Best Lenses under CA$700 for professional use

Best Pick

Nikon NIKKOR 2180 SLR Lenses AF-S 50mm f/1.4G

79.5 Professional Score
50mm f/1.4 Nikon F Weather Sealed
Why we recommend this

Its fast f/1.4 aperture and Super Integrated Coating deliver excellent low-light performance and sharp images with reduced flare. The Silent Wave Motor provides quick, quiet autofocus, making it highly responsive for candid shots. This lens is best for portrait photographers using Nikon DX-format DSLRs who need a lightweight, versatile prime for studio or environmental work.

Read Full Review

Great Alternatives

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

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

56.1 Professional 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

Best Lenses under CA$1,500 for professional use

Best Pick

Nikon NIKKOR AF-S 20mm f/1.8G ED

83.4 Professional Score
20mm f/1.8 Nikon F Weather Sealed
Why we recommend this

Its f/1.8 maximum aperture and inclusion of two ED and two aspherical elements deliver sharp, low-light performance with minimal aberrations. The relatively lightweight 355g build and Nano Crystal Coatings enhance handling and reduce flare for a versatile prime. This lens is best for landscape and architectural photographers needing a wide, fast prime for Nikon F-mount full-frame cameras.

Read Full Review
Price CA$999
Nikon NIKKOR AF-S 20mm f/1.8G ED lens

Great Alternatives

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

Trioplan 100mm f/2.8 II

34.1 Professional Score
100mm f/2.8 Nikon F
Why we recommend this

Its revised triplet optical design with coated Schott glass produces distinct, swirly bokeh, a signature look from its three-element construction. The 15-blade diaphragm ensures exceptionally smooth and circular out-of-focus highlights at various apertures. This lens is best for portrait photographers and creative artists specifically seeking that unique, vintage-inspired optical character for subject isolation.

Read Full Review

Best Lenses under CA$2,000 for professional use

Best Pick

Biotar 58mm f/1.5 II

36.2 Professional 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 professional use

Best Pick

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

93.5 Professional 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 professional use

Best Pick

Nikon NIKKOR AF-S 600mm f/4E FL ED VR

55.7 Professional Score
600mm f/4 Nikon F IS Weather Sealed
Why we recommend this

Its 600mm f/4 aperture and Vibration Reduction system provide exceptional reach and light-gathering for fast-moving subjects in low light. The use of fluorite and ED glass elements, paired with Nano Crystal coatings, delivers sharp, high-contrast images with minimal chromatic aberration and flare. This lens is best for professional wildlife and sports photographers who need a reliable, high-performance telephoto for distant action.

Read Full Review