Best Lenses under €500 for everyday use

Best Pick

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

82.8 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.

Read Full Review

Great Alternatives

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

Meike 85mm f1.8 SE II Full Frame STM Auto Focus Telephoto

80.6 Score
85mm f/1.8 Canon EF IS
Why we recommend this

Its fast f/1.8 aperture and STM autofocus provide smooth, quiet operation ideal for video, while its optical design controls flare and distortion effectively. The lens offers full-frame coverage and features a USB-C port for firmware updates to maintain compatibility. This lens is best for Canon EF-mount photographers shooting portraits, short-range sports, or professional video work requiring minimal focus breathing.

Read Full Review

Sigma Contemporary 16mm F/1.4 DC DN

77.8 Score
16mm f/1.4 Canon EF-M
Why we recommend this

Its fast f/1.4 maximum aperture provides excellent low-light performance and shallow depth of field for a wide-angle lens. Designed for Micro Four Thirds cameras, it offers a versatile 24mm equivalent focal length in a compact form. This lens is best for portrait photographers and content creators who need a bright, wide prime for environmental shots and indoor work.

Read Full Review

Rokinon Series II 85mm f/1.4

73.9 Score
85mm f/1.4 Canon EF Weather Sealed
Why we recommend this

With an f/1.4 maximum aperture and a hybrid aspherical element, this lens excels at creating sharp images with a very shallow depth of field and minimal distortion. Its solid metal build and Ultra Multi-Coating contribute to a durable, flare-resistant design ideal for controlled lighting. This lens is best for portrait photographers seeking classic compression and beautiful bokeh on a Canon EF-mount system.

Read Full Review

Sigma Art 30mm F1.4 DC HSM

76.8 Score
30mm f/1.4 Canon EF-S IS
Why we recommend this

Its f/1.4 maximum aperture provides excellent low-light performance and a very shallow depth of field for creative control. As a prime lens, it offers superior sharpness and image quality compared to most kit zoom lenses at this focal length. This lens is best for Canon APS-C shooters prioritizing portrait photography and cinematic-looking video bokeh.

Read Full Review

Rokinon AF 14mm f/2.8

71.4 Score
14mm f/2.8 Canon EF Weather Sealed
Why we recommend this

Its f/2 maximum aperture provides excellent low-light performance and shallow depth of field for a 14mm prime lens. The autofocus system is a key upgrade, offering convenience over the brand's traditional manual-focus offerings. This lens is best for landscape and astrophotography shooters who need a fast, ultra-wide angle on a budget.

Read Full Review

Sony Lightdow 55MM 0.43x High-Definition Wide Angle + Macro

69.8 Score
Canon EF-M, Sony E IS
Why we recommend this

Its 0.43x wide-angle conversion and built-in stabilization let you dramatically expand the field of view of your existing lens. The screw-on filter thread mount offers a uniquely versatile and affordable way to adapt multiple camera systems without needing a dedicated native lens. This accessory is best for wildlife and sports photographers needing a lightweight, adaptable solution to capture wider scenes from a fixed position.

Read Full Review

IRIX EF 45mm f/1.4

69.6 Score
45mm f/1.4 Canon EF Weather Sealed
Why we recommend this

Its manual focus design with a focus lock and a bright f/1.4 aperture provides precise control for creative portraiture. The optical construction, featuring aspherical and extra-low dispersion elements, prioritizes sharpness and aberration correction. This lens is best for studio portrait photographers who value deliberate, manual operation over autofocus speed.

Read Full Review

Sigma 258101 105 mm f/2.8 Macro

69.5 Score
105mm f/2 Canon EF IS
Why we recommend this

Its 1:1 macro capability at a 12.3-inch working distance makes it a dedicated tool for extreme close-up photography, supported by a bright f/2.8 aperture. The lens includes essential accessories like a hood and caps, adding value for photographers building their kit. This 105mm prime is best for Canon DSLR shooters specializing in detailed macro work, such as photographing insects or product details, where its magnification is critical.

Read Full Review

Lensbaby EF Velvet 56mm f/1.6

66.7 Score
56mm f/1.6 Canon EF
Why we recommend this

Its standout f/1.6 aperture and unique singlet-doublet-singlet optical design produce a signature soft, glowing effect at wide apertures. The 56mm focal length and 1:2 magnification offer versatility for both portraiture and close-up work. This lens is best for portrait photographers and creative artists seeking a distinct, ethereal look that standard optics cannot replicate.

Read Full Review

Rokinon 16mm f/2.0 ED AS UMC CS

66.1 Score
16mm f/2 Canon EF-S
Why we recommend this

Its f/2.0 maximum aperture provides excellent low-light capability and shallow depth of field for a 16mm prime lens. The lens offers a 25.6mm equivalent focal length on APS-C cameras, making it a versatile wide-angle option. This lens is best for photographers seeking an affordable, fast prime for landscape or architectural work on Canon APS-C bodies.

Read Full Review

Laowa 60mm f/2.8 2X Ultra-Macro

62.7 Score
60mm f/2.8 Canon EF
Why we recommend this

Its standout 2:1 magnification ratio and f/2.8 aperture enable extreme close-ups with excellent low-light capability. The robust build and 14-blade diaphragm contribute to precise manual control and smooth bokeh quality. This lens is best for dedicated macro photographers who need high magnification for subjects like insects or jewelry and are comfortable with manual focus.

Read Full Review

Brightin Star 35mm F0.95 Manual Focus Prime

62.4 Score
35mm f/0.95 Canon EOS-M
Why we recommend this

Its standout f/0.95 maximum aperture provides exceptional low-light performance and a very shallow depth of field for isolating subjects. The all-metal construction and 35mm focal length make it a versatile, durable choice for street and environmental portrait photographers. This lens is best for photographers using Canon EOS-M cameras who prioritize manual control for creative portraiture and low-light shooting over autofocus convenience.

Read Full Review

Best Lenses under €900 for everyday use

Best Pick

Sigma Art 18-35mm F1.8 DC HSM

88.2 Score
18-35mm f/1.8 Canon EF Weather Sealed
Why we recommend this

Its constant f/1.8 aperture across the 18-35mm zoom range provides exceptional low-light performance and background blur for a zoom lens. The robust Art-series build quality and sharp optics make it a reliable tool for demanding shoots. This lens is best for Canon DSLR photographers and videographers who need a versatile, fast prime-like zoom for portraits, events, or cinematic work.

Read Full Review

Great Alternatives

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

Canon EF 18-135mm f/3.5-5.6 IS USM

83.6 Score
18-135mm f/3.5 Canon EF-S IS
Why we recommend this

This lens offers a versatile 18-135mm zoom range, equivalent to 28.8-216mm on APS-C cameras, making it a practical all-in-one option for travel and general photography. Its inclusion of a UD and an aspherical element helps control aberrations for improved image quality across its focal range. It is best for Canon APS-C camera owners seeking a single, lightweight walk-around lens for everyday shooting and travel.

Read Full Review

Samyang AF 85mm f/1.4 EF

74.4 Score
85mm f/1.4 Canon EF
Why we recommend this

Its f/1.4 maximum aperture and inclusion of a hybrid aspherical element enable excellent subject isolation and sharpness for portrait work. The lens offers a compelling value for a fast 85mm prime with full-frame coverage on the Canon EF mount. This lens is best for portrait photographers and videographers seeking a classic focal length with a very shallow depth of field.

Read Full Review

Zeiss Planar Classic ZE T* 50mm f/1.4 Standard Camera

69.5 Score
50mm f/1.4 Canon EF IS
Why we recommend this

Its f/1.4 aperture and nine-blade diaphragm produce exceptionally smooth, circular bokeh ideal for subject separation. The lens is distinguished by its precise manual focus ring and ZEISS T* coating for superior flare control and brilliance. This is a top choice for portrait photographers and cinematographers prioritizing beautiful out-of-focus rendering and tactile manual operation.

Read Full Review

Canon L 8806A002 EF 17-40mm USM Ultra-Wide

63.1 Score
17-40mm f/4 Canon EF
Why we recommend this

Its constant f/4 aperture and inclusion of a Super UD and three aspherical elements deliver sharp, controlled images across its ultra-wide to standard zoom range. This L-series lens provides robust build quality and reliable autofocus at a notably accessible price point for its class. It is best for Canon full-frame photographers seeking a durable, versatile wide-angle zoom for landscape and architectural work without requiring image stabilization.

Read Full Review

Sigma Contemporary 18-300mm F3.5-6.3 DC Macro OS HSM

57.6 Score
18-300mm f/3.5 Canon EF IS
Why we recommend this

Its 18-300mm focal range with a 1:2 macro capability offers exceptional versatility for a single lens, allowing both wide-angle and telephoto shots. The inclusion of four FLD glass elements and optical stabilization helps maintain image quality across its extensive zoom range. This lens is best for budget-conscious photographers who need an all-in-one solution for travel and casual macro photography without switching lenses.

Read Full Review

Samyang XP 14mm f/2.4

49.1 Score
14mm f/2.4 Canon EF
Why we recommend this

This lens stands out with its ultra-wide 14mm focal length and bright f/2.4 aperture, supported by a complex optical design with two aspherical and two ED elements for sharpness. Its robust 789g build and full-frame coverage make it a specialized tool for demanding architectural or landscape photography. It is best for photographers who need extreme wide-angle performance on a Canon EF system and prioritize optical correction over portability.

Read Full Review

7Artisans 24mm T2.1 Infinte Series Professional Full Frame Manual Cine

44.9 Score
24mm Canon EF IS
Why we recommend this

Its T2.1 aperture and internal focus design provide strong low-light performance and controlled focus breathing for cinematic work. The lens is built with a robust 998g metal housing and multi-layer coatings to manage flare, optimized for 4K and higher resolutions. This lens is best for filmmakers and cinematographers needing a dedicated, manual cinema prime for controlled studio or location shoots.

Read Full Review

Sigma Sports 150-600mm 5-6.3 DG OS HSM

43.8 Score
150-600mm Canon EF IS
Why we recommend this

Its 150-600mm super-telephoto zoom range and built-in optical stabilization make it a capable tool for distant subjects. The inclusion of four FLD glass elements helps control chromatic aberration for improved image clarity. This lens is best for wildlife or sports photographers on a budget who need significant reach without the cost of first-party options.

Best Lenses under €1,500 for everyday use

Best Pick

Canon L EF 100mm Macro IS USM

82.8 Score
100mm f/2.8 Canon EF IS Weather Sealed
Why we recommend this

Its 1:1 magnification and built-in Hybrid Image Stabilization make it a top choice for capturing fine details. The inclusion of an Ultra-Low Dispersion element and Super Spectra Coating ensures sharp, color-accurate images with minimal aberrations. This lens is best for photographers specializing in close-up product shots or detailed nature macro work.

Read Full Review

Great Alternatives

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

Sigma Art 24-70mm f/2.8 DG OS HSM

81.9 Score
24-70mm f/2.8 Canon EF IS
Why we recommend this

Its constant f/2.8 aperture and robust build quality, featuring three SLD and four aspherical elements, deliver sharp, aberration-free images. The inclusion of optical stabilization makes it a versatile choice for handheld shooting in varied lighting. This lens is best for full-frame Canon photographers who need a reliable, high-performance standard zoom for professional portraits and event work.

Read Full Review

Samyang XP 10mm f/3.5

31.6 Score
10mm f/3.5 Canon EF
Why we recommend this

Its 10mm focal length and f/3.5 aperture provide an exceptionally wide field of view for full-frame Canon EF cameras, supported by specialized aspherical and ED elements to control distortion. The lens's robust 731g build and Ultra Multi-Coating ensure durable performance with reduced flare, though it lacks image stabilization. This lens is best for real estate and architectural photographers needing maximum width in a single shot on a budget.

Read Full Review

Sigma 50mm f/1.4 EX DG HSM

47.2 Score
50mm f/1.4 Canon EF
Why we recommend this

Its f/1.4 maximum aperture and molded glass aspherical element deliver sharp images with high contrast while effectively correcting coma aberration for superior peripheral brightness. The super multi-layer lens coating also minimizes flare and ghosting, enhancing image purity. This lens is best for portrait photographers seeking a classic 50mm focal length with excellent sharpness and bokeh at a relatively affordable price point.

Read Full Review

Best Lenses under €2,500 for everyday use

Best Pick

Canon L EF 16-35mm IS USM

82.7 Score
16-35mm f/4 Canon EF IS Weather Sealed
Why we recommend this

Its constant f/4 aperture and built-in Optical Image Stabilizer provide reliable performance for handheld shooting in varied lighting. The lens features a robust L-series build with a fluorine coating for durability and easier cleaning. This lens is best for landscape photographers and videographers who need a sharp, stabilized wide-angle zoom for environmental shots and cinematic b-roll.

Read Full Review

Great Alternatives

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

Laowa 200mm f/2 AF FF Telephoto

51.3 Score
200mm f/2 Canon EF
Why we recommend this

Its f/2 maximum aperture provides exceptional low-light performance and powerful background compression for a 200mm prime lens. The highly accurate and responsive autofocus system ensures reliable subject tracking, while its optical design minimizes chromatic aberration. This lens is best for portrait photographers seeking a specific, compressed look and event shooters working in variable lighting conditions.

Read Full Review

Rokinon Cine Xeen 14mm T/3.1 Pro

26.6 Score
14mm Canon EF
Why we recommend this

Its durable aluminum body and long 200-degree focus throw provide precise manual control ideal for on-set adjustments. The unified focus and aperture gear positions, along with clear markings, streamline workflow for focus pullers. This lens is best for cinematographers and camera operators who require reliable, repeatable manual control for narrative filmmaking or commercial video work.

Read Full Review

Premium Lenses for everyday use

No lenses found for this category.