The Tamron SP 60mm f/2.8 Macro Di (IF) II is a 1:1 macro prime lens for Canon EF mount, offering a fast f/2.8 aperture, internal focus design, and full-time manual focus override β making it a versatile pick for macro, portrait, and close-up work on Canon DSLRs.
Key Specifications
- Focal length: 60mm (prime)
- Maximum aperture: f/2.8
- Lens type: Macro
- Maximum magnification: 1:1 (life-size reproduction)
- Mount: Canon EF β compatible with a wide range of DSLR bodies
- Internal focus (IF): the barrel doesn't extend during focusing
- Full-time manual focus: lets you fine-tune focus without switching AF off
- AF system: conventional micro motor β functional and reasonably quick, though not silent
Who is the Tamron SP 60mm f/2.8 Macro Di II for?
This lens hits a sweet spot for Canon shooters who want a single lens that pulls double duty. At 60mm and f/2.8, it's compact enough to carry every day and fast enough to separate a subject from a busy background β handy for portrait sessions or candid shots at events like weddings. Flip it into macro mode and you're getting true 1:1 magnification: perfect for photographing flowers, insects, jewellery, or any subject you want rendered at life size. The internal focus design keeps the barrel length fixed, which matters when you're working close up β no lens creeping toward your subject. If you already shoot with Tamron glass and want to add a capable macro without stepping up to a longer focal length, this is a natural choice. Underwater photographers also rate 60mm as a go-to focal length for reef creatures and nudibranchs, and this lens fits that bill on an APS-C Canon body. For comparison, shooters wanting a longer working distance might look at the Tamron SP 90mm f/2.8 Di VC USD Macro or the Canon EF 100mm f/2.8L Macro IS USM, but those add bulk and cost. The 60mm keeps things light and affordable.
Buying a used Tamron SP 60mm f/2.8 Macro Di II
Picking up this lens second-hand is a smart move β macro lenses tend to be used carefully by photographers who care about optical precision, and the Tamron 60mm Di II holds up well over time. Every pre-owned lens on Camera-tweedehands.nl is individually photographed and professionally inspected, and comes with a minimum 12 months warranty. The actual warranty period is shown on your specific variant listing. If you're stepping up from a kit lens or want to explore macro without committing to a larger, pricier telephoto macro, a used Tamron 60mm f/2.8 is one of the most sensible entry points into serious close-up photography on Canon EF DSLR bodies.