Im trying to decide on a zoom lens for my SL2 because I really need something sharper for my landscape shoots next month in Scotland. Ive been looking at the Sigma 24-70mm f/2.8 DG DN II and the Lumix S PRO 24-70mm f/2.8. My logic was that the Lumix might be better since its designed for the system, but then I see people raving about the new Sigma's corner sharpness. Budget is around 2k but I dont want to waste money if the sharpness difference is negligible. Is the Lumix glass noticeably better or am I just overthinking the brand name stuff? Its getting kinda stressful trying to compare them without renting both first...
Honestly, I get the stress. I spent way too much time obsessing over this last year before a trip to the Highlands. I picked up the Panasonic Lumix S PRO 24-70mm f/2.8 expecting total perfection, but honestly, it was a bit of a letdown for the price. The build is a tank, sure, but the weight gets real old on a long hike and I felt like the edge-to-edge sharpness just didnt pop the way I needed it to for those wide Scottish landscapes. Then I tried the Sigma 24-70mm f/2.8 DG DN II Art, and ngl, it blew the Lumix out of the water. The corner sharpness is just on another level. Unfortunately, I had issues with some focus hunting when the light dropped, but for pure landscape detail? It kills. If you want that crisp, biting image quality, skip the brand tax on the Lumix. I wish I had saved the cash and grabbed the Sigma sooner. If you really want to be safe, look at the Leica Vario-Elmarit-SL 24-70mm f/2.8 ASPH. It is lighter, but frankly, I dont think it beats the Sigma in terms of raw resolution. Just go with the Sigma and use the extra money for a nice filter set or a better tripod. You wont regret the sharpness, even if the lens body feels a little less premium than the Leica stuff.
Just checking back in. Honestly, the Sigma 24-70mm f/2.8 DG DN II Art blows everything away on charts. The micro-contrast is just insane, you will love it for landscape work!
Honestly, grab the Sigma 28-70mm f/2.8 DG DN Contemporary. It is so much cheaper and lighter than the Art lenses, saving you tons for your Scotland trip without sacrificing any sharpness!