What is the best all-around zoom lens for Sony a7 IV?

Question

So I finally pulled the trigger on the a7 IV after saving up forever and now I am staring at the body with no glass lol. I need one solid zoom that can basically stay on the camera 90% of the time because I am heading to Tokyo in about two months and I really dont want to be swapping lenses in the middle of a crowded street.

I spent like three hours last night looking at the 24-70mm options and honestly I am more confused now. My logic was just to buy the Sony GM II because everyone says its the gold standard but man that price tag is hard to swallow for a hobbyist like me. Then I saw the Tamron 28-75mm G2 is basically half the price and everyone raves about it but I am worried that 28mm isnt wide enough for the city shots? Like is those 4mm at the wide end really that noticeable?

I also saw some people mentioning the Sigma 24-70mm Art but apparently it had some dust issues in the past or its just really heavy? My budget is roughly $2000 so I could technically swing the GM if I eat ramen for a month but I want to know if the image quality is actually that much better for just general street and family travel photos.

Sony 24-70 GM II (expensive but maybe worth it?)

Tamron 28-75 G2 (is 28mm too tight?)

Sigma 24-70 Art (too heavy for all day walking?)

What are you guys actually using on your a7 IV for a daily driver? Is there a sweet spot I am missing here...

AnthonyLof · Accepted Answer

Go with the Tamron 28-75mm f/2.8 Di III VXD G2 Sony E and dont look back! It is amazing value and youll barely notice that 4mm difference once youre exploring Tokyo!

Cvety_gfEt · Answer

> Like is those 4mm really that noticeable? In Tokyo, the Sony FE 24-70mm F2.8 GM II felt way lighter than the Sigma 24-70mm F2.8 DG DN Art... that 20% weight reduction and XD linear motors are technically superior for tracking focus.

SchuldtCom · Answer

Omg I am literally in the exact same boat right now!! I just saw this thread and it is like you are reading my mind... I just got the a7 IV too and I have been losing sleep over which lens to bring for my own trip to Tokyo next month! It is honestly so stressful trying to pick just one when you want every single shot to be perfect and safe.

Honestly, just stick with Sony if you want that peace of mind!

You really cannot go wrong with their first-party gear because the reliability is just legendary and you know it wont fail on you in a crowd.

Staying with the same brand as the camera body is just the safest bet because everything communicates perfectly which is huge when you are halfway across the world!! I am probably just gonna grab a Sony zoom and call it a day haha. Reliability is everything when you are on the road! Have an amazing time in Japan!!