips ...
 
Please support this site by using the links provided throughout the site to make your purchases
Support us by clicking here to start your B&H shopping experience!
Using this link to make your purchase supports this site
 
Using this link to make your purchase supports this site
Using this link to place your Canon order supports this site.
 
Using this link to place your ThinkTank Photo order supports this site. Should your order total more than $50.00, Think Tank Photo will send you a free gift with your order if this link is used
Canon Refurbished:
Canon Store (DSLRs)
Canon Store (Lenses & Flashes)
B&H Photo
Adorama
Lensbaby