Originally posted by Stoney Does anyone know if the Tamron 60-300 f3.8-5.4 Macro is ok or good? Found it for $99.
This one? Absolutely! Optically, it's excellent. I have this one and the Pentax 55-300, and they're extremely close when it comes to image quality. The Tamron is sharper wide open in the below 85mm end of the zoom range than the Pentax 55-300, though. From what I've observed, here's how they stack up:
Tamron 60-300:
PROS:
Very useful true macro mode with up to 1:1.55x magnification
Sharper wide open below 85mm than the Pentax 55-300
Superb build quality
Much cheaper
You can use it on any camera with appropriate Adaptall adapter
CONS:
Manual focus
Bigger & heavier
Auto exposure capability requires expensive PK/A adapter, which can be flaky.
Pentax 55-300:
PROS:
A bit less purple fringing than the Tamron
Autofocus
Auto exposure modes
Lighter and easier to handle than the Tamron
CONS:
No macro
More expensive
The Tamron's a great performer, but unless it comes with the PK/A adapter or at least a genuine Tamron PK adapter, AND is in immaculate condition, $99 is overpriced. You should be able to get one in good shape for around $50 or less, pick up a PK adapter for $10-$15 & you're in business. I personally would not buy the PK/A adapter separately, as these go for upwards of $80, and you still don't get autofocus. By the time you buy the lens and the PK/A adapter, you may as well get the Pentax 55-300.
If you go with the Tamron, (unless you're lucky enough to get the PK/A adapter with it) you'll have to decide whether you want to be relegated to shooting with no automation at all. If not, save up for the Pentax 55-300. Either one will give you great images, though.