What is the best all-around zoom lens for my Lumix S5II right now? I need something for an upcoming trip to Japan in three weeks and my budget is around 1200 bucks. I saw the Sigma 28-70 is lightweight but everyone keeps telling me the native 24-105 is way sharper, yet that thing is huge. Im just so torn because I need versatility for street and landscape shots without lugging a giant brick around all day...
Honestly, I get your dilemma. I took the Panasonic Lumix S 24-105mm f/4 Macro O.I.S. on a trip last year and while the OIS is solid, it was way too bulky for all-day street shooting. I ended up with a sore shoulder and actually had issues with the zoom ring feeling loose after just a week in the humidity. It's just not as portable as you'd think. If I could do it again, I would skip that beast and grab the Sigma 28-70mm f/2.8 DG DN Contemporary. It isnt perfect and lacks that extra reach, but the weight savings are massive.
- Pack a backup battery, you'll need it.
- Don't bring a huge bag, keep your setup light. Unfortunately, finding a balance between size and sharpness is tough, but you'll thank yourself for going smaller.
Honestly, if you want something that wont kill your back in Japan, just skip the 24-105. I bought the Sigma 28-70mm f/2.8 DG DN Contemporary a while back and it changed everything for me. It is tiny compared to the native glass. Unfortunately, you do lose that bit of reach at the wide end, but for street stuff, its barely noticeable. I had issues with focus hunting on older lenses, but this one is snappy enough. Just be careful with the weather sealing since its not as beefy as the Panasonic L-mount options. If you need a little more range and can handle a slightly heavier bag, maybe look at the Panasonic Lumix S 20-60mm f/3.5-5.6. It is super cheap used and that 20mm really shines for landscape shots. Definitely don't overspend before you go!
Saw this earlier but just now responding. Like someone mentioned, the 24-105 is definitely a tank. Honestly, I tried using the Panasonic Lumix S 24-105mm f/4 Macro O.I.S. for a few weeks but ended up hating the weight. It is just not as good as expected for travel when you are walking miles every single day. If you want to save your back and stay under budget, you might want to look at these instead:
- Sigma 28-70mm f/2.8 DG DN Contemporary for the size and that f/2.8 aperture which is super nice for low light in Japan.
- Panasonic Lumix S 20-60mm f/3.5-5.6 if you want to save serious cash and get that wider 20mm perspective for landscapes. Honestly, the 20-60 is surprisingly sharp for the price, though it feels a bit plasticky. Just dont expect it to be a pro-level build.
Good to know!
