nikon 24-120mm or 24-85mm?

Superior alternatives to the 24-120 for same or less money....

24-85 VR PLUS the 70-300 VR - Two lenses that do much more and the 70-300 has superior bokeh and reach, a solid lens with a well deserved reputation. This is the most versatile choice with respect to focal length.

Nikon 28-200G - Only available used now, but around 300 bucks for a used copy! This little zoom is a perfect gem on a FX body and is VERY sharp all the way to 200mm. No VR, but still a great lens for very little money. I wish the 24-120 had the same optics. This is the best economic choice!

Tamron 24-70 2.8 VC - I've shot with it and was not blown away because the optics are only about the same as the Nikon 24-70 2.8. BUT....it's 1300 bucks and has VC! Okay, so maybe I am blown away since I may buy one. This is the most versatile midrange zoom on the planet for the moment.

Nikon 28-70 2.8 - Pick up a used copy for less than the 24-120 and you'll never look back. The best midrange pre-owned option.

Nikon 24-70 2.8 - Yes, more expensive than the 24-120 but it's not THAT much more and then you own a serious hunk of glass. Like the 28-70 and Tamron it's HUGE. This is the best overall optics in a midrange zoom, but the price is a showstopper for some. Hard to choose over the Tamron with VC and knowing Nikon will add VR soon enough.

Cheers,

Robert