Tamron has expanded its full-frame lens lineup with the 150-500mm F/5-6.7 Di III VC VXD, a new telephoto zoom for Sony E mount. The hefty focal length range is sure to compete with Sigma's 150-600mm F5-6.3 DG OS HSM, as the two lenses share similar qualities and price points. 

The Tamron 150-500mm F/5-6.7 Di III VC VXD is designed for full-frame sensors, but when used with APS-C mirrorless cameras, the zoom range is an approximate 225-750mm full-frame equivalent. 

Optically, there's a bounty of glass on the inside to achieve this amount of zoom. 25 elements in 16 groups with several XLD (eXtra Low Dispersion), LD (Low Dispersion), and Hybrid Aspherical lens elements to correct aberrations and improve image sharpness. Even with the zoom range, the lens is only 8.3" long and when fully extended to 500mm, it's 11.1". As with other Tamron lenses, it has a moisture-resistant design and a front fluorine coating for easy lens cleaning. 

A VXD linear motor powers the autofocus, which is compatible with Sony's Fast Hybrid AF and Eye AF. Shooters should expect accurate focusing at all distances, and the lens has Tamron's VC modes to help stabilize footage. Mode 1 is standard stabilization, Mode 2 is ideal for panning, and Mode 3 is framing priority. When one of these three modes is activated, video and still shooters will see a reduction in image blur caused by camera shake. This is especially beneficial when shooting at longer focal lengths. 

The Tamron 150-500mm F/5-6.7 Di III VC VXD is expected to ship in early June for $1,339, which puts it about $500 less than the Sigma lens. 

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