Best lens for the Sony A7 IV

Buy the Tamron 28-75mm f/2.8 G2 as your main lens on the A7 IV. It gives you f/2.8 across the range at 540g. Move up to the Sony FE 24-70mm f/2.8 GM II if you shoot paid work and need the wider 24mm end.

The A7 IV is full frame, so focal lengths are what they say. It weighs 658g and has stabilisation in the body, so you do not need a stabilised lens for most handheld work.

Tamron or Sony

Both are f/2.8 zooms. The Tamron 28-75mm gives up 4mm at the wide end and gains 5mm at the long end, and it weighs 155g less than the Sony 24-70mm GM II.

That 4mm is the real question. In a small hall or a tight flat, 24mm takes in noticeably more of the room than 28mm. If you photograph interiors or big family groups indoors, the Sony earns its price. For portraits, travel and video where you can step back, the Tamron is the sensible choice. Compare today's prices in the tiles above.

Primes to add

The Sony FE 50mm f/1.8 weighs 186g and is the cheapest way to get a bright lens on this body. The Sony FE 85mm f/1.8 at 371g is the one to buy for portraits. On a full-frame sensor 85mm gives a flattering distance from your subject, and f/1.8 blurs the background well.

Long lenses and macro

The Sony FE 200-600mm f/5.6-6.3 G OSS is for birds and wildlife, at 2115g. Plan on a monopod or a strong strap. The Sony FE 90mm f/2.8 Macro at 602g is the one for products, jewellery and insects.

What to avoid

Avoid APS-C E lenses like the Sigma 18-50mm on this camera. They fit the mount, but the A7 IV switches to a crop and you give up the sensor you paid for. If you already own one, it is fine for a while. Do not buy a new one.

Every lens that fits the A7 IV is listed here.

Before you buy

Ask the shop if you can try 24mm and 28mm on your own camera inside the store. It takes a minute and it settles the choice. Check whether the Tamron box says Sony E, since this lens line is sold for other mounts as well.