Sigma has released the 24-70mm f/2.8 DG DN II Art lens, I think this lens will be the best $1000 24-70 lens for Sony.

I vote for Tamron 28-75mm f2.8 Di III VXD G2: https://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/search?Ntt=Tamron+28+75mm+Mount+Limited+Warranty&BI=8941&KBID=10361&SID=12345&DFF=d50

Solid advice 👍

Late to the party but I wanted to throw a few niche options out there. Honestly, I used to be obsessed with the highest resolving power possible until my wrists started killing me after long wedding shoots. Downsizing the kit changed everything for my workflow.

• Sigma 28-70mm f/2.8 DG DN Contemporary is a total sleeper hit. Its way lighter than the Art version and the center sharpness is almost identical. Just be careful with the weather sealing tho, it isnt as robust as the pro-grade lenses.
• Sony FE 20-70mm f/4 G is technically f/4, but the performance is insane. Those dual XD linear motors make it stick to subjects like glue. Make sure to check if you actually need f/2.8 versus having 20mm at the wide end... that extra width is huge.
• Samyang AF 24-70mm f/2.8 FE might be worth looking at if you do hybrid work. Its one of the few consumer zooms that is actually parfocal. I would suggest getting the lens station too cause Samyang firmware updates are basically mandatory for reliable AF. If you are worried about balance on a specific body I can pull up some notes on the center of gravity for these.

Let's just wait the rumored FE 24-70mm f/2 GM lens.

The Sony 24-70mm f/2.8 GM II produces exceptional image quality with fast autofocus, but costs a premium. More affordable alternatives like theTamron 28-75mm f/2.8 G2 and Sigma 24-70mm f/2.8 DG DN II Art match Sony's optics at nearly half the price.

Currently best selling 24-70mm lens for Sony at B&H is Sigma 24-70mm f/2.8 DG DN Art.