Best Canon Lenses for Beginners

Today, I have compiled a list of the best Canon lenses for beginners, a selection designed to boost your creativity.

As a newcomer to photography, I, too, struggled through the jungle of lens options. The search for the perfect equipment was frequently difficult, affecting the spirit of my photography. But, equipped with expertise, I’m here to light the way. Say goodbye to the problem of choosing the best lens for your Canon camera in this collection.

Let’s overcome the obstacles and ensure that every shot reflects the beauty you want. Welcome to a world where the ideal lens is more than a tool; it is an extension of your photographic spirit.

Quick list of best Canon Lenses for Beginners

Here is a quick list of the best Canon lenses for beginners. 

1. Canon EF 70-200mm f/4L USM
2. Canon EF 100mm f/2.8L Macro IS USM
3. Canon EF-S 55-250mm f/4-5.6 IS STM
4. Canon EF 85mm f/1.8 USM
5. Canon EF 50mm f/1.8 STM Lens
6. Canon EF-S 60mm f/2.8 Macro USM
7. Canon RF-S 18-150mm f/3.5-6.3 IS STM
8. Canon RF 100-400mm f/5.6-8 IS USM
9. Canon EF-S 24mm f/2.8 STM

 

Detailed analysis of best Canon Lenses for Beginners

Here is a detailed analysis of the best Canon lenses for beginners. 

1. Canon EF 70-200mm f/4L USM

• Throughout the zoom range, the maximum aperture of this lens is f/4.
• The Canon EF 70-200mm f/4L USM has a maximum magnification of 0.21x.
• The lens has a 67mm filter thread.
• The Canon EF 70-200mm f/4L USM is not weather-sealed by design.
• However, it has a certain level of durability and build quality.

 

Brand	Canon.
Type	Telephoto lens.
Lens format coverage	Canon APS-C and full-frame DSLRs.
Compatible Mounting	Canon EF.
Image Stabilization	The lens has image stabilization.
No.of diaphragm blades	8 – 9 blades.
Lens construction	16 elements in 13 groups.
Minimum focus distance	1.2 m.
Weight	715 g.
Adjustment	An inner focusing system and a ring-type ultrasonic monitor are used.

Reasons to buy: 

• Flexible Telephoto Zoom (70-200mm).
• Fixed f/4 aperture for consistent exposure.
• L-Series Optics for Excellent Images.
• Lightweight, portable design.
• Fast, quiet USM Autofocus.

Reasons to avoid: 

• Compared to f/2.8, not good for low light.
• Cost More.

 

2. Canon EF 100mm f/2.8L Macro IS USM

• This lens has an f/2.8 maximum aperture.
• This lens has a maximum magnification of 1.0x, meaning it is a real 1:1 macro lens.
• The Canon EF 100mm f/2.8L Macro IS USM has a 67mm filter thread.
• The Canon EF 100mm f/2.8L Macro IS USM is, indeed, weather-sealed.
• It has a sturdy construction with weather-resistant gaskets that guard against dust and moisture.

 

Brand	Canon.
Type	Telephoto lens.
Lens format coverage	Full-frame.
Compatible Mounting	Canon EF.
Image Stabilization	The lens has image stabilization.
No.of diaphragm blades	9 blades.
Lens construction	15 elements in 12 groups.
Minimum focus distance	0.3 m.
Weight	625 g.
Adjustment	An inner focusing system with USM and the possibility of full-time manual focus

Reasons to buy: 

• Excellent Macro (1:1 Magnification).
• L-Series Optics for Superior Images.
• Hybrid IS for Sharp Macro Shots.
• Fast, quiet USM autofocus.
• Durable Construction with Weatherproofing.

Reasons to avoid: 

• Higher Cost.
• Fixed 100mm Focal Length.
• Not as Compact as Some Macro Options.

 

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

• The lens’s maximum aperture varies, ranging from f/4 at the wide end to f/5.6 at the telephoto end.
• This lens’s highest magnification is normally around 0.29x.
• The Canon EF-S 55-250mm f/4-5.6 IS STM has a 58mm filter thread.
• The Canon EF-S 55-250mm f/4-5.6 IS STM lens is not weatherproof.
• It lacks special gaskets or seals to keep dust and moisture out.

 

Brand	Canon.
Type	Telephoto lens.
Lens format coverage	Full-frame.
Compatible Mounting	Canon EF-S.
Image Stabilization	The lens has image stabilization.
No.of diaphragm blades	7 blades.
Lens construction	15 elements in 12 groups.
Minimum focus distance	0.85 m.
Weight	405 g.
Adjustment	Autofocus.

Reasons to buy: 

• Flexible Telephoto Zoom.
• Sharp-shot image stabilization.
• STM autofocus for quiet operation.
• Light and Compact.
• Affordable Telephoto.

Reasons to avoid: 

• Variable Aperture (f/4-5.6).
• Not Good for Low Light.
• Building using Plastic.

 

4. Canon EF 85mm f/1.8 USM

• Canon EF 85mm f/1.8 USM has a fixed f/1.8 aperture.
• Canon EF 85mm f/1.8 USM has a 0.13x maximum magnification.
• This lens has 58mm filter threads.
• Non-weatherproof Canon EF 85mm f/1.8 USM.
• Due to its lack of weather resistance, use it cautiously in bad weather.

 

Brand	Canon.
Type	Telephoto lens.
Lens format coverage	Full-frame.
Compatible Mounting	Canon EF.
Image Stabilization	No image stabilization.
No.of diaphragm blades	8 blades.
Lens construction	9 elements in 7 groups.
Minimum focus distance	85 cm.
Weight	425 g.
Adjustment	Ring-type USM brings the subject fast into focus.

Reasons to buy: 

• The maximum aperture is f/1.8.
• USM autofocus is both quiet and precise.
• Small design.
• Aperture blades that are rounded to provide circular bokeh.

Reasons to avoid: 

• No image stabilization.
• It might be heavy.

 

5. Canon EF 50mm f/1.8 STM Lens

• The maximum aperture of the Canon EF 50mm f/1.8 STM is fixed at f/1.8.
• The Canon EF 50mm f/1.8 STM has a maximum magnification of around 0.21x.
• This lens’ filter thread size is 49mm.
• The Canon EF 50mm f/1.8 STM does not have a weather seal.
• It lacks special gaskets or seals to keep dust and moisture out.

 

Brand	Canon.
Type	Standard lens.
Lens format coverage	Full-frame.
Compatible Mounting	Canon EF.
Image Stabilization	No image stabilization.
No.of diaphragm blades	5 blades.
Lens construction	6 elements in 5 groups.
Minimum focus distance	0.35 m.
Weight	159 g.
Adjustment	Stepping motors (STMs) move continuously and quietly. Servo movie AF, smooth still AF.

Reasons to buy: 

• Excellent low-light performance.
• Fast maximum aperture.
• Silent, accurate autofocus.
• Lightweight build.

Reasons to avoid: 

• No image stabilization.

 

6. Canon EF-S 60mm f/2.8 Macro USM

• The Canon EF-S 60mm f/2.8 Macro USM has a fixed f/2.8 aperture.
• For macro photography, this lens has 1.0x magnification.
• This lens has 52mm filter threads.
• No weathersealing on the Canon EF-S 60mm f/2.8 Macro USM.
• Anti-dust and moisture gaskets and seals are missing.

 

Brand	Canon.
Type	Telephoto lens.
Lens format coverage	Canon APS-C (Crop Sensor) cameras.
Compatible Mounting	Canon EF-S.
Image Stabilization	No image stabilization.
No.of diaphragm blades	7 blades.
Lens construction	12 elements in 8 groups.
Minimum focus distance	20 cm.
Weight	335 g.
Adjustment	Strong, silent ring-type ultra-sonic monitor (USM) for autofocusing.

Reasons to buy: 

• Multipurpose for Portraits.
• Fast f/2.8.
• USM Autofocus for Fast, Quiet Operation.
• Compact and Lightweight.

Reasons to avoid: 

• No image stabilization.
• Not Weatherproof.
• Fixed 60mm Focal Length.

 

7. Canon RF-S 18-150mm f/3.5-6.3 IS STM

• The Canon RF-S 18-150mm f/3.5-6.3 IS STM has a maximum aperture of f/3.5 to 6.3.
• Maximum magnification in AF mode is 0.44x (at 50mm), and in MF mode is 0.59x (at 35mm).
• The filter thread is 55 mm in diameter.

 

Brand	Canon.
Type	Telephoto lens.
Lens format coverage	APS-C.
Compatible Mounting	Canon RF.
Image Stabilization	The lens has image stabilization.
No.of diaphragm blades	7 blades.
Lens construction	17 elements in 13 groups.
Minimum focus distance	17 cm.
Weight	310 g.
Adjustment	When shooting movies, the lead screw-type STM aids in smooth autofocusing.

Reasons to buy: 

• Flexible focal length range
• Stabilization of images
• Transitions between zoom levels are smooth.
• The minimum focusing distance is short.

Reasons to avoid: 

• It can be soft at the edges.

 

8. Canon RF 100-400mm f/5.6-8 IS USM

• The Canon RF 100-400mm f/5.6-8 IS USM lens has an aperture f/5.6-8.
• The highest magnification available is 0.41x.
• The filter measures 67 mm in diameter.
• Unfortunately, the RF 100-400mm lacks strong weather sealing as a non-L-series Canon lens.

 

Brand	Canon.
Type	Telephoto lens.
Lens format coverage	Full-frame.
Compatible Mounting	Canon RF.
Image Stabilization	The lens has image stabilization.
No.of diaphragm blades	9 blades.
Lens construction	12 elements in 9 groups.
Minimum focus distance	200 mm.
Weight	635 g.
Adjustment	Autofocus with Canon’s Nano USM is fast, smooth, and silent.

Reasons to buy: 

• Long-lasting construction.
• Control ring that can be programmed.
• A special element designed to eliminate chromatic aberration.
• On the long end, 400mm.

Reasons to avoid: 

• Not the best in low-light situations.
• A little bulky.

 

9. Canon EF-S 24mm f/2.8 STM

• The maximum aperture of the Canon EF-S 24mm f/2.8 STM is fixed at f/2.8.
• The Canon EF-S 24mm f/2.8 STM has a maximum magnification of around 0.27x.
• This lens’ filter thread size is 52mm.
• The Canon EF-S 24mm f/2.8 STM does not have a weather seal.
• It lacks special gaskets or seals to keep dust and moisture out.

 

Brand	Canon.
Type	Wide-angle lens.
Lens format coverage	APS-C sensor cameras.
Compatible Mounting	Canon EF-S.
Image Stabilization	No image stabilization.
No.of diaphragm blades	7 blades.
Lens construction	6 elements in 5 groups.
Minimum focus distance	0.16 m.
Weight	125 g.
Adjustment	Full-time manual focus lets you alter your focus while in One Shot AF mode.

Reasons to buy: 

• Compact and Lightweight.
• Large f/2.8 aperture for low light.
• Flexible for Street Photography.
• Cost-effective Prime Lens.
• Fast, quiet STM Autofocus.

Reasons to avoid: 

• No image stabilization.
• Not Weatherproof.

 

What to look for in the best Canon Lenses for Beginners

1- Aperture

Beginners should choose a lens with a wide aperture for low-light circumstances and to achieve the “bokeh” effect, which blurs the backdrop and highlights the subject in case of best Canon Lenses for Beginners. Wide aperture lenses like f/1.4 to f/2.8 allow you to explore different photography approaches.

Moreover, for superior performance in difficult lighting, consider wide-aperture lenses. This is vital for indoor and golden hour shooting. In conclusion, wide-aperture Canon lenses are great for beginners for creativity and versatility.

2- Image stabilization

When looking for the Best Canon Lenses for Beginners, keep image stabilization (IS) in mind. This function reduces the influence of handshakes and vibrations, which is especially important for novices learning to achieve solid handheld photos.

In the lens specifications, look for phrases like “IS” or “Image Stabilization” to indicate IS. This produces clearer photographs, even in difficult lighting or slower shutter speeds.

IS is a great tool for beginners to practice their photographic talents without worrying about inadvertent blurring. To improve the overall quality and adaptability of your photographic experience, prioritize lenses with built-in image stabilization.

3- Build Quality

Consider the construction quality when looking for the Best Canon Lenses for Beginners. Look for lenses made of strong materials that have a robust feel and can survive the rigors of daily use. Beginners should prioritize lenses with a strong design, such as metal mounts and durable construction, to ensure longevity and dependability.

Check for weather sealing, which protects against dust and moisture and expands your shooting options. Lenses with smooth and rapid autofocus systems also contribute to a smooth user experience. Prioritize build quality in your lens selection to invest in a lens that not only improves your photos but also lasts.

4- Compatibility

Prioritize compatibility when looking for the Best Canon Lenses for Beginners to ensure seamless integration with your camera. Look for lenses labeled “EF” or “EF-S” specifically for Canon cameras.

Beginners must select a lens that is compatible with the mount type of their camera. EF lenses are adaptable and can be used with full-frame and crop-sensor Canon cameras, whereas EF-S lenses are designed specifically for crop-sensor cameras. This confirmation ensures optimal performance and operation. Consider future camera upgrades as well; investing in lenses that can convert to various Canon models provides longevity and versatility as your photographic career progresses.

Best  Canon Lenses for Beginners FAQs

What is a standard beginner lens?

A 50mm prime lens, a 35mm prime lens, and an 18-55mm zoom lens are good starter camera lens sizes. These focal lengths are adaptable and appropriate for various photography genres, including portraits, landscapes, and everyday shooting.

Do all lenses fit Canon cameras?

It is important to note, however, that not all Canon lenses will suit each Canon camera. Canon offers two lens mounts: EF and EF-S. EF lenses are compatible with all Canon DSLR cameras, but EF-S lenses are developed exclusively for APS-C cameras.

Is Canon RF or EF better?

RF lenses are future in nature. They have better functionality and control than EF lenses, and they have superior optical quality than EF lenses in the same class. RF lenses are typically smaller and lighter than corresponding EF lenses due to greater design flexibility.

How do I know if my lens is RF or EF?

In general, RF lenses are substantially smaller and lighter than EF lenses. This is possible due to the RF mount’s reduced flange focal distance, which allows RF lenses to have their rear elements much closer to the sensor, resulting in fewer focusing elements. Fewer elements equals lighter, shorter lenses.

Conclusion

As I wrap up my look at the Best Canon Lenses for Beginners, remember that your lens is more than just a piece of glass—it’s the narrator of your photography adventure. Each suggestion in this guide serves as a compass, guiding you toward clarity and creativity.

To help you with your search, read our in-depth Beginners Guide for Buying a Camera Lens. Allow this to be the beginning of not only capturing photographs but also of building tales. Equip yourself with the best Canon lenses for beginners to enhance your visual journey. Your art is waiting for you, and these lenses are the keys to bringing it to life.