Best Pick

Olympus M.Zuiko Digital ED 100-400mm f/5-6.3 IS

90.7 Landscape Score
100-400mm f/5 Micro Four Thirds IS Weather Sealed
Why we recommend this

Its standout feature is its remarkably compact 120g build paired with an extensive 200-800mm equivalent zoom range, making it exceptionally portable for its reach. The lens is fully weather-sealed, allowing photographers to shoot confidently in adverse conditions without worrying about moisture or dust. This lens is best for travel and wildlife photographers who need a lightweight, all-weather telephoto option for handheld shooting on the go.

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Great Alternatives

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

Nikon NIKKOR Z 17-28mm f/2.8

87.6 Landscape Score
17-28mm f/2.8 Nikon Z Weather Sealed
Why we recommend this

Its f/2.8 aperture and internal zoom design provide a compact, 451g build that maintains consistent performance for Nikon Z-mount full-frame cameras. The stepping motor AF system ensures quiet and smooth autofocus, which is ideal for video work. This lens is best for hybrid shooters and vloggers who need a reliable, wide-angle zoom in a portable package.

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Tamron Di III 28-75mm f/2.8 VXD G2

81.2 Landscape Score
28-75mm f/2.8 Sony E Weather Sealed
Why we recommend this

Its constant f/2.8 aperture and VXD autofocus motor deliver sharp images and fast, precise focusing in a compact 535g package. The moisture-resistant construction and versatile 28-75mm zoom range make it a durable, all-purpose lens for everyday shooting. This lens is best for Sony full-frame mirrorless users seeking a lightweight, affordable alternative to first-party f/2.8 zooms for portraits and travel.

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Canon RF 24mm f/1.8 Macro IS STM

77.2 Landscape Score
24mm f/1.8 Canon RF IS
Why we recommend this

Its standout feature is a fast f/1.8 aperture, providing excellent low-light performance and shallow depth of field for a wide-angle prime lens. As an affordable entry into the RF system, it offers great value for expanding a mirrorless kit without sacrificing key optical performance. This lens is best for budget-conscious photographers and videographers who need a versatile wide-angle for landscapes, street photography, and low-light scenarios.

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

79.4 Landscape 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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Viltrox 16mm F1.8 FE

63.2 Landscape Score
16mm f/1.8 Sony E IS Weather Sealed
Why we recommend this

Its f/1.8 maximum aperture and built-in optical stabilization provide exceptional low-light capability for a wide-angle prime, while its integrated LCD screen offers convenient on-lens parameter readouts. The lens delivers sharp results with its advanced optical design, though its 1107g weight limits portability. This lens is best for astrophotographers and architectural photographers who prioritize aperture and manual control over a lightweight kit.

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Sony FE 85mm f/1.8

61.2 Landscape Score
85mm f/1.8 Sony E-Mount, Sony E-Mount (Full-Frame) Weather Sealed
Why we recommend this

Its 85mm f/1.8 aperture excels at creating a sharp subject with a soft, blurred background for classic portraiture. This lens is a strong budget-friendly option, often including a lens hood and cap in the package. It is best for portrait photographers seeking a lightweight, fast prime lens without the premium cost of an f/1.4 model.

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