Nikon NIKKOR Z DX 16-50mm f/2.8 VR vs Tamron 35-100mm F/2.8 Di III VXD (Nikon Z)
The bottom line
These two are closely matched. The differences below are where they diverge — weigh the ones that map to what you shoot, and let size, price and handling break the tie.
Choose the Nikon NIKKOR Z DX 16-50mm f/2.8 VR if…
- ✓You shoot wide — it starts at 16mm vs 35mm for landscapes, interiors and architecture.
- ✓You shoot handheld or on an unstabilised body — it has optical stabilisation, the other doesn't.
- ✓You value portability — at 330g (11.6 oz) it's lighter than the 575g (1.27 lb) alternative for travel and all-day carry.
Choose the Tamron 35-100mm F/2.8 Di III VXD (Nikon Z) if…
- ✓You need more reach — it goes to 100mm vs 50mm for distant subjects, wildlife and sport.
Where they differ
- ›Focal range: Nikon NIKKOR Z DX 16-50mm f/2.8 VR is 16-50mm, Tamron 35-100mm F/2.8 Di III VXD (Nikon Z) is 35-100mm — different framing and reach.
- ›Stabilisation: only the Nikon NIKKOR Z DX 16-50mm f/2.8 VR has optical stabilisation — steadier handheld shots, especially on bodies without IBIS.
- ›Weight: the Nikon NIKKOR Z DX 16-50mm f/2.8 VR is 330g (11.6 oz) vs 575g (1.27 lb) — you'll feel the difference handheld.
Frequently asked
Is the Nikon NIKKOR Z DX 16-50mm f/2.8 VR or the Tamron 35-100mm F/2.8 Di III VXD (Nikon Z) better?
These two are closely matched. The differences below are where they diverge — weigh the ones that map to what you shoot, and let size, price and handling break the tie.
Who should choose the Nikon NIKKOR Z DX 16-50mm f/2.8 VR?
Choose the Nikon NIKKOR Z DX 16-50mm f/2.8 VR if you shoot wide — it starts at 16mm vs 35mm for landscapes, interiors and architecture. Choose it if you shoot handheld or on an unstabilised body — it has optical stabilisation, the other doesn't. Choose it if you value portability — at 330g (11.6 oz) it's lighter than the 575g (1.27 lb) alternative for travel and all-day carry.
Who should choose the Tamron 35-100mm F/2.8 Di III VXD (Nikon Z)?
Choose the Tamron 35-100mm F/2.8 Di III VXD (Nikon Z) if you need more reach — it goes to 100mm vs 50mm for distant subjects, wildlife and sport.
What is the main difference between the Nikon NIKKOR Z DX 16-50mm f/2.8 VR and the Tamron 35-100mm F/2.8 Di III VXD (Nikon Z)?
Focal range: Nikon NIKKOR Z DX 16-50mm f/2.8 VR is 16-50mm, Tamron 35-100mm F/2.8 Di III VXD (Nikon Z) is 35-100mm — different framing and reach.
| Product | ||
|---|---|---|
| Optical Design | ||
| Focal Length | 16-50mm | 35-100mm |
| Lens Type | Zoom | Zoom |
| Optical Elements | 12 | 15 |
| Optical Groups | 11 | 13 |
| Aperture & Iris | ||
| Maximum Aperture | f/2.8 | f/2.8 |
| Minimum Aperture | f/22 | f/22 |
| Aperture Blades | 9 | 9 |
| Rounded Aperture | Yes | Yes |
| Coverage & Angle | ||
| Format Coverage | APS-C | Full-Frame |
| Lens Mount | Nikon Z | Nikon Z |
| Angle of View | 83° – 31.5° | 63.4° – 24.4° |
| 35mm Equivalent | 24-75mm | − |
| Focus | ||
| Autofocus | Yes | Yes |
| Focus Motor | Stepping | VXD |
| Focus Limiter | No | No |
| AF/MF Switch | No | No |
| Min Focus Distance | 15 cm | 22 cm |
| Max Magnification | − | − |
| Stabilization & Video | ||
| Optical Stabilization | Yes | No |
| Aperture Ring | No | No |
| Declickable Aperture | No | No |
| Parfocal | No | No |
| Internal Zoom | No | No |
| General | ||
| Price (MSRP) | $899 | $929 |
| Filter Size | 67mm | 67mm |
| Diameter | − | 80.6mm |
| Length | − | 121.5mm |
| Weight | 330g (11.6 oz) | 575g (1.27 lb) |
| Weather Sealed | Yes | Yes |
| Tripod Collar | No | No |
