Which is the better buy? Side-by-side on rating, price, strengths, and watch-outs — with the published ratings we averaged to get there.
Sony FE 100mm f/2.8 Macro comes out ahead by a narrow margin (4.8 vs 4.7). The gap is mostly about Sony users wanting maximum magnification — read the strengths below before deciding.
The FE 100mm is the new Sony pick — replaces the venerable 90mm with 1.4x magnification.
The Tamron 90mm is the value pick — third-party macro at $699 with VXD AF and weather sealing.
1.4x mag. Replaces FE 90mm. Newer platform.
Best value. Third-party. No OIS (body IS).
| Spec | Sony FE 100mm f/2.8 Macro | Tamron 90mm f/2.8 Di III VXD |
|---|---|---|
| Mag | 1.4x (2.8x w/teleconverter) | 1:1 |
| Mount | Sony FE | — |
| Brand | Sony | Tamron |
| Generation | New | — |
| Mounts | — | Sony FE + Nikon Z |
| Weather | — | Resistant |