10 Best Camera Lenses 2025 in the United States

The Samyang 24mm F1.8 AF lens is a solid choice if you're looking for a wide-angle lens for your Sony E-mount full-frame camera. Its 24mm focal length gives you a broad 83.7° view, which is great for landscapes, travel, and even astrophotography, especially with its dedicated night sky mode. The bright F1.8 aperture is a major plus because it lets in plenty of light, helping you shoot clearer photos in darker settings and create smooth background blur (bokeh) with its 9 rounded blades—perfect for artistic portraits or creative shots.

The autofocus is driven by a quiet and fast STM motor, making it suitable not only for still photos but also for video recording without distracting noise. While the lens doesn’t have built-in image stabilization, its lightweight (about 1 pound) and compact design make it easy to carry around and handle. It also features weather sealing in key areas, so it can withstand light rain or dust, which is handy for outdoor shoots. Customizable controls like the focus-hold button and adjustable ring add flexibility if you want to personalize your shooting experience.

Since this is a prime lens, you won’t be able to zoom in or out. If you want versatility in framing your shots without changing lenses, a zoom lens might be better. Although sharpness and build quality are generally praised, it isn’t considered a top-of-the-line professional lens, but it offers excellent value for enthusiasts and hobbyists looking to enhance their wide-angle photography.

The Canon RF100-500mm F4.5-7.1 L IS USM Lens is a high-performance super-telephoto zoom lens that is versatile and compatible with the EOS R series mirrorless cameras. With a maximum focal length of 500mm, it is ideal for capturing distant subjects like wildlife and sports. The lens features Optical Image Stabilization, offering up to 5 stops of shake correction, which is particularly beneficial for handheld shooting. Additionally, it has three image stabilization modes, enhancing creative versatility in different shooting scenarios.

The autofocus is fast, smooth, and quiet thanks to the Dual Nano USM, making it excellent for both stills and video work. However, the variable aperture (F4.5-7.1) might not perform as well in low light conditions compared to lenses with a constant aperture. The minimum focusing distance of 3.0 feet allows for close-up shots, adding to its versatility.

Weighing 3 pounds and measuring 9.1 inches in all dimensions, it’s relatively compact for a super-telephoto lens, but still might be cumbersome for extended handheld use. As an L-series lens, it includes advanced lens elements and coatings, ensuring high image quality with reduced aberrations. Users who prioritize high focal length versatility for outdoor and sports photography will find this lens particularly beneficial. However, if low light performance is a critical aspect, one might need to consider other lenses with a wider constant aperture.