Im honestly panicking because my Japan trip is in three weeks and I still havent picked a walk-around lens. Torn between the 24-120mm f/4 and the 24-200mm. Need it for street stuff and landscapes but my budget is capped at $1100. Is the extra reach better than the constant f/4 for a one-lens setup?
Totally agree on the aperture issue. Unfortunately, I had issues with the Nikon NIKKOR Z 24-200mm f/4-6.3 VR being way too soft at the long end. It just wasnt as good as expected for landscapes. Not great. Youre better off snagging the Nikon NIKKOR Z 24-120mm f/4 S. Quick tip: look for a refurbished copy to save money and stay under that $1100 limit. Better glass.
Honestly, be careful with variable aperture zooms like the 24-200mm. I used a lens with a shifting aperture on my first big trip and really struggled once the light started fading in the late afternoon. It was super frustrating having to constantly check my settings and seeing my shutter speed tank. If you go with the Nikon NIKKOR Z 24-120mm f/4 S, you get that constant f/4 which is much more reliable for street shots at dusk. Plus, its an S-line lens so the weather sealing is beefier... you dont want to risk your gear if it starts raining in Tokyo. Since you mentioned the $1100 budget, I would suggest checking the Nikon refurbished store or reputable used sites. I saved a few hundred on my Nikon Z 24-70mm f/4 S that way and it literally looked brand new. Just make sure to order it soon so you have time to test everything before your flight. Better to be safe than stuck with a dud overseas.
