26/03/2026 5:01 am
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APS-C E-mount Lens
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So I finally bit the bullet and grabbed a Sony a6700 after saving up for months and I am beyond hyped to actually use it for more than just test shots in my living room lol. I am planning a big hiking trip to the Pacific Northwest in like three weeks so I really need to nail down one lens that can just stay on the camera the whole time since I really hate swapping glass when it is misty or raining.
I have been obsessively watching reviews and I am basically torn between three main ones. First is the Sigma 18-50mm f2.8 because it is so tiny and I love how it makes the setup feel like a point and shoot but then I worry the 50mm isnt long enough for those mountain peaks or random wildlife. Then there is the Tamron 17-70mm f2.8 which seems like the gold standard for versatility but man it looks massive on the a6700 body and I am trying to stay somewhat light for the trails. My logic was that the extra reach and stabilization in the Tamron would be worth the weight but now I am second guessing if I would actually want to carry it around my neck all day.
- Sigma 18-50mm (small and sharp)
- Tamron 17-70mm (great range but heavy)
- Sony 18-135mm (huge range but slow aperture)
Budget is around 900 bucks max so I can afford any of these really. Which one would you actually pick for a one lens to rule them all situation...
3 Answers
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26/03/2026 5:22 am
Unfortunately, the Sony E 18-135mm f/3.5-5.6 OSS has disappointing corner resolution.
- Sigma: sharp but no sealing
- Tamron: versatile but massive Honestly, hunt for a used Sony E 16-55mm f/2.8 G for better glass.
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26/03/2026 5:42 am
@Reply #1 - good point! Unfortunately we are overlooking technical vulnerabilities here. The Sigma lacks weather seals for PNW mist and the Tamron has significant barrel distortion at 17mm. Since you want to stay under budget, check out a used Sony E PZ 18-105mm f/4 G OSS. It is constant f/4 and the internal zoom is way safer for rainy trails than those extending barrels. Much cheaper too.
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26/03/2026 5:01 am
> I am basically torn between three main ones. First is the Sigma 18-50mm f2.8... Then there is the Tamron 17-70mm f2.8 In my experience, go with the Tamron 17-70mm f2.8 Di III-A VC RXD. Ive tried many setups over the years and while the Sigma 18-50mm f2.8 DC DN Contemporary is nice and tiny, you will definitely want that extra reach for PNW mountain peaks. The weight is fine if you use a decent strap, and that constant f2.8 is way better than the Sony 18-135 when it gets dark under the trees... worth the bulk tbh.
