A recent investigation by The Phoblographer has uncovered significant performance issues with the Tamron 35-150mm f/2-2.8 Di III VXD lens when paired with the Sony a7V camera. Despite Tamron's close ties and licensing agreements with Sony, which typically ensure seamless compatibility, unexpected autofocus challenges have emerged. This discovery prompts a crucial update to previous reviews, advising potential users about the lens's inconsistent behavior with the a7V body, particularly concerning erratic focusing, difficulties in achieving precise focus, and flawed eye detection capabilities. The findings suggest a potential firmware gap or compatibility hurdle that needs addressing.
The detailed analysis highlights a surprising turn for a lens considered a flagship professional-grade offering. Chris Gampat, who personally acquired the Tamron 35-150mm f/2-2.8 lens and considers it a favorite for the Sony system, identified these issues during testing with a Sony a7V rented from Lensrentals. The problems manifested as erratic autofocus behavior, instances where the lens failed to achieve focus altogether, and noticeable inaccuracies in scene detection, specifically with eye detection, reminiscent of known issues in other camera systems.
These observations are particularly noteworthy because Tamron is partly owned by Sony and is licensed to produce lenses for the E-mount. This relationship usually implies a higher degree of integration and support, including timely firmware updates to maintain optimal performance across new camera bodies. However, the current situation with the a7V suggests a deviation from this expected standard, leaving users with a high-performance lens that doesn't fully deliver when coupled with a newer Sony camera model.
Historically, when third-party lenses faced compatibility issues, the onus was often placed on the manufacturer to issue corrective firmware. Given the severity of the autofocus problems described, the question arises whether Tamron will need to release a specific firmware update to optimize the 35-150mm lens's performance with the Sony a7V. This scenario is unusual, especially for a brand that typically provides robust support and updates.
The Sony a7V is marketed towards enthusiasts, while the Tamron 35-150mm f/2-2.8 is unequivocally designed for professional use, recognized for its innovative features and versatility. The current findings lead to a revised recommendation: while the Tamron lens remains highly recommended for other Sony camera models, such as the Sony a1 II or a9 III, its performance with the a7V is deemed unreliable. This divergence in performance necessitates careful consideration for users planning to pair these two pieces of equipment.
In conclusion, the latest tests reveal a notable compatibility challenge between the Tamron 35-150mm f/2-2.8 lens and the Sony a7V camera. Despite the lens's acclaimed performance and Tamron's close alliance with Sony, the encountered autofocus issues are substantial enough to warrant a cautionary note. Professionals and enthusiasts alike should be aware of these limitations and consider alternative lens-camera combinations to ensure consistent and reliable photographic results with their gear.