What’s New. The Tamron 70-200mm f/2.8 SP Di VC USD G2D offers faster autofocus performance; improved, five-stop image stabilization; an overhauled 23-element/17-group optical design; and a closer minimum focusing distance.

Common Uses. The fast, constant f/2.8 aperture and versatile focal range make this lens a good choice for sports photography, portraiture, and event photography. It’s also great for low-light shooting. On a crop-sensor camera, it gives you a 112-320mm equivalent focal-length range.

Ring-Type USD Autofocus System. Its USD focus motor provides fast, nearly silent autofocus performance that’s great for capturing fast-moving subjects. The motor also gives you full-time manual control, and this lens has a 3.1-foot minimum focusing distance.

High-Quality Optics. The updated 23-element/17-group optical design features one extra-low dispersion element and five low-dispersion elements to help minimize chromatic aberrations while maximizing clarity and sharpness. Its advanced multi-layer eBAND and BBAR coatings reduce ghosting and lens flare to improve performance. The nine-blade electromagnetic diaphragm retains its round shape from f/2.8-5.6, providing smooth background blurring with circular out-of-focus highlights.

Built-In VC Image Stabilization. The built-in Vibration Compensation minimizes the appearance of camera shake for up to five stops, letting you shoot hand-held in low-light conditions. You get three distinct VC modes to best fit your shooting circumstances: Mode 1 gives you a stabilized viewfinder image and stabilized results; Mode 2 is designed for panning movements; and Mode 3 only stabilizes during capture, and doesn’t stabilize the viewfinder image.

Durable, High-Quality Build. The 70-200 f/2.8 has a curved metal barrel for easy handling. Its large, textured focus and zoom rings to make it ergonomically sound. The moisture-resistant construction means it’s able to hold up in less-than-ideal shooting conditions. It includes both a removable, rotating tripod ring with an Arca-type compatible foot.