@scottbb There are also 17-50/55mm f/2.8 lenses that are fairly affordable.

@scottbb And settle for sensor that's smaller as well.

@Ryan @Ryan As I read the original question, the only use case indicated was landscape photography. As you have made clear in subsequent comments, the issue is much broader than indicated in your original post. I've expanded the answer significantly in response to that new information.

@scottbb Hmm, so the larger aperture can come with worse autofocus. It's good that you mention that, because yes, that may be a problem.

@scottbb As for that, I think it's the weight that matters, not the length and width of the camera.

The depth of the camera matters for a compact that you want to put in your pocket, but for a replacable lens camera, it's more the total weight that determines how often they will take good pictures at the spur of the moment.

Even then, a DSLR might still be a better choice of course.

@scottbb Ok, so since this is an important point, I'll have to read lens reviews or something to find out about autofocus speed.

@scottbb Yeah, the article addresses the weight too.