13 best lenses for Canon

Review of the best according to the editorial board. On the selection criteria. This material is subjective and does not constitute advertising and does not serve as a purchase guide. Before buying, you need to consult with a specialist.

The lens is almost the most important part of any camera, regardless of the purpose for which the camera itself is used – amateur photography from time to time or for professional activities. In particular, the role of the lens increases when it comes to a narrower application – panoramic photography, macro photography, shooting fast-moving objects, maximum magnification, etc. In any case, the lens almost always makes up the lion's share of the cost of the entire camera. The editorial team offers you a special rating with an overview of the best lenses of the Canon brand, according to our experts. It is one of the world leaders in the production of top quality photographic equipment.

Best lenses for Canon

Nomination	a place	Name of product	price
The best standard lenses for Canon	1	Canon EF 85mm f / 1.8 USM	RUB 20,280
	2	Canon EF 50mm f / 1.4 USM	RUB 17,980
	3	Canon EF 50mm f / 1.8 STM	RUB 7,690
Best telephoto zoom lenses for Canon	1	Canon EF 70-200mm f / 4L IS USM	RUB 48 850
	2	Canon EF 70-200mm f / 4L USM	RUB 32,900
	3	Canon EF-S 55-250mm f / 4-5.6 IS STM	RUB 12 850
	4	Canon EF 75-300mm f / 4-5.6 III USM	RUB 8,990
Best wide-angle lenses for Canon cameras	1	Canon EF 11-24mm f / 4L USM	RUB 186 300
	2	Canon EF 35mm f / 1.4L II USM	RUB 91,450
	3	Canon EF-S 24mm f / 2.8 STM	RUB 10,890
The best Canon lenses for macro photography	1	Canon EF 100mm f / 2.8L Macro IS USM	RUB 48,500
	2	Canon RF 35mm f / 1.8 Macro IS STM	RUB 36,900
Best fisheye lenses	1	Canon EF 8-15mm f / 4.0L Fisheye USM	RUB 67,690

The best standard lenses for Canon

In the first category, we present a selection of Canon standard lenses that have received top marks from our experts and are unconditionally recognized by users around the world.

Let's briefly clarify what is meant by the word 'standard' when it comes to a lens for Canon or any other camera. Several basic interpretations are possible here. First: the standard lens is the so-called kit (from the English kit) lens that comes with the camera by default. Second: under the standard lens is also understood without a pronounced specification (macro photography, zoom, or something else), that is, it is focused on general use. Also, lenses with a focal length of about 50mm are often called standard.

The presented models, to one degree or another, may contain elements of each of these interpretations. The only thing is that our experts did not include Canon's top-end L-series lenses in this nomination, and not only because of their high cost. L-models will find a more logical place in specialized categories.

Canon EF 85mm f / 1.8 USM

Rating: 4.9

Let's start with the most expensive lens in this category, which with its rather large focal length (distance from the focus point to the lens or lens system) of 85mm barely squeezes into the category of standard Canon lenses. Strictly speaking, such a focal length already allows this model to be considered a telephoto lens. However, the zoom capabilities here are far from even the most modest but full-fledged telephoto lens, so the lens should still be considered standard. Experts, however, consider this model to be optimal for portrait shooting in the Canon EOS system with full-frame cameras.

Let's list the main technical characteristics of the lens. The focal length, as already mentioned, is 85mm. Aperture – F1.80, minimum – F22, number of blades – 8. Automatic and manual focusing. Viewing angle – 28.30 degrees min. Ultrasonic motor. The focusing mechanics are inside. The filter thread is 58mm in diameter. Dimensions – 75×71.5mm, weight – 425g.

The lens is made mainly of high quality plastic. The assembly itself is of a very high level, without annoying gaps and even more annoying backlashes. Thus, this model is significantly better than any kit lens, but still significantly falls short of the L-series with its moisture protection, flawless optics and generally outstanding qualities. In general, its capabilities and characteristics are fully consistent with the cost.

Of the controls, there is only an autofocus switch and a manual focusing ring that can be corrected at any time. An ultrasonic motor is responsible for the focusing mechanics. Aiming is quiet and brisk, even very fast, as for a portrait photographer. Recall that portrait lenses are perhaps the slowest in this regard, regardless of the manufacturer due to the massiveness of the lens units.

Compared to a full telephoto lens, this model has an important advantage. In portrait photography, it is possible to achieve greater background blur due to the increased aperture. The very nature of the blur is also significantly different, being softer. Single highlights are uniformly filled. Doubling of lines and the effect of scales are practically excluded.

In general, this model meets mainly laudatory and even rave reviews from users and the characteristics of professionals. In fact, almost the only noticeable drawback here can be considered a relatively high level of chromatic aberrations, especially at an open aperture.

Advantages

• quality of materials and workmanship;
• acceptable dimensions and relatively low weight;
• silent ultrasonic motor;
• fast and almost error-free autofocus;
• metal bayonet;
• high aperture ratio;
• quite affordable price, given the characteristics.

disadvantages

• relatively high level of chromatic aberration.

Canon EF 50mm f / 1.4 USM

Rating: 4.8

The second number in this nomination of the rating is a standard lens with a smaller fixed focal length, but with almost the same decent aperture as in the previous model.

Already visually, the lens is noticeably different from the above – much smaller dimensions and weight: 73.8×50.5mm and 290g, respectively.

Key technical characteristics: focal length – 50mm; aperture – F1.40, minimum – F22, number of blades – 8; viewing angle – 46 degrees min; automatic focusing; ultrasonic motor; filter thread – 58mm in diameter.

As already mentioned, a very decent aperture ratio is realized in this model. This is a big plus for many reasons – in particular, it makes it possible to focus without problems even for older cameras with far from perfect autofocus sensors.

Autofocus here is also built on the mechanics of an ultrasonic motor, but not a ring type. However, focusing is fast and accurate enough. The lens is rarely mistaken, especially when aiming at one control point.

This lens is often preferred by Canon crop camera owners for everyday portrait photography. The very modest dimensions and weight also contribute to the 'everyday' operation.

In addition to the subject of portrait photography, it should be said that this model has many strengths: spectacular bokeh, excellent color rendition, good detail in the depth of field. The latter, however, although considered an advantage, can be troublesome – the micro-contrast is often very pronounced, annoyingly emphasizing the slightest skin defects. So, it is often necessary to additionally work with filters.

Unfortunately, with all its advantages, the lens is not without its drawbacks. The main disadvantage is the obvious chromatic aberration at open aperture. In addition, the lens is unexpectedly 'delicate' mechanically, and absolutely cannot tolerate even the smallest shock loads.

Advantages

• compact and lightweight;
• aperture ratio;
• high micro-contrast;
• the quality of the drawing;
• silent ultrasonic focus motor.

disadvantages

• defenseless even against minimal shock loads;
• chromatic aberration at open aperture.

Canon EF 50mm f / 1.8 STM

Rating: 4.7

Concluding the nomination for the rating of the best standard Canon lenses according to the version is the most inexpensive model, which is really capable of surprising with a ridiculous price with quite decent characteristics. Of course, it is far from the above-described, almost top-end 'fifty', but it is more than half the price.

Key technical characteristics: focal length – 50mm; aperture – F1.80, minimum – F22, blades – 7; automatic focusing; filter thread – 49mm in diameter. Dimensions and weight – 69.2×39.3mm and 160g, respectively. An important feature is smooth STM focusing when shooting video.

At the minimum aperture, the lens gives a very good background blur. Seven petals with rounded edges play an important role here. Importantly, here we see high compatibility with autofocus at minimum aperture, so the lens does not force us to use manual focus too often. This is especially important for beginners. As in the two models described above, focusing here is fast and quiet.

Experts also especially highlight this property of this lens as versatility. It is equally suitable for portrait photography (especially in the case of a crop camera) and reportage. The lens is not as sharp and rigid in terms of detail as the previous model, and in this case it can be considered an advantage.

In fact, this model has only one frank “illness” – exactly the same delicate body as the previous one.

Advantages

• minimum dimensions and weight;
• good background blur;
• fast, quiet and accurate autofocus;
• the most affordable price.

disadvantages

• body strength.

Best telephoto zoom lenses for Canon

The second nomination in the ranking of the best lenses for Canon cameras is a selection of four lenses, the main task of which is to shoot high-quality distant objects, while using the zoom when necessary. Lenses of this type imply a variable (variable) focal length. It should be noted that the range of capabilities of telephoto cameras is not limited to shooting something distant. Due to the ability to significantly blur the background, 'telephoto' is often used for portrait photography. Exactly to the same extent, some models often and very successfully use good macro for shooting.

Canon EF 70-200mm f / 4L IS USM

Rating: 4.9

The nomination is traditionally opened by the most expensive model in the selection. This is almost the complete twin of the Canon EF 70-200 f / 4L USM, which will be discussed later. But here on the case flaunts a proud inscription in gold letters Image Stabilizer. And the significant difference in price was influenced not so much by the presence of the stabilizer itself, but by the fact that the developers managed to fit it into the lens, almost without adding to it either size or weight.

Structurally, it is a complete monolith 76x172mm in size and 760g in weight. When zoomed in, nothing rotates, moves out or drives in. The materials are of exceptionally high quality, the assembly is also excellent. The metal body, even through tactile sensations, unmistakably conveys the high class of Canon's top L-series lens. Effective protection against dust and moisture has been implemented.

Key technical characteristics: focal length – from 70 to 200mm; aperture – F4, minimum – F32, blades – 8; zoom ratio – 2.9x; image stabilization; automatic focusing; viewing angle – from 12 to 34 deg.min; minimum focusing distance – 1.2m; ultrasonic motor; light filter thread – 67mm in diameter;

Let's take a closer look at one of the most important characteristics – image stabilization. Neighboring models hardly differ in focusing speed and quality, but the presence of a 4-stop stabilizer makes a significant difference here. The function works when the shutter button is partially pressed. At this point, the stabilizer fixes the picture, literally 'gluing' it to the viewfinder. This significantly improves the accuracy of framing and autofocus. Even at maximum zoom, when shooting handheld, the image does not jump or wobble. The stabilizer operates in two modes – for static and for dynamics. When working in a dynamic scene, the stabilizer acts less aggressively, not fixing a rigidly moving subject, but only smoothing out too sharp jerks.

The presence of an optical stabilizer has significantly complicated the optical design of the lens – 20 elements in 15 groups. However, the development engineers managed to do this in such a way that the complication did not affect the optical quality in any way. For example, this lens is almost completely free from such a nuisance as chromatic aberrations – they can only appear in frames with extreme contrast.

We will describe other characteristics in the analysis of the next model, as they are common to these two lenses.

Advantages

• metal case;
• complete monolith with no moving external parts;
• compact enough and lightweight for its class;
• dust and moisture protection;
• optical stabilizer;
• hood and case included.

disadvantages

• there are no pronounced disadvantages, only the wishes of users come across.

Canon EF 70-200mm f / 4L USM

Rating: 4.8

The 'twin brother' rating of the above-described lens continues, which is almost half the price due to the absence of a stabilizer. All other advantages are fully present here – this is a real 'elka' from Canon.

This lens differs from the above in weight. True, this difference is insignificant – 705g against 760g. The dimensions are the same – 76x172mm. Here it is necessary to clarify that such a weight is considered light, as for a metal body and dense lens filling. If we compare it with another 'elka' – Canon 24-70 2.8L, its 950g is already felt much more distinctly. The same lens can be worn for a long time without any problems and without any serious discomfort. As for the dimensions, in comparison with the higher-aperture models, it can be considered compact.

A remarkable feature of this lens and its more advanced 'twin brother' is the highest image sharpness at any aperture value. The lens accurately reproduces the geometry of objects without noticeable distortion, produces pleasing bokeh and easily copes with high contrast. Focusing is just as quiet, accurate and fast. All moving elements are inside.

The number of elements and groups is less here – 16 elements in 13 groups. In addition to the lack of a stabilizer, another important simplification is that there is no dust and moisture protection. But in general, according to the conclusions of experts, this model may be optimal for those Canon camera owners who need a high-quality, lightweight reportage zoom lens that gives excellent quality images.

The delivery set of the lens also includes a soft case LZ1224, hood ET-74, lens caps E-67U.

Advantages

• sturdy metal body;
• light enough;
• image quality and sharpness;
• silent, fast and accurate autofocus on an ultrasonic motor;
• equipment;
• one of the cheapest lenses from the L series without sacrificing quality.

disadvantages

• it is difficult to single out objective and pronounced shortcomings for such a cost.

Canon EF-S 55-250mm f / 4-5.6 IS STM

Rating: 4.7

The third number in the category of the best Canon zoom lenses by version is an even more affordable option – an upgraded version of the very successful Canon 55-250mm IS.

And immediately it is worth noting the specific focus – this lens is designed only for non-full-frame cameras. In addition, the model is fully adapted for video shooting, up to silent and smooth focusing using stepper motor technology.

Let's go through the main technical characteristics. Focal length – 55-250mm. Aperture – F4-F5.60, minimum – F32, petals – 7. There is an image stabilizer. Viewing angle – 6.15-27.50 degrees min. The minimum focusing distance is 0.85m. The filter thread is 58mm in diameter. 15 elements in 13 groups, one low dispersion element. The dimensions of the lens are 70×111.2mm, the weight is only 375 g, which is practically nothing for a 'telephoto'.

Separately, it is worth emphasizing one feature that directly stems from the STM focusing technology. The focusing ring (wide and quite comfortable) here has no physical connection with the mechanism, and the control takes place electronically. Some users are annoyed by this for a number of reasons: focusing is possible only when the camera is on; pointing speed does not depend on the 'hand speed'; you cannot focus manually if the memory card is removed and the release of the shutter without a card is not enabled; and some more points. However, this is almost the only drawback of the technology that causes criticism.

Perhaps the most interesting thing that can be distinguished in this model is a kind of imitation of a parfocal lens – maintaining the focusing distance when changing the focal length. That is, the lens is always focused on the subject, regardless of the FR changes, and if any object was sharpened, the lens 'remembers' this and leaves the subject in focus when zooming. This imitation is provided by the lens microprocessor, which automatically and instantly recalculates focusing with amazing accuracy in the course of FR change.

Advantages

• high-quality assembly;
• monolith;
• fast and silent focusing;
• imitation of a parfocal lens;
• adapted for video filming;
• record low weight;
• price-performance ratio.

disadvantages

• not everyone likes the electronic focus ring.

Canon EF 75-300mm f / 4-5.6 III USM

Rating: 4.6

Rounding out this nomination is the lowest-priced Canon lens in the version's best 'telephoto' selection. With all the budget, especially as for a telephoto lens, this model does not clearly sag in quality anywhere, and even has very decent technical characteristics. This is the third version of this series, which has been a stable market success for two decades, since the days of film.

Main technical characteristics: focal length – 75-300mm; aperture 7-blade F4 – F5.60, minimum – F45; automatic and manual focusing; ultrasonic motor; 13 elements in 9 groups; minimum focusing distance – 1.5m; viewing angle – 8.15-32.11 deg.min; 4x zoom; filter thread – 58mm in diameter.

The dimensions of the lens are 71x122mm, the weight is slightly more than the previous model – 480g, but for a telephoto lens this is practically nothing. Of the controls on the body there is only a button-switch for manual and automatic focus at the very bayonet. The dimensions of the lens change when focusing and changing the focal length – the front lens unit extends. The lenses themselves rotate when focusing, which can be inconvenient when using gradient and polarizing filters. However, this is not a very important moment for 'telephoto', as landscapes are rarely filmed with their help.

The focusing speed is quite fast here, especially when shooting static subjects. In dynamic scenes, the focusing speed drops noticeably, but this is quite natural.

Ultra-affordable price has deprived this lens not only of the optical stabilizer, but also of moisture and dust protection. If the first one does not cause discomfort to anyone at such a price, then the second one already causes complaints from some users who have to deal with the problem of active dust suction by the lens.

Advantages

• good sharpness, nice bokeh;
• easy;
• quality materials and assembly;
• focusing speed;
• ultrasonic motor;
• the most affordable price.

disadvantages

• complaints from some users about the lack of moisture and dust protection.

Best wide-angle lenses for Canon cameras

Now let's move on to the next nomination for the Best Canon Lenses by Version. Here we will talk about Canon wide-angle lenses. By definition, they have a wide field of view, perfectly accentuate perspective and are almost indispensable for high-quality and effective shooting of landscapes or any other scene where a large angle of view is important.

Canon EF 11-24mm f / 4L USM

Rating: 4.9

The most expensive lens opens the nomination, which leaves far behind the top models described above in terms of cost. But we could not ignore it in favor of cheaper options, since this does not allow us to make it its highest status. It's not just a high-quality wide-angle lens from Canon's top L-series. This, not much, not enough, is the winner of two prestigious professional awards at once – EISA Professional DSLR Lens in 2015 and 2016, and TIPA Best Professional Lens in 2015.

And a few more words about why this lens is a real event in the world of photography, after which we will move on to analyzing its characteristics. This model is a subcategory of ultra wide-angle lenses. At the time of release, it was the widest straight-line full-frame lens with a seemingly unimaginable focal range. Provides near-flawless geometry and sharpness even at open apertures.

Key technical characteristics: focal length – 11-24mm; aperture – F4, minimum – F22, 9 blades; zoom ratio – 2.2x; 16 elements in 11 groups; minimum focusing distance – 0.28m; viewing angle – 84-126.05 degrees min; autofocus; ultrasonic motor.

The dimensions of the lens are 108×132 mm, weight – 1180g. The quality of materials and workmanship is undeniable, as is the case with any member of Canon's L-family of lenses. There is a full-fledged dust and moisture protection. A pronouncedly convex front lens can create a deceptive external resemblance to Fisheye lenses, but here it really is only external resemblance, nothing more.

Experts note the fact that the lens is noticeably dark in terms of aperture ratio. However, this circumstance cannot be considered a disadvantage, since it is an inevitable condition and consequence of a whole set of advantages. The lens not only maintains perfect straight lines without producing noticeable barrel distortion, but also avoids chromatic aberration even at the smallest focal length. All these advances were made possible due to the high complexity of optics, hence the limited aperture ratio.

Advantages

• quality of materials and workmanship;
• strength;
• vanishingly low level of distortion;
• sharpness;
• incredibly wide range of focal lengths;
• laureate of prestigious awards.

disadvantages

• high price.

Canon EF 35mm f / 1.4L II USM

Rating: 4.8

Another representative of the brilliant L-series continues the nomination for the rating of the best Canon wide-angle lenses according to the version. To some extent, this is a 'relative' of the above-described model, but precisely, that only to some extent, as indicated by its price already – it is two times cheaper. The two models are also related by professional expert recognition – this lens became the winner of EISA Professional DSLR Lens in 2016-2017.

The dimensions of the lens are 80x106mm and the weight is 760g. 14 elements in 11 groups, one is low-dispersed. The quality of materials and workmanship raises neither questions nor doubts – this is evidenced by the presence of the cherished 'L' in the nomenclature. There is a full dust and moisture protection.

Key technical characteristics of the model: constant focal length – 35mm; aperture 9 blades F1.40, minimum – F22; automatic focusing; ultrasonic motor; minimum focusing distance – 0.28m; filter thread – 72mm.

The main achievements of the developers, for which the lens received the prestigious award, is the almost complete reduction to zero of typical distortions. Almost absolute absence of chromatism, vignetting is barely visible only at aperture less than 2.8. The extremely sharp focus point is harmoniously complemented by soft background bokeh. All of these benefits are crowned with impressive resistance to backlighting – the lens is incredibly resistant even to strong backlight.

The delivery set includes a standard hood and a cover.

Advantages

• complete absence of chromatic aberrations;
• practically zero manifestation of other typical distortions;
• incredible detail;
• the highest resistance to backlight;
• aperture ratio;
• versatility;
• laureate of a prestigious award.

disadvantages

• no pronounced objective deficiencies were recorded.

Canon EF-S 24mm f / 2.8 STM

Rating: 4.7

Rounding out the category for Canon's best wide-angle lenses is the complete opposite of the two previous models in terms of price. This model is even cheaper than the previous one by almost an order of magnitude. And in terms of dimensions, this is a real miniature – smaller than even the simplest kit lenses. Designed for sub-full-frame cameras only.

Let's start right away with the most noticeable thing that, paradoxically, makes this lens completely invisible for Canon – dimensions. Its dimensions are insignificant 68.2×22.8mm. The weight is expected to be minimal – only 125g. Six elements in five groups, one aspherical. It's just the perfect format for street photographers: you don't feel the weight even if you carry the camera all day handheld; the probability of touching something and damaging the lens is negligible; even a large 'carcass' (camera) with such a lens looks and feels less and less noticeable.

Key technical characteristics of the lens: focal length – 24mm (constant); aperture 7 blades F2.80, minimum – F22; minimum focusing distance – 0.16m; light filter thread – 52mm in diameter; autofocus. The lens is adapted for video shooting, smooth focusing with an STM stepping motor plays a significant role in this.

At the first glance at this lens, many potential users naturally have doubts about its capabilities. But in fact, this model pleasantly surprises with the sharpness and clarity of the image at all apertures, very good blur and bokeh at the lower aperture values. The lens also renders texture unexpectedly clearly, such as ripples in water combined with smooth areas. The tonal range is also good.

Of the shortcomings in this case, it is difficult to single out something explicit and pronounced, especially if we take into account the purpose of the lens and its cost. So, for example, with certain values, it can give a little chromatic aberration, a little barrel distortion – all this is corrected in the editor in a couple of seconds, but you cannot expect something beyond such a lens.

Advantages

• most compact wide-angle;
• high sharpness indicators;
• minimum focusing distance;
• color rendering;
• good transfer of texture elements;
• adaptation for video filming (smooth focusing with a stepping motor STM);
• the most affordable price.

disadvantages

• there were no objective pronounced shortcomings, given the specialization and price.

The best Canon lenses for macro photography

Now, in the ranking of the best lenses for Canon cameras according to the version, we move on to another interesting category of devices – lenses for macro photography. Let us briefly recall what macro photography is. Contrary to the common misconception, this is not photographing macro-objects (planets, stars, galaxies), but, on the contrary, small objects, but at a macro-scale. According to one interpretation, macro photography is already considered photographing an object at a scale of 1: 1 or more. Another unofficial standard states that the 'macro' prefix can only be applied to photographs when the scale is at least 1:10. One way or another, such tasks require appropriate lenses, which we will now consider.

Canon EF 100mm f / 2.8L Macro IS USM

Rating: 4.9

Let's start right away with the 'Elki' – this lens is one of the best in Canon's line of macro lenses, which you can buy, though not cheap, but not disastrously expensive. The performance and technical characteristics are outstanding – fully confirming the reputation of the top-end L-series. It appeared in the Canon range in 2016 and still remains one of the most popular.

Quite dense 'stuffing', body protection, and the body itself – all this makes the lens rather massive (relatively). Its dimensions are 77.7x123mm, weight – 625g. The design is a monolith; in the process of aiming and focusing, nothing rotates or extends. The diameter of a suitable filter is increased here – 67mm. This should also be taken into account if you want to install a macro flash on the lens – for example, the MT-24EX will no longer work directly, and you will need to use an adapter, such as, for example, Macro Lite Adapter 67C.

Key technical characteristics: focal length – 100mm; 15 elements in 12 groups; aperture 9 blades F2.80, minimum – F32; the minimum focusing distance is 0.3m for normal and macro modes. The lens is equipped with an automatic focusing on an ultrasonic motor and an optical image stabilization system. There is also full dust and moisture protection, and even a seal on the mount.

There are three controls on the lens barrel – an autofocus switch, an optical stabilizer switch, and a focusing distance limiter selector. A little more about the latter, this is important. There are three settings for focusing distance. You can select full range, normal only (50cm to infinity) or macro only (30 to 50cm). This greatly improves the convenience of shooting. For example, you can easily shoot with autofocus, limited only by the macro range – so you can take colorful pictures of very dynamic subjects, such as insects flying over a flower. Not the least, if not the first, is the image stabilizer.

Advantages

• quality of materials and workmanship;
• the highest sharpness even at open aperture;
• image stabilizer;
• three modes of the focus distance limiting selector;
• high contrast;
• there is practically no vignetting and geometric distortion.

disadvantages

• many users find the price too high.

Canon RF 35mm f / 1.8 Macro IS STM

Rating: 4.8

And the second number in the nomination of the rating of the best Canon macro lenses according to the version – this model is a little simpler and cheaper than the previous one. Although it does not belong to the elite L-series, there are almost no significant simplifications here.

The most noticeable difference between this model and the previous one is the weight. The lens is twice as light – 305g. It is also smaller in size – 74.4×62.8mm. 11 elements in 9 groups. The quality of materials and workmanship is undeniable – although it's not 'elka', it's still Canon.

Key technical characteristics: focal length – 35 mm; aperture 9 blades F1.80, minimum – F22; minimum focusing distance – 0.17m; light filter thread – 52mm in diameter. The lens is equipped with a stepping motor autofocus system and a 5-stop optical stabilizer.

Autofocus on STM is accurate and fast enough. Not as fast as an ultrasonic motor, but acceptable. The lens produces a noise when focusing is barely audible. Manual focusing is electronic, like all STM systems, that is, the focusing ring is not physically connected to the internal mechanics of the lens.

A 9-blade diaphragm, combined with a decent aperture, makes it possible to achieve pleasant background blur and equally pleasant bokeh. True, this applies specifically to macro photography, for example, a bee on a flower. When there is a goal of capturing something large, for example, a person, here it will already be 'asking' for at least a 50mm lens.

A noticeable difference from any Canon L-series lens, and from the above-described model in particular, manifests itself in optics. This is the factor that directly affects the cost. Here, such troubles as chromatic aberration, vignetting and barrel distortion are manifested far not only at extreme contrasts or maximum apertures. So post-processing of images in the editor in this case will be the rule rather than the exception.

Advantages

• aperture ratio;
• pleasant background blur;
• optical stabilization;
• relatively affordable price.

disadvantages

• noticeable chromatic aberration at open aperture, other distortion.

Best fisheye lenses

The final nomination for the rating of the best lenses for Canon cameras according to the version is a special type of lenses called Fisheye (tracing paper in Russian – 'fisheye'). They received such a colorful name for the shape of the front lens – it is not hidden behind a flat glass, but protrudes outward along the entire plane of the front edge of the lens, indeed to some extent resembling an eye, not necessarily a fish eye. From a technical point of view, the Fisheye is an ultra-wide-angle lens, in which the desire to maintain adequate geometry was not initially envisaged. That is, barrel distortion, sometimes prohibitive, is a normal phenomenon in such lenses, and 'so by design'. The viewing angle can reach 180 degrees. In this case, the picture is obtained with unthinkable distortions, but here they are even welcome.

Canon EF 8-15mm f / 4.0L Fisheye USM

Rating: 4.9

The first and only item in this category is the expensive and pompous Canon Elka in this category. This is not the top-end 'fishy' in the L-series, but our experts included this particular model in the rating due to a more or less democratic price. The cost of Canon's top-end Fisheye is prohibitive. Also, the versatility, on which we will dwell in more detail, cannot but cause pleasant surprise.

Key technical characteristics: focal length – 8-15mm; aperture 7 blades F4, minimum – F22; autofocus; zoom ratio – 1.9x; viewing angle – 91.46-180 deg.min; minimum focusing distance – 0.15m. Lens dimensions – 78.5x83mm, weight – 540g. The system consists of 14 elements in 11 groups. Autofocus works on an ultrasonic motor.

Many experts call this model one of the most unusual not only in the line of similar Canon products, but also on the market as a whole. The fact is that lenses of this kind are produced separately for full-frame 'carcasses' and for cameras with an APS-C sensor. They are also divided into two large groups – diagonal and circular.

What makes this particular model unique is the fact that it actually belongs to all of the listed categories of fisheye lenses. The zoom mechanism played a large part in this. For example, when using a lens with a full-frame camera at 8mm zoom position, it becomes circular; further cranking the zoom immediately removes vignetting around the edges, and the lens becomes diagonal.

The lens is designed with a limiter on the zoom ring. When shooting with an APS-C camera in the on state, the limiter will not reduce the focal length to less than 10mm, and thus prevent unwanted vignetting.

Using a lens hood is highly recommended. Here, even the developers made sure that the user does not remove the hood once again – the lens cap is attached to it. The front lens here is vulnerable to complete defenselessness – it is very easy to scratch the central part, and it is even easier to get dirty. But this is an inevitable consequence of the fisheye form factor.

Advantages

• versatility in terms of categories of fisheye lenses;
• sharpness in the center and edges, even at an open aperture, is a rarity for fisheye;
• high-quality and effective glare protection;
• the ability to blur the background;
• flawless optics;
• ultrasonic focusing motor.

disadvantages

• controversial mount of the standard hood.

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Attention! This rating is subjective and does not constitute an advertisement and does not serve as a purchase guide. Before buying, you need to consult with a specialist.