Fast F/2.8 reach, real stabilization, and travel-friendly size—now native for Nikon Z
The quick take
- What it is: Tamron’s compact, stabilized F/2.8 telephoto zoom—now in Nikon Z mount (Model A065Z). Adds VC (Vibration Compensation) and a 0.3 m close-focus at 70mm for semi-macro vibes. :contentReference
- Why people care: It undercuts bulkier 70–200/2.8 options on weight/size while keeping F/2.8 and strong AF (VXD linear motor).
- Price & date (US): $1,149 USD; US launch slated for October 23, 2025.
- Good to know: Compatible with Tamron Lens Utility (PC & Mobile) via the lens’s USB-C port for custom functions and firmware updates.
What’s new (at a glance)
- Native Z-mount version of Tamron’s G2 tele-zoom with VC stabilization and fast VXD AF.
- Close focus: 0.3 m at 70mm (MF) and 0.85 m at 180mm; max mag approx. 1:2.6 (wide). Fun tele-macro look.
- Compact build: ~158.7 mm length, ~865 g (Z); Ø67 mm filter thread shared with Tamron’s other G2 zooms.
- Lens Utility support: Customize functions and update firmware via USB-C (PC); mobile app for on-location tweaks.
Early hands-on & press buzz
- Reviewers highlight the **stability gains** from VC and steady handheld results, plus familiar G2 sharpness/AF behavior.
- Coverage underscores the **size/weight advantage** versus traditional 70–200/2.8s, with strong value positioning.
- Launch write-ups confirm full **Z-mount support** and availability—no adapter hoops.
“Fast F/2.8, compact build, and VC that keeps things steady—now on Nikon Z.” — roundup of first looks.
Why it matters in the Nikon Z lineup
Nikon already offered the compact Z 70–180mm f/2.8 (derived from Tamron’s prior design) but without in-lens VR. This new G2 brings VC stabilization, updated AF behavior, and the 0.3 m close-focus trick—while staying travel-friendly and 67mm-filter simple. If you wanted a native Z, stabilized F/2.8 tele-zoom without the heft (and cost) of a 70–200/2.8, this is the one to try.
Key specs (Nikon Z)
| Spec | Details |
|---|---|
| Mount / Format | Nikon Z / Full-frame (FX) |
| Optics | 20 elements in 15 groups |
| Aperture | Constant F/2.8 |
| Min. focus distance | 0.3 m (70mm, MF) / 0.85 m (180mm); max mag ~1:2.6 (wide) |
| Stabilization | VC (Vibration Compensation) in-lens |
| AF drive | VXD (linear motor) |
| Filter / Weight / Length | 67 mm / ~865 g / ~158.7 mm (Z) |
| Lens Utility | USB-C port; PC updates & customization; Mobile app controls (Android) |
Specs per Tamron official pages; Z-mount dimensions/weight shown.
Pricing & availability
US $1,149; Tamron lists a US release date of October 23, 2025.
Looking Glass take
If you love the portability of Nikon’s 70–180/2.8 but want **in-lens stabilization** and G2 refinements, this Tamron is the sweet spot. The VC + VXD combo makes it a confident handheld shooter, and the **0.3 m close-focus** is creatively addictive. As always, you can schedule an Outfitting, bring your body and try it loaded—tele-zooms are personal.
Tamron 70–180mm F/2.8 G2 (Z) vs. Nikon Z 70–180mm F/2.8
| Feature | Tamron 70–180mm F/2.8 Di III VC VXD G2 (Z) | Nikon Z 70–180mm F/2.8 |
|---|---|---|
| Stabilization | VC in-lens stabilization (plus IBIS on supported bodies) | No in-lens VR (relies on IBIS if available) |
| AF Drive | VXD linear motor (fast + quiet) | Fast internal AF (Nikon-tuned) |
| Close-Focus Creativity | Enhanced close-focus behavior at 70mm for semi-macro looks | Near-macro capability at the wide end (very similar use case) |
| Filters & Ecosystem | 67mm filter; pairs with Tamron G2 zooms; USB-C Tamron Lens Utility | 67mm filter; Nikon ecosystem + firmware via camera |
| Who should pick it? | Handheld stills/video shooters who want in-lens stabilization + compact F/2.8 travel setup | Nikon-first users happy with IBIS-only stabilization and a straightforward Z-line option |
Ready to see if it’s your “do-more” tele-zoom?
Visit Looking Glass Photo — 2239 Fifth Street, Berkeley. Ask for an Outfitting session and we’ll dial in balance, AF settings, and stabilization with your camera.
Who it’s for, and how it stacks up
Travel & events shooters will appreciate the size/weight edge over classic 70–200/2.8s without giving up F/2.8 or AF speed. Hybrid creators get steadier handheld clips thanks to VC, and close-up fans can play with that 0.3 m focus for detail shots that punch above a typical tele-zoom. If you already own Nikon’s Z 70–180/2.8, the G2 adds stabilization and close-focus enhancements worth testing side-by-side.
Keywords: Tamron 70-180mm G2 Nikon Z review, Z-mount stabilized 70-180, best telephoto zoom for travel, 67mm filter F2.8 zoom, Nikon Z lens comparison.
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