Best Pick

Meike 23mm F1.4 Ultra Wide Angle APS-C Frame STM

98.4 Portrait Score
23mm f/1.4 Nikon Z IS
Why we recommend this

Its standout feature is the bright f/1.4 aperture, which enables sharp, low-light shooting and smooth background blur from an ultra-wide 23mm perspective. The lens is further distinguished by its STM autofocus motor for quiet operation and a robust optical formula with extra-low dispersion and aspherical elements to control aberrations. This lens is best for Nikon Z APS-C shooters who need a fast, wide-angle prime for dynamic street photography or detailed environmental portraits.

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Great Alternatives

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

Sirui Sniper 56mm f/1.2 Autofocus Lens (Sony E,

94.9 Portrait Score
56mm f/1.2 Sony E IS
Why we recommend this

Its f/1.2 maximum aperture and 11-blade diaphragm deliver exceptional background blur and smooth bokeh for portrait work. The lens provides a fast 85mm full-frame equivalent focal length with reliable autofocus, including eye and object tracking. This lens is best for portrait photographers and videographers on Sony APS-C cameras seeking a dedicated, fast telephoto prime for subject isolation.

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Sigma 16mm, 30mm, and 56mm f/1.4 DC DN

88.4 Portrait Score
16mm f/1.4 Canon RF
Why we recommend this

With an f/1.4 maximum aperture across all three prime lenses, this set provides excellent low-light performance and subject isolation for APS-C cameras. The trio covers a versatile 16mm, 30mm, and 56mm focal length range, offering a complete kit for various shooting scenarios. It is best for portrait photographers and content creators on Canon RF-mount APS-C bodies who prioritize fast primes over a single zoom.

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Viltrox VILTROX 35mm F1.7 E-Mount Large Aperture APS-C STM

87.6 Portrait Score
35mm f/1.7 Sony E IS
Why we recommend this

Its f/1.7 aperture with nine blades creates a notably smooth, artistic bokeh, supported by a lightweight 170g design. The STM autofocus motor provides reliable, low-latency performance with eye/face tracking support. This lens is best for street photographers and videographers who prioritize portability and a fast aperture for subject isolation in everyday shooting.

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