Best Pick

Canon RF 45mm f/1.2 STM

89.5 Street Score
45mm f/1.2 Canon RF
Why we recommend this

Its standout f/1.2 maximum aperture on a full-frame sensor delivers exceptional low-light performance and a very shallow depth of field for portraiture. The lens is remarkably compact and lightweight for its speed, and its STM motor and customizable control ring enhance usability. This prime is best for portrait photographers and content creators who prioritize creamy bokeh and a portable, fast-aperture setup over weather sealing or extreme close-focusing.

Read Full Review

Great Alternatives

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

Sony G E 15mm f/1.4

85.8 Street 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.

Read Full Review

Zeiss Touit 50mm f/2.8M

73.8 Street Score
50mm f/2.8 Fujifilm X
Why we recommend this

Its 50mm focal length and floating elements design deliver consistent sharpness and minimal aberration throughout its entire focusing range. The lens also features a robust autofocus system and Zeiss T* anti-reflective coating for high-contrast, vivid images. It is best for photographers seeking a versatile prime lens for travel and general use, rather than dedicated macro work.

Read Full Review

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

72.8 Street 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.

Read Full Review

Sony FE 35mm f/1.8

82.1 Street Score
35mm f/1.8 Sony E Weather Sealed
Why we recommend this

Its f/1.8 aperture provides excellent low-light performance and shallow depth of field for a compact, lightweight prime lens. This lens is a strong, affordable option for Sony full-frame shooters prioritizing portability. It is best for street photographers and portrait shooters who value a natural 35mm perspective without a heavy kit.

Read Full Review

Sony SEL50F18 Compact ILC Lenses 50mm f/1.8

74.4 Street Score
50mm f/1.8 Sony (E mount for NEX) IS
Why we recommend this

Its compact 206g design and built-in Optical SteadyShot stabilization make it a highly portable option for handheld shooting. The fast f/1.8 aperture and linear autofocus motor contribute to smooth, quiet focusing ideal for video work. This lens is best for Sony E-mount videographers and street photographers who need a lightweight, stabilized prime lens for run-and-gun situations.

Read Full Review

Samyang AF 85mm f/1.4 EF

71 Street 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