Best Lenses under $500 for video production

Best Pick

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

88.1 Video/Cinema 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 LUMIX G G 25mm f/1.7 ASPH.

77.7 Video/Cinema Score
25-50mm f/1.7 Micro Four Thirds
Why we recommend this

With its fast f/1.7 maximum aperture and 50mm-equivalent focal length, this lens excels at creating sharp portraits with smooth background blur. Its inclusion of two aspherical elements helps control optical aberrations for strong image quality at a very accessible price point. This lens is best for Micro Four Thirds photographers seeking an affordable, lightweight prime for everyday shooting and portraiture.

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Sigma Contemporary 16mm f/1.4 DC DN

71.7 Video/Cinema Score
16mm f/1.4 micro_four_thirds
Why we recommend this

Its fast f/1.4 maximum aperture provides excellent low-light performance and shallow depth of field for a Micro Four Thirds system. The lens offers a versatile 24mm equivalent focal length, making it a compact and practical wide-angle prime. This lens is best for portrait photographers seeking a flattering wide-angle perspective and videographers needing strong performance in dim environments.

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OM System M.Zuiko Digital ED 40-150mm f/4-5.6 R

69.6 Video/Cinema Score
40-150mm f/4 Micro Four Thirds
Why we recommend this

Its 80-300mm full-frame equivalent reach in a 190g body makes it exceptionally portable for its focal range. The inclusion of an extra-low dispersion element helps control chromatic aberration for clearer images. This lens is best for Micro Four Thirds shooters who need a lightweight, versatile telephoto option for street and travel photography.

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

75.3 Video/Cinema 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

Panasonic G 42.5mm f/1.7 Aspherical Power O.I.S.

74 Video/Cinema Score
43mm f/1.7 Micro Four Thirds IS
Why we recommend this

Its f/1.7 aperture delivers excellent background blur for portraits, while built-in stabilization makes it versatile for handheld video work. As a compact and affordable prime lens, it offers strong value within the Micro Four Thirds ecosystem. This lens is best for portrait photographers and vloggers seeking a lightweight, stabilized lens for creating a shallow depth of field.

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

69 Video/Cinema 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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Laowa Argus 25mm F/0.95 APO

67.6 Video/Cinema 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

Mitakon Zhongyi Speedmaster 35mm f/0.95 Mark II

67.2 Video/Cinema 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

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

66.7 Video/Cinema 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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Olympus OM SYSTEM Zuiko 50-200mm f/2.8-3.5 Digital ED SWD

65.4 Video/Cinema Score
50-200mm f/2.8 Four Thirds IS
Why we recommend this

Its constant f/2.8 aperture across the 50-200mm zoom range provides excellent low-light performance for a Four Thirds telephoto lens. The inclusion of Supersonic Wave Drive (SWD) technology enables notably quiet and fast autofocus, maximizing compatibility with high-speed camera systems. This lens is best for budget-conscious photographers shooting sports or wildlife who need a versatile, fast-aperture zoom without the bulk of a full-frame equivalent.

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TTArtisan 17mm f/1.4

65.2 Video/Cinema Score
17mm f/1.4 Micro Four Thirds
Why we recommend this

Its fast f/1.4 aperture and compact 247g metal build make it a standout for its price, offering excellent low-light capability and a solid feel. The lens provides a versatile 34mm equivalent focal length and a smooth 10-blade diaphragm for pleasing bokeh, though it lacks autofocus and weather sealing. This lens is best for Micro Four Thirds shooters seeking a manual, affordable prime for environmental portraits and street photography where its character and speed are assets.

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TTArtisan 17mm f/1.4 lens
Price $139

TTArtisan APS-C 35mm f1.4 Tilt

64.6 Video/Cinema 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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Olympus M.Zuiko Digital 45mm f/1.8

62.6 Video/Cinema Score
45mm f/1.8 Micro Four Thirds
Why we recommend this

Its bright f/1.8 aperture provides excellent low-light performance and a pleasing bokeh effect ideal for portraits. The lens is remarkably compact and lightweight at just 116g, making it a perfect everyday carry for Micro Four Thirds shooters. This lens is best for portrait and street photographers seeking a high-quality, 90mm-equivalent prime that prioritizes portability without sacrificing sharpness.

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Olympus M.Zuiko Digital 45mm f/1.8 lens
Price $250

Brightin Star 35mm F1.7

61.8 Video/Cinema Score
35mm f/1.7 Micro 4/3 Mount IS
Why we recommend this

Its compact metal build and F1.7 aperture make it a sharp, portable prime lens ideal for Micro Four Thirds shooters. The bright aperture excels in low-light conditions and provides pleasing background blur for portraits or still-life scenes. This lens is best for street and documentary photographers who value a discreet, lightweight setup for everyday carry.

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Rokinon Rokinon 50mm f/1.2 Manual Focus Lens for Micro

59.3 Video/Cinema Score
50mm f/1.2 Micro Four Thirds
Why we recommend this

Its exceptionally fast f/1.2 aperture enables excellent low-light performance and creates a smooth background blur ideal for portraits. The manual focus control and compact 375g design offer a tactile, lightweight shooting experience for deliberate photographers. This lens is best for Micro Four Thirds shooters prioritizing shallow depth-of-field and low-light capability for portrait or night photography, who don't require autofocus.

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Best Lenses under $1,000 for video production

Best Pick

Panasonic 12-60mm f/2.8-4.0 G Leica DG Vario-Elmarit Power OIS

84.1 Video/Cinema Score
12-60mm f/2.8 Micro Four Thirds IS Weather Sealed
Why we recommend this

With a constant f/2.8 aperture and built-in stabilization, it delivers reliable performance in a compact Micro Four Thirds zoom lens. Its versatile 12-60mm focal range and strong video score make it a practical all-rounder for travel and run-and-gun filmmaking. This lens is best for Micro Four Thirds shooters who need a lightweight, stabilized zoom for everyday photography and handheld video work.

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OM System M.Zuiko Digital ED 20mm f/1.4 PRO

67.1 Video/Cinema Score
20mm f/1.4 Micro Four Thirds
Why we recommend this

Its f/1.4 maximum aperture and 40mm equivalent focal length make it a versatile, fast prime ideal for low-light shooting and subject isolation. The compact 247g design and Micro Four Thirds mount provide excellent portability for a lens of this speed. This lens is best for Micro Four Thirds shooters prioritizing street photography and environmental portraits where a natural field of view and shallow depth of field are key.

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

59.4 Video/Cinema 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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Bower 24mm f/1.4 Wide-Angle

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

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

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

43.4 Video/Cinema 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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AstrHori 18mm f/8 Macro Probe

24.3 Video/Cinema 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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Best Lenses under $1,500 for video production

Best Pick

OM System M.Zuiko Digital ED 25mm f/1.2 PRO

83.4 Video/Cinema Score
25mm f/1.2 Micro Four Thirds Weather Sealed
Why we recommend this

Its f/1.2 maximum aperture provides exceptional low-light performance and shallow depth of field for a Micro Four Thirds lens. The internal focusing design and manual focus clutch offer precise control for professional workflows. This lens is best for portrait and street photographers who prioritize a fast, classic 50mm-equivalent focal length.

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Panasonic G LEICA DG NOCTICRON 42.5mm / F1.2

81.4 Video/Cinema Score
43mm f/1.2 Micro Four Thirds IS
Why we recommend this

Its f/1.2 maximum aperture excels in low-light portrait situations, allowing for excellent subject isolation. The lens's advanced nano surface coating effectively reduces ghosting and flare for cleaner images. This lens is best for portrait photographers seeking a fast prime with exceptional rendering and bokeh quality.

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

75.4 Video/Cinema 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

68 Video/Cinema 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 video production

Best Pick

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

82.5 Video/Cinema 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-D E-M5 Mark II Kit

45.3 Video/Cinema Score
150mm f/4 Micro Four Thirds IS
Why we recommend this

Its standout feature is a highly effective 5-axis image stabilisation system, enabling sharp handheld photos and stable, cinema-quality video without a tripod. The camera pairs this robust, weather-sealed metal body with a compact, lightweight design for exceptional mobility. This kit is best for travel and adventure photographers who need reliable, high-quality performance in challenging outdoor conditions.

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Premium Lenses for video production

Best Pick

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

86.9 Video/Cinema 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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Panasonic Panasonic Leica DG Elmarit 200mm f/2.8 Aspherical

49 Video/Cinema 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

24.7 Video/Cinema 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.