Tamron has unveiled its latest offering, the 12-20mm f/2.8 full-frame ultrawide zoom lens, available for $1,699. This lens is compatible with both Sony E and Nikon Z mounts, catering to landscape and architecture photographers, content creators, and enthusiasts seeking dramatic perspectives without the burden of heavy gear.
The lens provides an extremely wide field of view starting at 12mm on a full-frame sensor, ideal for capturing tight interiors, expansive landscapes, or incorporating a broad foreground in astrophotography. The constant f/2.8 aperture across the zoom range is particularly beneficial for both still photography and videography. In addition, the VXD linear motor ensures fast and quiet autofocus, preventing any audio disturbance in video recordings.
Another notable feature is its impressive 7.1-inch minimum focus distance at the wide end, allowing photographers to get very close to their subjects while still including vast backgrounds. The lens also boasts a 12-blade rounded diaphragm, which is expected to produce attractive sunstars at smaller apertures—an appealing feature for landscape photographers.
This lens is the first to showcase Tamron’s new Toned Profile Next design, offering enhanced ergonomics and a refined appearance compared to previous models. Practical additions include a click on/off switch for the aperture ring (smooth for video, clicked for stills), a focus set button, and a rear sheet-filter holder. Additionally, it features a built-in USB-C port for accessing the Tamron Lens Utility, allowing for firmware updates and lens customization.
Although the Tamron 12-20mm f/2.8 lacks optical image stabilization, this is not a significant drawback. Ultrawide focal lengths typically require less stabilization, and both Sony and Nikon mirrorless cameras support robust in-body stabilization.
Specifications:
– Focal Length: 12 to 20mm
– Aperture: Maximum f/2.8 / Minimum f/16
– Lens Mount: Sony E
– Lens Format Coverage: Full-Frame
– Minimum Focus Distance: 7.1 inches / 18 cm (Wide) to 11.1 inches / 28.2 cm (Tele)
– Magnification: 1:5.8 Macro Reproduction Ratio / 0.11 to 0.17x Magnification
– Optical Design: 17 Elements in 12 Groups
– Aperture/Iris Blades: 12, Rounded
– Focus Type: Autofocus
– Image Stabilization: No
– Dimensions: ø: x L: 4.7 inches / ø: x L: 11.9 cm
– Weight: 1.3 lb / 570 g
The Tamron 12-20mm f/2.8 lens is expected to be available for purchase on July 30, 2025, in both Sony E and Nikon Z mounts.
