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10 Best Canon Macro Lenses 2025 in the United States

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Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

Canon 180mm F3.5 L AF Macro Lens

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,447
Focal Length
Maximum Aperture
Magnification Ratio

Most important from
70 reviews

Focal Length
It's a challenge to use without a tripod due to the 180mm focal length requiring very steady hands.
Maximum Aperture
The narrow depth of field means you might need to stop down to f22 or even f32 to get the whole subject in focus.
Magnification Ratio
The 1:1 magnification ratio allows you to capture life-size close-ups without disturbing the subject.
Image Stabilization
Despite the lack of image stabilization, using a tripod can mitigate this issue during macro photography.
Autofocus Performance
Although it's super sharp, the focusing can be slow, making manual focus a preferred option for many users.

The Canon 180mm F3.5 L AF Macro Lens is a telephoto macro lens designed for Canon SLR cameras. It offers a long 180mm focal length, which is excellent for capturing detailed close-ups, especially of subjects like insects, without disturbing them. The f/3.5 maximum aperture provides decent performance in various lighting conditions, although it's not the fastest in its category. A standout feature is its 1:1 magnification ratio, allowing for life-size close-ups, which is essential for macro photography enthusiasts.

Additionally, the internal floating system and three UD glass elements work together to minimize chromatic aberrations and ensure high-quality images throughout the focusing range—from 1.57 feet to infinity. The lens also includes an advanced ultra-sonic motor (USM) for quiet and speedy autofocus, making it reliable for capturing fast-moving subjects. However, this lens lacks image stabilization, which means hand-held shots at lower shutter speeds could be challenging.

Built solidly with high-quality materials and some degree of weather sealing, it is suitable for outdoor use in various conditions. Weighing 2.4 pounds, it’s relatively heavy, which might be a consideration for extended hand-held use. The Canon 180mm F3.5 L AF Macro Lens is a robust choice for serious macro photographers who value image quality and build strength but may want to use a tripod due to its weight and lack of image stabilization.

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,447
Focal Length
Maximum Aperture
Magnification Ratio

Most important from
70 reviews

Focal Length
It's a challenge to use without a tripod due to the 180mm focal length requiring very steady hands.
Maximum Aperture
The narrow depth of field means you might need to stop down to f22 or even f32 to get the whole subject in focus.
Magnification Ratio
The 1:1 magnification ratio allows you to capture life-size close-ups without disturbing the subject.
Image Stabilization
Despite the lack of image stabilization, using a tripod can mitigate this issue during macro photography.
Autofocus Performance
Although it's super sharp, the focusing can be slow, making manual focus a preferred option for many users.
#2

Canon RF100mm F2.8 L Macro is USM Lens, Medium Telephoto Lens, Macro Lens, Compatible with EOS R Series Mirrorless Cameras, Black

Rating
10.0
Maximum Aperture
Magnification Ratio
Image Stabilization

Most important from
310 reviews

Maximum Aperture
Image quality is very good wide open at f/2.8, but becomes amazing at f/8 to f/16.
Magnification Ratio
The 1.4:1 magnification is really nice, but achieving good shots at that magnification requires manual focus, patience, and results in some softer focus images.
Image Stabilization
Autofocus and sensor stabilization are fantastic.
Autofocus Performance
The RF 100mm f/2.8 L IS USM Macro is a significant improvement over the EF version, with super fast autofocus and great image stabilization.

The Canon RF100mm F2.8 L Macro lens is a standout choice for macro photography, especially for those using EOS R series mirrorless cameras. It features an impressive maximum magnification of 1.4x, making it capable of capturing incredibly detailed close-up shots. The constant f/2.8 aperture allows for bright images and beautiful background blur (bokeh), which is further enhanced by the SA Control Ring for adjusting the bokeh shape and character.

With an optical image stabilizer offering up to 5 stops of shake correction and hybrid IS, it helps reduce blur from camera shake, crucial for handheld macro shooting. The lens also boasts a minimum focus distance suitable for getting up close to your subjects. Autofocus performance is fast and accurate, ensuring you can capture sharp images quickly. Build quality is robust, with weather sealing that protects against dust and moisture, making it a reliable companion for outdoor shoots in various conditions.

However, the lens is on the heavier side at 1.61 pounds, which might be a consideration for those who prefer lighter gear. Additionally, with advanced features and high-quality build, the price point may be on the higher side, which could be a limitation for budget-conscious photographers. For anyone serious about macro photography and looking for a lens that delivers excellent image quality and reliable performance, this Canon macro lens is a highly recommended option.

Rating
10.0
Maximum Aperture
Magnification Ratio
Image Stabilization

Most important from
310 reviews

Maximum Aperture
Image quality is very good wide open at f/2.8, but becomes amazing at f/8 to f/16.
Magnification Ratio
The 1.4:1 magnification is really nice, but achieving good shots at that magnification requires manual focus, patience, and results in some softer focus images.
Image Stabilization
Autofocus and sensor stabilization are fantastic.
Autofocus Performance
The RF 100mm f/2.8 L IS USM Macro is a significant improvement over the EF version, with super fast autofocus and great image stabilization.
#3

Venus Optics Laowa 24mm f/14 2X Macro Probe Lens with Canon EF Mount

Rating
9.9
Minimum Focus Distance
Build Quality and Weather Sealing

Most important from
26 reviews

Minimum Focus Distance
The lens allows for incredibly close-up shots, getting as close as half an inch to the subject.
Build Quality and Weather Sealing
Despite its lightweight design, the lens delivers impressive quality and results.

The Venus Optics Laowa 24mm f/14 2X Macro Probe Lens is a unique and specialized tool for macro photography, compatible with Canon EF mount cameras. One of its standout features is the ability to cover both full-frame and Super35 image sensors, making it quite versatile. The deep depth of field it offers at close distances allows for more background detail, which is beneficial for both studio and wildlife photography. The long tubular lens barrel, measuring 15.7 inches, enables users to capture close-up shots without getting too close to the subject, making it ideal for photographing subjects in hard-to-reach areas or those that might be disturbed by a camera's proximity.

An embedded LED ring light at the lens tip provides additional lighting, which is particularly useful given the small aperture and the need for more light in macro photography. Despite its length, the lens is lightweight at just 1.04 pounds, making it easy to handle and transport. However, the maximum aperture of f/14 may limit its use in low-light situations, and the manual focus might require some practice for precision, especially for users who prefer autofocus.

The build quality is decent, but it lacks weather sealing, which might be a concern for outdoor photographers in variable conditions. With a magnification ratio of 2X, it excels in capturing fine details. This lens is particularly suitable for photographers who need to shoot in tight spaces or require a unique perspective for their macro shots.

Rating
9.9
Minimum Focus Distance
Build Quality and Weather Sealing

Most important from
26 reviews

Minimum Focus Distance
The lens allows for incredibly close-up shots, getting as close as half an inch to the subject.
Build Quality and Weather Sealing
Despite its lightweight design, the lens delivers impressive quality and results.

Buying Guide for the Best Canon Macro Lenses

Choosing the right macro lens for your Canon camera can significantly enhance your ability to capture detailed close-up images of small subjects, such as insects, flowers, and other intricate objects. Macro lenses are designed to provide high magnification and sharpness, allowing you to explore the world of tiny details. When selecting a macro lens, it's important to consider several key specifications to ensure you get the best fit for your needs.
Focal LengthFocal length determines how close you can get to your subject while still achieving a sharp focus. Macro lenses typically range from 50mm to 200mm. Shorter focal lengths (50mm-100mm) are great for general close-up photography and are easier to handle, but you need to be closer to your subject. Longer focal lengths (100mm-200mm) allow you to shoot from a greater distance, which is useful for photographing subjects that might be disturbed by your presence, like insects. Choose a focal length based on the type of subjects you plan to photograph and how close you can get to them.
Maximum ApertureThe maximum aperture of a lens indicates how much light it can gather, which affects exposure and depth of field. Macro lenses often have maximum apertures ranging from f/2.8 to f/4. A wider aperture (lower f-number) allows more light in, which is beneficial for shooting in low light conditions and achieving a shallow depth of field, making your subject stand out against a blurred background. If you plan to shoot in various lighting conditions or want more control over the depth of field, opt for a lens with a wider maximum aperture.
Magnification RatioMagnification ratio refers to the lens's ability to enlarge the subject. A 1:1 magnification ratio means the subject is captured at life-size on the camera sensor. Some macro lenses offer higher magnification ratios, such as 2:1 or even 5:1, which can be useful for extreme close-ups. If you need to capture very small details or want to explore extreme macro photography, look for lenses with higher magnification ratios. For general macro photography, a 1:1 ratio is usually sufficient.
Image StabilizationImage stabilization helps reduce camera shake, which is particularly useful when shooting handheld at high magnifications. This feature can be crucial for achieving sharp images, especially in low light conditions or when using longer focal lengths. If you often shoot without a tripod or in challenging lighting, consider a macro lens with built-in image stabilization to improve your chances of capturing clear, detailed images.
Minimum Focus DistanceMinimum focus distance is the closest distance at which a lens can focus on a subject. Macro lenses typically have very short minimum focus distances, allowing you to get extremely close to your subject. This spec is important for capturing fine details and achieving high magnification. If you plan to photograph very small subjects or need to get close to your subject, look for a lens with a shorter minimum focus distance.
Autofocus PerformanceAutofocus performance is crucial for quickly and accurately focusing on your subject, especially when dealing with moving subjects like insects. Some macro lenses offer faster and more precise autofocus systems, which can be beneficial for capturing sharp images without manual adjustments. If you need to capture fast-moving subjects or prefer the convenience of autofocus, choose a lens with reliable and efficient autofocus capabilities.
Build Quality and Weather SealingBuild quality and weather sealing are important for durability and protection against the elements. High-quality materials and construction ensure that your lens can withstand regular use and harsh conditions. Weather sealing protects against dust and moisture, which is particularly useful if you plan to shoot outdoors in various environments. If you need a robust and reliable lens for outdoor macro photography, look for one with excellent build quality and weather sealing.

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