If you want to max out that 26MP sensor, go with the Sony E 16-55mm f/2.8 G. It features dual XD linear motors for insane tracking speeds and weighs around 494g. Since the a6700 has IBIS, you dont really need OSS. The f/2.8 constant aperture stays sharp across the frame, unlike some cheaper zooms. Its basically the pro standard for a reason tho... definitely worth the extra cash.

If you want the best bang for your buck, the Sigma 18-50mm f/2.8 DC DN Contemporary is the winner. Its way cheaper than the Sony G and basically half the weight. Technically, it holds up great on that 26MP sensor, and the f/2.8 remains constant through the range. Since you have IBIS, skip the overpriced stabilized glass and save your money for a dedicated portrait prime later.

Just catching up on the thread and honestly... I think youre all missing a huge point about reliability. Everyone wants that "one lens" to stay on forever, but people often ignore how these complex zooms actually hold up after a year of real-world abuse. If youre hiking and doing street stuff, you gotta be way more careful about the physical build than just the f-stop.

• Avoid lenses with massive extending barrels if you can; they are basically dust magnets for your sensor.
• Be wary of anything that feels too plastic-y at the mount because that 26MP sensor deserves a stable, rigid connection.
• Dont get sucked into the "more range is better" trap; usually, the wider the zoom range, the more mechanical points of failure you have. Its kinda funny how we obsess over sharpness but forget that a lens is useless if the AF motor dies or the zoom gets crunchy from a bit of grit. I would personally prioritize a lens with internal focusing and decent weather seals over some massive zoom range that tries to do everything but fails at being durable. Just my two cents.

I saw your post this morning and totally get the struggle. Choosing lenses is nerve-wracking when you dont want to waste money on something that might not work out. Personally, I lean towards the Tamron 17-70mm f/2.8 Di III-A VC RXD and honestly, its been the safest bet for me so far. Even though the a6700 has IBIS, having that extra VC (Vibration Compensation) in the lens gives me way more peace of mind. I always worry about my hands shaking, especially when I am zoomed in at 70mm or trying to catch video of the family. It just feels more secure and less likely to end up with a blurry mess. The size is definitely something to think about though. It is a bit beefy, but I look at it as a trade-off for that extra reach and the moisture-resistant construction. If you are really nervous about the weight and want to keep things super simple, the Sigma 18-50mm f/2.8 DC DN Contemporary is the other one I considered. It is way lighter—only about 290g—and much more affordable, which is nice if you're worried about overspending. But for a holy grail lens, I think the Tamron covers more ground. It has a really close minimum focusing distance of about 7.5 inches at the wide end, which is great for detail shots. Having that 70mm reach means you dont have to swap lenses as often, which is safer for your sensor anyway. Basically, if you can handle a slightly bigger kit, it feels like the most reliable tool to grow into.