Finally upgraded to the R6 Mark II for my kids soccer games and our big Japan trip next month. I keep seeing the 24-105mm f/4 L recommended but i heard it sucks indoors, then some say the 35mm is better but i dont want to be swapping constantly. Budget is tight under $1000 now... what is the best do it all lens for this body?
Honestly, i went through this exact same thing when i got my R6 II last year. If you are worried about the budget and need to cover soccer plus a Japan trip, I have been really satisfied with the Canon RF 24-240mm f/4-6.3 IS USM. It basically never leaves my camera because it covers everything.
- Range: That 240mm reach is a lifesaver for soccer games when the kids are way across the field.
- Budget: You can usually find it for around $900, sometimes even less if you buy it refurbished from Canon directly which saves a ton.
- Low light: The R6 II handles noise so well that the slower aperture at the long end isnt a dealbreaker for me indoors. I am super happy with how my travel shots look with this setup. If you really want that constant aperture, the Canon RF 24-105mm f/4L IS USM is awesome but usually pushes $1300 new. Definitely check for used deals to stay under that $1000 mark tho.
Like someone mentioned, that superzoom is a tempting choice, but i have found over the years that the do it all lenses often force you to compromise on weight or low light performance. I remember a trip to Osaka where i brought a massive kit and ended up with a sore shoulder by day three, barely wanting to take the camera out of the bag. Quick question tho... how much of your Japan trip is gonna be focused on night markets or dim temples? Knowing if you are a night owl or a daytime explorer changes things. If you are mostly shooting during the day, the indoor sucking of some lenses is way overblown because the R6 II sensor handles high ISO like a champ. You can push that thing to 6400 or even 12800 and it still looks clean. In my experience, here is how you stay under that $1000 limit:
- Look for a refurbished or used Canon RF 24-105mm f/4L IS USM. It is the best everyday lens for this body. It is weather sealed which is huge for Japans unpredictable rain, and f/4 is usually enough for most well lit indoor spots.
- If you find the L lens too heavy, the Canon RF 24-105mm f/4-7.1 IS STM is a sleeper hit. It is light enough that you wont get tired walking ten miles a day, though it is darker at the long end.
- For soccer specifically, you really need reach, so the Canon RF 24-240mm f/4-6.3 IS USM is the only true one lens solution under your budget that covers the field and the streets. Personally, i would hunt for the used L glass. The build quality alone makes it worth it for travel and those f/4 shots look way more professional than the cheaper glass.
Honestly, dont overspend on a heavy lens! Japan is fantastic but the walking is brutal. Basically, the best do it all is whatever stays light and cheap. Avoid heavy bricks, seriously!
