PetaPixel reviews the new Tamron 16-30mm f/2.8 FE lens

Tamron 16-30mm f/2.8 FE at BHphoto, Adorama, Fotokoch, WexUK. Introduction on Explora.

Chris Nichols reviews the new Tamron 16–30mm f/2.8 Di III VXD G2, the successor to the 17–28mm f/2.8, completing Tamron’s lightweight f/2.8 zoom “trinity” (16–30, 28–75, 70–180). Despite the confusing name (no prior 16–30 mirrorless version existed), it’s positioned as a more versatile replacement for the older 17–28mm. The lens is compact, lightweight, weather-sealed, with a 67mm filter thread matching the other Tamron zooms.

Build quality: plastic hood, smooth zoom and focus rings, customizable button, and USB-C port for firmware and app customization.
Optics: sharp at 16mm wide open, good corners, but at 30mm wide open suffers some softness and glow; improves stopped down. Bokeh is decent but not exceptional — some harshness and cat’s eye shapes at f/2.8, but backgrounds remain soft for an ultra-wide.
Autofocus is much improved with a linear motor, making it fast and quiet for stills and video.
Video performance: excellent for gimbal work, minimal focus breathing, fast AF tracking, though no optical stabilization (relies on IBIS).
Compared to rivals: sharper and more modern than the old 17–28mm, more affordable and compact than OEM options, but with competition from Sony 16–25mm and Sigma 16–28mm.
Conclusion: a solid choice if you want an affordable, reliable, and compact ultra-wide f/2.8 zoom, especially if you already own Tamron’s 28–75 and 70–180 G2 lenses.