10 Best Canon Wide Angle Lenses 2025 in the United States

The Samyang 12mm F2.0 AF lens is a strong option for Canon RF-S users who want an ultra-wide-angle prime lens that performs well in many conditions. Its 12mm focal length offers a very wide 99.1° field of view, making it great for capturing expansive landscapes, interiors, and night skies. The fast f/2.0 aperture stands out in low-light situations, allowing for clearer shots without needing very high ISO, and it also helps create a nice background blur when desired. Optical quality is high, thanks to multiple special lens elements and coatings that reduce distortion, chromatic aberration, and flare — common challenges with ultra-wide lenses. Autofocus is smooth, quick, and quiet due to the Linear STM motor, which is especially useful if you switch between photography and video.

The lens is compact and lightweight, which is a big plus for travel or outdoor use, and its weather sealing adds durability and reliability in different conditions. However, it lacks built-in image stabilization, which means you might need a steady hand or tripod for longer exposures or video. While its build is solid, the compact size and prime design mean it’s less versatile than zoom lenses for those needing multiple focal lengths. This lens suits photographers who prioritize wide-angle quality, low-light ability, and portability over zoom flexibility or stabilization.

The Canon RF 15-35mm F/2.8 L IS USM is a versatile wide-angle lens that excels in multiple areas. With a focal length range of 15-35mm, it offers flexibility for capturing a broad field of view, making it ideal for landscapes, architecture, and even some close-up work. The fast f/2.8 aperture is great for low-light conditions and provides a pleasing background blur for subject isolation. One of its standout features is the advanced 5-stop image stabilization, which helps to keep your shots clear and sharp even when shooting handheld or in less-than-ideal lighting conditions. This can be particularly useful if you're shooting in situations where tripods aren't practical.

The lens also includes three aspherical and two UD elements that improve image quality by reducing distortions and chromatic aberrations, ensuring your photos are sharp and detailed. The Nano USM motor provides fast and silent autofocus, which is especially beneficial for both photography and video. In terms of build quality, this lens lives up to the L-series reputation with robust weather-sealing and fluorine coatings that protect against water and dust, allowing you to shoot confidently in various environments. The lens control ring adds an extra layer of convenience, letting you adjust settings quickly.

On the downside, the lens is relatively heavy and bulky, which might be a consideration if you prefer lighter gear for travel or long shooting sessions. Additionally, it's on the pricier side, which might be a factor if you're budget-conscious. However, if you're looking for a high-quality, reliable wide-angle lens for your Canon RF-mount camera, this lens offers excellent performance and durability.

The Samyang 14mm F2.8 lens offers a true ultra-wide 14mm focal length with a bright f/2.8 aperture, making it great for capturing dramatic landscapes, architecture, and creative wide scenes. Its wide 115° field of view provides immersive shots that work well on both full-frame and APS-C Canon cameras. The lens is manual focus only, which might be challenging if you need quick autofocus, but the smooth focus ring and close focusing distance (around 10.8 inches) allow for precise control and creative close-up shots. It does not have image stabilization, so using a tripod is recommended for sharp photos in low light or longer exposures.

Samyang uses special glass elements to reduce distortion and chromatic aberration, helping produce sharp and vibrant images from corner to corner. The built-in AE chip helps the camera meter exposure correctly, so you won't have issues with exposure settings. Build quality is solid with a petal-shaped lens hood to reduce flare and protect the lens, although it is relatively lightweight and compact for easy use outdoors or in the studio.

This lens is best suited for photographers who prioritize image quality and wide angles but don’t mind manual focusing and the absence of image stabilization. It represents a budget-friendly option for enthusiasts and professionals wanting a high-quality ultra-wide perspective without the higher cost of autofocus lenses.