Tamron Teases 16-50mm f/2.8 APS-C Zoom
Tamron has announced the 16-50mm f/2.8 A (Model B091), a standard zoom lens designed for APS-C mirrorless cameras. The lens will be available for Sony E, Canon RF, Nikon Z and Fujifilm X mounts, covering a focal range equivalent to 24-75mm on Sony, Nikon and Fujifilm cameras, or 25.6-80mm on Canon APS-C bodies due to their 1.6x crop factor.
The new zoom maintains a constant f/2.8 maximum aperture throughout its focal range, allowing photographers to use the same aperture setting from wide-angle to short telephoto. It is positioned as a compact alternative to larger standard zooms, including Tamron’s existing 17-70mm f/2.8 Di III-A VC RXD. However, unlike that model, the 16-50mm does not incorporate optical image stabilization, relying instead on stabilization provided by compatible camera bodies.
Its optical construction consists of 14 elements arranged in 10 groups, including one low-dispersion element, two hybrid aspherical elements and two molded-glass aspherical elements. Tamron has also applied its BBAR G2 coating to reduce reflections and ghosting, while the front element features a fluorine coating intended to facilitate cleaning. The aperture mechanism uses seven rounded diaphragm blades.
Autofocus is handled by Tamron’s VXD linear motor system, which is designed to provide fast and precise focusing for both still photography and video recording. The lens can focus as close as 15 centimeters at the wide-angle end and 29 centimeters at the telephoto end, corresponding to maximum magnification ratios of 1:4.5 and 1:4.8, respectively.
In terms of dimensions, the Sony E-mount version measures 64.4mm in diameter and 79.6mm in length, with a weight of approximately 305 grams. The dimensions and weight vary slightly between mounts, reaching up to 315 grams. All versions accept 55mm filters and feature moisture-resistant construction. A USB-C port for firmware updates is included on the Sony, Canon and Nikon versions, while the Fujifilm model does not feature this connection.
Here are a couple of sample pictures, courtesy of Tamron:
The Tamron 16-50mm f/2.8 A will be released in stages, beginning with the Sony E and Canon RF versions on October 29, 2026, priced at $529 and $549, respectively. The Nikon Z version will follow on November 19 at $549, while the Fujifilm X model is scheduled for December 17 at $529. In Europe, prices are expected to start at approximately €499 for Sony and Fujifilm mounts and €529 for Canon and Nikon.
