7 replies to this topic

[nono]

Hi,

I bought a used D700 a couple of months ago, and I'm thinking about getting a few lenses for it. I currently have a 50 f/1.8, 85 f/1.8 (both AFD) and I will soon get a Tokina 80-400 (scored on ebay, not yet in my hands). I'm looking for a walkaround zoom with more and less these requirements:

* 24-something,
* f/4 is enough, no need for going 24-70 f/2.8,
* good enough IQ of course,
* VR would be nice but not required,
* reasonably future-proof (I may upgrade to a D8x0 or a Z at some point),
* preferably 500 euros or less (buying used is OK).

I gather the 24-85 f/2.8-4 is quite good for the price, even though it won't autofocus on a Z if I'm not mistaken? I also know there are a few 24-105 or 24-120 models around, but I don't know which are good and which are not.

Thanks for your advice!

[TBonz]

You can't beat the 24-70 but I liked the range of the 24-120.  I needed more than the f4 so I went to the 24-70 but I really enjoyed having that lens when I didn't need the f2.8.  It was a great all purpose lens.

 

Since I normally have my 70-200 on a different body, I didn't have much of an issue covering the high end of the range.  The 24-70 is quicker focusing, but both the VR and non-VR models are heavier than the 24-120.

[Merco_61]

The 24-85 is a better match on a D6x0 or D750 than on the D700 as it is so light. The Sigma 24-105 is a nice choice if on a budget. The current Nikon 24-120 is a very nice walk-around zoom, the older versions were not.

[nono]

You can't beat the 24-70 but I liked the range of the 24-120.  I needed more than the f4 so I went to the 24-70 but I really enjoyed having that lens when I didn't need the f2.8.  It was a great all purpose lens.
 
Since I normally have my 70-200 on a different body, I didn't have much of an issue covering the high end of the range.  The 24-70 is quicker focusing, but both the VR and non-VR models are heavier than the 24-120.

Thanks. I guess I should elaborate on this: I already own a Pentax K-1 with a Sigma 24-70 f/2.8 and I would like to complement this kit rather than duplicate it. Pentax doesn't have anything 24-100-ish, the only current lens in this kind of range is a 28-105 and I'm afraid 28 would be too long. On the other hand, I have this D700 for which lenses are available in this range, so I can as well use it. Hence the 24-105 or 24-120, or maybe 24-85.

The 24-85 is a better match on a D6x0 or D750 than on the D700 as it is so light. The Sigma 24-105 is a nice choice if on a budget. The current Nikon 24-120 is a very nice walk-around zoom, the older versions were not.

Thank you. I will have a look at the Sigma, the Nikon looks a tad too expensive for me.

What about the current 24-85? Is it any good?

[Merco_61]

It has some CA and there is a bit of sharpness falloff towards the edges. IMO, the balance just doesn't feel right on the D700 and I would rather have the Sigma.

[fallout666]

all depends on reach you need. you have few choice 24-70mm is great choice. but do not get long end. if can take 2 lenses 24-70mm and 70-200mm but 70-200mm is long lens. to me what other said are great ideas too. 

[walt@wblady.com]

I'm certainly not a professional photographer, and maybe I don't know what I'm talking about but, I have a lens that I call my... "I have no idea what the heck I'm going to shoot today" walk-around lens. It's my 28-300mm f:3.5-5.6 workhorse. I put it on my D850 or my Z 7 (with an FTZ adapter) when I want to pack one camera with one lens. I've used this glass for just about everything. I know its limitations so I'm never really disappointed in the results. I've also got a S24-70mm f:28, a 70-200mm f:28 and a few other assorted macros and wide angle glass, but I always seem to take this one with me instead of lugging a heavy bag. Haven't been disappointed yet..

[bluzman]

I'm certainly not a professional photographer, and maybe I don't know what I'm talking about but, I have a lens that I call my... "I have no idea what the heck I'm going to shoot today" walk-around lens. It's my 28-300mm f:3.5-5.6 workhorse. I put it on my D850 or my Z 7 (with an FTZ adapter) when I want to pack one camera with one lens. I've used this glass for just about everything. I know its limitations so I'm never really disappointed in the results. I've also got a S24-70mm f:28, a 70-200mm f:28 and a few other assorted macros and wide angle glass, but I always seem to take this one with me instead of lugging a heavy bag. Haven't been disappointed yet..

I can identify with your post. My AF-S DX 18-140mm f/3.5-5.6 has been that lens for me. It seems to always be attached to my D5600. Recently, I acquired a Sigma 18-200mm f/3.5-6.3 DC OS HSM Contemporary that I hope will be its counterpart on my D7500.