Tamron SP 45mm f/1.8 Di VC USD Review
If you've always wanted your 50mm prime lens to be just a little bit wider, Tamron has you covered. Its SP 45mm f/1.8 Di VC USD ($599) has a focal length that almost matches the true normal diagonal of a full-frame camera sensor (43mm). It's quite sharp, offers optical stabilization (a rarity in this type of lens), and a sealed design for use in rainy or dusty environments. But like its SP 35mm ($559.00 at Amazon) sibling, chromatic aberration is an issue. We're sticking with the Sigma 50mm F1.4 DG HSM Art ($798.00 at Amazon) as our Editors' Choice for standard-angle SLR lenses, but that doesn't mean you should ignore the Tamron. It's less expensive and the stabilization system is a boon for photographers and videographers alike—just be prepared to deal with some color fringing.
DesignThe SP 45mm ($559.00 at Amazon) measures in at 3.6 by 3.2 inches (HD), a bit larger than most 50mm f/1.4 lenses, and is heavy for its size at 1.2 pounds. It supports 67mm front filters and include...
The Tamron SP 45mm f/1.8 Di VC USD is a sharp, stabilized standard-angle lens, but color fringing can be an issue at wide apertures.
Very sharp; Minimal distortion; Wide maximum aperture; Optically stabilized; Good close focus capability; Weather-sealed design; Available for Canon, Nikon, and Sony SLRs
Shows color fringing; Edge performance isn't as strong as center; Heavy for its size