Gear-up for Greatness: 24–70mm vs. 24–105mm...Which Lens is Right for You?

Few lens debates stir up as much discussion as the 24–70mm f/2.8 versus the 24–105mm f/4 (or 24–120mm in some brands). Both are workhorse zooms that live on many photographers’ cameras for landscapes, travel, portraits, and even a bit of wildlife. But if you’re trying to decide between them, which one makes the most sense for your kit?

Let’s break down the strengths and trade-offs of each.

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The Case for the 24–70mm f/2.8

It’s no surprise that many professionals rely on this lens. The 24–70 is sharp, versatile, and fast.

Pros

• f/2.8 aperture: Twice as much light as f/4 makes a big difference in low light, from astrophotography to wedding receptions. It also produces beautiful background blur for portraits.

• Professional reputation: This range is iconic, and resale value is high. If you ever decide to sell, you’ll find eager buyers.

• Compact (relatively): While heavier than the 24–105, it’s still smaller than most telephotos, making it manageable for travel and everyday use.

Cons

• Heavier and bulkier: That wider aperture adds glass, and glass adds weight. On long hikes or travel days, you’ll notice it.

• Expensive: Typically around twice the cost of a 24–105mm.

• Limited reach: Topping out at 70mm can feel restrictive compared to 105mm.

Best for: Photographers who regularly shoot in low light, want creamy bokeh, or need a single “do-everything” lens with professional resale value.

The Case for the 24–105mm (or 24–120mm) f/4

On paper, losing that f/2.8 might sound like a dealbreaker. In practice, many photographers — myself included — find the trade-off well worth it.

Pros

• Extra reach: That 70–105mm stretch is surprisingly useful, especially for wildlife, tighter landscapes, or candid travel shots.

• Lightweight and smaller: Easier to pack, carry, and sling on your shoulder all day.

• Affordable: Often about half the price of the 24–70mm, freeing up budget for a prime lens or a telephoto.

• Sharpness: Modern versions of these lenses are incredibly sharp, even wide open.

Cons

• f/4 maximum aperture: Lets in half as much light as f/2.8, limiting performance in very low light and producing less blur in portraits.

• Slightly less “pro appeal”: While excellent, these lenses don’t carry the same prestige (or resale market) as the 24–70mm f/2.8.

  
  

Best for: Travel, landscape, and general-purpose photographers who prioritize versatility, portability, and value.

Other Factors to Consider

• Your shooting style: How often do you truly need f/2.8? If you’re usually at f/5.6–f/11 for landscapes, the extra stop may not matter.

• Your kit: Do you already own a fast prime or a 70–200mm f/2.8? If so, the 24–105mm might complement your setup better.

• Camera bodies: Today’s sensors handle high ISO far better than older models. In many cases, bumping ISO is a more cost-effective solution than paying double for a 2.8 zoom.

• Stabilization: Most modern versions of both lenses include image stabilization, but always double-check. If only one in your system has it, that could be the deciding factor.

  
  

My Take

As much as I love the low-light magic of f/2.8, I personally reach for the 24–105mm f/4. The lighter weight, extra reach, and smaller size make it the better fit for my style of travel and nature photography. Most of the time, I’m already shooting at f/5.6 or f/8 for depth of field, and the versatility outweighs the speed advantage.

That said, if you need a single lens to cover everything from portraits to night photography — or you just love the look of f/2.8 — the 24–70mm is tough to beat.

The Bottom Line

Both the 24–70mm f/2.8 and the 24–105mm f/4 are outstanding lenses. The decision ultimately comes down to your priorities:

• Choose the 24–70mm f/2.8 if you crave low-light capability, creamy bokeh, and pro-level versatility in one lens.

• Choose the 24–105mm f/4 if you value lighter weight, longer reach, and a friendlier price point without sacrificing sharpness.

In the end, the best lens is the one you’ll actually carry and use. It sounds obvious, but is a golden rule of photographers.

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Best, Court