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10 Best Telephoto Lens For Iphones 2025 in the United States

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#1

Winner

APEXEL 50X Telephoto Lens for iPhone Samsung Google Pixel, 1200mm Ultra Telephoto, Phone Camera Lens for Photography Bird Watching Moon Viewing, with Tripod Mount for Stable Shots, for Enthusiasts

The APEXEL 50X Telephoto Lens offers an impressive 1200mm equivalent focal length, making distant subjects like birds or the moon appear much closer. This level of zoom is quite rare for smartphone lenses, giving you a chance to capture detailed shots you can't get with the phone's built-in camera. The lens uses multi-coated optics designed to reduce glare and improve sharpness, which helps with clearer images despite the extreme zoom. It attaches to most iPhones, Samsung, and Google Pixel phones, making it versatile for many users.

One useful feature is the built-in tripod mount ring, which adds stability to your shots. High zoom levels magnify any hand movement, so having the option to use the included tripod can greatly improve photo quality and ease of use. Manual focus means you will need to adjust the lens yourself to get sharp pictures, which might take some practice if you're used to automatic focusing on phones. The lens is a bit bulky and heavier than typical phone lenses, so it’s better suited for planned photography sessions rather than casual snapping.

Additionally, it can double as a monocular for outdoor viewing, and supports 62mm filters if you want to experiment with effects like polarizing glare or reducing light. This lens is ideal for photography enthusiasts who want to explore telephoto shots on their smartphones and don’t mind carrying extra equipment or spending time on manual adjustments. Casual users looking for quick, easy zoom might find it less convenient. It’s a solid choice if you value high magnification and image quality and are ready to handle the learning curve and setup.

#2

NEEWER HD 85MM Telephoto Phone Lens Only for 17mm Thread Backplate, 2.5X Magnification Compatible with SmallRig NEEWER iPhone Samsung Phone Cage Case with 17mm Lens Adapter, LS-59

Rating
9.1
Optical Quality
Compatibility
Build Quality

Most important from
159 reviews

Optical Quality
The lens optics deliver exceptional clarity and light gathering, even in low light, with an effective anti-glare coating enhancing image quality.
Compatibility
The lens requires a compatible lens backplate, which is not included, making setup difficult and limiting ease of use.
Build Quality
Its large primary lens design contributes to outstanding performance but makes mounting challenging without a proper cage or backplate.
Ease of Use
Clip-on mounts are generally inadequate for secure attachment, emphasizing the need for a reliable mounting system.

The NEEWER HD 85mm Telephoto Phone Lens offers a 2.5X zoom, making it a solid choice for iPhone users who want to capture detailed portraits, wildlife, sports, or landscapes. Its 85mm focal length is ideal for closer shots without losing sharpness, courtesy of its high-quality 8-element, 6-group optical design. This lens produces clear and vibrant images, which is a strong point for phone photography at this zoom level.

This lens fits phone cases with a 17mm threaded backplate, so you'll need a compatible cage or case such as those from SmallRig or Beastcage to use it. While this setup might require additional accessories, the build quality is impressive, featuring durable, scratch-resistant aluminum that should hold up well over time. It also supports common 72mm front filters, allowing you to add effects or control light for more professional shots.

The lens is not compatible with clip-on mounts or standard M/T mounts, and certain phone features like macro or focus enhancement may need to be disabled on some phones to avoid issues. For those comfortable using a cage system, this telephoto lens is a dependable option to enhance phone photography. However, if you prefer a more plug-and-play solution compatible with any phone case, it might feel somewhat restrictive.

Rating
9.1
Optical Quality
Compatibility
Build Quality

Most important from
159 reviews

Optical Quality
The lens optics deliver exceptional clarity and light gathering, even in low light, with an effective anti-glare coating enhancing image quality.
Compatibility
The lens requires a compatible lens backplate, which is not included, making setup difficult and limiting ease of use.
Build Quality
Its large primary lens design contributes to outstanding performance but makes mounting challenging without a proper cage or backplate.
Ease of Use
Clip-on mounts are generally inadequate for secure attachment, emphasizing the need for a reliable mounting system.
#3

20-60X Zoom Telephoto Lens, Evil Eye High Power HD Telephoto Phone Lens with Tripod and Universal Phone Clip for iPhone 16/15/14/13 Series, Samsung, Android Phone and Most Smartphone

The Evil Eye 20-60X Zoom Telephoto Lens offers an impressive zoom range, allowing you to capture distant subjects clearly from 20X up to 60X magnification. This flexibility makes it great for activities like bird watching, hiking, or sports, where you might want both wide shots and detailed close-ups. The lens uses high-quality HD optical glass with multiple coatings to reduce glare and color distortion, helping photos and videos look sharp and vibrant.

It features a durable CNC aluminum alloy body, which is lightweight considering its power but still sturdy enough for outdoor use. The 58mm front lens supports adding photo filters, expanding creative options. It attaches universally to most smartphones, including the latest iPhone and Samsung models, via a phone clip, and can also be used as a standalone monocular with an eyecup. The included tripod enhances stability, crucial for sharp images at high zoom levels.

The lens weighs about 741 grams (around 1.6 pounds) and measures roughly 9 inches long, which might feel a bit bulky or heavy for casual use or long carrying periods. While it offers excellent zoom, focusing at maximum magnification can require patience and steady hands or tripod support. For anyone wanting to explore long-distance photography on their smartphone with strong zoom and solid image quality, this lens is a versatile and portable choice. Beginners may need some practice to get comfortable with focusing and setup but will appreciate the included accessories that aid usability.

Buying Guide for the Best Telephoto Lens For Iphones

Choosing the right telephoto lens for your iPhone can significantly enhance your photography experience, allowing you to capture distant subjects with clarity and detail. To make an informed decision, it's important to understand the key specifications and how they align with your needs. Here are the main factors to consider when selecting a telephoto lens for your iPhone.
Focal LengthFocal length determines how much magnification the lens provides. A longer focal length means greater magnification, allowing you to capture distant subjects more closely. Telephoto lenses typically range from 2x to 10x magnification. If you need a lens for everyday use, a 2x to 3x magnification might be sufficient. For wildlife or sports photography, where subjects are often far away, a higher magnification like 5x to 10x would be more appropriate.
ApertureAperture refers to the size of the lens opening that allows light to enter. It is usually represented by an f-number (e.g., f/2.8). A lower f-number means a larger aperture, which allows more light to enter and is beneficial for low-light conditions. If you plan to shoot in various lighting conditions, look for a lens with a lower f-number (e.g., f/2.8 to f/4). For well-lit environments, a higher f-number (e.g., f/5.6 and above) will suffice.
Optical QualityOptical quality refers to the clarity and sharpness of the images produced by the lens. High-quality optics reduce distortions and aberrations, resulting in clearer images. Look for lenses made with high-grade glass and multi-coating to minimize reflections and glare. If you are a professional or serious hobbyist, investing in a lens with superior optical quality is crucial. For casual photography, a mid-range lens with decent optical quality will be adequate.
CompatibilityCompatibility ensures that the lens can be easily attached to your specific iPhone model. Some lenses are designed to fit a wide range of iPhone models, while others are model-specific. Check the product specifications to ensure the lens is compatible with your iPhone. If you plan to upgrade your iPhone in the near future, consider a lens with broader compatibility to avoid the need for a new lens.
Build QualityBuild quality refers to the durability and construction of the lens. A well-built lens will last longer and withstand regular use. Look for lenses made from robust materials like aluminum or high-quality plastic. If you frequently travel or use your lens outdoors, a lens with weather-sealing features will provide added protection against dust and moisture. For occasional use, a standard build quality should be sufficient.
Ease of UseEase of use includes how simple it is to attach, detach, and operate the lens. Some lenses come with clip-on mechanisms, while others use magnetic mounts. Choose a lens that offers a secure fit and is easy to handle. If you are new to using telephoto lenses, a lens with straightforward attachment and minimal setup will be more user-friendly. For more experienced users, additional features like manual focus adjustment might be desirable.

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