Honestly I am so sick of switching lenses every five minutes it is driving me crazy. I have the Z6II and I thought I would be this pro guy carrying around three different primes but i am just missing every single moment with my kids because I am busy digging in my bag. Like we went to the park last weekend and I spent more time worrying about dust on my sensor than actually taking photos... its exhausting. So my logic was maybe I should just get a solid zoom that never leaves the body but the options are kind of overwhelming. I was thinking about the 24-70mm f4 because its cheap and small but then I see everyone raving about the 24-120mm f4 S and I dont know if that extra reach is worth the extra weight and cost. My budget is tight, like $900 tops, and we are heading to the Oregon coast in three weeks so I need to figure this out fast. Is the 24-120 really the holy grail or is there something else I am missing? Maybe a third party like Tamron? I just want one lens that can handle a landscape but also a decent portrait without me having to stop and swap glass while my family walks away from me...
I am really happy with the Nikon NIKKOR Z 24-120mm f/4 S after comparing the resolution data and specs.
- Nikon NIKKOR Z 24-120mm f/4 S: Has a 0.39x magnification ratio which is great for detail shots.
- Nikon NIKKOR Z 24-70mm f/4 S: It is lighter at 500g, but the reach is limited. No complaints with the 24-120mm, it works well for everything.
Adding my two cents! If you want reliability and amazing results without the lens swapping drama, check these out:
- Nikon NIKKOR Z 24-120mm f/4 S: The gold standard! That extra reach is a lifesaver for kids and its built like a tank for the coast.
- Tamron 28-75mm f/2.8 Di III VXD G2 for Nikon Z: Super fast and sharp! That f/2.8 is fantastic for portraits. Both are super reliable options!
Regarding what #3 said about "Did this last week, worked perfectly"
- I really wish I could be that optimistic, but the Oregon coast is a total nightmare for gear. Honestly, I have had issues with the 24-70 f4 just feeling way too short for those sea stacks and misty landscapes. It is disappointing when you realize you still need to crop like crazy after spending all that money on a trip. If you want to keep the sensor safe from the salt spray and sand, you need something that stays on the camera 24/7. Here is my take on the reliability factor:
- Nikon NIKKOR Z 24-120mm f/4 S
- This is the one. You can find these used for under $900 now if you check the forums or reputable shops. The weather sealing is miles better than the cheaper zooms.
- Nikon NIKKOR Z 24-200mm f/4-6.3 VR
- Not as good as expected in dim light, but for a family trip, it is the safest bet to avoid dust. tbh I would skip the third-party stuff for this specific trip... the seal quality on the Tamron 28-75mm f/2.8 Di III VXD G2 just isnt as confidence-inducing when the wind starts kicking up sand. Stick with the Nikon glass for the peace of mind.
Did this last week, worked perfectly
Wait really?? Thats actually super helpful. I always thought it was the other way around.
