Tamron SP 70-200mm F/2.8 Di VC USD vs Sigma 200-500mm f/2.8 APO

Both are Nikon F telephoto zoom lenses for full frame. Here is what actually differs.

Tamron · 2012

SP 70-200mm F/2.8 Di VC USD

f/2.81500 gUSD

Full specs

Sigma

200-500mm f/2.8 APO

f/2.8

Full specs

Pick the Tamron SP 70-200mm F/2.8 Di VC USD if

You want a wider view: 70mm vs 200mm at the wide end
You shoot handheld in dim light or video: it has optical image stabilization and the Sigma 200-500mm f/2.8 APO does not
You shoot close-ups: it focuses down to 0.95 m vs 5 m
Our notes say it suits: Sports and events, portraits at distance, wildlife at moderate range

Pick the Sigma 200-500mm f/2.8 APO if

You need more reach: 500mm vs 200mm at the long end

Spec differences

11 differences

Specifications that differ between the Tamron SP 70-200mm F/2.8 Di VC USD and the Sigma 200-500mm f/2.8 APO
	Tamron SP 70-200mm F/2.8 Di VC USD	Sigma 200-500mm f/2.8 APO
Brand	Tamron	Sigma
Focal length	70-200mm	200-500mm
Weight	1500 g	not listed
Length	194 mm	not listed
Diameter	85.8 mm	not listed
Filter thread	77 mm	not listed
Min focus distance	0.95 m closer	5 m
Optical design	23 elements / 17 groups	17 elements / 13 groups
Autofocus motor	USD	not listed
Image stabilization	Yes stabilized	No
Released	2012	not listed

6 identical specs hidden: mount, type, format, max aperture, max magnification, aperture blades. Show all

Mount: Nikon F both
Type: Telephoto Zoom both
Format: Full frame both
Max aperture: f/2.8 both
Max magnification: 0.13× both
Aperture blades: 9 both

Our notes

Tamron SP 70-200mm F/2.8 Di VC USD

Tamron's first-generation f/2.8 telephoto zoom with Vibration Compensation and a USD focus motor, later replaced by the G2. It weighs about 1,500 g and focuses as close as 1.3 m.