What is the best Tamron lens for Sony A7IV travel photography?

Question

Im honestly just so done with carrying three different primes every time I go out because my back is actually killing me and I keep missing shots while I'm swapping glass. My A7IV is basically a paperweight right now because I dread packing it for my trip to Portugal in two weeks. I need to simplify things and everyone keeps saying Tamron is the way to go for lightweight travel setups but I'm torn between the 28-200 for the range or the 28-75 G2 for the speed and I'm stressing out about the $900 budget limit. What is the best Tamron lens for Sony A7IV travel photography if I just want to carry one lens and actually enjoy my vacation?

bikely · Accepted Answer

Honestly, I had high hopes for some of the newer pro zooms lately, but unfortunately, many are just getting heavier and more expensive than they need to be. If you are really trying to save your back and stay under that $900 mark, the Tamron 28-200mm f/2.8-5.6 Di III RXD is basically your only real choice, even if the edge sharpness isn't as good as I expected compared to your primes.

The Tamron 28-75mm f/2.8 Di III VXD G2 is faster, but you'll constantly wish you had more reach for those Lisbon rooftops.

You can usually find the 28-200 for way under your budget, sometimes near $700, which is a total steal. Its a shame we have to compromise on aperture for weight, but its worth it to actually enjoy the scenery. Dont overthink it... just grab the superzoom and go. I'm here if you need more help picking a kit.

HollowPing · Answer

Unfortunately, super-zooms often sacrifice too much sharpness for my taste. If you want crisp shots of those tiles in Portugal, the Tamron 28-75mm f/2.8 Di III VXD G2 is the better play. I had issues with the older version hunting for focus, but the G2 is solid. Tbh, its usually on sale under your $900 budget, which leaves you extra cash for the trip.

ShadowNavigator · Answer

Yep been there done that. Can confirm everything said above is spot on.