10 Best Camera Lenses 2026 in the United States

The Tamron 35-150mm F/2-2.8 Di III VXD lens offers a wide focal length range of 35-150mm, making it highly versatile for various photographic situations, from wide-angle to short telephoto shots. The fast aperture range of F/2-2.8 allows for excellent low-light performance and the ability to create beautifully blurred backgrounds.

This lens is specifically designed for Sony E-Mount full-frame and APS-C cameras, ensuring compatibility with a wide range of Sony models. While the lens does not have built-in image stabilization, its fast aperture can compensate for some of the low light challenges by allowing more light to enter the camera. The VXD linear motor promises quick and quiet autofocus, which is essential for capturing fast-moving subjects or recording video without intrusive noise.

Weighing 2.57 pounds and measuring 6.2 x 3.5 inches, it is relatively heavy and bulky, which may be a consideration for those who prioritize portability. Additionally, the ability to customize lens functions using the lens connector port and a USB cable (sold separately) adds a layer of convenience for fine-tuning settings to your preferences. This is a zoom lens, offering flexibility across its focal length range, making it suitable for photographers who wish to avoid changing lenses frequently. The Tamron 35-150mm F/2-2.8 Di III VXD is a robust and versatile choice for Sony E-Mount users seeking high optical performance, fast aperture, and customizable features, though its weight and lack of image stabilization could be potential drawbacks for some users.

The Canon RF100-400mm F5.6-8 is a lightweight and compact telephoto zoom lens designed for Canon's RF mount cameras. Its focal length covers a wide telephoto range from 100mm to 400mm, making it versatile for capturing distant subjects like wildlife or sports. The variable aperture of f/5.6-8 means it isn’t the brightest lens, so it may struggle a bit in low-light conditions or for creating a strong background blur compared to lenses with wider apertures. However, its strength lies in image stabilization—offering up to 5.5 stops of shake correction on its own, and even better (up to 6 stops) when paired with Canon cameras that have in-body stabilization. This helps produce sharper photos, especially at long zoom ranges where camera shake is more noticeable.

Autofocus is smooth, quick, and quiet thanks to Canon’s Nano USM technology, which is great for both stills and video. The minimum focusing distance of about 3 feet at 200mm and a decent maximum magnification allow for relatively close-up shots of subjects. Weighing just 1.8 pounds and measuring roughly 6.5 inches long, it’s more portable than many other telephoto zooms, making it a good option for users who want reach without heavy gear.

This lens suits photographers who need a flexible telephoto zoom in a compact package, especially those shooting outdoors or on the move. The trade-off is the narrower aperture, which limits low-light performance and depth-of-field control compared to faster lenses.

The Sigma 28-70mm F2.8 DG DN is a versatile zoom lens designed specifically for Sony E-mount mirrorless cameras. Its focal length range from 28mm to 70mm covers wide-angle to short telephoto, making it handy for everyday shooting, portraits, and some landscape shots. The constant f/2.8 aperture is a strong feature, allowing more light in for better low-light performance and background blur, which photographers often value for creative control. This lens features internal focusing, meaning the lens size doesn’t change when focusing, which helps with handling and using filters.

Build quality is impressive considering its relatively lightweight and compact body, just a bit over 1 pound, making it easy to carry around without heavy bulk. The Nano Porous Coating helps reduce glare and ghosting, improving image clarity and contrast, especially in tricky lighting. Autofocus is smooth and reliable, suitable for both still images and video.

It is important to note that the lens does not have built-in image stabilization, so you’ll rely on your Sony camera’s stabilization if available. While it’s a zoom lens offering flexibility, prime lenses (fixed focal length) typically provide sharper images or faster apertures, though they lack zoom convenience. This Sigma lens balances good optical performance with practicality and solid build, making it an excellent choice for enthusiasts wanting a bright, versatile zoom lens without going for heavier, more expensive options.