Best Lenses under $500 for macro

Best Pick

Yongnuo YN12-35mm F2.8-4M Standard

87.3 Macro Score
12-35mm f/2.8 Four Thirds IS
Why we recommend this

Its constant f/2.8 aperture across a 24-70mm equivalent zoom range provides reliable low-light performance and a versatile field of view for Micro Four Thirds shooters. The lens features a metal mount with a dust-proof seal and uses an STM motor for quiet, smooth autofocus, making it a practical and well-built option. It's best for Micro Four Thirds videographers and documentary shooters who need a compact, all-purpose zoom with silent focusing.

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Panasonic Meike MK-8mm f2.8 Ultra Wide Circular Prime Manual Focus Fisheye

84.7 Macro Score
8mm f/2.8 Micro Four Thirds IS
Why we recommend this

Its 8mm focal length and f/2.8 aperture deliver a dramatic 109-degree diagonal field of view for immersive fisheye shots. The lens is notably compact and features a multi-layer nano-coating to effectively control flare. This is best for Micro Four Thirds photographers seeking an affordable, manual fisheye lens for creative landscapes or unique architectural perspectives.

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OM System M.Zuiko Digital ED 60mm f/2.8 Macro

78.9 Macro Score
60mm f/2.8 Micro Four Thirds Weather Sealed
Why we recommend this

Its 1:1 magnification and 7.5-inch minimum focus distance enable extreme close-up detail capture in a compact, 185g package. The 120mm equivalent focal length provides useful working distance for macro subjects without being overly bulky. This lens is best for photographers specializing in detailed product shots or field macro work who prioritize portability in the Micro Four Thirds system.

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Laowa 90mm f/2.8 2x Ultra Macro APO

78.2 Macro Score
90mm f/2.8 Micro Four Thirds
Why we recommend this

Its standout 2:1 maximum magnification and 8-inch minimum focusing distance allow for extreme close-up work beyond typical macro lenses. The 90mm focal length and f/2.8 aperture also make it a capable portrait lens, offering a versatile dual-purpose design. This lens is best for photographers specializing in extreme macro photography who also want a single lens for detailed portraiture.

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TTArtisan APS-C 35mm f1.4 Tilt

74 Macro Score
35mm f/1.4 Micro Four Thirds IS
Why we recommend this

Its ±8° tilt mechanism and 360° rotation enable precise focus plane control for creative miniature effects and selective focus. The fast f/1.4 aperture provides strong low-light performance and shallow depth-of-field for portraits. This lens is best for photographers and videographers specializing in tilt-shift miniature scenes or seeking artistic focus manipulation in a manual, compact package.

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TTArtisan 40mm f/2.8 Macro

73.9 Macro Score
40mm f/2.8 Micro Four Thirds
Why we recommend this

Its 1:1 magnification and 170mm minimum focus distance make it a capable macro lens for close-up photography on Micro Four Thirds cameras. The manual focus design and 11-blade aperture contribute to a tactile, hands-on shooting experience with smooth bokeh. This lens is best for photographers who prioritize detailed macro work over portability, as its weight and manual operation make it less suited for casual travel.

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Brightin Star 35mm F1.7

73.7 Macro Score
35mm f/1.7 Fit for Micro 4/3 Mount IS
Why we recommend this

Its fast f/1.7 aperture and built-in image stabilization enable sharp, low-light shooting and close-up macro work. This lens is a compelling budget-friendly option for Micro Four Thirds shooters, offering autofocus in a compact 332g package. It's best for photographers prioritizing affordable macro capability and portrait work over wide-angle landscape performance.

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Panasonic LUMIX G VARIO 12-60mm F/3.5-5.6 G Power O.I.S. Micro Four Thirds

73.6 Macro Score
12-60mm f/3.5 Micro Four Thirds IS
Why we recommend this

Its compact 227g Micro Four Thirds design and splashproof build make it a durable, lightweight travel companion. The 12-60mm range (24-120mm equivalent) provides versatile focal lengths for daily shooting, aided by integrated Power O.I.S. stabilization. This lens is best for travel photographers and videographers needing a reliable, all-weather zoom paired with a compatible Lumix camera body.

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Panasonic LUMIX G VARIO 12-60mm F/3.5-5.6 G Power O.I.S. Micro Four Thirds lens
Price $330

Meike 35mm f0.95 Large Aperture Manual Focus Prime Fixed

72.7 Macro Score
35mm f/0.95 Micro Four Thirds IS
Why we recommend this

Its f/0.95 maximum aperture delivers exceptional low-light performance and a very shallow depth of field for a Micro Four Thirds lens. The all-metal construction provides a notably solid and premium feel uncommon at this price point. This lens is best for portrait photographers and videographers seeking a cinematic look from their Olympus or Panasonic bodies, though its manual focus and weight make it less ideal for casual travel.

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7Artisans 60mm f/2.8 Macro Mark II for Micro Four Thirds

71.6 Macro Score
60mm f/2.8 Micro Four Thirds
Why we recommend this

Its 1:1 magnification and 6.9-inch minimum focus distance provide true macro capability for detailed close-up work. The 60mm focal length offers a versatile 90mm equivalent field of view, making it suitable for both macro and portrait photography. This lens is best for Micro Four Thirds photographers who need a dedicated, affordable macro tool for capturing intricate subjects like insects or product details.

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Laowa Argus 25mm F/0.95 APO

71 Macro Score
25mm f/0.95 Micro Four Thirds
Why we recommend this

Its exceptionally fast f/0.95 aperture enables stunning subject isolation and low-light performance for Micro Four Thirds cameras. The lens is an internal-focusing design, keeping its length constant and minimizing dust intrusion during operation. This prime is best for portrait photographers and videographers seeking a cinematic look with a classic 50mm equivalent field of view.

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Laowa Argus 25mm F/0.95 APO lens
Price $399

Olympus OM SYSTEM 50mm f/2.0 Telephoto Macro ED

70.1 Macro Score
50mm f/2.0 Four Thirds
Why we recommend this

Its large f/2.0 aperture and 50mm focal length (equivalent to 100mm) provide excellent macro and portrait capability with minimal weight at just 301g. The lens is specially treated to shed water droplets and is engineered for professional durability. This lens is best for macro photographers and portrait shooters using Four Thirds cameras who need a lightweight, weather-resistant telephoto prime.

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Bower 16mm f/2.0 ED AS UMC CS

67.3 Macro Score
16mm f/2 Four Thirds
Why we recommend this

Its fast f/2.0 maximum aperture and 32mm equivalent focal length make it a versatile prime for low-light and general-purpose photography on Four Thirds cameras. The lens is notably heavy at 581g, which provides a solid, premium feel but impacts portability. This lens is best for photographers who prioritize a bright, standard-angle prime for everyday use and occasional close-up work, given its strong macro score.

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Mitakon Zhongyi Speedmaster 35mm f/0.95 Mark II

66.4 Macro Score
35mm f/0.95 Micro Four Thirds
Why we recommend this

Its f/0.95 maximum aperture delivers exceptional low-light performance and a very shallow depth of field for a Micro Four Thirds lens. The manual focus design and solid metal construction provide a tactile, deliberate shooting experience. This lens is best for portrait and studio photographers seeking a unique, character-rich look on their MFT cameras.

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Mitakon Zhongyi Speedmaster 35mm f/0.95 Mark II lens
Price $359

Laowa Zero-D 6mm f/2

66.1 Macro Score
6mm f/2 Micro Four Thirds
Why we recommend this

Its 6mm focal length and f/2 aperture provide an exceptionally wide 121.9-degree field of view with strong low-light performance in a remarkably compact 187g package. The Zero-D design ensures minimal distortion for true-to-life architectural and landscape shots, while its 9cm minimum focus distance enables creative close-ups. This lens is best for Micro Four Thirds shooters and FPV drone pilots who need an ultra-wide, lightweight prime for dynamic environmental and adventure photography.

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Panasonic LUMIX G X Vario G X Vario PZ 45-175mm f/4-5.6 ASPH. POWER O.I.S.

62.9 Macro Score
175mm f/4 Micro Four Thirds IS
Why we recommend this

Its 90-350mm equivalent focal range provides a versatile telephoto reach in a compact package, supported by Power Optical Image Stabilization for handheld shooting. The lens incorporates a Nano Surface Coating to reduce flare and ghosting, enhancing contrast in challenging light. This lens is best for photographers needing a lightweight, extended zoom for portraits or distant subjects like wildlife, where its stabilization is a key asset.

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Panasonic LUMIX G X Vario G X Vario PZ 45-175mm f/4-5.6 ASPH. POWER O.I.S. lens
Price $448
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Best Lenses under $1,000 for macro

Best Pick

Panasonic LUMIX G X Leica DG Vario-Elmarit 12-35mm f/2.8 ASPH POWER O.I.S.

85.7 Macro Score
35mm f/2.8 Micro Four Thirds IS Weather Sealed
Why we recommend this

Its constant f/2.8 aperture and built-in POWER O.I.S. stabilization make it a versatile, fast wide-angle zoom for Micro Four Thirds cameras. The lens offers a practical 24-70mm full-frame equivalent focal range in a compact, 306g package, balancing performance with portability. It is best for photographers needing a reliable, all-purpose zoom for everyday shooting and stabilized video work.

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Great Alternatives

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Bower 24mm f/1.4 Wide-Angle

67.6 Macro Score
24mm f/1.4 Four Thirds
Why we recommend this

Its 24mm focal length and extremely fast f/1.4 maximum aperture provide excellent low-light performance and shallow depth of field for a wide-angle lens. The inclusion of two aspherical elements and multi-coating helps control optical aberrations and flare, enhancing image quality. This lens is best for portrait photographers on the Four Thirds system seeking a unique, wide-angle perspective with beautiful background separation.

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Samyang 24mm f/1.4 ED AS UMC Wide-Angle

64.4 Macro Score
24mm f/1.4 Four Thirds
Why we recommend this

Its fast f/1.4 aperture and 24mm focal length make it a versatile tool for achieving a shallow depth of field in wide-angle shots. The robust, all-metal construction with a 77mm filter thread provides a premium feel and compatibility with common accessories. This lens is best for portrait photographers seeking dramatic environmental portraits and for videographers needing a sharp, bright prime lens on a Four Thirds system.

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AstrHori 18mm f/8 Macro Probe

64.1 Macro Score
18mm f/8 Micro Four Thirds
Why we recommend this

Its 18mm focal length and unique probe design enable extreme 2:1 magnification for incredibly close-up macro work, though its f/8 maximum aperture limits light. The 1735g weight and fixed f/8 aperture make it a specialized tool rather than a general-purpose lens. This lens is best for dedicated macro photographers who need to capture minute details in controlled studio environments.

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Panasonic Leica DG Summilux 9mm f/1.7 ASPH.

79.4 Macro Score
9mm f/1.7 Micro Four Thirds Weather Sealed
Why we recommend this

Its f/1.7 maximum aperture and compact 130g build make it a uniquely fast and portable ultra-wide prime for Micro Four Thirds. The lens offers a versatile 18mm full-frame equivalent field of view and a remarkably close 3.7-inch minimum focusing distance for creative perspectives. This lens is best for street photographers and vloggers who need a bright, wide-angle option in a very lightweight package.

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Olympus M.Zuiko Digital ED 7-14mm f/2.8 Pro

53.3 Macro Score
7-14mm f/2.8 Micro Four Thirds
Why we recommend this

Its constant f/2.8 aperture across the 7-14mm zoom range provides excellent low-light capability and creative flexibility for wide-angle shots. The lens's robust build and ZERO coating effectively minimize flare, making it a reliable tool for demanding outdoor conditions. This lens is best for Micro Four Thirds landscape and architectural photographers who need a sharp, fast, ultra-wide zoom.

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Olympus Zuiko Digital OM SYSTEM 18-180mm f/3.5-6.3 Zuiko

41.4 Macro Score
18-180mm f/3.5 Micro Four Thirds
Why we recommend this

Its 10x zoom range (36-360mm equivalent) and compact 434g build make it a versatile travel companion. The inclusion of ED glass helps control aberrations for sharper images across the focal range. This lens is best for budget-conscious travelers who prioritize a lightweight, all-in-one zoom over maximum aperture speed or weather sealing.

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Best Lenses under $1,500 for macro

Best Pick

OM System M.Zuiko Digital ED 90mm f/3.5 Macro IS PRO

93.8 Macro Score
90mm f/3.5 Micro Four Thirds IS Weather Sealed
Why we recommend this

Its 2:1 maximum magnification and 180mm full-frame equivalent reach offer exceptional close-up capability for a compact 454g lens. The weather-sealed PRO build and built-in image stabilization make it reliable for field use. This lens is best for macro photographers needing high magnification and portability, especially for insects or detailed botanical work.

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

63.8 Macro 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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Panasonic LUMIX G Leica DG Vario-Elmarit 8-18mm f/2.8-4.0 Professional MFT

45.4 Macro Score
8-18mm f/2.8 Micro Four Thirds
Why we recommend this

With a constant f/2.8 aperture across its 8-18mm zoom range, this lens delivers consistent performance for wide-angle shooting. Its Micro Four Thirds mount and compact 2.25x zoom design make it a versatile and portable option for travel and landscape photographers. This lens is best for Micro Four Thirds users needing a reliable, wide-angle zoom for environmental portraits and travel vlogging.

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Best Lenses under $2,500 for macro

Best Pick

Panasonic Leica DG Vario-Summilux Leica DG Vario-Summilux 25-50mm f/1.7 ASPH.

74.6 Macro Score
25-50mm f/1.7 Micro Four Thirds Weather Sealed
Why we recommend this

Its constant f/1.7 aperture across the 25-50mm zoom range provides exceptional low-light capability and background blur for a Micro Four Thirds lens. It meets strict Leica optical standards, ensuring professional-grade sharpness and rendering for photographers and videographers. This lens is best for Panasonic LUMIX shooters prioritizing portrait work and run-and-gun video where a fast, consistent aperture is critical.

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Olympus M.Zuiko OM SYSTEM OM-3

58 Macro Score
34mm f/1.8 Micro Four Thirds
Why we recommend this

Its standout features include a 20 MP Stacked BSI Live MOS sensor paired with a TruePic X processor, housed in a premium, vintage-styled metal body with IP53 weather-sealing. The included 34mm-equivalent f/1.8 prime lens offers a bright, compact wide-angle, contributing to its portable, travel-ready design. This camera is best suited for street photographers and travel documentarians who prioritize a durable, weather-resistant body and a fast, classic focal length in a small package.

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Premium Lenses for macro

Best Pick

OM System M.Zuiko Digital ED 50-200mm f/2.8 IS PRO

67.9 Macro Score
50-200mm f/2.8 Micro Four Thirds IS Weather Sealed
Why we recommend this

Its constant f/2.8 aperture and 7-stop 5-axis Sync IS provide exceptional low-light performance and handheld stability for a super-telephoto zoom. The lens offers a full-frame equivalent 100-400mm reach in a relatively compact and portable package for its class. This lens is best for wildlife and sports photographers who need a long, fast zoom but prioritize a lighter kit for hiking or travel.

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Price $3,500
OM System M.Zuiko Digital ED 50-200mm f/2.8 IS PRO lens

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

Panasonic Panasonic Leica DG Elmarit 200mm f/2.8 Aspherical

41.4 Macro Score
200mm f/2.8 Micro Four Thirds IS Weather Sealed
Why we recommend this

Its fast f/2.8 aperture and built-in optical image stabilization enable sharp, low-light telephoto shots, supported by a robust, weather-sealed construction. The inclusion of a 1.4x teleconverter extends its reach, while the Leica-branded optics with Ultra Extra-Low Dispersion elements ensure high resolution. This lens is best for professional wildlife and sports photographers using Micro Four Thirds systems who require a durable, long-reach prime.

Vazen 65mm T2 1.8x Anamorphic

20.2 Macro Score
65mm Micro Four Thirds IS
Why we recommend this

Its 1.8x horizontal squeeze and T2 aperture deliver the signature widescreen look, oval bokeh, and classic blue flares essential for cinematic footage. The robust 1680g construction is built for set durability, offering reliable performance with minimal focus breathing. This lens is best for Micro Four Thirds filmmakers using cameras like the Panasonic GH5 who want a dedicated anamorphic prime for narrative projects.