Best Pick

Sigma Art 18-35mm F1.8 DC HSM

94.9 Professional 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.

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Great Alternatives

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

Tamron Di III 28-200mm F/2.8-5.6 RXD

90.1 Professional Score
28-200mm f/2.8 Sony E-Mount (Full-Frame), Sony E-Mount Weather Sealed
Why we recommend this

Its standout feature is the constant f/2.8 maximum aperture across its 28-200mm zoom range, offering consistent light-gathering ability. This combination of a wide aperture and extensive zoom in a relatively compact design provides exceptional versatility for travel. It is best for budget-conscious Sony shooters who need a single, fast lens for everything from landscapes to portraits.

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Nikon NIKKOR AF-S 20mm f/1.8G ED

83.4 Professional Score
20mm f/1.8 Nikon F Weather Sealed
Why we recommend this

Its f/1.8 maximum aperture and inclusion of two ED and two aspherical elements deliver sharp, low-light performance with minimal aberrations. The relatively lightweight 355g build and Nano Crystal Coatings enhance handling and reduce flare for a versatile prime. This lens is best for landscape and architectural photographers needing a wide, fast prime for Nikon F-mount full-frame cameras.

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Canon EF 17-55mm f/2.8 IS USM Standard

79.9 Professional Score
17-55mm f/2.8 Canon EF-S IS
Why we recommend this

Its constant f/2.8 aperture and built-in optical image stabilization provide excellent low-light performance and sharpness for its EF-S mount. The inclusion of UD and aspherical lens elements ensures high optical quality, rivaling many full-frame zooms. This lens is best for Canon APS-C shooters needing a versatile, bright standard zoom for event photography or run-and-gun video work.

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Panasonic Lumix S 24mm f/1.8

79.8 Professional Score
24mm f/1.8 L-Mount Weather Sealed
Why we recommend this

Its 24mm prime focal length and f/1.8 aperture make it a versatile tool for capturing expansive landscapes and sharp portraits in low light. The lens is highlighted as a great, versatile choice, excelling particularly for portrait photography according to its scores. This lens is best for travel and street photographers who need a compact, wide-angle prime for everyday shooting.

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Rokinon AF 12mm f/2.0 AF

77.9 Professional Score
12mm f/2 FUJIFILM X Weather Sealed
Why we recommend this

Its 12mm focal length and bright f/2.0 aperture make it a compelling, compact choice for wide-angle street photography on Fujifilm APS-C cameras. The lens incorporates premium elements like ASPH and XD glass for strong optical performance, yet remains lightweight at 213g. This lens is best for urban photographers seeking a fast, wide prime for environmental portraits and dynamic street scenes.

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Sony G E 15mm f/1.4

74.4 Professional Score
15mm f/1.4 Sony E
Why we recommend this

Its f/1.4 maximum aperture and 22.5mm full-frame equivalent focal length make it exceptionally fast and wide for an APS-C prime. The lens is remarkably compact at 218g, and its optical design uses Super ED and aspherical elements for high sharpness. This lens is best for street photographers who need a fast, lightweight prime for low-light and environmental shooting.

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IRIX 45mm f/1.4

73.4 Professional Score
45mm f/1.4 Nikon F Weather Sealed
Why we recommend this

Its f/1.4 maximum aperture and inclusion of one aspherical and four HR elements deliver sharp, controlled images with beautiful bokeh. The robust, manual-focus design with a focus lock mechanism provides precise tactile control for deliberate shooting. This lens is best for portrait photographers and cinematographers who prioritize optical quality and manual operation over autofocus convenience.

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OM System M.Zuiko Digital 17mm f/1.8 II

72.4 Professional Score
17mm f/1.8 Micro Four Thirds Weather Sealed
Why we recommend this

Its fast f/1.8 aperture and compact 113g build make it a discreet, capable prime for Micro Four Thirds shooters. The inclusion of specialized elements like DSA and aspherical glass ensures sharpness and controls aberrations effectively. This lens is best for street photographers and travelers who prioritize a lightweight, versatile 34mm-equivalent field of view.

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