What is the best all-around lens for the Nikon Z series that can actually handle everything without me needing to carry a suitcase of gear? Honestly im just so fed up with the constant lens swapping when im out with my family or hiking. I have the 24-200mm right now but the image quality just feels soft at the ends and the variable aperture is driving me crazy when the sun starts going down and i lose my light.

I need one single lens that stays on my Z6ii basically 90% of the time because i keep missing shots of my kids while im digging through my bag for a prime or trying to get the dust off my sensor because I swapped glass in the wind. My budget is around $1200 maybe $1400 if it is really life-changing but i just want something sharp that actually feels good to use. I was looking at the 24-120mm f4 since everyone raves about it but is that really enough of an upgrade over what i have? Or should I just bite the bullet and get the heavy 2.8 version and deal with the weight? My shoulder already hurts thinking about it but im just tired of compromises and missing the moment...