Tamron announces the launch of the 70-300mm F/4.5-6.3 Di III RXD (Model A047), a telephoto zoom lens for Sony E-mount full-frame mirrorless cameras.

While Tamron has manufactured many popular telephoto zoom lenses that extend to 300mm for DSLR cameras, the new 70-300mm is the first model designed for full-frame mirrorless cameras. Developed with the concept of bringing the joy of easy telephoto shooting to photographers everywhere, it’s the world’s smallest and lightest 70-300mm zoom lens— just 5.8 in. in length and weighing a mere 19.2 oz.— and delivers exceptional image quality.

Tamron has adopted a dedicated design for mirrorless cameras and achieved a compact size once again by fixing the aperture at f/6.3 at the telephoto end. The maximum diameter is 77mm. Compatible with Sony’s popular E-mount cameras, it has been developed with the concept of enabling photographers to experience the universe of full-scale, full-frame 300mm telephoto photography more easily.

The AF drive system incorporates the quiet RXD (Rapid eXtra-silent stepping Drive) stepping motor and is compatible with Sony camera features, including in-body image stabilization and Eye AF.

The optical design includes 15 elements in 10 groups, with an LD (Low Dispersion) lens element precisely arranged to suppress axial chromatic and other aberrations that are likely to happen with telephoto zoom lenses. At 300mm, a commonly used telephoto zoom focal length, the design delivers excellent resolution from edge-to-edge. Overall, the efficient optical construction (which also contributes to its lightweight), plus Tamron’s BBAR (Broad-Band Anti-Reflection) Coating with its well-established reputation for anti-reflection properties, combine to enable the photographer to capture extremely clear, crisp images across the entire zoom range. While the lens features an advanced design with excellent core image quality, optical performance can be enhanced even further by employing the lens correction features found on Sony cameras.

With the introduction of this lens, all photographers, from first-time users of dedicated telephoto zoom lenses to experienced enthusiasts seeking a compact, lightweight telephoto zoom, can comfortably enjoy the advantages of a powerful, versatile zoom without worry about size or weight. Photographers who are shooting with in-camera image stabilization or using a tripod can reduce the burden of their gear. Moreover, the 70-300mm F4.5-6.3 maintains excellent balance even when used with the APS-C-sized E-mount cameras that are smaller than full-frame cameras consequently, users can also enjoy photography with an even greater equivalent telephoto zoom appearance of approximately 450mm.

The lens is expected to retail go on sale starting October 29 for $549, but Tamron notes the complexities caused by the COVID-19 pandemic could change that date.

More info on Tamron’s website.