What is the best all-around zoom lens for Sony Alpha 7 IV?

Question

Torn between the Sony 24-70 GM II and the Tamron 28-75 G2 for my A7 IV. Going to Japan next month and can only bring one lens. The Sony is way pricier but Im worried about missing that 24mm on the Tamron...

Budget: $2000 max

Use case: Travel/Street

Is the GM worth the extra $1k for a hobbyist?

Cooper Smith · Accepted Answer

I went to Kyoto last year thinking 28mm was enough, but I kept bumping into walls trying to fit those big shrines in frame. You might want to consider the Sony FE 24-70mm f/2.8 GM II because that extra 4mm is honestly huge for narrow Japan streets. Be careful with the Tamron 28-75mm f/2.8 Di III VXD G2... its light, but I really regretted missing those wider shots.

IridiumIbis · Answer

Re: "Would love to know this too" - you definitely want the Sony FE 24-70mm f/2.8 GM II for Japan! Its reliability is just on another level. The weather sealing is phenomenal, providing a real safety net if you get caught in the rain. While the Tamron 28-75mm f/2.8 Di III VXD G2 is good, the Sony is much more robust. You dont want gear failure abroad! Plus 24mm is amazing!

remont_lhei · Answer

I took a third-party lens to Osaka once and it was such a letdown... the autofocus kept hunting and I missed some great moments. It just wasnt as good as expected. Honestly, the Sony FE 24-70mm f/2.8 GM II is over your $2000 budget new, but used copies are around $1900.

Much more reliable tracking

Better weather sealing

That 24mm is essential for streets Native glass is always the safer bet for travel.