Tamron 90mm f2.8 Di versus non-Di?

[clancyman]

I can buy the Di version for $400 and the non-Di for $300. It looks like the non-Di is only manual focus. Is the only difference that one is autofocus? I am still very new at this macro thing and have only been using a reversing ring, but it seems like I would only use the lens in manual even if I had the Canon 100mm f2.8 that I would really like to have. Is the autofocus really worth the extra money?

[clancyman]

Hmmmmmm.......no answer:(:(:(:(

[LordV]

Can't see why it would be MF unless there is a problem with the "chip" control in the lens. AFAIK the only difference optically will be in the lens coatings which are supposedly optimised for both film and digital sensor.
As most people use macro lenses in MF mode anyway, lack of AF would not be a problem.
I actually use the old version of the sigma 105.
Brian V.

[clancyman]

I knew I could count on you for some feed back. I appreciate it very much.

Bryan

[Gnomey]

There is a MF Tamron 90mm which is 1:2 macro and has an adapter to make it 1:1, it is also f/2.5. The f/2.8 non DI Tamron had AF so make sure you aren't looking at the much older f/2.5 MF lens.

[LordV]

There is a MF Tamron 90mm which is 1:2 macro and has an adapter to make it 1:1, it is also f/2.5. The f/2.8 non DI Tamron had AF so make sure you aren't looking at the much older f/2.5 MF lens.

Good point- not sure this very old version would be that satisfactory with only 0.5:1 max.
Brian V.

[Ranger123]

I have that old 2.5f Tamron lens on my 40D with an adaptall adapter... I really like that lens - it produces a really nice, creamy bokeh - far better than many newer lenses, IMO. Solid metal and glass which adds some weight to it. But price wise - 300 seems a lot for that lens - so it's probably something newer you're looking at...

[MarineManiac]

i have the non-di. it still is auto focus, but does not have the lens coatings (ie DI) and the lens barrel extends vs the canon does not

[parnett]

is the lens barrel extension similar to the sigma 105 macro lens?

[MarineManiac]

yes, to me it is undesirable, and when i have the money will get the canon 100. it is not a bad lens by any means tho. tack sharp, affordable, fast/accurate AF(for a tamron), and good build quality.

[CamDiver]

I have the Di and its one of my favorite lenses. I actually also use it for filming HD footage on a new hybrid extreme HD camera (4 x greater rez than regular HD). Love the results.

Cheers,
Mark.