Sigma 16-300mm vs Tamron 18-300mm: Battle of Super Zooms for Sony
Whether you’re a travel photographer or just want a one-lens-does-it-all solution, a super zoom lens can be a game-changer. No swapping lenses, no extra weight in your bag—just one lens covering everything from wide landscapes to close-ups of distant subjects.
Today, we’re putting two of the most versatile APS-C super zooms head-to-head: the brand-new Sigma 16-300mm and the popular Tamron 18-300mm. Here’s how they compare across key categories:
💰 Price
| Lens | Price (New) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Tamron 18-300 mm | ~$600 | Older model, cheaper used options |
| Sigma 16-300 mm | ~$700 | Newer, harder to find used deals |
Winner: Tamron – It’s more budget-friendly, especially used.
- World’s first 16.6x all-in-one zoom lens for APS-C mirrorless cameras
- Best-in-class, extremely fast and precise AF provided by VXD linear motor focus mechanism
- Maintains high resolving power from the center to the corners throughout the range
- Compact and portable design at 4.9 inches and a weight of just 21.9 ounces
- Moisture-Resistant Construction and Fluorine Coating
Last update on 2025-05-14 / As Amazon affiliate I earn from qualifying purchases. / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
🔍 Zoom Range
| Lens | Range (APS-C) | Full-Frame Equivalent |
|---|---|---|
| Tamron 18-300 mm | 18-300mm | ~27-450mm |
| Sigma 16-300 mm | 16-300mm | ~24-450mm |
That extra 2mm on the wide end makes a real-world difference, especially for travel or group shots. Most photos are taken at the wide end, and Sigma’s 16mm lets you squeeze more in.
- 16-300mm F3.5-6.7 DC OS | Contemporary
Last update on 2025-05-14 / As Amazon affiliate I earn from qualifying purchases. / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Winner: Sigma – That extra wide angle adds real versatility.
📦 Design & Handling
Both lenses are similar in size and weight. The Tamron has a curvier design, which may feel nicer in hand. However, the difference isn’t drastic.
Winner: Tie
🔎 Sharpness
| Focal Length | Sharper Lens |
|---|---|
| Wide End (~16-18mm) | Tie |
| Mid (~100mm) | Tamron |
| Tele (~300mm) | Sigma |
Since most super zoom use is at the extremes, Sigma’s superior long-end sharpness makes a difference.
Winner: Sigma
🌒 Low Light (Aperture Speed)
Sigma is about 1/3 of a stop slower at the long end, meaning slightly more noise in low light. It’s not a deal-breaker but worth noting for indoor shooters.
Winner: Tamron 18-300 mm – Narrow win for low-light use.
📸 Macro Ability
Both can focus surprisingly close but struggle at wide angles, often casting their own shadows on the subject. Good enough for casual macro—not pro-level.
Winner: Tie
☀️ Contrast & Flare
In strong backlighting, both lenses handle flare and contrast decently. However, Sigma showed slightly more flaring, which might be distracting.
Winner: Tamron – Slight edge for cleaner results in sunlight.
🎆 Bokeh
Both deliver similar bokeh quality, with smooth, natural-looking out-of-focus areas. The Tamron’s faster aperture produces slightly larger bokeh balls.
Winner: Tamron – By a narrow margin.
🏁 Final Verdict
| Category | Winner |
|---|---|
| Price | Tamron |
| Wide Zoom | Sigma |
| Design | Tie |
| Sharpness (Long End) | Sigma |
| Low Light | Tamron |
| Macro | Tie |
| Contrast | Tamron |
| Bokeh | Tamron |
Overall Recommendation:
If you want a more budget-friendly, well-rounded performer—Tamron is the solid value choice.
But if you shoot a lot at the wide and telephoto extremes and want the sharpest results possible, Sigma is worth the extra $100.
For most people, Sigma’s wider angle and better long-end sharpness give it the edge. If you can stretch the budget, it’s the one-lens solution to rule them all.
