Tamron launches the new full frame 100-400mm lens for DSLRs

It’s been in development for a while, but now Tamron have officially announced the 100-400mm f/4.5-6.3 Di VC USD (model A035) lens. It’s an ultra-telephoto for full frame Nikon and Canon DSLRs. It comes with built in vibration control offering up to 4 stops of stabilisation. Handy when you’re at 400mm.

Tamron boast that the new lens is “the lightest in its class”, while offering fast and precise autofocus performance. It features magnesium alloy components to reduce the weight while keeping strength. It’s also weather and dust sealed, with lens coatings designed specifically to protect against dust, dirt and smearing.

The development of the lens was actually announced in September, but there wasn’t much information available. Now, though, the specs are final, and it’s even available to pre-order. Although there are still a couple of bits of info missing.

• Focal length : 100-400mm
• Max aperture : f/4.5-6.3
• Min aperture : f/32-45
• Mount : Nikon F & Canon EF
• Format : 35mm Full Frame
• Minimum focus distance : 4.9′ (1.49m)
• Image stabilisation : Yes
• Autofocus : Yes
• Aperture Blades : 9
• Elements : 17 in 11 groups
• Filter Thread : 67mm
• Dimensions : 86.2mm x 196.5mm (Nikon), 86.2mm x 199mm (Canon)
• Weight : 1.115g (Nikon), 1135g (Canon)

Oddly, the tripod collar shown in many of the photos of the lens (and sites where it’s available to pre-order) is not included. It’s an optional accessory. Very strange for a lens with such length.

As with many of Tamron’s other lenses, it features eBAND (Extended Bandwidth & Angular Dependency) coating, to help reduce flare, reflections and ghosting. Fluorine coatings also help to repel water, oil, dust, dirt and smudges from the front element, and all joins are weather sealed.

The Nikon version of this lens uses the new electromagnetic diaphragm system. What Nikon calls its E type lenses (not to be confused with its Series E lenses). These help to ensure a more precise and consistent aperture from shot to shot. But, it does mean that this lens won’t be compatible with all Nikon DSLRs as a result. Although, if your camera’s was made within the last 8 years or so, you’re probably good.

The Tamron 100-400mm is available to  pre-order now for Nikon or for Canon at a reasonable $799 (the same price as Sigma’s slightly slower 100-400mm offering). Shipping is expected to begin in December. You can find out more about the new lens on Tamron’s website.