Summary
- The Tamron A084 is reportedly a full-frame 12-20mm zoom for Nikon Z and Sony E
- It is expected to offer a constant f/2.8 maximum aperture throughout the zoom range
- The Nikon Z version is listed at 585 grams and 121.3mm in length
- Autofocus is expected to be powered by a VXD linear motor
- The lens will reportedly feature an integrated hood and a rear filter holder
- Tamron has not officially confirmed the lens
Tamron is reportedly preparing an exceptionally wide full-frame zoom lens featuring a constant f/2.8 aperture and a version for the Nikon Z system.
According to information that has not yet been officially confirmed, the new Tamron 12-20mm f/2.8 Di III VXD, carrying the model number A084, is expected to be released for Nikon Z and Sony E mounts. The lens reportedly combines a 12-20mm focal range with a constant f/2.8 maximum aperture throughout the zoom range.
The proposed lens is particularly noteworthy because 12mm on a full-frame sensor provides an extremely wide field of view, while the f/2.8 aperture could make it suitable for astrophotography, nightscapes, architectural work and interior photography.
Ultra-wide range with a constant f/2.8 aperture
The upcoming lens is said to cover an angle of view ranging from 121°58′ to 94°30′ on full-frame cameras. Its aperture will remain fixed at a maximum of f/2.8 from 12mm to 20mm, with a minimum setting of f/16.
The diaphragm is reportedly built with 12 rounded blades, which could help produce smoother rendering of out-of-focus highlights and more defined starbursts around strong light sources.
Optical construction and aberration control
The leaked specifications point to an optical design featuring 17 elements arranged in 12 groups. These reportedly include one XGM element, three GM aspherical elements and several additional special glass elements.
According to the information, the design aims to reduce peripheral softness, chromatic aberrations and sagittal coma flare. These characteristics are especially important in astrophotography, where bright points near the edges of the frame can appear distorted.
Dimensions and autofocus system
The Nikon Z version is reportedly 121.3mm long and weighs approximately 585 grams. Its maximum barrel diameter is listed at 90mm.
Autofocus is expected to be driven by a VXD linear motor designed to provide fast, accurate and quiet operation. The minimum focusing distance is reportedly 18 centimetres at 12mm and 28 centimetres at 20mm.
Maximum magnification is listed as 1:5.8 at the wide end and 1:9.1 at the telephoto end.
Integrated hood and rear filters
Due to its extreme wide-angle design, the lens reportedly does not feature a conventional front filter thread. Instead, it is expected to include an integrated rear filter holder.
The flower-shaped lens hood will be built into the barrel, while the package is said to include a locking front cap, rear cap and protective lens wrap.
The lens is also expected to support Tamron Lens Utility, allowing users to customise selected functions for still photography and video production.
The announcement is not yet official
Tamron has not officially introduced the 12-20mm f/2.8 Di III VXD A084. Its specifications, price, release date and regional availability may therefore change before the final announcement.
What we think
A full-frame zoom starting at 12mm while maintaining an f/2.8 aperture could become a compelling option for landscape, architecture and night-sky photographers. Its reported weight of 585 grams is not insignificant, but it remains reasonable for such an extreme ultra-wide lens. Its real-world corner performance, coma correction and final price will ultimately determine how competitive it is.
Frequently asked questions
Is the Tamron 12-20mm f/2.8 official?
No. The information comes from a leak, and Tamron has not yet made an official announcement.
Will it be released for Nikon Z?
According to the available information, a Nikon Z version is planned alongside a Sony E-mount model.
Is it designed for full-frame cameras?
Yes. The Di III designation and the reported specifications indicate that it is designed for full-frame mirrorless cameras.
Can it accept front filters?
The lens reportedly has no conventional front filter thread. It is instead expected to offer an integrated rear filter holder.
How much will it cost?
No reliable pricing or exact release-date information is currently available.
