"Perhaps the best travel lens on the market.
The great price makes this a superb option"

RATINGS
HANDLING * * * *
FEATURES * * * *
PERFORMANCE * * *
VALUE FOR MONEY * * * *
OVERALL VERDICT * * * *

"The Tamron is a capable superzoom that delivers adequate results when used carefully. Its versatility is impressive, but you should be aware of its restrictions, such as the maximum aperture of f/6.3 from 200mm. It's best use will be as a travel lens, where its range and compact size are advantageous."

• The Ultimate Lens?
  Is Tamron's 18-250mm the only lens you'll ever need?
  Features 16
  Build 17
  Image Quality 16
  Handling 17
  Value 17
  What Digital Camera 83%

"The lens's macro capabilities are impressive"
The Tamron engineers have fulfilled their brief, however, and must be commended for pushing the boundaries of budget optics a little further. The 18-250mm is a useful and cost-effective, if slightly flawed, all-round optic, especially if you have a stabilised CCD-based DSLR.

Tamron is pushing the super-zoom concept to its extremes with this near 14X lens, opening up a whole world of creative opportunities
On the inside Though small and compact on the outside, there's a lot going on under the skin
Best for A good walkabout or holiday lens. Its petite build hides its huge zoom capabilities and this makes it the perfect accessory for a day-trip kit bag. Light and compact, don't be fooled into thinking this won't perform well.