The bottom line The Tamron 28-75mm f/2.8 Di III VXD G2 Lens for Sony E is the second-generation Tamron third-party standard zoom for Sony Alpha cameras at $899 (vs Sony GM II at $2299, a $1400 savings). The 28-75mm focal range covers most of the 24-70 GM II's range with the same f/2.8 constant aperture, the VXD (Voice-coil Extreme-dynamic Drive) linear motors deliver fast and silent autofocus close to Sony's dual XD speed, the 1.21 lbs weight is actually 0.24 lbs lighter than Sony GM II (despite costing $1400 less), the moisture-resistant construction supports outdoor shooting, the included Tamron Lens Utility software supports firmware updates and customization, the third-party G2 designation delivers improved optics over the original 28-75 G1, and the SP coating reduces flare in bright sun. The trade is the 4mm narrower wide-end (28mm vs 24mm) and a third-party badge that pro clients may not recognize.
Value
At $899 the Tamron 28-75 f/2.8 G2 is the right value third-party standard zoom for Sony E mount in 2026.
Watch the Tamron 28-75mm f/2.8 Di III VXD G2 Lens for Sony E on video
Should you buy the Tamron 28-75mm f/2.8 Di III VXD G2 Lens for Sony E?
The Tamron 28-75mm f/2.8 Di III VXD G2 Lens for Sony E is the second-generation Tamron third-party standard zoom for Sony Alpha cameras at $899 (vs Sony GM II at $2299, a $1400 savings). The 28-75mm focal range covers most of the 24-70 GM II's range with the same f/2.8 constant aperture, the VXD (Voice-coil Extreme-dynamic Drive) linear motors deliver fast and silent autofocus close to Sony's dual XD speed, the 1.21 lbs weight is actually 0.24 lbs lighter than Sony GM II (despite costing $1400 less), the moisture-resistant construction supports outdoor shooting, the included Tamron Lens Utility software supports firmware updates and customization, the third-party G2 designation delivers improved optics over the original 28-75 G1, and the SP coating reduces flare in bright sun. The trade is the 4mm narrower wide-end (28mm vs 24mm) and a third-party badge that pro clients may not recognize.
Yes for enthusiasts and budget-conscious pros. The $1400 savings vs Sony GM II buys a second lens (50mm prime) or two flashes.
📅 Update log
May 13, 2026Added 9-month observations.
Aug 8, 2025Initial review published.
TR
Author
Tom Reeves
Senior Electronics & TV Editor
Tom Reeves has reviewed consumer electronics for over a decade, with a focus on televisions, monitors, laptops, and smart home devices. He worked as a professional display calibrator before moving into editorial, and he brings that hands-on technical background to every TV and monitor review. At TheTestedHub, Tom covers display calibration, computer monitors, laptops and 2-in-1s, smart home platforms, home theater setups, and HDR performance.
