Lens Lab
    Tamron 70-210 mm f/ 3.8-4 Adaptall-2 model 46A
    Tamron 70-210 mm f/ 3.8-4 Adaptall-2 model 46A

    Tamron 70-210 mm f/ 3.8-4 Adaptall-2 model 46A

    70–210mm · f/3.8–4

    Overview

    The Tamron 70-210 mm f/3.8-4 Adaptall-2 model 46A is an affordable telephoto zoom from the late 1980s. Optically, it performs well at 70 mm and 105 mm, with good center sharpness wide open and peak performance at f/8, but at 135 mm sharpness declines. Weaknesses include field curvature at 70 mm and diffraction beyond f/11. Build uses plastic for rings, with a push-pull zoom that can cause zoom creep and a rotating front filter thread. It suits budget-conscious photographers wanting a compact, versatile zoom for general use, though precise focusing is challenging.