Best Lenses under CA$700 for travel

Best Pick

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

72.9 Travel 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.

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Nikon

46 Travel Score
Nikon F IS
Why we recommend this

Its 50g weight and built-in stabilization allow for handheld pinhole photography, delivering the signature Holga look with soft focus and vignetting directly in-camera. This lens requires no camera modifications, offering a straightforward, experimental tool distinct from typical optics. It is best for photographers seeking a specific, lo-fi aesthetic for artistic or travel projects without relying on post-processing software.

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Best Lenses under CA$1,500 for travel

Best Pick

Nikon NIKKOR AF-S DX 18-300mm f/3.5-6.3G ED VR

71.6 Travel Score
18-300mm f/3.5 Nikon F IS
Why we recommend this

Its 16.7x zoom range, from 27-450mm equivalent, provides exceptional versatility in a single lens for Nikon DX cameras. The inclusion of three aspherical and three ED elements helps control aberrations and maintain image quality across the focal range. This lens is best for photographers who need a comprehensive all-in-one solution for events or wildlife without changing lenses.

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Price CA$920
Nikon NIKKOR AF-S DX 18-300mm f/3.5-6.3G ED VR lens

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

Lydith 30mm f/3.5 II

30.2 Travel Score
30mm f/3.5 Nikon F
Why we recommend this

Its manual focus design and 10-blade diaphragm provide a distinct, characterful rendering for creative control. The coated Schott and O'Hara optical glass ensures high image quality from a compact, 269g metal barrel. This lens is best for photographers seeking a unique, tactile prime for deliberate portraiture or close-up work.

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Best Lenses under CA$2,000 for travel

Best Pick

Biotar 58mm f/1.5 II

14.8 Travel 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.

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Best Lenses under CA$3,500 for travel

Best Pick

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

78.6 Travel 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.

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

Premium Lenses for travel

Best Pick

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

38.2 Travel 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.

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