Pentax smc DA 50-200mm F4-5.6 ED WR vs Tamron 100-400mm f/4.5-6.3 Di VC USD

Both are Pentax K lenses. Here is what actually differs.

Pentax

Pick the Pentax smc DA 50-200mm F4-5.6 ED WR if

You need ⅓ stop more light for low light or background blur (f/4 vs f/4.5)
You want a wider view: 50mm vs 100mm at the wide end
You shoot close-ups: it focuses down to 1.1 m vs 1.5 m
Our notes say it suits: Travel telephoto, casual portraits, outdoor use

Pick the Tamron 100-400mm f/4.5-6.3 Di VC USD if

You need more reach: 400mm vs 200mm at the long end
You shoot handheld in dim light or video: it has optical image stabilization and the Pentax smc DA 50-200mm F4-5.6 ED WR does not

Spec differences

12 differences

Specifications that differ between the Pentax smc DA 50-200mm F4-5.6 ED WR and the Tamron 100-400mm f/4.5-6.3 Di VC USD
	Pentax smc DA 50-200mm F4-5.6 ED WR	Tamron 100-400mm f/4.5-6.3 Di VC USD
Brand	Pentax	Tamron
Type	Zoom	Telephoto Zoom
Format	APS-C	not listed
Focal length	50-200mm	100-400mm
Max aperture	f/4 ⅓ stop faster	f/4.5
Weight	285 g	not listed
Length	80 mm	not listed
Diameter	69 mm	not listed
Filter thread	49 mm	67 mm
Min focus distance	1.1 m closer	1.5 m
Autofocus motor	not listed	USD
Image stabilization	No	Yes stabilized

1 identical spec hidden: mount. Show all

Mount: Pentax K both

Our notes

Pentax smc DA 50-200mm F4-5.6 ED WR

A compact weather-resistant telephoto zoom for Pentax APS-C bodies, weighing about 285 g. It focuses as close as 1.1 m.

Pros

Light at about 285 g
Weather resistant
Compact
Close focus 1.1 m

Cons

Slow aperture
APS-C only
Less reach than 55-300

Our notes

Tamron 100-400mm f/4.5-6.3 Di VC USD

A 100-400mm f/4.5-6.3 full-frame telephoto zoom lens, the Tamron 100-400mm f/4.5-6.3 Di VC USD is designed for Pentax K mount bodies, with Vibration Compensation. The range suits sports, wildlife, events and portraits.