Hands-On Field Test: Tamron 25-200mm Review by Andre Costantini

When it comes to versatile Tamron lenses for Sony that handle everything from sweeping landscapes to intimate portraits, photographer Andre Costantini wanted to see if the Tamron 25-200mm F/2.8-5.6 Di III VXD G2 (Tamron A075) could truly deliver. In this Tamron 25-200mm review, Andre takes the lens into real-world shooting environments to test its performance, handling, and optical quality. With its rare combination of compact form, wide focal range, and bright aperture, this all-in-one zoom for full-frame mirrorless cameras promises to be the ultimate Tamron travel lens and walk-around lens.

What You’ll Learn In This Review:

• How the Tamron 25-200mm’s 8x zoom range performs across wide, mid, and telephoto shooting situations
• The lens sharpness and optical upgrades that distinguish the G2 version from Tamron’s earlier 28-200mm model
• How the VXD autofocus motor enhances speed, precision, and quiet operation
• The benefits of close focusing (up to 1:1.9 magnification) for creative near-macro compositions
• Why this lightweight 4.8”, 20-ounce lens is a powerful companion for travel and everyday photography

By Guest Contributor André Costantini

The Tamron 25-200mm F/2.8-5.6 Di III VXD G2 is the next generation of Tamron all-in-one lenses. Its broad focal range, bright aperture, and compact build make it an exceptional walk-around lens, and it is impressively sharp while focusing extremely close.

Exploring the 8x Zoom Range

Let’s begin with focal length. The Tamron 25-200mm offers an 8x zoom—that’s 200 divided by 25 (telephoto end divided by the wide end). In the field, this all-in-one zoom lens gives tremendous flexibility. I can capture wide vistas at 25mm with rich foreground detail, zoom to 200mm for tight composition, or work anywhere in between. This versatility makes it one of the most practical Tamron zoom lenses for travel and everyday photography.

Close-Focusing Creativity

Shooting at 25mm gives me real creative control, especially when I can’t step back or when I want to include more of the environment. Because the lens focuses extremely close (about 6” at 25mm) I can create images that are almost macro (up to 1:1.9 magnification) while still showing the surroundings—a capability rare for an all-in-one zoom lens. It’s a feature that feels more like two lenses in one and this close-focusing capability opens up exciting possibilities for storytelling:

Real-World Landscape Flexibility

For landscapes, the versatility of the Tamron 25-200mm G2 lens really shines. I can reframe instantly or zoom in quickly when the light changes. For example, the two shots above taken just eight minutes apart at 55mm and 200mm look like completely different scenes, yet I never moved my position. This adaptability is crucial because the perfect light only lasts a few moments, and the lens allows me to capture everything on the spot.

BBAR-G2 Coatings Minimize Ghosting and Flare

The BBAR-G2 coatings perform impressively, minimizing ghosting and flare and maintaining contrast and clarity even when shooting into bright light sources. In another example shown above, detail, contrast, and color all held up beautifully.

Sharpness and Autofocus Performance

Speaking of lens sharpness, compared to my experience with the original 28-200mm, the new Tamron G2 lens is noticeably sharper. With the original Tamron 28-200mm I was able to make 24”x36” prints that held up beautifully. However, the Tamron 25-200mm GF/2.8-5.6 Di III VXD G2, is even sharper. Every texture, highlight, and subtle detail comes through with incredible clarity. Combine its sharpness with the Tamron VXD autofocus, and this lens excels in challenging situations.

Take this action portrait, for example. Motion is perfectly frozen, focus is locked, and the image is sharp from edge to edge. The detail in the eye is extraordinary: you can see the natural catchlight and even my reflection as I take the shot. The VXD motor really nailed it, keeping focus precise throughout the moment. It’s rare to find an all-in-one zoom lens that delivers this combination of sharpness and autofocus performance.

Bokeh, Brightness, and Low-Light Shooting

The 9-blade aperture delivers smooth, natural bokeh that separates subjects beautifully. Its variable aperture keeps the lens bright enough for handheld shooting, even in dim conditions. One handheld shot at 200mm, 1/125 sec, f/5.6, came out impressively sharp.

Compact Design and Portability

At just 4.8” long and slightly over 20 ounces, the Tamron 25-200mm G2 packs serious performance into a remarkably small footprint. high performance into a compact body. Light enough to carry all day, yet capable enough for most shooting scenarios, this lens offers endless creative possibilities for photographers seeking a Tamron travel lens.

Conclusion: A Versatile Travel Powerhouse

In this Tamron 25-200mm review, Andre Costantini demonstrates how this lens redefines what an all-in-one zoom lens can achieve for full-frame mirrorless photographers. With its wide-to-telephoto reach, exceptional lens sharpness, and travel-friendly size, the Tamron 25-200mm F/2.8-5.6 Di III VXD G2 (A075) is one of the most capable and compact Sony e-mount lenses full-frame photographers can choose, offering premium performance in a lightweight design. Whether exploring city streets, chasing landscapes, or capturing candid portraits, it delivers impressive results—proof that portability and performance can coexist beautifully.

Learn more about Tamron lenses for Sony at an authorized Tamron dealer near you or shop directly at the official TAMRON Store.

Frequently Asked Questions About the Tamron 25-200mm F/2.8-5.6 Di III VXD G2 (Model A075)

1. What makes the Tamron 25-200mm F/2.8-5.6 Di III VXD G2 special?

The Tamron 25-200mm G2 stands out for combining an 8x zoom range with a bright f/2.8–5.6 aperture in a compact, lightweight design. It’s a true Tamron all-in-one lens for full-frame mirrorless shooters who want wide-to-telephoto flexibility without changing lenses.

2. Is the Tamron 25-200mm G2 sharper than the previous 28-200mm version?

Yes. Many photographers, including Andre Costantini in this Tamron 25-200mm review, have noted improved lens sharpness in the new G2 model. The upgraded optics deliver higher resolution, especially at the edges, while maintaining strong contrast and color accuracy.

3. How fast is the Tamron VXD autofocus system?

The Tamron VXD autofocus motor is exceptionally fast and quiet, ideal for both stills and video. It locks onto subjects with precision, even in low light or action scenes. In Andre’s field tests, the autofocus nailed the subject consistently, capturing even fine eye detail in motion portraits.

4. Can the Tamron 25-200mm be used as a travel lens?

Absolutely. This Tamron travel lens is only 4.8” long and weighs just over 20 ounces, making it one of the most compact Tamron zoom lenses for full-frame cameras. Its wide-to-telephoto range makes it perfect for landscapes, portraits, and street photography while traveling.

5. Does the Tamron 25-200mm work with Sony full-frame mirrorless cameras?

Yes, the Tamron 25-200mm F/2.8-5.6 Di III VXD G2 is part of the lineup of Tamron lenses for Sony full-frame mirrorless cameras. It integrates seamlessly with Sony autofocus systems and supports in-camera features like Eye AF, direct manual focus, and camera-based stabilization.

6. How close can the Tamron 25-200mm focus?

This lens offers impressive Tamron close focusing capability—down to about six inches at 25mm, with a magnification ratio up to 1:1.9. That means you can capture near-macro subjects with surrounding context, making it an especially creative all-in-one zoom lens for detail work.

7. How does the Tamron 25-200mm handle flare and ghosting?

The Tamron G2 lens features advanced BBAR-G2 coatings that suppress ghosting and flare, even when shooting directly into bright light sources. Photographers will appreciate its consistent contrast and clean color rendering in challenging lighting conditions.

8. Is the Tamron 25-200mm a good all-in-one zoom for everyday use?

Yes, it’s one of the most versatile Tamron all-in-one zoom lenses available. Whether you’re shooting wide cityscapes, mid-range portraits, or distant details, this Tamron walk-around lens covers nearly every situation. It’s a strong choice for anyone seeking a single lens solution for full-frame mirrorless systems.