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10 Best Canon Zoom Lenses 2025 in the United States

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Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

Canon RF100-300mm F2.8 L is USM, RF Lens, Mirrorless, Telephoto Zoom, Optical Image Stabilization, Professional, High-end Video, Still Images White

Rating
9.8
Chosen by1,182
Focal Length Range

Most important from
1 reviews

Focal Length Range
This lens offers flexibility in framing shots, making it ideal for airshows, sports, and birds in flight.

The Canon RF100-300mm F2.8 L is a high-end telephoto zoom lens designed for mirrorless cameras, particularly appealing to professional photographers and videographers. It features a focal length range of 100-300mm, which offers great versatility for capturing distant subjects, whether you're shooting wildlife, sports, or landscapes. The fast f/2.8 maximum aperture throughout the zoom range allows excellent control over depth of field, enabling striking bokeh and improved performance in low-light conditions. This lens also excels in autofocus speed and accuracy, ensuring that your shots come out sharp even in dynamic situations.

Another major strength of this lens is its exceptional image quality. With one flourite lens and four ultra-low dispersion (UD) elements, it minimizes chromatic aberrations, while the Super Spectra Coating helps reduce ghosting and flare. Additionally, the built-in optical image stabilization provides up to 5.5 stops of shake correction, making it easier to shoot handheld.

However, there are some considerations to keep in mind. Weighing in at 5.7 pounds, this lens is relatively heavy, which may be cumbersome for extended use or for those who prefer a lighter setup. Its size can also make it less portable for casual shooting. While it is built to last with high-quality materials and weather sealing, these features may come at a premium price, making it less accessible for amateur photographers.

Rating
9.8
Chosen by1,182
Focal Length Range

Most important from
1 reviews

Focal Length Range
This lens offers flexibility in framing shots, making it ideal for airshows, sports, and birds in flight.
#2

Canon RF70-200mm F2.8 L is USM Z White

Rating
9.6
Autofocus Speed and Accuracy

Most important from
3 reviews

Autofocus Speed and Accuracy
The RF version of the lens exceeds expectations with its lighter weight and incredibly fast autofocus, making it a great addition to any camera setup.

The Canon RF70-200mm F2.8 L is USM Z White is a high-performance telephoto zoom lens designed for photography enthusiasts and professionals who demand quality and versatility. Its focal length range of 70-200mm offers excellent flexibility for both portrait and wildlife photography. The fast f/2.8 aperture allows for impressive low-light performance and beautiful background blur, making it ideal for capturing stunning images with depth.

This lens features Canon's Nano USM motors, providing fast, precise, and quiet autofocus, which is especially beneficial for video shooting. The internal zoom and focus design ensures that the lens' size remains constant, making it more manageable during handheld shooting. Another highlight is its L-Series build quality which ensures durability along with weather resistance, allowing for reliable use in challenging environments. This lens also includes focus breathing control, enhancing its appeal for videographers by maintaining composition during focus shifts.

However, at 4.45 pounds, this lens is on the heavier side, which might be cumbersome for prolonged handheld sessions. It could be less convenient for those who prioritize portability. Additionally, while compatible with Power Zoom Adapters, the lens might not suit all budgets due to its premium pricing, reflecting its professional-grade construction and performance. Despite these drawbacks, the Canon RF70-200mm F2.8 L is USM Z White remains an excellent choice for those seeking a robust, high-quality lens capable of delivering exceptional image and video results.

Rating
9.6
Autofocus Speed and Accuracy

Most important from
3 reviews

Autofocus Speed and Accuracy
The RF version of the lens exceeds expectations with its lighter weight and incredibly fast autofocus, making it a great addition to any camera setup.
#3

Canon RF70-200mm F2.8 L is USM Lens, Telephoto Zoom Lens, Compatible with EOS R Series Mirrorless Cameras, White

Rating
9.4
Focal Length Range
Aperture
Autofocus Speed and Accuracy

Most important from
488 reviews

Focal Length Range
The images are sharp across the entire focal range, from 70mm to 200mm, even when shooting wide open at 2.8.
Aperture
The RF70-200 is incredibly versatile, allowing me to capture subjects at a distance while still enjoying the benefits of a wide F2.8 aperture.
Autofocus Speed and Accuracy
Most importantly it takes sharp photos.
Build Quality and Weather Sealing
The build quality, sharpness, and overall performance make it worth every penny.
Weight and Size
The design makes the lens more compact, which is a big advantage for carrying it in a smaller bag.

The Canon RF70-200mm F2.8 L IS USM Lens is a high-quality telephoto zoom lens designed for Canon EOS R series mirrorless cameras. It offers an impressive focal length range of 70-200mm, making it versatile for various photography styles, from portraits to sports. The bright f/2.8 aperture allows for excellent low-light performance and beautiful background blur. One of its standout features is the optical image stabilization, providing up to 5 stops of shake correction, which is incredibly beneficial for handheld shooting and reducing motion blur.

The dual Nano USM ensures that the autofocus is both fast and quiet, an essential feature for capturing sharp images and shooting videos without disruptive noise. This lens is also praised for its compact and lightweight design, weighing only 2.64 pounds, which is lighter compared to some other lenses in its class. Additionally, the build quality is robust, with weather sealing to protect against dust and moisture, making it suitable for outdoor photography in various conditions.

However, it's important to note that it is on the higher end of the price spectrum, which might be a consideration for budget-conscious buyers. Also, while it offers excellent performance, the size might still be considered bulky for those who prefer ultra-compact gear. This lens is an excellent investment for serious photographers and professionals who need a reliable, high-performance telephoto zoom lens for their Canon mirrorless cameras.

Rating
9.4
Focal Length Range
Aperture
Autofocus Speed and Accuracy

Most important from
488 reviews

Focal Length Range
The images are sharp across the entire focal range, from 70mm to 200mm, even when shooting wide open at 2.8.
Aperture
The RF70-200 is incredibly versatile, allowing me to capture subjects at a distance while still enjoying the benefits of a wide F2.8 aperture.
Autofocus Speed and Accuracy
Most importantly it takes sharp photos.
Build Quality and Weather Sealing
The build quality, sharpness, and overall performance make it worth every penny.
Weight and Size
The design makes the lens more compact, which is a big advantage for carrying it in a smaller bag.

Buying Guide for the Best Canon Zoom Lenses

Choosing the right Canon zoom lens can significantly enhance your photography experience. Zoom lenses offer versatility by allowing you to adjust the focal length, making them suitable for various types of photography, from landscapes to portraits. When selecting a zoom lens, it's essential to consider several key specifications to ensure it meets your needs and preferences. Understanding these specs will help you make an informed decision and get the best results from your camera.
Focal Length RangeThe focal length range of a zoom lens determines how much you can zoom in or out. It is usually represented in millimeters (e.g., 24-70mm). A lower range (e.g., 18-55mm) is ideal for wide-angle shots and general photography, while a higher range (e.g., 70-200mm) is better for close-ups and distant subjects. Choose a focal length range based on the type of photography you plan to do most often. For example, if you enjoy landscape photography, a lens with a wider range would be more suitable.
ApertureThe aperture of a lens, indicated by an f-number (e.g., f/2.8), controls the amount of light that enters the camera. A lower f-number means a larger aperture, which allows more light and is beneficial for low-light conditions and achieving a shallow depth of field (blurry background). Lenses with a constant aperture (e.g., f/2.8 throughout the zoom range) are generally more versatile and perform better in various lighting conditions. Consider your shooting environment and whether you need a lens that performs well in low light or provides a significant background blur.
Image StabilizationImage stabilization (IS) helps reduce camera shake, resulting in sharper images, especially at slower shutter speeds or longer focal lengths. This feature is particularly useful for handheld shooting and in low-light situations. If you often shoot in conditions where a tripod isn't practical or if you have unsteady hands, a lens with image stabilization can be a valuable asset. Look for lenses with IS if you prioritize sharpness and clarity in your photos.
Autofocus Speed and AccuracyAutofocus (AF) speed and accuracy are crucial for capturing sharp images, especially of moving subjects. Lenses with advanced AF systems, such as ultrasonic motors (USM) or stepping motors (STM), offer faster and quieter focusing. If you frequently shoot action, sports, or wildlife, a lens with a high-performance AF system will help you capture those decisive moments. For video recording, a quieter AF system like STM is preferable to avoid picking up focusing noise.
Build Quality and Weather SealingThe build quality of a lens affects its durability and longevity. Lenses with robust construction and weather sealing are designed to withstand harsh conditions, such as dust, moisture, and extreme temperatures. If you often shoot outdoors or in challenging environments, investing in a lens with superior build quality and weather sealing can ensure reliable performance and protect your investment. Consider your typical shooting conditions and how much durability you need from your lens.
Weight and SizeThe weight and size of a lens can impact your comfort and convenience, especially during long shooting sessions or travel. Larger and heavier lenses may offer better performance and features but can be cumbersome to carry around. Conversely, smaller and lighter lenses are more portable but might compromise on some advanced features. Think about how often you'll be carrying your lens and whether you prioritize portability or performance.

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