Sony FE 85mm f/1.8 vs Tamron 90mm f/2.8 Di III Macro VXD
Sony FE 85mm f/1.8 has more in its favour on paper. The FE 85mm f/1.8 gathers more light for low light and background blur; the 90mm f/2.8 Di III Macro VXD is the alternative. The Sony lens is the mount maker's own, while the Tamron is a third-party alternative.
Choose the FE 85mm f/1.8 for
- a brighter maximum aperture (f/1.8, about 1.3 stops more light)
- less weight (371g vs 630g)
- a lower price (about £230 vs £440)
Choose the 90mm f/2.8 Di III Macro VXD for
- Similar specs
| FE 85mm f/1.8 | 90mm f/2.8 Di III Macro VXD | |
|---|---|---|
| Brand | Sony | Tamron |
| Focal length | 85mm | 90mm |
| Maximum aperture | f/1.8 | f/2.8 |
| Weight | 371 g | 630 g |
| Stabilisation | No | No |
| Weather sealing | Yes | Yes |
| Filter size | 67mm | 67mm |
| Made for | Full frame | Full frame |
| New price | £499 | £799 |
| Used at MPB (Sony E / FE) | £194–£259 | £434–£449 |
More lens comparisons
See all Sony E / FE cameras and lenses.
Frequently asked questions
Is the Sony FE 85mm f/1.8 better than the Tamron 90mm f/2.8 Di III Macro VXD?
The FE 85mm f/1.8 offers a brighter maximum aperture (f/1.8, about 1.3 stops more light), less weight (371g vs 630g), a lower price (about £230 vs £440); the 90mm f/2.8 Di III Macro VXD offers similar specs.
Which is better value, the FE 85mm f/1.8 or the 90mm f/2.8 Di III Macro VXD?
On Sony E / FE, the Sony FE 85mm f/1.8 costs about £230 against about £440 for the Tamron 90mm f/2.8 Di III Macro VXD (MPB used where listed, otherwise new; checked 5 November 2026).
Is f/1.8 worth it over f/2.8?
f/1.8 gathers about 1.3 stops more light, which helps indoors, at night and for background blur. If you mostly shoot in good light, the slower lens is usually lighter and cheaper.
Do both lenses fit the same cameras?
Both are available for Sony E / FE (and other mounts: Nikon Z).