So I finally bit the bullet and got a Sony body but now Im stuck on the glass. My logic was to get one lens that stays on the camera forever since I hate swapping in the field. I read that the Sony 24-105mm f4 is basically the gold standard for travel but then I keep seeing everyone raving about the Tamron 28-75mm G2 for the f2.8 aperture.
Now Im just torn because I have a trip to Kyoto in three weeks and I dont want to swap lenses in the rain. Is that extra 4mm on the wide end worth giving up the low light for under 1100 bucks?
@Reply #1 - good point! regarding the wide end, but I actually gotta disagree on the 24-105 being the top pick nowadays. If you want something technically superior with insane optics, you seriously need to check out the Sony FE 20-70mm f/4 G. It is an absolute beast! The 20mm focal length is a total game changer for Kyoto temples where you cant always back up. Its way wider than 24mm and the difference is massive for architecture. The dual XD linear motors make the autofocus feel instantaneous, which is amazing for quick street shots. Honestly, the corner-to-corner sharpness on this thing blows the older zooms out of the water. Tbh, f/4 is totally fine because you can just bump the ISO and the weather sealing is fantastic for that rain you mentioned. Its usually around $1098 so it fits your budget perfectly! Youll love the extra field of view, trust me... its a landscape and standard zoom hybrid.
Honestly, go for the Sony FE 24-105mm F4 G OSS! That extra 4mm at the wide end is absolutely massive for tight Kyoto streets. Tbh, f4 is totally fine with modern Sony sensor tech, and the OSS is amazing for low-light stabilization! The Tamron 28-75mm f/2.8 Di III VXD G2 is sharp, but 24mm to 105mm covers such a huge range for a one-lens setup. Youre gonna love it!
Facts.