Glossary:
NON-VC: Non-Vibration Compensation
NON-BIM: Non-Built-In-motor
BIM: Built-in-Motor
AF: Auto focus

I have been hunting for a Tamron 17-50mm F/2.8 NON-VC+NON-BIM for quite some time now and finally got myself one. You can no longer buy this model as a new unit because this model was discontinued, and replaced with Tamron 17-50 F/2.8 NON-VC, BIM.

Recommended for DX cameras. NON-VC BIM can be used across all the current DSLR models in the market, and it is definitely very useful for lower-end Nikon models like D3100, D3200, D5100, and such because these camera bodies have no AF motor. But if you have a D90 or D7000 or camera bodies with an AF motor, I would definitely recommend you to go for the NON-BIM version. I have tried both the NON-VC BIM and NON-VC NON-BIM versions and it is true that the AF is much faster on the latter model.


I got my unit from a dude via Free Trade Zone Malaysia, the aperture ring has a little friction when you use manual focus, but it is alright and doesn't affect AF performance. Also, the aperture ring was missing ._. so I've put a wristband on it instead.




Of course, since this lens has been around for quite some time now and it would be normal to have dust inside a zoom lens. My lens has got dust too but it's alright, cause it doesn't affect image quality either. I mean it's not like I noticed anyway :P

Overall, I like this lens a lot simply because it works great for what I need for group shots. I do admit, it hunts a lot in low light but with the help of AF-assist illumination, the lens can perform better.

This lens is definitely value for money since it's cheaper than the Sigma 17-50 F/2.8 or the very expensive but awesome Nikkor 17-55 F/2.8. Nikon should really come up with a more inexpensive mid-range zoom fixed aperture DX lens :1