Telephoto zooms

Dear Pentax Users,

There was a discussion some time ago about the similarities between the Pentax and Samsung (D-Xenon) 50-200 mm zooms.

Has anyone since been able to compare the two to establish whether they are the same albeit differently badged.

On the Pentax & Samsung websites, the data below is identical between the two makes:
Lens construction: 11 elements / 10 groups
Angle of view: 31.5° - 8.1°
Minimum aperture: F22 - F32
Maximum aperture: F4 - F 5.6
Minimum focusing distance: 1.1m
Maximum magnification: 0.24X
Dimensions (diameter x length): 66.5x 78.5mm

Weight: 260g (w/o hood) Pentax, 255g Samsung.


Does anybody have any idea how these compare optically with a 20 year old 35mm Tamron 80-210mm f3.8-4.

Other factors like weight, full functionality, different focal lengths I have taken account of already.

Any comments gratefully received,

The rubber grip ring is different (less chunky/aggressive grip pattern) on the Samsung which might account for it being slightly lighter.

I was under the impression that pentax/samsung lenses are made in the same factory with only minor aesthetic differences. I.E. different grips and different colour banding (blue on samsung, green on pentax).

Posted: Fri Jul 27, 2007 3:26 pm Post subject: samsung lens

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Samsung d-xenon

had it one day and its bloody amazing for £49.99p from jacobs.

sharp all the way to 200mm and no softness at all.

i recomend this lens.

paul

I've got an order in for the Samsung from Jacobs, hopefully will be at home when I get back from work. Amazing price, our local Jacobs store are selling this for £99.99 stating that it is reduced from £199.99. They won't price-match their own internet site price though.

marshy and spaceraider,

I got one of these lenses last week from Jacobs under 50 quid to accompany my k10d and 18-55 lens. I think it's tremendous!!! Lightweight and sharp. .

However I fear a super knowledgable bod will come along and shoot me down in flames.....Go easy, I'm a newbie

I've not used this specific Tamron lens, but have had very good results from both the Tamron 70-150 f/3.5 and the 70-210 f/3.5 SP, so there's nothing necessarily wrong with using lenses of this vintage on digital.

Jonathan