Best Lenses under CA$700 for macro

Best Pick

Nikon Meike 85mm F1.8 Auto Focus Full Frame Large Aperture Portrait

74.7 Macro Score
85mm f/1.8 Nikon F IS
Why we recommend this

Its f/1.8 aperture with nine diaphragm blades is engineered for smooth bokeh, making it a strong portrait lens for Nikon shooters. The lens features a micro USB port for firmware updates, adding a layer of future-proofing uncommon at this price point. It's best for portrait photographers on a budget who want classic 85mm compression and soft background blur without a premium price tag.

Read Full Review

Great Alternatives

These options also score highly and may better suit your specific needs

Nikon NIKKOR AF-S 35mm f/1.8G ED

69.4 Macro Score
35mm f/1.8 Nikon F
Why we recommend this

Its f/1.8 aperture and inclusion of both an Extra-Low Dispersion and an aspherical element deliver sharp images with pleasing bokeh and reduced aberrations. The lightweight 305g build makes it a practical, everyday prime lens for full-frame Nikon cameras. This lens is best for portrait photographers and FX-format shooters seeking a compact, high-quality normal prime for environmental portraits and general use.

Read Full Review

Best Lenses under CA$1,500 for macro

Best Pick

Nikon NIKKOR AF-S DX Micro 85mm f/3.5G ED VR

81.7 Macro Score
85mm f/3.5 Nikon F IS
Why we recommend this

Its standout feature is a true 1:1 macro magnification paired with VR II stabilization, enabling sharp, life-size close-ups even at slower shutter speeds. The lens is also relatively lightweight at 355g and features a near-silent Silent Wave Motor for smooth autofocus, making it suitable for video work. This lens is best for Nikon DX-format photographers specializing in detailed macro subjects like insects or jewelry, where working distance and handheld stability are key.

Read Full Review

Great Alternatives

These options also score highly and may better suit your specific needs

Trioplan 35mm f/2.8 II

46.2 Macro Score
35mm f/2.8 Nikon F
Why we recommend this

Its defining trait is the unique "soap bubble bokeh" effect created by its 12-blade diaphragm, offering a distinct, swirly background rendering. This full-frame manual focus lens prioritizes creative character over modern conveniences like autofocus or weather sealing. It's best suited for portrait photographers and creative videographers specifically seeking that pronounced, vintage-inspired bokeh aesthetic in their work.

Read Full Review

Best Lenses under CA$2,000 for macro

Best Pick

Nikon NIKKOR AF-S 24mm f/1.4G ED

70.6 Macro Score
24mm f/1.4 Nikon F
Why we recommend this

Its f/1.4 maximum aperture and Nano Crystal Coating deliver exceptional sharpness and low-light performance with minimal flare. The lens construction, featuring two ED and two aspherical elements, ensures high optical quality with controlled distortion. This lens is best for portrait photographers and professionals who require a fast, wide-angle prime for environmental portraiture or indoor shoots.

Read Full Review
Price CA$1,917
Nikon NIKKOR AF-S 24mm f/1.4G ED lens

Great Alternatives

These options also score highly and may better suit your specific needs

Biotar 58mm f/1.5 II

35.8 Macro Score
58mm f/1.5 Nikon F
Why we recommend this

Its standout f/1.5 maximum aperture and 14-blade diaphragm produce exceptionally smooth, swirly bokeh that is highly prized for characterful imagery. The robust, all-metal manual-focus construction prioritizes tactile control and durability over modern conveniences like autofocus. This lens is best for portrait photographers and cinematographers specifically seeking a unique, vintage-inspired look with modern full-frame coverage on Nikon F-mount cameras.

Read Full Review

Best Lenses under CA$3,500 for macro

Best Pick

Nikon NIKKOR AF-S 24-70mm f/2.8E ED VR

75.9 Macro Score
22-70mm f/2.8 Nikon F IS Weather Sealed
Why we recommend this

Its constant f/2.8 aperture and Vibration Reduction system provide excellent low-light performance and sharpness for a versatile zoom. The inclusion of specialized elements like ED and HRI glass, along with Nano Crystal Coatings, effectively controls aberrations and flare. This lens is best for event photographers and videographers who need a reliable, high-performance standard zoom in varied lighting conditions.

Read Full Review
Price CA$2,329
Nikon NIKKOR AF-S 24-70mm f/2.8E ED VR lens

Premium Lenses for macro

Best Pick

Nikon NIKKOR AF-S 400mm f/2.8E FL ED VR

60.3 Macro Score
400mm f/2.8 Nikon F IS
Why we recommend this

Its f/2.8 maximum aperture and two fluorite elements deliver exceptional sharpness and light-gathering for a 400mm prime. The inclusion of Nano Crystal coatings effectively controls flare and ghosting for high-contrast images. This lens is best for professional sports and wildlife photographers who require fast autofocus and superb optical performance in demanding conditions.

Read Full Review