Should I just bite the bullet and get the Sony 24-70mm GM II for my a7 IV or is the Sigma 24-70mm basically the same thing for way less money? Im finally heading to Iceland in like three weeks so I want to get this sorted asap. I keep looking at the 24-105 f/4 too because the extra reach would be nice for those compressed mountain shots but then I worry about low light if I wanna do some astro or blue hour stuff. Budget is around 2k but I can push it if the GM II is really that much better for hiking and weight. I'm so stoked for this trip but the gear anxiety is hitting hard lol. Which one should I grab?
> Should I just bite the bullet and get the Sony 24-70mm GM II for my a7 IV or is the Sigma 24-70mm basically the same thing for way less money? Honestly, I was in this exact same spot a few months ago before a big trip. That gear anxiety is so real but dont let it get to you too much. I ended up biting the bullet on the Sony FE 24-70mm f/2.8 GM II and I have been incredibly happy with that choice. The main thing for me was the weight. When you are hiking around for hours, every single gram matters. The GM II is significantly lighter than the Sigma 24-70mm f/2.8 DG DN Art. My buddy has the Sigma and while the photos look great, he is always complaining about the bulk after a long day on the trails. It kinda sucks the fun out of the hike when your neck starts hurting halfway through. I also looked at the Sony FE 24-105mm f/4 G OSS because of that extra reach, which is nice for sure, but f/4 just doesnt cut it for me when the sun goes down. If you want to try some astro in Iceland, you are really gonna want that f/2.8. Since you have the budget, the GM II is honestly the way to go. It works so well with the autofocus on the a7 IV and the sharpness is just unreal. It has been my favorite purchase in years and I have zero complaints about how it performs in the field. Have an amazing time in Iceland, it is gonna be epic!
I totally agree with the f/4 recommendation! Its an amazing and safe choice for Iceland. Choosing the Sony FE 24-105mm f/4 G OSS is fantastic because the savings let you invest in a B+W 77mm Master 007 Clear Filter MRC Nano to protect your gear from the elements. This is a methodical way to build a reliable kit while staying under budget. Youll love the peace of mind honestly!
Regarding what #1 said about biting the bullet, I'd actually look at the Sony FE 24-105mm f/4 G OSS for a trip like that. Its built like a total tank and handles the wind better since you wont be swapping lenses as often. That OSS is a nice safety net for sharp handheld shots too. f/4 is honestly fine for most landscape stuff, just grab a fast prime for the aurora.