Lens comparison · Sony E / FE · updated 5 November 2026

Sony FE PZ 16-35mm f/4 G vs Tamron 16-30mm f/2.8 Di III VXD G2

Verdict

Sony FE PZ 16-35mm f/4 G has more in its favour on paper. The 16-30mm f/2.8 Di III VXD G2 gathers more light for low light and background blur; the FE PZ 16-35mm f/4 G is cheaper. The Sony lens is the mount maker's own, while the Tamron is a third-party alternative.

Choose the FE PZ 16-35mm f/4 G for

  • less weight (353g vs 440g)
  • a lower price (about £650 vs £780)
  • more reach (35mm vs 30mm)

Choose the 16-30mm f/2.8 Di III VXD G2 for

  • a brighter maximum aperture (f/2.8, about 1.0 stops more light)
FE PZ 16-35mm f/4 G16-30mm f/2.8 Di III VXD G2
BrandSonyTamron
Focal length16-35mm16-30mm
Maximum aperturef/4f/2.8
Weight353 g440 g
StabilisationNoNo
Weather sealingYesYes
Filter size72mm67mm
Made forFull frameFull frame
New price£1,099£849
Used at MPB (Sony E / FE)£529–£764£779–£779

More lens comparisons

See all Sony E / FE cameras and lenses.

Frequently asked questions

Is the Sony FE PZ 16-35mm f/4 G better than the Tamron 16-30mm f/2.8 Di III VXD G2?

The FE PZ 16-35mm f/4 G offers less weight (353g vs 440g), a lower price (about £650 vs £780), more reach (35mm vs 30mm); the 16-30mm f/2.8 Di III VXD G2 offers a brighter maximum aperture (f/2.8, about 1.0 stops more light).

Which is better value, the FE PZ 16-35mm f/4 G or the 16-30mm f/2.8 Di III VXD G2?

On Sony E / FE, the Sony FE PZ 16-35mm f/4 G costs about £650 against about £780 for the Tamron 16-30mm f/2.8 Di III VXD G2 (MPB used where listed, otherwise new; checked 5 November 2026).

Is f/2.8 worth it over f/4?

f/2.8 gathers about 1.0 stops more light, which helps indoors, at night and for background blur. If you mostly shoot in good light, the slower lens is usually lighter and cheaper.

Do both lenses fit the same cameras?

Both are available for Sony E / FE.