The Tamron 11-20mm F/2.8 Di III-A2 RXD Lens is a high-performance ultra wide-angle zoom lens designed for Canon RF-mount APS-C mirrorless cameras. It boasts a fast and consistent f/2.8 maximum aperture, combined with a compact and lightweight form factor. This lens is particularly well-suited for capturing landscapes, astrophotography, and architectural subjects. The bright f/2.8 aperture enhances low-light performance and provides greater control over depth of field. Its optical construction includes one XLD element, two LD elements, and two glass-molded aspherical elements, which work together to minimize chromatic aberrations and color fringing, resulting in superior image clarity and color fidelity. Each element is treated with Tamron’s BBAR coating, effectively reducing flare and ghosting, thus improving contrast in challenging lighting situations. The lens is equipped with a responsive RXD stepping drive motor that ensures fast and nearly silent autofocus, making it ideal for both still photography and video recording. With a minimum focusing distance of just 5.9 inches at the widest zoom setting, it offers impressive wide-angle macro capabilities, allowing for a unique perspective that emphasizes nearby subjects while diminishing the appearance of distant ones. Furthermore, the f/2.8 maximum aperture facilitates a shallower depth of field, producing aesthetically pleasing bokeh effects in the background. The lens is also designed with moisture-resistant features to withstand adverse weather conditions, and a fluorine coating on the front element provides additional protection against dust, dirt, and smudges.

Optical Performance

The 11-20mm f/2.8 lens is designed for high-resolution imaging, emphasizing exceptional image quality as a fast-aperture ultra wide-angle zoom. Its optical design comprises 12 elements organized into 10 groups. The arrangement of two GM (Glass Molded Aspherical) lens elements ensures that high-resolution performance is consistent throughout the entire frame. To minimize chromatic aberrations, particularly when shooting at the maximum aperture of fast-aperture lenses, the lens incorporates two LD (Low Dispersion) and one XLD (eXtra Low Dispersion) lens elements. These characteristics work together to produce images that are both clear and sharp. Furthermore, the lens correction features integrated into cameras allow users to take advantage of additional performance enhancements.

Minimum Object Distance

The minimum object distance (MOD) measures a mere 0.15 meters (5.9 inches) at its widest point. This remarkable capability for extreme close-range shooting enables you to approach your subject as closely as desired. The lens boasts a maximum magnification ratio of 1:4, which is an impressive achievement for an ultra wide-angle lens, facilitating powerful wide-angle macro photography. This feature provides a distinctive perspective, making nearby objects appear larger while rendering distant objects smaller. Furthermore, the f/2.8 maximum aperture allows for a shallower depth of field, resulting in a pleasing bokeh effect in the background, thereby enabling users to capture striking images with unique attributes.

High Performance AF

The autofocus mechanism in the 11-20mm f/2.8 lens is equipped with an RXD stepping motor unit, designed to maintain focus on dynamic subjects. The RXD system employs an actuator to meticulously regulate the motor’s rotational angle, enabling direct control of the focusing lens without the need for a reduction gear. A sensor that accurately identifies the lens position facilitates rapid and precise autofocus, making it particularly suitable for capturing continuously moving subjects or for video recording. Furthermore, the lens features a focusing system that operates smoothly and quietly, allowing for stress-free shooting in environments where noise is a concern.