6 best canon slr lenses

Canon SLR lenses, often referred to as Canon EF lenses, are a key component of Canon's EOS (Electro-Optical System) cameras, which include both digital and film single-lens reflex (SLR) models. These lenses are designed to attach to Canon EOS SLR camera bodies and provide a wide range of focal lengths, apertures, and features to meet the needs of photographers in various genres, from portrait and landscape photography to sports and wildlife.

Here are some important aspects of Canon SLR lenses:

  1. Compatibility: Canon EF lenses are designed to work seamlessly with Canon EOS SLR cameras. They are compatible with both full-frame (EF) and APS-C (EF-S) sensor cameras, ensuring that users have a wide selection of lenses to choose from.

  2. Focal Length: Canon offers a diverse range of EF lenses with different focal lengths, from ultra-wide-angle to super-telephoto. This allows photographers to select the lens that best suits their shooting style and subject matter.

  3. Aperture: Canon EF lenses come with a variety of maximum aperture sizes. Lenses with wide apertures (e.g., f/1.2, f/1.4) are ideal for low-light conditions and achieving a shallow depth of field for creative bokeh effects. Lenses with smaller apertures (e.g., f/4, f/5.6) are often used in situations where a larger depth of field is required.

  4. Image Stabilization: Many Canon EF lenses feature optical image stabilization (IS or IS II), which helps reduce the effects of camera shake, especially when shooting at longer focal lengths or slower shutter speeds.

  5. Specialized Lenses: Canon offers a range of specialized lenses, including macro lenses for close-up photography, tilt-shift lenses for perspective control, and fisheye lenses for creative effects.

  6. L-Series: Canon's L-series lenses are renowned for their exceptional build quality and image performance.These lenses often include weather sealing, durable construction, and premium optics.

  7. Autofocus: Canon EF lenses are equipped with autofocus capabilities, and many newer models use advanced autofocus technologies, such as Ultrasonic Motor (USM) or Stepping Motor (STM) systems, to provide fast and quiet focusing.

  8. Third-Party Compatibility: While Canon produces its own lenses, there are also third-party manufacturers like Sigma, Tamron, and Tokina that produce EF-mount lenses compatible with Canon cameras.

  9. Lens Mount: Canon EF lenses use a bayonet-style mount, ensuring a secure and reliable connection to the camera body. The EF-S lenses are specifically designed for APS-C sensor cameras and have a similar, but not interchangeable, mount.

Canon's extensive lineup of EF lenses caters to photographers of all skill levels and photographic interests. Whether you're a professional looking for top-tier optics or an enthusiast seeking versatility and affordability, Canon's range of SLR lenses offers a wide selection to choose from to help you capture the perfect shot.

Below you can find our editor's choice of the best canon slr lenses on the market
  

Canon EF-S 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 IS II SLR Lens White Box

Canon

Based on 541 reviews Check latest price

Product description

The Canon EF 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 IS II Zoom Lens is a standard zoom lens designed with Canon's Optical Image Stabilizer technology while retaining the compactness and lightness of previous models. Its stabilization allows sharp hand-held shots at shutter speeds up to four stops slower than otherwise possible. It consists of 11 elements in 9 groups and uses an spherical lens element to correct aberration for excellent image quality throughout the zoom range and a circular aperture for exquisite rendering of out-of-focus backgrounds. Without a lot of size, weight or cost, this lens expands picture-taking possibilities any time slow shutter speeds are needed.

  • Focal Length & Maximum Aperture - 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 II
  • Lens Construction - 16 elements in 12 groups, including UD-glass and spherical lenses
  • Diagonal Angle of View - 74 20' - 7 50' (with APS-C image sensors)
  • Focus Adjustment - Gear-driven
  • Bulk Packaging Come in White box use with card

User questions & answers

Question: Does this lens fit the Canon 750d
Answer: Hi CAPT W. The size UV filter that you need is 52mm. I found that Nikon 35mm camera stranded lens are 52mm. However, wide angle, fisheye, and telephoto lens are different in size. For example, telephoto lens over 250mm use a 58mm filter. I hope that this helpful.
Question: Can this be used for close up photos
Answer: The answer is yes and no. This lens is a better overall lens than the "kit" lens that typically comes with the D3100. However, this is a prime lens which means it has a fixed focal length - no zoom. Zooming is done with your feet. The "kits lens" is usually a 18mm-55mm lens. Better for zooming, but not as good in low light, and not the same quality lens as this one.
Question: will this fit T3i rebel cameras
Answer: The difference between the two lenses is the focal length. I personally have both lenses in my arsenal because they are NOT the same or even that similar, as some have said. The nifty fifty, as it's known, is great for portrait close-ups. It produces creamy bokeh that is absolutely gorgeous. The 35mm can also be used as portrait lens but it won't give you anything near the beauty of the composition of a 50mm shot. Also, it's a wider angle (the smaller the number the wider the lens) so basically if you were to stand at the back of a room full of people with a 50 on and look through your viewfinder, then stand in the same spot but change your 50 to the 35, you'll find that you can see more of the room (hence, wider angle) through the 35. I recommend buying both but if you're just getting started and looking to save money, definitely go with the 50mm.
Question: Will this fit the rebel t 5i
Answer: OK, in all seriousness, if the question really is: "Can you use this lens to shoot basketball?", the answer is yes, if you sit on the baseline, find the right exposure settings, and shoot burst at least 3 fps. I use this lens to catch anywhere from layups to jump shots in the corner, when my team is on offense. When they're on defense on the other side of the court, I switch to the 85 1.8, which captures backcourt defense really well, but not enough depth to capture my team defending their rim.

Canon EF 85mm f/1.8 USM Medium Telephoto Lens for Canon SLR Cameras - Fixed

Canon

Based on 1 reviews Check latest price

Product description

The Canon EF 85mm f/1.8 USM Standard & Medium Telephoto Lens is highly practical and ideal for a range of applications including portraiture. Its fast f/1.8 maximum aperture is effective in low light and ideal for shallow depth of field focus control. An ultrasonic autofocus motor (USM) provides fast, smooth and quiet AF action and because the front lens group does not rotate during focusing, polarizing and special filter effects can be used effectively.

From the Manufacturer

Canon EF 85mm f/1.8 USM Medium Telephoto Lens

  • 85 millimetre standard lens with f/1.8 maximum aperture for Canon SLR cameras, Lens Type:Telephoto Zoom Lens
  • Ring-type ultra-sonic monitor (USM) brings subject quickly into focus, Focal length: 85 millimetre, closest focusing distance: 2.8 feet
  • Natural angle of view and perspective is ideal for portraits and natural images
  • Designed to produce beautiful background blur; weighs 15 ounces
  • Measures 3 inches in diameter and 2.8 inches long; 1-year warranty. Refer User manual for troubleshooting steps.
  • Lens not zoomable

User questions & answers

Question: What do the green numbers on the top mean in the slider
Answer: Measurement in feet. You will not go wrong if you purchase this lens. I love it! The clarity is excellent. It takes a while to get the focus exact, but once you work with the lens you will not know how you did not buy this sooner.
Question: Canon EF 85mm f/1.8 USM or Canon EF 50mm f/1.8 STM? What distances can you shoot from the subject for each (trying to determine best for my needs
Answer: Closest focusing distance is 0.85m or 2.8 ft. for the 85mm f/1.8 and the closest focusing distance for the 50mm f/1.8 is 1.15 ft. or 0.35m. Depends on your style of shooting but the 85mm f/1.8 it's better for portrait.
Question: Does it come with the lens hood
Answer: No, must be purchased separately. I have understood the ET65III hood is the only that fits on the 85mm f1.8
Question: So many reviews! Can someone semi pro tell me if this focal distance is worth the purchase if you already own the canon 50mm f 1.4? I have a 7D and a full frame 5D and I use the 50mm on both. I am looking to gain that "better bokeh" mainly. Thoughts? Thank you
Answer: This is one of my favorite primes that I own. It not only has a really nice bokeh, and great contrast and color rendering. But it also has a very flattering perspective. It also makes most peoples faces look a bit better. Something about 85mm makes the face a little skinnier, while also compressing the area that is in focus a bit. It's heavier than most other 'Ultrasonic' EF primes. But this just makes it balance well on a 5D, 6D or 7D. Until you step up to L series you will have to deal with a bit of chromatic aberation and vignetting. Though that is a simple task if shooting raw. The 50mm is a bit more natural perspective compared to 85. But you also have to get right up on a subject with it. The 85 lets you get a similar shot from a few more feet away, which makes the subject more comfortable.

Canon EF 75-300mm f/4-5.6 III Telephoto Zoom Lens for Canon SLR Cameras

Canon

Based on 2 reviews Check latest price

Product description

The optical system, construction, and exterior are the same as the EF 75-300 mm f/4-5.6 III USM’s. The difference is that it uses a DC motor instead of a USM to drive the AF.Format Compatibility: 35mm Film / Full-Frame Digital Sensor,Canon (APS-C).

From the Manufacturer

Capture the far-off action of fast-paced sports or zoom in for an intimate portrait with the Canon EF 75-300mm telephoto zoom lens. The optical system, construction, and exterior are the same as the EF 75-300 mm f/4-5.6 III USM’s. The difference is that it uses a DC motor instead of a USM to drive the AF. As with all Canon lens, this 75-300 model carries a one-year warranty.

  • Focal length: 75-300mm
  • Maximum aperture: 1:4-5.6
  • Lens construction: 13 elements in 9 groups
  • Diagonal angle of view: 32 (at 11 feet) to 8 degrees (at 15 feet)
  • Closest focusing distance: 4.9 feet
  • Zoom system: Rotating type
  • Filter size: 58mm
  • Dimensions: 2.8 inches in diameter, 4.8 inches long
  • Weight: 16.8 ounces
The most affordable of Canonís long telephoto zooms, this lens is excellent for subjects from portraits to wildlife and nature. It shares the same 13-element optical system as the 75-300mm USM lens, but uses a DC motor for autofocus. Close-focusing down to 4.9 feet (1.5m) allows filling the frame (at 300mm) with a subject the size of a dollar bill, and itís compatible with the Canon 58mm Close-up lens 500D for even more spectacular shots of small objects.

Isolate the Interesting Part

The eye tends to see the whole rather than the individual parts. It also sees whatís near and not whatís far. By bringing attention to those things missed by the eye, you can create many interesting pictures. It could be the grimace of an athlete, the grill of a classic car, or a girl against a blurred background. Telephoto lenses can also compress images to give dramatic effects. You are limited only by your imagination.

User questions & answers

Question: Is this lens compatible with the Canon 1100D/T3i
Answer: Hi,It includes:NB-11LH Lithium-Ion Battery PackCB-2LF Battery ChargerLens CapWS-DC12 Wrist StrapLimited 1-Year WarrantyWe also have a bundle that includes all these accessories plus many more for a great price https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01D0PKF0Q
Question: Is "Bulk Packaging" means brand new lens
Answer: A date stamp on picture yes but not a date stamp on the file itself. I'm running Window 10 and need to use Corel PaintShop Pro to add date, etc. to the JPG file.
Question: Will this fit an sx
Answer: no
Question: will this fit the EOS Rebel XSi
Answer: Nothing designated mic jack, although it does have digital audio/video out
Question: Does this camera come with any accessories
Answer: No. It probably couldn't get off the ground. If it did, it would be difficult to control at best.
Question: Does it have a date stamp
Answer: I would say yes they are foam.
Question: Do you have to have apple phone or tablet to use the wifi
Answer: The average operating time is about 10-15 minutes. My son, who is 31(!), loves this! This was one of his Christmas presents and the favourite one! The battery charge time is not that long, if I remember correctly. I'm not sure of the actual time, but I don't remember it being very long. Hope this helps! Wonderful customer service; answered all of my questions and my son absolutely love it!!
Question: Does the camera have a mic jack
Answer: Yes but, I would not really recommend inside use the car is large and has quite the learning curve to fly. Will easily crash inside unless you have a huge room

Product features

Canon EF 75-300mm f/4-5.6 III Telephoto Zoom Lens

This high-magnification zoom lens is the smallest and lightest in its>cost-performance. A lightweight glass material was used for the first element group – the heaviest group in the optical system – to reduce operational load during autofocus operation. Combined with the micro USM, the autofocus is quick and quiet. The slim exterior and smooth zooming makes this lens a delight to use.

  • Filter size: 58mm
  • Maximum aperture: f/4 - 5.6
  • With micro USM motor

Canon EF 50mm f/1.4 USM Standard and Medium Telephoto Lens for Canon SLR Cameras, Fixed

Canon

Based on 4 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Standard lens Featuring superb quality and portability. 2 high-refraction lens elements and new Gaussian optics eliminate astigmatism and suppress astigmatic difference. Crisp images with little flare are obtained even at the maximum aperture. Filter size: 58 mm, Closest Focusing Distance: 1.5 feet. The 50mm f/1.4 standard lens is a terrific choice for both casual and professional photographers. The lens is outfitted with 2 high-refraction lens elements and new Gaussian optics, which combine to eliminate astigmatism and suppress astigmatic difference. As a result, the lens obtains crisp images with little flare even at the maximum aperture. The lens's f/1.4 speed, meanwhile, is perfect for available-light shooting. And as a bonus, this lens is the only lens in the EF system to offer an extra-small Micro Ultra Sonic Motor (USM) while still providing a full-time manual focusing option. Other features include a close focusing distance of 1.5 feet, a 58mm filter size, and a one-year warranty.what's in the boxCanon Normal EF 50mm f/1.4 USM Autofocus Lens, E-58U 58mm Snap-On Lens Cap, Lens Dust Cap E (Rear) and 1-Year Warranty. Specifications

The 50mm f/1.4 standard lens is a terrific choice for both casual and professional photographers. The lens is outfitted with two high-refraction lens elements and new Gaussian optics, which combine to eliminate astigmatism and suppress astigmatic difference. As a result, the lens obtains crisp images with little flare even at the maximum aperture. The lens's f/1.4 speed, meanwhile, is perfect for available-light shooting. And as a bonus, this lens is the only lens in the EF system to offer an extra-small Micro Ultra Sonic Motor (USM) while still providing a full-time manual focusing option. Other features include a close focusing distance of 1.5 feet, a 58mm filter size, and a one-year warranty.



what's in the box




Canon Normal EF 50mm f/1.4 USM Autofocus Lens, E-58U 58mm Snap-On Lens Cap, Lens Dust Cap E (Rear) and 1-Year Warranty.

Specifications

  • Focal length: 50mm
  • Maximum aperture: f/1.4L
  • Lens construction: 7 elements in 6 groups
  • Angle of view: 46 degrees
  • Focus adjustment: Overall linear extension system with USM
  • Closest focusing distance: 1.5 feet
  • Filter size: 58mm
  • Dimensions: 2.9 inches in diameter and 2 inches long
  • Weight: 10.2 ounces
  • Warranty: 1 year

  • Standard focal length 50 millimeter lens is effective in a multitude of shooting situations and ideal for day-to-day shooting
  • Elements/Groups: 7/6, Diaphragm: Blades 8, Filter Thread: Font 58 millimeter. Minimum focusing distance: 17.8 inch
  • An f/1.4 maximum aperture provides clear imaging in low light situations and shallow depth of field
  • Ultrasonic autofocus motor (USM) operation is fast, smooth and virtually silent
  • 2 high-refraction lens elements and new Gaussian optics eliminate astigmatism and suppress astigmatic difference
  • This large aperture standard prime lens has superior peripheral brightness even at the maximum aperture
  • Lens Construction: 8 elements in 6 groups, Filter Size: 77mm

User questions & answers

Question: will this work with eos rebel T5i
Answer: Yes with the adapter ring. I love this lens. I may invest in a different one later as this is my first "big" lens. I am quite 0leased and it wirks well with my T3i
Question: Could some kind,patient person tell me how to get to the photo gallery that shows how pictures look taken with a specific lens?thx
Answer: Yes, this lens will work with any Canon camera that utilizes an EF-Mount by using the included adapter.
Question: Whats the difference, except price, in this lens vs. Canon EF 50mm f/1.2 L USM Lens for Canon Digital SLR Cameras by Canon
Answer: Yes, it will. This lens will work on any EF-Mount Canon cameras with the included adapter.
Question: Debating between 50mm 1.4 vs 50mm 1.8 for Canon 70D. What's the big differences between the two and which would you suggest
Answer: Not sure if I can help you with this question. As far as I can tell this lens is not one that permits firmware updates. Your best bet would be to go Sigma's website and ask the question. I am personally quite satisfied with this lens.

Canon EF-S 10-22mm f/3.5-4.5 USM SLR Lens for EOS Digital SLRs

Canon

Based on 597 reviews Check latest price

Product description

This exciting zoom lens provides ultra wide-angle coverage. Equivalent to a 16-35mm zoom, it offers excellent performance and optics designed from the ground-up for digital SLR use. Three Aspherical lens elements, plus a Super-UD element, assure image quality. Its ring-type USM means fast and silent AF along with full-time manual focus. It focuses as close as 9.5 inches. Compatible with EOS 7D Mark II, 7D, 80D, 77D, 70D, 60D, 60Da, 50D, 40D, 30D, 20D, 20Da, Rebel T6s, T7i, T6i, T5i, T4i, T3i, T2i, T1i, SL2, SL1, T7, T6, T5, T3, SXi, SX and all versions of EOS Digital Rebel only.

  • 10-22mm wide-angle zoom lens with f/3.5-4.5 maximum aperture for EOS digital SLR cameras
  • Superior AF performance and speed, with full-time manual focus with the turn of a ring
  • Close focusing to 9.5 inches; fills the frame with subjects as small as 3.6 x 5.4 inches
  • Circular aperture design produces natural highlights
  • 1-year warranty

User questions & answers

Question: how well would this do to shot a large group of people. i am shooting a wedding and they would like a picture of all the guests
Answer: This lens does not work on the A7Rii, at least without the adaptor. This is an A mount lens, and that is a full frame camera. If you get the adaptor for converting A mount to E mount, it will work. There is no crop, since this is a full frame lens. I am not so sure how the A mount to E mount convertor works, since I have no experience with it. If you would like some more info about this lens, then you should check out the review I have on my profile. It covers the pros and cons, offers advice for how to use it, and also has sample images. The review is for the Canon model, but the info about the lens is still valid (just ignore the stuff specific to Canon). Here is a link. https://www.amazon.com/gp/customer-reviews/R3VA2PKY5NQOWK?ref=pf_ov_at_pdctrvw_srp
Question: For shooting at the Grand Canyon will I be fine with a 60D/10-22mm combo or should I just rent a Mark II with the Canon 16-35mm
Answer: Heavier. Less expensive. Autofocus just as fast. Very well constructed.
Question: Does this lens have image stabilization
Answer: The lens will fully function with the R as long as the R to EF adapter is used
Question: Does this work with Canon EOS 70D . I do not see 70D listed in the compatibility list
Answer: A lens hood should come with it. Mine did.

Canon EF 70-200mm f/2.8L IS III USM Lens for Canon Digital SLR Cameras, White - 3044C002

Canon

Based on 206 reviews Check latest price

Product description

With the addition of our Air Sphere Coating (ASC) for reduced ghosting and flaring, the EF 70-200mm f/2.8L IS III USM provides the outstanding clarity and performance you need to create your upcoming masterpiece.

  • Constant f/2.8 Maximum Aperture throughout Entire Zoom Range.
  • Canon’s Air Sphere Coating (ASC) Minimizes Ghosting and Flare.
  • Optical Image Stabilization at up to 3.5 Stops of Shake Correction.
  • Fluorine Coating on Front and Rear Elements to Help Reduce Smears and Fingerprints.
  • Highly Resistant to Dust and Water, and Improved Durability Even in Harsh Conditions. Inner Focusing System with Ring Ultrasonic Motor. Full-time Manual Focus. One Fluorite Element and Five UD Elements for High Image Quality. Minimum Focusing Distance of 3.9 ft./1.2m.Diagonal Angle of View: 34° - 12°
  • What's Included : EF70-200mm f:2.8L IS III USM , Lens Cap E-77II, Lens Dust Cap E, Lens Hood ET-87, Lens Case LZ1326

User questions & answers

Question: Is this lens compatible with a canon 1dx mark ii
Answer: Hello. I take a dish rag, pour alcohol on it, place it inside the unit. I then use a long wooden kitchen spoon to move the rag around to clean the build up. For the harder to reach areas, I have a long thin brush that was originally purchased in a 3 brush set to clean my fish tank. Those work great. I also use q-tips dipped in alcohol to clean the inside of the detachable parts. Hope this helps
Question: I have a canon rebel T7, is this lens compatible with my digital camera
Answer: The opening isn't large enough to get your hand inside. I just fill it about half full of vinager and swish it around to clean
Question: Does this include a tripod mount
Answer: I have three of these units for over three years ... Extra Strength cleaning Vinegar (no bleach) ... Two cups and a sponge (small foam brush will work, also) ... I have large hands ... Rinse with Hot Water ... I fill with Reverse Osmosis water ... I live in Las Vegas, NV ... It's dry heat ...
Question: Is this compatible with Canon Mirrorless M
Answer: It just goes low to high, I set mine on high round the clock, I have a fire burning most of the time in the winter as well as the heat pump, so it stays extremly dry in the winter here. I use mine in the bedroom, but am considering getting another one for the family room.

Product features

EF 70–200mm f/2.8L IS III USM

The EF 70-200mm f/2.8L IS III USM delivers outstanding performance with a constant f/2.8 maximum aperture for fast shutter speeds and beautiful background blur, and Canon’s Air Sphere Coating (ASC), which combines with enhanced Super Spectra Coatings to significantly reduce lens flare and ghosting.

Fast and Near-silent Autofocus

The lens features a fast and near-silent AF system so you don’t disturb your subject, and includes an inner focusing ring USM system that works in combination with a high-speed CPU and AF algorithms to help deliver precise, fast performance. It also offers full-time manual focus.

Mode 2

Mode 2 corrects unwanted camera shake when you're panning to follow a moving subject.

IS up to 3.5 Stops

Shake reduction for up to 3.5 shutter speed stops* provides consistently sharp results.

Mode 1

Mode 1 is ideal for handheld exposures of subjects that remain still.

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