The type of photography that you are planning to use is an important decision factor. Here we have evaluated the Canon EF 70-200 f2.8L IS II USM and the Tamron 70-200mm f2.8 VC USD for their suitability to various photography scenarios:
Size and Weight Comparison
The size of a lens is a crucial factor to consider when comparing two lenses. Canon EF 70-200 f2.8L IS II USM is the longer of the two lenses at 199mm. The Tamron 70-200mm f2.8 VC USD with a length of 197mm, is 2mm shorter. Besides being longer, the Canon EF 70-200 f2.8L IS II USM also has a larger diameter of 89mm compared to the Tamron 70-200mm f2.8 VC USD's 86mm diameter.
The weight of a lens is equally significant as its external dimensions, particularly if you intend to handhold your camera and lens combination for extended periods. Tamron 70-200mm f2.8 VC USD weighs 1470g, 1% (20g) lighter than the Canon EF 70-200 f2.8L IS II USM's weight of 1490g.
Below you can find the dimension and weight table of the Telephoto Zoom Lenses in Canon EF Mount for size comparison purposes.
Telephoto Lenses in Canon EF Mount for Size Comparison
Filter Threads
Both the Canon EF 70-200 f2.8L IS II USM and the Tamron 70-200mm f2.8 VC USD have the same Filter thread size of 77mm.
Below are links to the 77mm filters that we recommend you to consider for these lenses:
Lens Mounts
Both the Canon EF 70-200 f2.8L IS II USM and the Tamron 70-200mm f2.8 VC USD has the same Canon EF lens mount. Some of the latest released cameras that are compatible with the Canon EF lenses are Canon 1D X III, Canon 6D MII and Canon 5D MIV.
Tamron 70-200mm f2.8 VC USD is also available in Nikon F (FX) and Sony Alpha mounts.
Focal Range
Both lenses have the same focal range of
70-200mm and the fastest aperture of
F2.8.