10 Best 24-70mm Lenses in January 2026 (Tested)

After spending 15 years shooting everything from corporate events to destination weddings, I’ve learned that lens choice matters more than camera body. The 24-70mm f/2.8 stays on my camera 80% of the time because it handles whatever a shoot throws at me.

The best 24-70mm lens for you depends on your camera system and budget. Sony users should get the FE 24-70mm f/2.8 GM II for unmatched performance, Canon RF shooters need the RF 24-70mm f/2.8 L IS USM for its image stabilization, and Nikon Z owners will love the NIKKOR Z 24-70mm f/2.8 S for its incredible sharpness. Budget-conscious photographers should consider the Sigma 24-70mm f/2.8 DG DN II Art.

I’ve tested these lenses across real shoots—12-hour wedding days, corporate events in dim ballrooms, and landscape sessions at sunrise. This guide covers every major camera mount with honest insights from actual use, not spec sheets.

Our Top 3 24-70mm Lens Picks (January 2026)

24-70mm Lens Comparison

Compare specs and features across all major camera systems. Each lens is optimized for its specific mount, so check compatibility before buying.

Detailed 24-70mm Lens Reviews (January 2026)

1. Sigma 24-70mm F2.8 DG DN II Art – Best Value for Sony

Sigma’s second-generation 24-70mm Art lens brings significant improvements. At $1,219, it costs about half as much as Sony’s GM II while delivering 95% of the performance. I’ve used both lenses side by side, and the difference in real-world shooting is minimal.

The new aperture ring is a game-changer. It provides tactile control that stills photographers and videographers will appreciate. The click switch lets you choose between clicked stops for stills or de-clicked operation for video.

Optical Stabilization is excellent and works in tandem with Sony’s in-body stabilization. During handheld testing, I consistently achieved sharp shots at shutter speeds 2-3 stops slower than usual.

Autofocus is fast and accurate thanks to Sigma’s updated motor system. The lens communicates perfectly with Sony’s Fast Hybrid AF and Eye AF. Customer feedback confirms reliable performance during events and portrait sessions.

The build quality feels premium with weather sealing throughout. Customer photos demonstrate the lens’s optical quality in various situations—from environmental portraits to product photography.

Who Should Buy?

Budget-conscious Sony shooters, professionals who want to save money without sacrificing quality, and anyone getting serious about photography but not ready for $2,400+ lenses.

Who Should Avoid?

Professionals who need absolute reliability for paid work, and anyone bothered by the counter-clockwise zoom direction.

2. Sony FE 24-70mm F2.8 GM II – Best Overall for Sony

The Sony FE 24-70mm f/2.8 GM II represents a complete redesign from the original. At just 695 grams, it’s 20% lighter than the previous model while somehow delivering better optical quality. I’ve shot with both versions, and the weight difference matters during a 12-hour wedding.

Sony packed four XD Linear Motors into this lens. The autofocus locks onto subjects instantly and tracks them flawlessly. I tested it with my Sony A7IV shooting a dance floor at a reception—fast-moving subjects in low light, and the hit rate was nearly 100%.

Video creators will appreciate the reduced focus breathing. Sony specifically designed this lens with cinematography in mind, minimizing the angle-of-view shift when focusing. Customer photos show the lens maintains a consistent field of view during rack focus.

The optical quality is what you’d expect from G Master. Sharp across the frame at f/2.8, with beautiful bokeh that makes portraits pop. Two XA elements and multiple ED glass elements control aberrations effectively.

Customer images validate the compact size claims. Real-world photos show this lens mounted on smaller camera bodies like the A7C series, demonstrating how portable a professional f/2.8 zoom can actually be.

At $2,448, this is an investment. But for working Sony professionals who need reliability and performance, it’s worth every penny. The build quality inspires confidence, and the weather sealing has held up during outdoor shoots in questionable conditions.

Who Should Buy?

Professional Sony shooters, wedding and event photographers who need reliable autofocus, hybrid creators who shoot both photos and video, and anyone who wants the best optics available for the E-mount system.

Who Should Avoid?

Budget-conscious photographers, casual shooters who don’t need f/2.8, and anyone who rarely uses zoom lenses. The f/4 version or third-party alternatives would be better choices.

3. Canon RF24-70mm F2.8 L IS USM – Best for Canon RF

Canon’s RF 24-70mm f/2.8 L IS USM brings the legendary L-series quality to the mirrorless RF mount. The standout feature is the 5-stop image stabilization—handheld shots at 1/15th second are consistently usable. I’ve tested this alongside the best cameras for professional photography, and the combination delivers razor-sharp results.

The Nano USM autofocus system is lightning fast and completely silent. During a recent corporate event, I captured speakers moving across a stage without a single missed focus. The lens communicates seamlessly with Canon’s Eye AF and subject tracking.

Image quality is exceptional across the frame. Center sharpness at f/2.8 is outstanding, and stopping down to f/4 yields corner-to-corner sharpness. The bokeh is smooth and pleasing, with circular aperture blades creating natural-looking background blur.

Customer photos from buyers confirm the lens’s versatility. Real-world images span landscapes, portraits, and travel photography—all handled competently by this single zoom. Users praise its ability to replace multiple prime lenses in their bag.

Build quality is professional-grade with weather sealing throughout. The control ring is a nice touch for experienced shooters who want direct access to settings. At 1.98 pounds, it’s not light, but the performance justifies the weight.

Who Should Buy?

Canon RF system users who need professional quality, wedding and event photographers, anyone who values image stabilization, and photographers transitioning from Canon DSLR to mirrorless.

Who Should Avoid?

Travel photographers concerned about weight, hobbyists who don’t need L-series quality, and anyone who can utilize the more compact RF 28-70mm f/2.8 STM instead.

4. NIKKOR Z 24-70mm f/2.8 S – Best for Nikon Z

Nikon calls this the best normal zoom lens they’ve ever made. After testing it extensively with my Z8, I agree. The NIKKOR Z 24-70mm f/2.8 S delivers optical quality that rivals prime lenses throughout the zoom range.

The Multi-Focusing System is revolutionary. Two AF drive units work in perfect synchronization, delivering fast and accurate autofocus that’s completely silent. I’ve used this lens during wedding ceremonies where silence is mandatory, and it performed flawlessly.

Sharpness is exceptional from center to corners. The color rendering and micro-contrast remind me of Nikon’s best prime lenses. Customer photos from users consistently praise the “3D pop” that this lens produces in portraits.

Video creators will appreciate the minimal focus breathing. When pulling focus during video recording, the angle of view remains virtually constant—a rare feature in still-photo zoom lenses.

The weather sealing is among the best in class. All moving parts are extensively sealed against dust and moisture. I’ve shot with this lens in light rain without hesitation, and customer reviews confirm similar experiences in challenging conditions.

Who Should Buy?

Nikon Z system professionals, landscape photographers who need corner-to-corner sharpness, wedding photographers, and anyone building a serious Z-mount lens collection.

Who Should Avoid?

Budget-conscious buyers, casual shooters, and anyone who can live with the smaller f/4 version for travel purposes.

5. Tamron 28-75mm F/2.8 Di III VXD G2 (Sony) – Best Budget Sony Option

The Tamron 28-75mm G2 sacrifices 4mm on the wide end to achieve significant weight and cost savings. At $699, it’s less than a third of the Sony GM II’s price. After testing this lens for a destination wedding, I came away impressed.

The VXD linear motor autofocus is impressively fast and silent. During reception dancing, it kept up with erratic movement without hunting. The minimum focusing distance of just 7.1 inches opens up creative possibilities for environmental portraits.

Sharpness is excellent throughout the range, with only minor corner softness wide open at 28mm. Stopping down to f/4 cleans this up completely. For most real-world use, the optical quality is more than sufficient.

Customer photos showcase the lens’s versatility. Users have successfully shot everything from weddings to travel photography with this lens. The 1:2.7 maximum magnification ratio makes it capable for close-up work too.

At just 19 ounces, this lens is a joy to carry. A full day of shooting with this lens mounted is noticeably less fatiguing than with heavier options. The USB-C port for firmware updates is a nice touch for future-proofing.

Who Should Buy?

Budget-conscious Sony shooters, wedding and event photographers on a budget, travel photographers who value weight savings, and anyone wanting their first fast standard zoom.

Who Should Avoid?

Photographers who need the full 24mm wide angle, professionals working in extreme weather, and anyone who requires image stabilization.

6. Tamron 28-75mm F/2.8 Di III VXD G2 (Nikon Z) – Best Value for Nikon Z

Nikon Z users finally have a budget-friendly f/2.8 standard zoom option. This Tamron brings the same VXD performance and value to the Z mount. At $849, it undercuts Nikon’s first-party option by over $1,000.

Autofocus performance is quick and quiet thanks to the VXD linear motor. It works well with Nikon’s subject tracking and eye detection. During my testing, portrait sessions were handled with reliable accuracy.

The optical performance impresses for the price. Sharpness is consistent through the range, with some edge softness at 75mm wide open. The close-focusing capability of 7.1 inches enables creative macro-style shots.

Customer images from Nikon Z shooters demonstrate the lens’s capability for various genres. From engagement sessions to travel photography, users are finding this lens delivers professional results at a hobbyist price point.

Some users report quality control issues, with a few receiving used copies sold as new. This is concerning, but Tamron’s 6-year USA warranty provides peace of mind. I’d recommend buying from authorized retailers.

Who Should Buy?

Nikon Z shooters on a budget, photographers building their Z-mount kit, and anyone wanting to try a fast zoom without a huge investment.

Who Should Avoid?

Professionals who need absolute reliability, photographers who need the full 24mm range, and anyone bothered by potential quality control issues.

7. Canon RF28-70mm F2.8 IS STM – Best Compact for Canon

Canon’s RF 28-70mm f/2.8 IS STM fills an interesting niche as the lightest f/2.8 zoom for the RF mount. At $1,049, it’s less than half the price of the L-series version. I tested this as an everyday carry lens and found it remarkably capable.

The built-in image stabilization delivers up to 5.5 stops of correction. Combined with Canon’s IBIS bodies, handheld low-light shooting becomes genuinely viable. I captured sharp images at 1/15th second during indoor testing.

Optical quality surprised me. While it lacks the L designation, images are sharp throughout the range. Two UD elements minimize chromatic aberration, and aspheric elements maintain edge-to-edge sharpness.

The STM autofocus motor is fast and silent. It’s not quite as quick as the L-series Nano USM, but more than adequate for most situations. Customer feedback confirms reliable performance for portraits and everyday photography.

The extending barrel design is a compromise for weight savings. You must extend the lens to use it at 28mm, which takes some getting used to. But the 1.6-pound weight makes it a joy to carry all day.

Who Should Buy?

Canon RF shooters who want a lightweight everyday lens, travel photographers, and anyone finding the L-series 24-70mm too heavy or expensive.

Who Should Avoid?

Full-time professionals who need L-series durability, photographers who need the full 24mm range, and anyone who shoots frequently in harsh conditions.

8. Sigma 28-70mm F2.8 DG DN Contemporary – Most Compact Option

At just over 1 pound, the Sigma 28-70mm DG DN is the smallest third-party f/2.8 standard zoom available. Sigma achieved this by using the optical design from their renowned 24-70mm Art as a starting point.

The internal focusing design is a major advantage. The lens doesn’t extend when focusing, which is great for filter users and prevents dust from being sucked into the barrel. The 67mm filter thread matches other Sigma lenses, saving money on filters.

Sharpness is impressive for the size. While there’s some corner softness at 70mm wide open, stopping down slightly resolves this. The center and mid-frame are excellent throughout the range.

Customer photos show this lens excelling as a travel companion. Users consistently praise how it disappears in their bag, making it more likely to be carried. The image quality rivals much larger and heavier options.

At $779, it represents excellent value. Many users report selling their Sony 24-70mm GM after switching to this lens, finding it handles 99% of their needs at a fraction of the price and weight.

Who Should Buy?

Travel photographers who prioritize weight, anyone wanting a compact everyday lens, and photographers who already own other Sigma lenses with 67mm filter threads.

Who Should Avoid?

Photographers who need the full 24-70mm range, professionals who need weather sealing, and anyone wanting the absolute best optical quality regardless of size.

9. Rokinon 24-70mm F2.8 AF – Best Video Feature Set

The Rokinon 24-70mm f/2.8 AF offers something rare in this category: true par-focal design. This means it maintains focus when zooming—a critical feature for serious video work that most photo-oriented zooms lack.

At $699, it’s one of the most affordable full-frame 24-70mm f/2.8 options available. The weather sealing covers 7 critical areas, providing protection against dust and moisture during outdoor shoots.

The LSM autofocus motor is smooth and silent, ideal for video recording. Manual override is available for precise control when needed. The optical quality is surprisingly good for the price, with sharp results throughout the range.

However, this lens has significant drawbacks. At 3.01 pounds, it’s heavier than many premium options. The lack of a zoom lock means the barrel can extend when carried. There are concerning reports about mount durability due to plastic internal components.

Customer reviews are mixed, with many praising the value and par-focal performance while others question the build quality. The 3.9-star average rating reflects this divide.

Who Should Buy?

Video creators who need par-focal performance, budget-conscious filmmakers, and hobbyists willing to accept some compromises for the price.

Who Should Avoid?

Professional photographers who need reliability, anyone who shoots handheld for long periods, and photographers concerned about build quality.

10. Nikon NIKKOR Z 24-70mm f/4 S – Best Travel Option

The Nikon Z 24-70mm f/4 S proves you don’t always need f/2.8. At just 1.1 pounds, this lens is perfect for travel and everyday carry. After testing it alongside the f/2.8 version, I found the optical performance remarkably similar.

Sharpness is exceptional across the frame with virtually no distortion. The optical formula takes advantage of Nikon’s larger Z-mount to deliver results that rival prime lenses. Customer photos consistently praise the “professional quality” in a compact package.

The 5-axis dual detect optical VR works seamlessly with camera-based IBIS. Handheld shots at slow shutter speeds are consistently sharp. This makes the f/4 aperture less limiting in real-world use.

Weather sealing protects against dust and moisture, and the fluorine coating repels water and oil from the front element. The customizable control ring adds versatility, letting you assign aperture, ISO, or exposure compensation.

At $897, it’s an excellent value for Nikon Z shooters. The lens is often included as a kit lens, but it deserves respect as a serious optic in its own right. Many professionals keep this lens for travel when the f/2.8 version would be overkill.

Who Should Buy?

Travel photographers, landscape shooters, anyone who values weight savings, and photographers whose cameras have good high-ISO performance to offset the f/4 aperture.

Who Should Avoid?

Wedding and event photographers who need f/2.8 for low light, and anyone who frequently shoots in dim conditions where that extra stop matters.

Understanding the 24-70mm Standard Zoom

A 24-70mm lens is a versatile standard zoom covering wide-angle to short telephoto focal lengths. It’s the ideal tool for wedding photography, events, portraits, and landscapes. The 24mm end captures environmental shots and group photos, while 70mm provides flattering portrait compression.

The f/2.8 aperture enables low-light shooting and creates beautiful background blur. This constant aperture throughout the zoom range means exposure doesn’t change when you zoom—a critical feature for consistent results.

Buying Guide: How to Choose the Best 24-70mm Lens?

Camera Mount Compatibility

Your camera system determines which lenses you can use. Sony E-mount lenses only work on Sony cameras, Nikon Z-mount on Nikon Z bodies, and Canon RF-mount on Canon’s mirrorless system. Third-party options from Sigma and Tamron are available for multiple mounts, but you must buy the specific version for your camera.

F/2.8 vs F/4 Aperture

The f/2.8 aperture lets in twice as much light as f/4, making it better for low-light situations and creating stronger background blur. However, f/4 lenses are typically lighter and more affordable. If you shoot events or weddings, f/2.8 is worth the investment. For travel and general use, f/4 may be sufficient.

Feature	F/2.8 Lenses	F/4 Lenses
Low Light Performance	Excellent	Good
Background Blur	Strong	Moderate
Weight	1.5-2 lbs	1-1.5 lbs
Price Range	$1,200-2,800	$700-1,000

First-Party vs Third-Party

First-party lenses from Sony, Canon, and Nikon offer the best build quality, weather sealing, and resale value. Third-party options from Sigma and Tamron deliver 90-95% of the performance at 40-60% of the price. Forum feedback suggests many professionals start with third-party and upgrade to first-party as their business grows.

Weather Sealing Considerations

Event and outdoor photographers need proper weather sealing. First-party lenses generally offer better protection than third-party alternatives. Check for seals around all moving parts and mount. L-Mount and RF-mount options tend to have superior sealing compared to budget options.

Video Performance Features

Hybrid creators should look for minimal focus breathing, parfocal design (maintains focus when zooming), and silent autofocus. The Sony GM II and Canon RF lenses excel here. The Rokinon offers rare par-focal performance for serious video work.

Frequently Asked Questions

Final Recommendations

After testing all these lenses in real-world conditions, my recommendations are clear. Sony users should get the FE 24-70mm f/2.8 GM II if budget allows—it’s simply the best overall performer. Canon RF shooters need the RF 24-70mm f/2.8 L IS USM for that excellent image stabilization. Nikon Z owners will love the NIKKOR Z 24-70mm f/2.8 S for its incredible sharpness.

For those watching their budget, the Sigma 24-70mm f/2.8 DG DN II Art delivers professional results at half the price of first-party options. And if weight is your priority, the Nikon Z 24-70mm f/4 S or Sigma 28-70mm Contemporary won’t disappoint.