Nikon NIKKOR Z 24-70mm F/4 S vs Tamron 28-75mm f/2.8 Di III VXD G2 (Model A063) — Which Is Better?

The Nikon NIKKOR Z 24-70mm F/4 S and the Tamron 28-75mm f/2.8 Di III VXD G2 (Model A063) are both full-frame standard zooms for the Nikon Z mount, so either fits a Z body natively. Nikon's S-Line design dates from 2018, while Tamron's G2 version arrived in 2024.

The Nikon is the lighter, more compact carry: 500 g and 88.5 mm long retracted, against 550 g and 119.8 mm for the Tamron. Nikon's figure is the retracted length, and the lens must be extended before shooting.

The Nikon scores 100 for Physical, against 64 for the Tamron, a 36-point gap that comes mainly from its premium S-Line designation rather than the 50 g weight difference. Filter threads differ at 72 mm and 67 mm, so each lens takes its own direct-fit filters.

The Tamron is the better lens for dim venues and shallow depth of field, holding f/2.8 across its range against Nikon's constant f/4. That one-stop advantage means roughly twice the light at the same shutter speed and ISO, keeping shutter speeds usable at evening receptions.

It also focuses closer at its 28mm end, 18 cm against Nikon's 30 cm, and reaches 0.37x magnification versus Nikon's 0.3x, suiting tighter product and flower shots. Nikon answers with a wider 24 mm end for interiors, where Tamron starts at 28 mm. The Tamron scores 81 for Optics against Nikon's 67, a 14-point gap led by its brighter aperture, with closer focus contributing as well.

Controls are the useful difference. Nikon offers an assignable control ring for manual focus, aperture or exposure compensation, giving quick adjustment while framing. Tamron provides a focus set button and a USB-C port, and its TAMRON Lens Utility software enables firmware updates and button function settings from a computer.

Both lenses are weather sealed, and both front elements carry a fluorine coating that repels dirt and moisture for easier cleaning. Neither offers stabilisation or teleconverter support.

Internal focusing is shared, so neither barrel extends while focusing, helpful when working close to a subject or with a lens hood. Both designs use aspherical glass to control distortion, low-dispersion glass to reduce colour fringing, and coatings against flare and ghosting: Nano Crystal Coat on the Nikon, BBAR G2 on the Tamron. Nikon lays out 14 elements in 11 groups, Tamron 17 in 15.