Looking for the best single travel lens for Canon EOS R6?

Question

Finally got my hands on an R6 and I am prepping for a three-week trip to Japan this June. I really want to travel light so I am strictly looking for a one lens to rule them all type of setup because my back already hates me and I just know if I bring a bag of primes I wont actually use them lol.

Currently torn between these two:

RF 24-105mm f/4L IS USM

RF 24-240mm f/4-6.3 IS USM

I keep leaning toward the 24-105 because of the constant f/4 and that weather sealing since I am kinda worried about June rain in Tokyo but then I see the 240mm reach on the other one and I think about those compression shots I could get. But is the image quality on the 24-240 actually good enough for the R6 sensor? I have about $1300 to spend max and I can find both around that price if I go used or refurbished. I mainly do street photography and some landscapes but also want to snap some decent food photos in the markets without being too intrusive.

Will I regret not having that extra 135mm of reach if I go with the L lens? Or is the 24-240 just too much of a compromise on sharpness when it gets dark?...

Virginia Belle · Accepted Answer

Building on the earlier suggestion, I totally agree that the Canon RF 24-105mm f/4L IS USM is basically the gold standard for an R6 travel setup! I have used it extensively and the contrast and color rendition are just amazing. While the reach on the Canon RF 24-240mm f/4-6.3 IS USM sounds tempting for those compression shots, you really start to notice the lack of sharpness in the corners, and that variable aperture is a total pain when the sun starts going down in Shinjuku. The technical trade-offs for that superzoom are:No weather sealing for rainy TokyoVariable aperture is tough for night street shots If you want a lighter alternative, maybe check out the Canon RF 24-105mm f/4-7.1 IS STM, but it feels a bit toy-like compared to the L. The R6 sensor is so good that it deserves the L glass to really shine. Stick with the 24-105mm f/4L... the weather sealing alone makes it the winner!

NeonPhoenix23 · Answer

I would suggest the Canon RF 24-105mm f/4L IS USM.Weather sealing is mandatory for June rainConstant f/4 prevents ISO noiseUsed units fit your $1300 budget... dont overpay.