Best Budget Lenses Under £1,000 in 2026

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Best Pick

Nikon NIKKOR Z 28-400mm f/4-8 VR Lens

91.6 Budget Score
28-400mm f/4 Nikon Z IS
Why we recommend this

Its 28-400mm full-frame zoom range offers exceptional versatility in a single lens, covering wide-angle to super-telephoto focal lengths. The 5.5-stop VR image stabilization is a significant strength for handheld shooting, compensating for its variable f/4-8 aperture. This lens is best for photographers who need maximum focal length flexibility without changing lenses, particularly for landscapes, events, or wildlife where carrying multiple optics is impractical.

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Price £977
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Nikon Nikon NIKKOR Z 28-400mm f/4-8 VR Lens lens

Great Alternatives

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

Viltrox AF 35mm f/1.2 LAB Z Lens (Nikon Z)

72.4 Budget Score
35mm f/1.2 Nikon Z
Why we recommend this ▼

Its f/1.2 maximum aperture offers exceptional low-light performance and a very shallow depth of field for a full-frame lens. The quiet VCM focusing motor and an integrated LCD screen for settings are practical features for on-location work. This lens is best for portrait photographers and videographers who prioritize a bright, fast aperture and manual control in a native Z-mount design.

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Viltrox Viltrox AF 35mm f/1.2 LAB Z Lens (Nikon Z) lens
Price £869
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Tamron 70-180mm f/2.8 Di III VC VXD G2 Lens (Nikon

71.5 Budget Score
70-180mm f/2.8 Nikon Z IS Weather Sealed
Why we recommend this ▼

This lens stands out with its constant f/2.8 aperture and a fast VXD linear AF motor, delivering reliable performance for its compact, 1270g design. Its Vibration Compensation system provides a key advantage for handheld shooting, a feature often missing in this class. It's best for photographers seeking a budget-friendly, portable telephoto zoom for portraits and general use, where its macro score is less critical.

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Tamron Tamron Di III VC lens
Price £869
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