A short while ago, I’ve made a post explaining the meaning in different Sigma lens codes. Now, in this post, I’ll explain the meaning codes for Tamron and Tokina lenses. They are as follows:
Tamron Lenses
Di – Digitally Integrated. Lenses with this code has a coating optimized for digital cameras.
Di-II – This is similar to the Di. But these lenses can only be used with cameras with cropped sensors (APSC).
Di III – These lenses are specially designed for mirrorless cameras.
USD – Ultrasonic Silent, like the USM or SWM. These lenses has a fast and quiet autofocus.
PZD – Piezo Drive. This is similar to the USD, the difference being that the motor is piezoelectric. The following is a YouTube video explaining how the PZD technology works.
VC – Vibration Compensation. This is Tamron’s stabilizer technology, like the IS and VR.
New VC – An updated VC technology.
SP – Super Performance. Tamron’s premium lenses. This is Tamron’s highest class of lenses.
XR – Extra Refractive. These are wide angle lenses with a special design to minimize its size.
LD – Low Dispersion. These lenses use an element that minimizes the appearance of chromatic aberration.
ZL – Zoom Lock. Lenses with this code has a zoom that can be locked so the lens barrel doesn’t move on its own.
IF – Internal Focus. The front part of the lens won’t rotate when focusing.
ASP – Aspherical Lens. Designed to have a high quality and a slimmer size.
Tokina Lenses
DX – Designed for cameras with cropped sensors (APSC).
PRO – Professional-class (premium) lenses of Tokina. Lenses with this code are usually relatively expensive.
FX – These lenses are designed for full-frame cameras, but can also be used for cropped cameras.
ED – Extra Low Dispersion. A special element in the lens is used to minimize defects in the lens’ optics.
SD – Super Low Dispersion. Like the ED but with a higher class.
HLD – High Refraction Low Dispersion. These are ED lenses specially designed to minimize its size.
AS – Uses an aspherical element to increase photo quality.
FC – Focus Clutch. Lenses with this code can be quickly toggled from manual focus to auto focus.
IRF – Internal Rear Focus. These lenses focuses by moving its back elements.
FE – Floating Elements. Specially designed to minimize astigmatism ( reflection shadow cast by the lens).
