8 Best 24-105mm All-Purpose Zoom Lenses for Mirrorless Cameras (June 2026)

A 24-105mm all-purpose zoom lens is the single most versatile addition to any mirrorless camera kit. This focal range covers everything from sweeping landscapes at 24mm to tight portraits and distant subjects at 105mm, all without swapping glass. For travel photographers, event shooters, and content creators who need one reliable lens that handles most situations, the 24-105mm zoom range has become the go-to choice.

After testing dozens of standard zoom lenses over the years, our team has narrowed down the best 24-105mm all-purpose zoom lenses for mirrorless cameras in 2026. We evaluated each lens on image quality, autofocus performance, build construction, stabilization effectiveness, and real-world handling. Whether you shoot Canon RF, Sony E, Nikon Z, or L-mount systems, this guide covers the top options available right now.

What makes the 24-105mm range so popular is its practical versatility. At 24mm, you capture wide scenes and environmental portraits. Zoom to 50mm for natural perspective shots. Push to 105mm for flattering headshots and compressing backgrounds. The constant f/4 aperture versions maintain consistent exposure throughout the range, while budget-friendly variable aperture options offer similar reach at lower cost.

Top 3 Picks for Best 24-105mm Lenses in 2026

Best 24-105mm All-Purpose Zoom Lenses for Mirrorless Cameras in 2026

1. Canon RF 24-105mm f/4L IS USM – Best Overall L-Series Zoom

I spent three weeks shooting with the Canon RF 24-105mm f/4L IS USM on my EOS R5, and it quickly became my most-used lens for travel and everyday photography. The L-series build feels reassuring in hand, though lighter than I expected from professional glass. Canon made smart choices here, keeping the weight manageable without sacrificing the weather sealing that matters when shooting in unpredictable conditions.

The Nano USM autofocus motor delivers the speed and silence you want for both stills and video. I tracked running dogs and capturing candid street moments without the hunting that plagues slower focus systems. The transition between near and far subjects happens almost instantly, and the focus acquisition feels confident even in dim indoor lighting.

Image quality across the 24-105mm range impressed me consistently. Center sharpness is excellent wide open at f/4, and stopping down to f/5.6 brings the corners into line for landscape work. The 5-stop image stabilization genuinely works as advertised, letting me shoot handheld at 105mm with shutter speeds as slow as 1/15 second. For travel photography where tripods stay home, this stabilization makes a real difference.

Best Use Cases

This lens shines for travel photographers who want one lens to handle everything from cathedral interiors to street portraits. Wedding photographers appreciate the silent autofocus during ceremonies, and the constant f/4 aperture maintains consistent exposure when zooming during video recording. The versatile focal range eliminates lens changes in dusty environments.

Potential Drawbacks

Pure landscape photographers may notice corner softness at f/4 on high-resolution bodies. The build quality, while solid, uses more plastic than older EF L-series lenses. At this price point, some users expect metal construction throughout. For low-light specialists, the f/4 maximum aperture requires higher ISOs than faster alternatives.

2. Canon RF 24-105mm F2.8 L IS USM Z – Professional f/2.8 Constant Aperture

When Canon announced the RF 24-105mm F2.8 L IS USM Z, I was skeptical about the weight. At 2.9 pounds, this lens approaches 70-200mm f/2.8 territory. After using it for a month of event and studio work, I understand the trade-off. The constant f/2.8 aperture across the entire zoom range transforms what this lens can do in challenging light.

The optical performance matches Canon’s best professional glass. Shooting events in dimly lit venues, I could work at f/2.8 with confidence, knowing the results would be sharp across the frame. The 11 aperture blades create smooth, creamy bokeh that rivals prime lenses. Portrait photographers will love how backgrounds melt away at 105mm f/2.8.

Video shooters get thoughtful features designed for their workflow. The iris ring allows clickless aperture adjustments during recording, and the lens supports Canon’s Power Zoom adapters for smooth motorized zooming. The close-focusing capability down to 1.5 feet at all focal lengths opens up creative possibilities that previous 24-105mm lenses couldn’t match.

Best Use Cases

Event photographers working weddings and corporate functions benefit most from the f/2.8 aperture and versatile range. Studio photographers can replace multiple prime lenses with this single zoom. Video production teams appreciate the smooth zoom control options and consistent aperture throughout the range.

Potential Drawbacks

The weight becomes noticeable during long shooting days. At nearly three pounds, this lens demands a body with good grip and balance. The premium price puts it out of reach for hobbyists and part-time professionals. Some users report minor longitudinal chromatic aberration in high-contrast scenes.

3. Canon RF 24-105mm F4-7.1 IS STM – Best Budget Option

The Canon RF 24-105mm F4-7.1 IS STM surprised me with how much capability it delivers at this price point. At just 395 grams, this lens practically disappears on my camera during all-day walks and travel. For photographers building their first mirrorless kit, this budget-friendly option offers the essential 24-105mm range without requiring L-series investment.

Image quality exceeds expectations given the price. The STM autofocus motor moves quickly and silently, though not quite as fast as Nano USM. For general photography, the focus speed feels adequate. I tested the Center Focus Macro mode and achieved 0.5x magnification for close-up work that L-series lenses can’t match without extension tubes.

The variable aperture is the main compromise. At 24mm you get f/4, but zooming to 105mm drops to f/7.1. This means adjusting exposure as you zoom or letting the camera compensate automatically. For outdoor daylight shooting, this limitation rarely matters. Indoors or at golden hour, you’ll need higher ISOs or slower shutter speeds at the telephoto end.

Best Use Cases

Travel photographers on a budget get tremendous value here. The lightweight design keeps camera bags manageable during long trips. Beginners learning mirrorless systems appreciate the forgiving focal range and image stabilization. Anyone wanting the 24-105mm versatility without professional pricing will find this lens delivers surprisingly good results.

Potential Drawbacks

The variable aperture limits creative control when zooming during video or manual exposure shooting. Build quality reflects the budget price point, with more plastic than L-series alternatives. Low-light performance at 105mm requires higher ISO settings than constant aperture lenses need.

4. Sony FE 24-105mm F4 G OSS – Top Sony G-Series Choice

Sony FE shooters looking for a do-everything zoom should start with the 24-105mm F4 G OSS. I tested this lens extensively on my Sony A7 IV and came away impressed by the G-series optical quality. The sharpness across the frame holds up even on high-resolution sensors, making this lens a genuine professional tool rather than a consumer compromise.

The DDSSM (Direct Drive Super Sonic Motor) autofocus system delivers the quick, quiet, and precise performance Sony users expect. I tracked moving subjects with confidence, and the manual focus ring responds with satisfying precision for fine adjustments. The customizable focus hold button on the lens barrel becomes second nature for action shooters.

Optical SteadyShot (OSS) stabilization works effectively, especially when paired with Sony bodies featuring in-body stabilization. The combined system handles handheld shooting at slower shutter speeds than I expected. Weather sealing gives peace of mind during outdoor sessions, though Sony doesn’t claim full weatherproofing.

Best Use Cases

Sony Alpha users who want one lens for travel, events, and everyday photography will find this G-series zoom handles it all. The constant f/4 aperture maintains consistent exposure when zooming during video. Hybrid shooters appreciate the reliable autofocus for both stills and video work.

Potential Drawbacks

At 23.4 ounces, this lens adds noticeable weight to smaller Sony bodies. The f/4 maximum aperture requires higher ISO settings in dim environments. Budget-conscious photographers may find the price steep compared to third-party alternatives.

5. Panasonic LUMIX S 24-105mm F4 – Best for L-Mount Systems

Panasonic LUMIX S and Leica SL photographers finally have a native 24-105mm option worth considering. The LUMIX S 24-105mm F4 brings professional features to the L-mount alliance, including the standout 0.5x macro capability that lets you photograph small subjects at close distances. I found the macro performance genuinely useful for product shots and detail work.

The 5-axis Dual I.S. 2 system delivers up to 6 stops of shake correction when paired with compatible Panasonic bodies. Handheld shooting at slow shutter speeds becomes practical in situations where you’d normally reach for a tripod. The dust, splash, and freeze-resistant construction handles outdoor shooting in challenging conditions.

Optical quality matches the premium positioning. The 16 lens elements in 13 groups include two aspherical and two ED lenses that suppress chromatic aberration effectively. Center-to-edge sharpness remains consistent through the zoom range, though I noticed slightly slower autofocus acquisition compared to Canon and Sony equivalents.

Best Use Cases

L-mount system users from Panasonic, Leica, and Sigma get a versatile standard zoom that handles photos and video equally well. Macro enthusiasts appreciate the 0.3m minimum focusing distance with 0.5x magnification. Travel photographers benefit from the weather sealing and versatile range.

Potential Drawbacks

Stock availability fluctuates, sometimes making this lens difficult to find. The autofocus speed trails behind Canon and Sony competitors, particularly in low light. Not Prime eligible on Amazon may affect delivery options for some buyers.

6. Nikon NIKKOR Z 24-120mm f/4 S – Extended Reach for Nikon Z

Nikon Z photographers get something special with the NIKKOR Z 24-120mm f/4 S: an extra 15mm of reach compared to standard 24-105mm lenses. That additional telephoto range makes a real difference for portraits and distant subjects. I found myself reaching for 105-120mm frequently when shooting events where getting closer wasn’t possible.

The S-line designation means professional-grade optics and build quality. At just 1.4 pounds, this lens balances beautifully on Nikon Z bodies without feeling front-heavy. The dual STM stepping motors drive autofocus quickly and quietly, with near-instant acquisition even in challenging light.

Close focusing to 1.15 feet at any zoom position opens creative possibilities. The constant f/4 aperture maintains exposure consistency throughout the 5x zoom range. Vibration Reduction (VR) works effectively for handheld shooting, complementing the in-body stabilization on Nikon Z cameras.

Best Use Cases

Nikon Z users who want maximum versatility in one lens should choose this 24-120mm over shorter alternatives. Event photographers appreciate the extra reach for capturing candid moments from a distance. Travel photographers get professional image quality without carrying multiple lenses.

Potential Drawbacks

The f/4 maximum aperture limits low-light capability compared to f/2.8 zooms. Some photographers prefer the wider maximum aperture of prime lenses for shallow depth of field work. The extended range comes at a higher price than budget-friendly variable aperture options.

7. Nikon NIKKOR Z 24-105mm f/4-7.1 – Lightweight Travel Lens

At just 12.4 ounces, the Nikon NIKKOR Z 24-105mm f/4-7.1 redefines what a travel zoom can weigh. This lens practically disappears in a camera bag, making it ideal for photographers who prioritize portability over maximum aperture. I carried it all day without noticing the weight, something I can’t say about most zoom lenses.

The variable aperture ranges from f/4 at 24mm to f/7.1 at 105mm. For daylight outdoor photography, this works fine. The image quality surprised me with good sharpness and very low distortion across the frame. Nikon’s optical design handles the corrections well, producing clean images without heavy software correction.

The standout feature is the macro capability between 70-105mm, achieving 0.5x magnification for close-up work. This creative flexibility extends the lens beyond typical travel photography into product and detail shots. The customizable control ring can handle ISO, aperture, exposure compensation, or manual focus depending on your preference.

Best Use Cases

Travel photographers who count every ounce will love this lightweight option. Nikon Z users building a compact kit for hiking or urban exploration get professional focal range without the weight. Casual photographers who shoot mostly in good light won’t miss the wider aperture.

Potential Drawbacks

The all-plastic construction, including the lens mount, raises durability concerns for heavy professional use. The variable aperture reaches f/7.1 at 105mm, requiring higher ISOs in anything but bright conditions. Unlike other Nikon zooms, this lens lacks built-in image stabilization.

8. Canon EF 24-105mm f/4.0 L IS USM – Classic DSLR Lens for Mirrorless

Photographers transitioning from Canon DSLRs to mirrorless can save money by adapting their existing EF lenses. The Canon EF 24-105mm f/4.0 L IS USM remains a capable performer on RF-mount bodies with Canon’s EF-EOS R adapter. This Amazon Renewed option offers L-series quality at a fraction of new lens pricing.

The ultrasonic motor (USM) delivers the silent, smooth autofocus that made this lens a wedding and event favorite for years. Image stabilization provides steady handheld shooting, though not quite matching the 5-stop performance of newer RF lenses. The weather-sealed construction handles outdoor shooting conditions.

Image quality holds up well on modern high-resolution sensors. The constant f/4 aperture maintains exposure consistency through the zoom range. For photographers who already own EF glass, adapting existing lenses makes financial sense while building out a native RF collection.

Best Use Cases

Canon users transitioning from DSLR to mirrorless get immediate lens compatibility with an adapter. Budget-conscious photographers find good value in renewed L-series glass. Event shooters who need silent autofocus and weather sealing appreciate the professional features at lower cost.

Potential Drawbacks

Renewed products may show cosmetic wear or minor functional issues. The 90-day warranty offers less protection than new equipment. Adapting EF lenses adds bulk and may slightly reduce autofocus speed compared to native RF glass.

How to Choose the Right 24-105mm Lens for Your Mirrorless Camera

Finding the right 24-105mm lens requires matching your specific needs to the available options. Here’s what to consider before making your decision.

Constant vs Variable Aperture

Constant aperture lenses maintain f/4 throughout the zoom range, meaning your exposure stays consistent when zooming during video or manual exposure shooting. Variable aperture lenses like the Canon RF 24-105mm F4-7.1 and Nikon Z 24-105mm f/4-7.1 start at f/4 at 24mm but darken to f/7.1 at 105mm. For outdoor daylight photography, variable aperture works fine. For event work, video production, or low-light situations, constant aperture provides better control.

24-70mm vs 24-105mm: Which Should You Choose?

The 24-70mm f/2.8 offers a wider maximum aperture for better low-light performance and shallower depth of field. The 24-105mm f/4 provides more reach for portraits and distant subjects without swapping lenses. Wedding photographers often prefer 24-70mm f/2.8 for ceremony coverage in dim venues. Travel photographers typically choose 24-105mm for the extended range that handles more situations without lens changes. If you shoot events in challenging light, the f/2.8 aperture matters. If you travel light and want maximum versatility, the 24-105mm range wins.

Lens Mount Compatibility

Each camera system has native mount options that perform best. Canon RF users can choose from three 24-105mm variants with different feature sets. Sony E-mount photographers should consider the FE 24-105mm F4 G OSS for G-series quality. Nikon Z users get the 24-120mm f/4 S with extended reach, plus the lightweight 24-105mm f/4-7.1 for travel. L-mount shooters from Panasonic and Leica have the LUMIX S 24-105mm F4 with impressive macro capabilities.

Image Stabilization Importance

Most 24-105mm lenses include optical stabilization rated for 4-5 stops of shake reduction. This matters most for handheld shooting at slower shutter speeds. If your camera body features in-body image stabilization (IBIS), lens stabilization provides additional benefit at longer focal lengths. For tripod work or high shutter speed action photography, stabilization becomes less critical. The Nikon Z 24-105mm f/4-7.1 lacks stabilization entirely, relying on camera body IBIS.

Build Quality and Weather Sealing

Professional L-series, G-series, and S-line lenses feature weather sealing, metal mounts, and robust construction designed for years of heavy use. Consumer-grade lenses use more plastic and may lack weather protection. If you shoot outdoors in rain, dust, or extreme temperatures, invest in weather-sealed glass. For studio work and fair-weather photography, budget options deliver similar optical quality at lower cost.

FAQ

Final Thoughts on 24-105mm All-Purpose Zoom Lenses

The 24-105mm focal range has earned its reputation as the most practical zoom for mirrorless cameras. After testing these eight lenses, I’m convinced most photographers would benefit from having one in their kit. The versatility of covering wide to telephoto without lens changes transforms how you shoot travel, events, and everyday subjects.

For Canon RF users, the Canon RF 24-105mm f/4L IS USM delivers the best balance of quality, features, and value. Sony photographers should look to the FE 24-105mm F4 G OSS for G-series excellence. Nikon Z shooters have a unique advantage with the NIKKOR Z 24-120mm f/4 S offering extra reach. Budget-conscious photographers building their first kit will find excellent value in the Canon RF 24-105mm F4-7.1 IS STM or Nikon Z 24-105mm f/4-7.1.

Choose based on your camera system, typical shooting conditions, and budget. Any of these 24-105mm all-purpose zoom lenses will serve you well as the foundation of a versatile mirrorless kit in 2026.