Best Pick

Canon EF-S 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 is STM Camera Lens

87.3 Travel Score
18-55mm f/3.5 Canon EF-S IS
Why we recommend this

Its STM motor provides smooth and quiet continuous autofocus for video, while its Optical Image Stabilizer offers up to four stops of shake correction. This compact and lightweight lens is a versatile standard zoom for Canon's APS-C cameras, featuring a useful 0.25m minimum focusing distance across its entire zoom range. It's best for travel photographers and videographers who need a stabilized, all-purpose kit lens for run-and-gun shooting.

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Great Alternatives

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

Nikon Nikkor AF-P 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6G VR Lens -

80.1 Travel Score
18-55mm f/3.5 Nikon F IS
Why we recommend this

Its AF-P stepping motor provides fast and quiet autofocus, making it a practical kit lens for Nikon DX-format DSLRs. The included Vibration Reduction system helps compensate for camera shake, which is valuable for handheld shooting with its variable f/3.5-5.6 aperture. This lens is best for entry-level photographers seeking a lightweight, all-purpose zoom for everyday photography and casual video with compatible Nikon cameras like the D3500 or D5600.

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Sigma 10-18mm f/2.8 DC DN Contemporary Lens

77.9 Travel Score
10-18mm f/2.8 FUJIFILM X
Why we recommend this

Its constant f/2.8 aperture across a 10-18mm ultra-wide zoom range provides excellent low-light capability for landscapes and video. Its key differentiator is being the world's smallest and lightest lens in its class, offering exceptional portability for travel. This lens is best for Fujifilm X-mount shooters who prioritize a compact, wide-aperture zoom for vlogging and travel photography.

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Meike 85mm f1.8 Pro Full Frame STM Auto Focus

77.5 Travel Score
85mm f/1.8 Sony E, Sony FE IS
Why we recommend this

Its standout feature is the combination of a fast f/1.8 aperture and built-in stabilization, which enables sharp portraits and low-light shooting with smooth background blur. The lens is remarkably lightweight at 201g and offers reliable Eye AF performance, making it highly portable for on-the-go work. This lens is best for portrait photographers and content creators using Sony cameras who need a stabilized, affordable telephoto prime for both photos and 8K video.

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