10 Best Canon Zoom Lenses 2025 in the United States

The Canon 300mm F2.8 L IS USM II lens is a high-quality telephoto lens designed primarily for sports, wildlife, and action photography where a fast aperture and steady images are essential. It has a fixed focal length of 300mm, which means no zoom capability, but this also helps deliver sharp, bright images thanks to its wide f/2.8 aperture. The aperture allows for great background blur and excellent performance in low light.

This lens features image stabilization that Canon claims can compensate for up to 4 stops of camera shake, making handheld shooting easier despite its weight. Speaking of weight, it’s quite heavy at around 5.3 pounds, so it might be less comfortable for long handheld sessions but is well-built with professional-grade materials and some weather sealing to protect against dust and moisture. Autofocus is fast and accurate, which is important when capturing moving subjects.

The lens is compatible with Canon EF mount cameras and has a reputation for excellent optical quality, though it does not zoom and is rather large and heavy compared to lighter zoom lenses. It is best suited for serious photographers who need top-notch image quality and speed in a fixed 300mm reach rather than casual users or those wanting more versatility in focal length.

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.

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.