Question 1

What is the difference between the Tamron SP 70-200mm f/2.8 Di VC USD and the G2 version?

Accepted Answer

The original Tamron SP 70-200mm f/2.8 Di VC USD (also known as the A009 or informally called the G1) is the first-generation version of this lens. The G2 (second generation) came later with an updated VC system, improved weather sealing, and a revised optical formula. For most DSLR shooters the original still delivers strong image quality and fast USD autofocus — it's a solid buy used if the G2 is outside your budget.

Question 2

Is the Tamron SP 70-200mm f/2.8 Di VC USD (A009) compatible with full-frame Canon EF bodies?

Accepted Answer

Yes. The Canon EF mount version covers a full 35mm image circle, so it works on full-frame Canon DSLRs like the Canon EOS 5D series as well as APS-C bodies like the Rebel line. On APS-C the effective focal length becomes roughly 112–320mm due to the 1.6× crop factor.

Question 3

How good is the VC (Vibration Compensation) on this lens?

Accepted Answer

Tamron's VC on this lens is widely praised for handheld telephoto work — it allows sharp shots at shutter speeds several stops slower than you'd normally need at 200mm. That makes a noticeable difference in low-light venues like indoor sports halls or evening receptions, where bumping ISO is the only other option.

Question 4

Is the Tamron SP 70-200mm f/2.8 Di VC USD weather sealed?

Accepted Answer

The original A009 version is built to a pro-grade standard, but weather sealing is more comprehensive on later Tamron SP lenses such as the G2. If full moisture resistance is a priority for outdoor shooting, factor that into your decision when comparing used copies.

Question 5

How does the autofocus compare to the Canon EF 70-200mm f/2.8L IS II USM?

Accepted Answer

Both lenses use ultrasonic-type AF motors and handle moving subjects well in good light. In real-world sports and wildlife tests, the Canon's AF is generally considered slightly more consistent in low light and on fast-tracking subjects, but the Tamron holds its own for most portrait, wedding, and casual sports use — especially at its used price point.

Question 6

What filter size does this lens use?

Accepted Answer

The Tamron SP 70-200mm f/2.8 Di VC USD uses a 77mm filter thread, which is the same size as many Canon L-series and Nikon telephoto lenses. That means your existing 77mm polarisers and ND filters should fit straight away.

Question 7

Is buying a used Tamron SP 70-200mm f/2.8 Di VC USD safe?

Accepted Answer

Buying a second-hand copy is generally low-risk when the lens is professionally inspected before sale. On Camera-tweedehands.nl every used lens is individually checked and photographed, and all listings come with a minimum 12 months warranty — so you have real cover if anything surfaces after purchase. Check the condition grade on the listing to know exactly what to expect optically and cosmetically.

Question 8

What's the minimum focus distance, and is this lens usable for close-up shots?

Accepted Answer

The minimum focus distance is 1.3 m measured from the sensor plane. That's fairly typical for a 70-200mm f/2.8 zoom and allows decent subject isolation at the long end, but it's not a macro lens. For close-up detail shots you'd want a dedicated macro lens rather than relying on this one.

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Tamron SP 70-200mm f/2.8 Di VC USD - Canon EF

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About the Tamron SP 70-200mm f/2.8 Di VC USD - Canon EF

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