Full specifications and details for the newly announced Tamron 12-20mm F2.8 (Model A084). This is a full-frame ultra-wide zoom designed for Sony E and Nikon Z mounts.

Optical Features

Aperture: Constant F2.8 throughout the zoom range, stopping down to a minimum of F16, featuring a 12-blade circular diaphragm.

Optical Construction: 17 elements arranged in 12 groups.

Angle of View: Ranges from 121°58′ at the wide end to 94°30′ at the tight end.

Autofocus: Driven by a VXD linear motor.

Physical Build and Dimensions

Sony E version: Measures 119.3mm in length and weighs 570g.

Nikon Z version: Measures 121.3mm in length and weighs 585g.

Maximum Diameter: ø90mm.

Filters: Designed with an integrated rear filter holder instead of front filter threads.

Durability: Features a moisture-resistant construction and a fluorine coating on the front element.

Focusing and Magnification

At 12mm: Minimum object distance is 0.18m with a maximum magnification of 1:5.8.

At 20mm: Minimum object distance is 0.28m with a maximum magnification of 1:9.1.

Warranty and Availability

The lens comes with a 6-Year Limited Warranty. Release dates are scheduled for later this summer:

Sony E mount: July 30, 2026

Nikon Z mount: August 27, 2026

Edited July 16Jul 16 by Davide DB
Technical specs added

Seems like a good value-oriented option. 7" min focal distance over 11" on the Sony 12-24 f/2.8 is potentially interesting, although only f/16 vs. f/22 on the Sony for stopping down. Similar strategy to the Sony 90 vs the Tamron 90. It would be interesting to give it a try in the wild.

Thanks @Davide DB for sharing!

And there's a Nikon Z mount too

Pricing & Availability:

• Sony E-mount: Released July 30, 2026, for $1,699 USD.

• Nikon Z-mount: Released August 27, 2026, for $1,799 USD.

I quite like Tamron lenses for topside photography. Lightweight, very sharp and good value.

23 minutes ago, Dave_Hicks said:

Pricing & Availability:

• Sony E-mount: Released July 30, 2026, for $1,699 USD.

• Nikon Z-mount: Released August 27, 2026, for $1,799 USD.

We at WPX have never written that we want to save our users money, On the contrary 😜

It's a drawback that it doesn't take front filters (though understandable why). I find that the Sea & Sea correction lens helps quite a lot with the Nikon 14-30 behind a dome port.

Tamron seem to be producing a lot of interesting lenses

I have the 11-20 2.8 apsc lens which is pretty sharp and much cheaper

I am sure that Tamron 12-20mm F/2.8 should be an excellent lens for U/W shooters using a 230mm or like port because of the 18cm minimum focus distance V.Sigma 14-24mm F/2.8 Sony 12-24mm F/2.8, Sony FE 12-24mm F/4 and Nikon Z 14-30mm F/4 which have a 28cm minimum focus distance.

If I am going to spend $1700.00 my choice would be the Rokinon/Sanyang 14-24mm F/2.8 now $979.00US (on sale now) and the Laowa AF 12mm F/2.8 zero-D at $699.00 or a total of $1678.00. My reasoning is that #1 both lenses take thread in front filters. This allows you to use filters like grad neutral density filters for splits which works very well however you need to commit to landscape or portrait prior to the dive. #2 Both lenses max out at F/22. #3 The 14-24mm has a minimum focus distance of 18cm and the 12mm focuses to 14cm which allows both to be used in ports under 230mm in a pinch when weight is a factor. #4 both lenses could be used with the S&S correction filter but I find it to be less useful with lenses that focus this close. #5 Both lenses have had very positive reviews from land reviewers. I love primes for splits and the Laowa 12mm is the best I have used so far. In the last two years or so we have seen an explosion of third party lenses that are relatively inexpensive V. top camera brand lenses with many having as good or better IQ just without all the extra buttons that can't be used underwater anyway.

I reviewed the Rokinon 14-24mm F/2.8 using the Marelux 210mm acrylic dome and the Laowa 10mm F/2.8 using the Marelux 230mm dome for uwpmag.com. I prefer the Laowa 12mm for stills and the Laowa 10mm for video.

Edited July 20Jul 20 by Phil Rudin