There was minimal editing in lightroom done between the compared images. Just bringing up exposures to about the same level and applying the lens correction for the respective lenses.

Yours is the first really accurate video comparing these two lenses that I have watched. I rented both these lenses to compare them prior to buying one. I chose the Tamron G2 based on a few things. Weight was one. I really preferred the less weight and smaller lenses diameter of the Tamron for carrying and holding. Weather sealing was also important. The Tamron is weather sealed and the Nikon isn’t. This isn’t only important for moisture but also to prevent dust from entering the lens when zoomed in and out. These type of lens are internal dust collectors unless sealed. So far I have found the Tamron definitely doesn’t collect dust. Other photographers I know who shoot with the 200-500 admit that the Nikon does have internal dust after a few years of use depending on conditions it is used in. I also prefer the Arca Swiss tripod mount as my tripod and monopod are Arca Swiss which means one less connection point to cause issues. I admit that there isn’t a huge difference between 500 to 600 mm but on my D500 the difference is 750 to 900mm and I will take that extra 150 any day. I agree with your estimation of focus speed as I found the Tamron slightly quicker to focus and also to acquire focus. The Nikon could be slightly sharper however I couldn’t see a dramatic difference or at least not enough to make me choose the Nikon. I really liked the 200-500 and usually prefer native Nikon glass but on this occasion the Tamron just aced out more positives than the Nikon. On other things like the VR compared to the VC they both seemed similar. The flex lock on the Tamron comes in handy when I shoot HDR but wouldn’t be a deciding factor for me. I really think you did a extremely good comparison of the shooting quality of both lenses. Some of the other items that I have pointed out definitely tip the scales in favour of the Tamron though. Most bird/wildlife photographers will likely enjoy either though. Again thanks for sharing your insights on both these lenses.

@forced_perspective

Жыл бұрын

Thanks so much for watching Leslie and your kids comments. I think you are spot on with your observations which can only be seen with constant use. And like you said you rented them both and have hands on experience vs just looking at the specs. For me I also honestly will take the tamron any day over the Nikon. Have an amazing day

@lesleyh2007

Жыл бұрын

Yes, I think if you didn’t actually use and compare that a person would be quite happy and satisfied with either for the price. You only really notice the difference when you use each one. They were close enough that the biggest reason I chose the Tamron was the weather sealing. If you notice how much each barrel extends when going from closest to farthest reach you can see that such lenses are real air pumps that will suck dust, pollen or anything else that is airborne into the internals. With the Tamron being weather sealed this isn’t as much of a concern. Tamron does have other points also that made me lean in that direction but the weather sealing really counts for a lens used for birds and wildlife where conditions are often less than ideal.

Thanks! I am thinking about purchasing one of these lenses, but not sure which one.

I like that you put the images side by side. All lens comparisons should do that.

@forced_perspective

2 ай бұрын

Thanks so much Glen

Thanks for the excellent comparison.

@forced_perspective

10 ай бұрын

Any time and thank you for watching :)

Great comparison. THANKS!

@forced_perspective

3 ай бұрын

Than YOU so much for watching

Very honest review thanks!

@forced_perspective

8 ай бұрын

Thank you so much!!! From what I had seen and heard.. I thought the Nikon would blow the Tamron out of the water but didn't really seem that way. Appreciate you watching

Great job man! Thank you 🎇

@forced_perspective

2 ай бұрын

Thank you so much!!!

I am just about to upgrade so came across your channel very nicely made and informative 👍

@forced_perspective

9 ай бұрын

Awesome!!! Hopefully it helped you make a good decision :)

Great presentation as always thank you ! And yes I would like to see some pixel peeping comparisons

@forced_perspective

2 ай бұрын

Awesome thanks John for watching. I will work on something that we can really zoom in

In my practical experience of many years shooting birds. The Nikon lens destroys the G2 at 500 mm F5.6, It is one full F stop better! The rest of the optics are very similar. Focusing of the G2 is always faster. The 200-500 is great with the D500 and not so good with the D850. The G2 is pretty good everywhere. Upon switching to Z9, the 200-500 is still very slow. The G2 focuses so fast with the Z9, it is silly. I sold the Nikon 200-500 and use the G2 more reach, lighter and smaller. I also use the Z 100-400 and the Z 800 F6.3.

@forced_perspective

Жыл бұрын

Hey Frank thanks for watching and glad I was not losing my mind. I was literally trying to favor the Nikon and thought I was doing wrong as far as the focus speed. How do you like the z9 so far? If you hadn't made that jump already would you have considered getting the z8? I'm still in that dilemma right now..the only mirrorless I have is the z6

@alanalain4884

Жыл бұрын

Not so good with the D850 ? That's good to know...

@wayanadanpixels

9 ай бұрын

I was using z6 with 200-500 on ftz adapter. Now moved to z8 with same lens. My experience is it focus much faster . I could click a dusky crag martin flying towards me on a cloudy day . extra mp and faster ficus of z8 helps even with a slower lens like 200-500. Now my lens and ftz adapter got stuck and needed to break the ftz adapter to get the lens by service centre. Now i am confused whether to get 180-600 or sony 200-600 + etz21pro or tamron g2 + viltrox adapter . then came across your video and saw you using z6 and planning to move to z8 😀

@forced_perspective

9 ай бұрын

Haha wow maybe stick with the z mount lens I'm sure it will do soon much better than anybody the adapted ones. Hope you are enjoying that z8 hope I get one soon

@georgedavall9449

5 ай бұрын

Great Comment!

Great and simple analysis with comparable parameters. I found it extremely useful. I have Tamron 150~600 G2 lens.

@forced_perspective

7 ай бұрын

Awesome and thank you so much for watching !!!!

Brilliant video, I like The Split Comparison. Very Helpful And Informative. Many Thanks For Sharing. 🇬🇧

@forced_perspective

11 ай бұрын

Thank you so very much for checking it out. Much appreciated 🙏 ☺ and glad it could help someone

I just bit the bullet and bought the Tamron for my D500. Definitely pros and cons to both lenses. I could get either or for the same price. The deciding factor for me was the difference on the short end funny enough. If you’re shooting elephants and they’re close up you’re going to battle with 200mm (300 on a crop sensor). The zoom range, weather sealing and overall sharpness of the Tamron I’ve heard is better. Nikon sharpness better in the middle but softens towards the edges if you’re going to be using it for landscape as well. Thanks for the video

@forced_perspective

6 ай бұрын

Awesome. I'm sure you will love it! Many people swear by the Nikon but the Tamron for me as well checks all the boxes I needed. Appreciate you watching!!!

@BrendanHarington

6 ай бұрын

@@forced_perspective I’m just thinking it’s more versatile in the field. Don’t want to be changing lenses and getting dust in.

@BrendanHarington

3 ай бұрын

I’ve noticed the lens is very soft past 500mm. Pretty disappointed with it to be honest.

@forced_perspective

3 ай бұрын

Oh no way sorry to hear that. Are you able to return it still. Hopefully!!

@BrendanHarington

3 ай бұрын

@@forced_perspective I don’t know. The supplier is not getting back to me. And obviously the box has been opened.

This is a fabulous comparison. Well done!

@forced_perspective

11 ай бұрын

Thank you so very much for watching and your kind comment and sub 😊

@georgedavall9449

4 ай бұрын

He is a very good Photographer, good soul, and puts out good content!

Clear and coherent. I would have liked a comparison of the continuous autofocus while following flying birds for example. Thank you.

@forced_perspective

2 ай бұрын

Thanks so much for the comment. I always actually wanted to do that. I'll try incorporate that if i do another comparison video

Very well done comparison of both lenses. This was a very informative video.

@forced_perspective

2 ай бұрын

Thanks so much for watching

Very Nice!

@forced_perspective

Жыл бұрын

Thanks so much

This is awesome. It is an honest comparison. In the right hands, the gear makes little difference and you always seem to nail. it. I am trying to shoot video like you!!!! 🙏🤗❤

@forced_perspective

Жыл бұрын

Well I thank you very much. Learning all your tips and tricks and for letting me borrow the lens as usual 🙏

@JonnyPink65

Жыл бұрын

@@forced_perspective ❤ Anything I have your are welcome too.... while I have it. I am actually copying you!! 🤗

Nice in-depth comparison James, loved the images you managed to capture with both setups. The Tamron is a great budget option for sure but the Nikkor definitely seemed sharper and produced overall higher IQ. Thanks for sharing!

@forced_perspective

Жыл бұрын

Thanks for checking it out Peter. Budget is my middle name haha. Hope you have a fantastic week ahead

@peterviragphoto

Жыл бұрын

@@forced_perspective haha. I love budget too when the results are decent!:)

Thank you for doing this video. I wish I could say it helped me answer the question for myself, but I remain unsure. I've used both Nikon and Tamron zooms (shorter) and been pleased with both. Being on a more limited income it may come down to money.

@forced_perspective

7 ай бұрын

Awesome and thanks for watching. I have to say for myself, budget is the main factor, until I'm making enough money from photography I really can't justify investing in a $5k or even $15k lens.

Hey! Good stuff. The difference is so small, hardly noticeable. However, I sold my Nikon 200-500 as it was too heavy, and have the 500pf, and the 300pf. Cheers!

@forced_perspective

Жыл бұрын

Hey Randy that 500pf is on my wishlist. Is the 300 pf just as good? Probably a whole lot lighter!!

Great comparison and excellent work between the two lenses, and I think that the Tamron lens is the best in terms of protection from dust and bad weather, Thanks a lot for this video

@forced_perspective

7 ай бұрын

Thanks so much for watching. I honestly think the Tamron is better value for the money. Have a wonderful day

Thank you! Was quite informative - and based on your video and others - I decided to go with the Tamron. In the past, I always went with the Nikon "top end lenses" - and frankly they are the best, but shockingly expensive. When I wanted to buy a lens for casual birding/safari purposes - the prices for Nikon were far beyond what I was willing to pay as I'm not a professional, and to be honest, you have a tough time really telling the difference until you get into the pixels. Happy with my Tamron!

@forced_perspective

2 ай бұрын

You are absolutely correct. The casual observer will not be able to tell the difference in my opinion. A professional would definitely want to go with the more expensive nikkn or even a prime lens. Weekend warrior like me and the tamron works fine

Thanks for your carefully done comparison! Yes, please include the nasty little pixel-peeping when you can :) Also, I hope you have or might do a comparison of Tampon versus Canon too. You're much appreciated by this nature photographer!

@forced_perspective

5 ай бұрын

You are much appreciated Gail thanks for watching. I can put that nasty pixel peeping in the agenda 😀 I was thinking of doing a nikon d500 vs canon r7 however the lenses will not have the same aperture and zoom range.. etc. It will just be based on the image quality of the 2 systems

Great Video, would like to see how the Nikon 180-600 stacks up vs Tamron. -- Best

@forced_perspective

8 ай бұрын

Thanks for watching. I would think that newer lens with the newer optics would be superior. But you never know!!! Cheers

Great comparison of the 2 lenses James. Either would be heavy for me to carry around. 😮 I agree with your assessment points. The only thing I noticed, since I don’t shoot either is that the Nikon does seem a little sharper, rendering more detail. Enjoyed the video!

@forced_perspective

Жыл бұрын

Thanks Bill. Time for me to win the lottery and get one of the super light pf lenses

@Eli4Bill

Жыл бұрын

@@forced_perspective 😆👍

@alanalain4884

Жыл бұрын

@@forced_perspective Was lucky not only to get the 300PF as about new for a grand on CL (vs 2000+tax retail) but the seller was kind enough to throw in the deal the AF-S Teleconverter TC-14E III with it for free. (That gives like a super light 630mm FF equivalent on the D500 @5.6, what's not to like...) I was quite happy with the deal at the end. Still a grand is a lot. But it's not a good candidate for DSO Astro, as the PF are Fresnel lenses by design (where flare becomes a problem with Astro). Nice glass otherwise, and on a hard kike, although not having the reach of the big guns, it's a weight relief.

Nice Video bro... Would you recommend nikon D500 for a beginner for taking wildlife videos?

@forced_perspective

8 ай бұрын

Thanks so much!! I think it would be good for wildlife stills bit the autofocus on video is pretty much obsolete. It takes a lot more work. I think for video, one of the mirrorless cameras would be much more suitable. Thanks for watching!!

thanks so much for this video. decisions decisions decisions. for me it might be the weather sealing and extra reach. i want it for shooting rugby

@forced_perspective

10 ай бұрын

Haha you are most welcome!!! decisions decisions it would be easier to get both and a nice prime. I played rugby 🏉 in hufh school. Not much of a rugby scene this side of the pond but I always attend the world 7s series when in town

@scottcoles8838

10 ай бұрын

i willl say your video was really straight forward and too the point. my latest problems i now i have found a lot of negative comments and even youtube videos showing the G2 can just stop working or have major issues and this is a huge concern just when i though i was going to head in that direction due to the extra reach and 50ml on the small end and of course the weather sealing@@forced_perspective

@forced_perspective

10 ай бұрын

Thanks!!! I hope that doesn't happen to my G2, had it for years and bangs around in my camera bag everywhere I go. Kind of hit and miss with technology sometimes

Thanks so much for this review. I do aircraft photography and have an old Tamron 150-600. The focus is starting to play up and I'm looking to replace the lens. I use a Nikon D500 and have been looking at the two lenses you are comparing. I think I'm going to go with a new Tamron, which should be a decent upgrade on the old version I'm using

@forced_perspective

10 ай бұрын

You are most welcome!!!! Glad I could help. I did also have the bold Tamron and only reason I switched was because the auto focus wasn't compatible with the Z6 ftz mount so I got the G2. Always wanted the Nikkor but after using them side by side I would honestly go with the Tamron everyday of the week

@doctorgood2007

10 ай бұрын

@@forced_perspective Thank you so much. I'll be ordering the Tamron in the next few days. The company have even offered me a good trade-in rice for the old lens. It has a fault that they are aware of, so I guess they'll be able to fix it before selling it on. Thanks again. Have a great day, Mike

@forced_perspective

10 ай бұрын

That's awesome. Have a fantastic day as well. I'd love to see some of the aircraft photos. Funny I was going to try and shoot for the first time at an airshow in about 2 weeks. James

I'm an avowed Nikonphile. My first Nikon camera was an Nikkormat FT-2 bought in 1978. I really wanted the Nikon 200-500 to be the sharper of the two lenses here. After viewing at 4k, full screen, the Tamron lens looked to me to be the sharper of the two! Tamron is really kicking butt with their G2 lenses.

@forced_perspective

9 ай бұрын

Hahhaa I feel you Terry! I was trying soooo much to make the Nikon better because I was told it was .. but oh well the proof is in the pudding 🤣 thanks for watching.

This was awesome James and thanks so much for sharing your comparisons. Great video. I’ve used the Tamron and concur on all your points. I haven’t used the Nikon, but I believe you are 100% correct there on your findings. The Tamron is an awesome budget lens for what you get. But the Nikon is heavier yet a tad sharper. As a run and gun guy like you I’d rather carry a lighter lens. Well done on putting this video together 👍🙏

@JonnyPink65

Жыл бұрын

You two always looking for lighter lenses..... a bruised and broken shoulder means you care about your photos... 😂🤣

@adrianalfordphotography

Жыл бұрын

@@JonnyPink65 Haha says the guy who prefers the 500mm PF over the 200-500mm because of the weight! 😂😂😂

@JonnyPink65

Жыл бұрын

@@adrianalfordphotography 🤣😂 Oh yeah........ but then the Z9 body is way heavier so it makes up for it..... 🤣🤣😂😂

@adrianalfordphotography

Жыл бұрын

@@JonnyPink65 💪📸🤙

@forced_perspective

Жыл бұрын

Thanks Adrian hahah @john is a weight weenie when it comes to bikes but not lenses. Thanks for watching and next time ill ask him to hike around with me with a 800 f/5.6

I bought an open box Tamron 150-600 3 weeks ago and... it was terrible. Nothing was sharp at any focal length or aperture. Having bought 3rd party glass before, I know that glass is glass and is imperfect. So I sent it back and bought a brand new one. It arrived yesterday. So far it's 85% better than the first one but again, the glass is slightly off. It's sharper at the lower half of the frame always (in landscape) and soft in the middle. So it looks like this will have to go back for a 3rd try as well. At this point, I'm considering trying the Sigma, even though I think I'll regret that it's heavier than the Tamron.

@forced_perspective

3 ай бұрын

Oh my goodness. Wow that's been some rough luck with the Tamrons. Hope the next one is fine. I always say that I'm lucky neither the G1 nor G2 had any issues. Actually the G1 I think stopped focusing at kne point but Tamron fixed it promptly and sent it back at no charge as it still had a warranty.

👍👍👍

@forced_perspective

3 ай бұрын

Thank you :)

Great comparison video and awesome images, thank you James, not an easy one to put together... I got the 200-500mm for my D500, like a year ago, but the Tamron looks quite good too. I never got to try it though... The 100mm additional reach must often be quite nice. The problem with both might ultimately come to quality control which could get you a sharp or not so sharp copy. (Steve Perry had to go through 3 Nikkor 200-500mm before getting a sharp copy, as he mentions in one of his review or comparative review). So may be make sure that a lens swap is free and easy where you get your copy. I don't know if Tamron has the same issue, but Nikon definitely shouldn't, although I think both are well priced for what they offer. And if you don't mind white box, I got mine new for little above a grand on Abe's of Maine, which are actually serious people with which I hesitated to go with for a long time but wasn't at all disappointed after I did. What's cool with them is that they usually offer white box way cheaper, and easy return if any issue, but also the full retail model if one would want to go for that. All I know is that I called them before buying, and they had excellent live customer service and advice. Not to push them, but rather just a tip if you want an expensive piece of stuff new, but with a possible break with a white box option on a trustworthy site (and it can save quite a bit).

@forced_perspective

Жыл бұрын

Thanks Alan.. great tips and I think I may contact them. I've previously used Adorama and also have not had major issues. For the most part I go used as well so ill check their inventory as well

@Forced Perspective Is the D810 still your goto? I wanted to get this -- is it still a good buy?

@forced_perspective

8 ай бұрын

The D810 is still my go to full frame for land scales and such. I was hiking with it a few months ago and it's so heavy that maybe it's time to think of a mirrorless. And I still use the D500 exclusively for wildlife and birds. I think they are both still very good cameras

What’s the tripod you used in this video? I have both of those lenses

@forced_perspective

Жыл бұрын

Thats cool. Do you have a preference?? The tripod I'm using is the manfrotto 190x aluminum amzn.to/46mxAH0 I've had it for quite a while now

Watching this video again. I see that you made this video 12 months ago. Are you still getting good performance from the Tamrom 150-600mm lens?

@forced_perspective

2 ай бұрын

To be 100% honest with you. I think it's days are numbered to go with 500pf or the older 400 2.8 vr lens now that people are going with the z mount. D500 days are numbered too if this z6 III ever comes out. I should probably do a follow up video. It's OK for a weekend warrior like myself. However equipment has evolved and it's really not the same as the newer gear

@lonnieclemens8028

2 ай бұрын

@@forced_perspective The resale value of this Tamron lens is not really good. It might be because of the new technology that you are talking about. I don't think I will be moving beyond the Nikon D750 or the D780.

can nikon z6 use the Tamron150-600mm g2 with ftz? Nikon's original Z ultra telephoto lenses are too expensive for me, so i want to choose the sigma150-600c or tamron 156 g2 with ftz. look forward to your advice

@forced_perspective

Жыл бұрын

Yes I had the same issue. Autofocus would not work with the g1 but the Tamron150-600 g2 works with the ftz adapter on my z6

Nice job Sir, where were you shooting at?

@forced_perspective

Жыл бұрын

Thanks sir. This is speulveda basin wildlife reserve in los angeles

@longrider9551

Жыл бұрын

@@forced_perspective wow LA I would have sworn it was another country

@forced_perspective

Жыл бұрын

@@longrider9551 haha its a secluded little spot right in the middle of the hustle and bustle of the city. I didn't even know it was there until I got into photography 😅

I used to own this lens in EF mount. It was decent. Not great; and its jerky VC made it useless for video. But for the money it's a good stills lens.

@forced_perspective

Жыл бұрын

Hey John. I think you nailed it being a decent stills lens. You actually gave me an idea.. all nikon f mount bodies are pretty much useless for video I think until the 780 came around. I'm sure the nikon lens would blow the tamron out the water for video. Might try them on my z6. Thanks for watching.

Yes the G2 is Better by far especially at the long end

@forced_perspective

Жыл бұрын

Hey Peter thanks for watching. That extra reach does play a factor as little as it seems.

I think the Nikon is sharper but the bokeh is better on the Tamron...I have the 200-500 and have used it and abused it for about 5 years and it still works like its new...My thinking is sell both and get the Nikon 500pf :)

@forced_perspective

Жыл бұрын

Hahaa yes the 500pf is way superior to both of these and good to see your 200-500 is still giving the results you want. I'm still eagerly waiting the next mirrorless release and if it's a enthusiast version of the z9 along with the anticipated z 200-600 i might be sold. Cheers!!

@longrider9551

Жыл бұрын

oh really bassman, I have not seen an image from you in a year! 🙄

@bassangler73

Жыл бұрын

@@longrider9551 ha ha...I got about 2500 over the winter

@longrider9551

Жыл бұрын

@@bassangler73 ahhhh I shoot that in a week LOLOL 😘😘

@bassangler73

Жыл бұрын

@Longrider you probably do...I shoot 5000 to 10,000 every Eagle season but man this year the eagle's were not here like normal...it's kinda got me concerned because 2 nest stayed empty!!! And I have noticed in the past few years I have been seeing fewer juveniles...maybe it's just because of a weather pattern change ( I hope) it got slow enough as to where I was shooting Gulls just for something to shoot

Para cuando con montura M 4/3?

@forced_perspective

4 ай бұрын

No tengo experiencia m 4/3. He oído que las imágenes tienen ruido pero no estoy seguro

I thought the Tamron images were slightly sharper than the Nikon. But that is only my opinion. After seeing the performance of both lenses. I think I would be more concerned about which company offers the best warranty.

@forced_perspective

10 ай бұрын

Thanks Lonnie! I also thought in my opinion, Tamron was sharper. I was so hoping the more expensive native lens would be sharper and quicker to focus but seemed like it wasn't the case. Thanks for watching !!

@keeperofthecheese

4 күн бұрын

@@forced_perspective But in the video you said the Nikon was sharper...

What is the weight of each lens ? that could become a factor...

@forced_perspective

3 ай бұрын

The Tamron 150-600mm G2 weighs 2010g, which is 290g (12%) lighter than the Nikon 200-500mm F5.6E ED VR, which weighs 2300g

Tamron 150-600 is great for static subjects WITH A LOT OF LIGHT!!!!! Tamron does poorly with overcast sky’s!!!! Tamron does focus fast, but it does poorly for action!

@forced_perspective

5 ай бұрын

Yes I have heard it called a lens good only for the Florida sunshine 🌞 lol. For anyone on a budget and not able to get a prime f4 or f5.6 lens, then I think it gets the job done. I would love the 400 2.8 myself

In a word no ! Iv used them all , if your a nikon owner grab this lens , nikon know how to make great lenses above the competition ,this is no different

@forced_perspective

3 ай бұрын

I totally hear you. That's been most people's experience between a native and 3rd party lens.

The difference between the Nikon and the Tamron is just 1/3 of a stop. That's pretty insignificant.

@forced_perspective

Жыл бұрын

It really is! I dont think its worth the difference in $$ ill take the extra reach in exchange

@yophotodude7693

Жыл бұрын

@@forced_perspective I evaluted the 200-500 probably back in 2019. I felt it was so large around that it was really unmangable. The zoom through was huge. It was heavy. I felt it would be annoying to use. I ended up getting the Tamron 150-600 G1, which was much more manageable. It was softer at 600mm and doesn't have the contrast of the Nikon, but a lot of that can be fixed in post. Then I went mirrorless and the G1 is not compatible with the FTZ adapter. Tamron didn't seem interested in trying to fix the G1, so I traded it in to get the 200-500 and used it successfully on my Z 6II and D500 for several months, but it started causing tendonitis in my left shoulder as I tend to handhold my wildlife. I replaced it with the 500mm PF which I still have today.

@forced_perspective

Жыл бұрын

@@yophotodude7693 that 500pf is amazing. I also had the tamron g1 and wouldn't work with my z6 so I traded it for the g2. That nikon zoom throw is huuuge and so heavy and clunky. Glad tou found something that works for you. Hopefully we get a d500 mirrorless equivalent and affordable z lenses soon 🙏

Sigma are way better

@forced_perspective

5 ай бұрын

No way!? I never tried sigma but would love to try sigma some day