Tamron’s 25-200mm f/2.8-5.6 Di III VXD G2 is the successor to the popular 28-200mm RXD, aiming to refine the “do‑everything” travel zoom formula. By widening the short end to 25mm, upgrading autofocus to VXD, and improving close‑focus performance, Tamron is positioning this lens as a more versatile all‑in‑one for Sony E‑mount shooters. Now that reviews have been published, we can see how it performs in real‑world use.
Review Recaps
PetaPixel (Nov 13, 2025)
- Praises Tamron’s history of travel zooms and notes the G2’s $900 price point.
- Highlights convenience for travel photography, with strong optical performance for such a wide focal range.
- Notes compromises typical of superzooms but finds the balance well‑struck.
“The new $900 Tamron 25-200mm f/2.8-5.6 Di VXD G2 is set to make a mark on the travel-zoom industry.”
Dustin Abbott (Nov 3, 2025)
- Compares directly to the 28-200mm RXD, which he used extensively.
- Finds the G2 optically strong, retaining brightness while adding wider coverage.
- Appreciates autofocus improvements and close‑focus ability.
- Frames it as a practical, reliable travel lens with fewer compromises than expected.
“I tend to have reduced expectations of this type of lens, but the 28-200mm surprised me… The new 25-200mm G2 continues that tradition, adding wider coverage and improved autofocus while keeping the brighter aperture range.”
DPReview Extended Coverage (Nov 2025)
- Notes the wider 25mm start and “half‑macro” close‑up capability.
- Emphasizes the VXD autofocus upgrade as a meaningful improvement.
- Frames the G2 as a logical evolution of Tamron’s all‑in‑one zoom line.
“Tamron’s all‑in‑one zoom goes wider, gets closer… combined with a relatively bright F2.8-5.6 maximum aperture range it gives a very flexible lens.”
Comparison Table: G2 vs Predecessor
| Attribute | Tamron 25-200mm f/2.8-5.6 Di III VXD G2 | Tamron 28-200mm f/2.8-5.6 Di III RXD |
|---|---|---|
| Zoom range | 25–200mm (wider at short end) | 28–200mm |
| Max aperture | f/2.8–5.6 | f/2.8–5.6 |
| Autofocus | VXD (faster, quieter) | RXD |
| Close focus | Half‑macro (1:1.9 magnification) | Standard close focus |
| Price | ~$900 (launch) check B&H Photo | ~$800 at launch |
Closing Summary
Across reviews, the G2 is praised for wider coverage, improved autofocus, and close‑focus versatility. PetaPixel emphasizes its travel‑friendly convenience, Dustin Abbott highlights its optical reliability and brightness, and DPReview underscores its flexibility. Together, they paint a picture of a lens that meaningfully improves on its predecessor while keeping the same core appeal: a bright, compact superzoom for Sony shooters.
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