Just for your information about other lenses I use(or used) to compare:
Had Nikon 24-70 F2.8 back in 2008-sold it-,used since than: nikkor 28-70 F2.8, 16-35 F4 vr and 28mm AF-S G F1.8 in the wide angle range next to more. 70-200VRII from 70mm upwards next to other.
Now about the 24-70 vc:
Bought this lens last week at Art & Craft after long debate and reading tons of reviews on Dpreview , Photozone, Photo.net, lensrentals and one more at Photography Blog next to several owners opinions on fredmiranda.com .
The first copy I had was not very sharp wide open. I exchanged it after approx. 100 test shots and got another one.
The second copy is simply sharper than any zoom I've ever used before, also wide open and from 24 to 70mm.
- I compared it to my 28mm AF-S F1.8 at F2.8 and I barely could see any difference in sharpness.
- At 70mm and F2.8 I can't notice any difference in center sharpness with my 70-200 vrII
- It focuses very fast and silent and the VC is what I would have liked with my 24-70 F2.8 Nikon back in 2008.
- Build is very solid and the size of this lens pleases me much better than the 24-70 Nikon, weight is about the same but it's shorter.
- I did controlled test shots on tripod with LVAF and normal AF. No visible difference from 24 to 70mm.
- I was taking pictures of flowers at 70mm and as close as possible. The detail is stunning and the AF works even perfect at F2.8.
- I would liked have seen zoom ring and AF ring switch place
- Sun cap is very stiff to mount and click on the lens cilinder which might bring unnecessary wear. I informed Tamron Belgium about this in relation to my 5 year warranty
One thing to consider while going for this lens: There might be some more sample variation among 24-70 VC than what you see among the Nikon and Canon 24-70 F2.8 counterparts. My first copy wasn't sharp wide open, while my second is simply incredible sharp from F2.8...
But, in relation to the "good or bad lens samples" I strongly believe in lens-body match. One lens can be a dream on one body and terrible back or front focusing on another one.... TMHO the match between the bodies yaw and pitch setting has to cover the AF alignment of the lens... Would love to read Marianne Oelund or another expert on this subject.
I will add pictures of the test shots and possible some real life samples later this week when I have more time and when it stops raining here.
Thanks for your attention and kindest regards,
Stany