Best Wide Angle Lens in 2024: 14 Top Wide Angle Lenses

A quality wide angle lens is a must have in any kit bag. This article will list some of our top contenders for what we consider the best wide angle lens. We’ll also cover some tips and strategies for getting the best out of your wide angle lens.

When we look at something, we are initially primarily interested in the overview. Only later we zoom in more on the details.

For such a broad overview, a wide-angle lens is indispensable. And nowadays zoom lenses are becoming more and more fashionable.

A History of Wide Angle Camera Work

The shooter who opts for a wide-angle zoom chooses flexibility. You are aware of what you do and do not want to allow in the picture.

With such short focal lengths, a millimeter more or less makes a big difference. You can always cut off a portion of the image afterward, such as an excess of a foreground. You do this because the aspect ratio is linked to the 3: 2 ratio of the sensor.

The wide angle lens is a staple of photography and videography, no matter what type of work you’re doing. Wide angle shots have been used in traditional narrative filmmaking for decades. Think of the classic master shot, before the filmmaker punches in for a close-up.

Let’s take a look at some of the top wide angle lenses out there.

Best Wide Angle Lens

Here are our 8 favorite wide angle lenses. We’re going to feature lenses here that are affordable to the average filmmaker / photographer / videographer.

These lenses can also be found easily and aren’t old relics of a bygone era collecting dust somewhere. All of these lenses are modern pieces of equipment that make your life and work easier.

1. Sigma 14-24mm f/2.8 DG DN Art

A Modern Ultra-Wide for Mirrorless Systems

The Sigma 14-24mm f/2.8 DG DN Art lens is a stellar addition to Sigma’s lineup, tailored specifically for full-frame mirrorless camera systems.

Building upon the success of its predecessor, designed for DSLRs, this lens offers enhanced optical performance in a more compact and lightweight design.

The wide-angle focal length, combined with the consistent f/2.8 aperture, makes it an ideal choice for landscape, architecture, and astrophotography enthusiasts.

The bright aperture also benefits users in low-light conditions, capturing scenes with greater sharpness and reduced motion blur.

Optical Excellence and Innovations

Sigma’s Art series has gained a reputation for its emphasis on optical precision, and this lens is no exception.

It employs an intricate arrangement of 18 elements in 13 groups, which includes several low dispersion and aspherical elements.

These work in unison to minimize chromatic aberrations, distortion, and field curvature.

The result is images that are sharp from edge to edge with reduced color fringing and consistent illumination across the frame.

Additionally, the lens is equipped with a Nano Porous Coating (NPC) and a conventional Super Multi-Layer Coating to suppress lens flare and ghosting.

This is particularly vital for wide-angle lenses, which often face challenges when shooting against the light.

Construction and User Experience

Beyond optics, the Sigma 14-24mm f/2.8 DG DN Art impresses with its build quality and user experience.

The lens is constructed using a combination of thermally stable composite material and metal, ensuring both lightweight and durability.

The weather-sealed design means photographers can venture into challenging conditions without worrying about dust or moisture ingress.

One notable feature is the rear filter holder, allowing users to employ sheet-type rear filters, such as neutral density ones, which are crucial for long exposure shots.

The lens also incorporates a stepping motor system, delivering quick, quiet, and smooth autofocus performance, essential for both photography and videography.

In summary, the Sigma 14-24mm f/2.8 DG DN Art is a potent tool for mirrorless users seeking an ultra-wide-angle lens without compromises.

With its superb optical quality, robust build, and thoughtful features, it is not just a lens but a testament to Sigma’s commitment to pushing the boundaries of lens technology.

For those invested in mirrorless systems and desiring a top-tier wide-angle experience, this lens emerges as a top contender in its category.

 

2. Canon EF 16-35mm f/2.8L III USM

An Ultra-Wide Workhorse for Professionals

The Canon EF 16-35mm f/2.8L III USM solidifies its position as a quintessential lens for professional photographers, especially those in the fields of landscape, architecture, and event photography.

Being the third iteration of its kind in Canon’s lauded L-series lineup, this lens brings significant improvements over its predecessors.

Its consistent f/2.8 aperture across the zoom range ensures that photographers can capture well-lit shots in a variety of lighting conditions, making it a versatile tool for both indoor and outdoor environments.

The focal length range, from ultra-wide to moderate wide-angle, offers creative flexibility, making it a favorite for capturing grand vistas or confined interiors.

Optical Brilliance and Advanced Coatings

Diving deeper into its optical structure, the lens comprises 16 elements in 11 groups.

This includes two large-diameter dual-surface Glass Molded (GMo) aspherical lenses and one ground aspherical lens, which collectively minimize distortions and spherical aberrations, resulting in sharper images.

Furthermore, Canon has integrated both Subwavelength Structure Coating (SWC) and Air Sphere Coating (ASC) to reduce flaring and ghosting.

These coatings are especially beneficial when shooting in challenging lighting conditions, ensuring high contrast and clarity.

The color fidelity and sharpness produced by this lens are nothing short of exceptional.

Chromatic aberrations, which can be a concern in wide-angle lenses, are well-controlled, thanks to the inclusion of two UD (Ultra-low Dispersion) elements.

Build Quality and User Experience

Canon’s L-series lenses are synonymous with durability, and the 16-35mm f/2.8L III USM is no exception.

The lens boasts a weather-sealed construction, protecting against dust and moisture, making it a reliable companion for photographers who find themselves in unpredictable environments.

The ultrasonic motor (USM) facilitates fast and near-silent autofocus, an essential trait for videographers or any shooting scenario where discretion is paramount.

Manual focus override is available at all times, providing photographers with precise control when they need it.

The circular nine-blade diaphragm ensures a beautiful bokeh, which, when combined with the f/2.8 aperture, can produce a pleasing shallow depth of field, separating subjects from their backgrounds.

To conclude, the Canon EF 16-35mm f/2.8L III USM is a testament to Canon’s commitment to delivering optical excellence and durability.

For professionals seeking a top-tier ultra-wide zoom lens, this stands out as a frontrunner, balancing impeccable image quality with a rugged construction ready for the demands of professional use.

Whether capturing the grandeur of landscapes or the intricacies of architectural marvels, this lens promises consistency and precision.

 

3. Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 14-24mm f/2.8G ED

A Landscape and Architecture Photographer’s Dream

The Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 14-24mm f/2.8G ED is an ultra-wide zoom lens that has established itself as a staple in the kits of many professional photographers, especially those who specialize in landscapes, architecture, and astrophotography.

The lens’s expansive field of view combined with a fast f/2.8 aperture makes it incredibly versatile.

Whether the goal is to capture the vastness of a sweeping landscape, the intricate details of architectural wonders, or the breathtaking expanse of the Milky Way, this lens rises to the challenge, delivering stunning results even in low-light conditions.

Superior Optics and Coating for Enhanced Image Quality

Delving into its optical design, the lens is constructed with 14 elements in 11 groups. Among these are two ED (Extra-low Dispersion) glass elements and three aspherical lens elements.

These components work in unison to reduce chromatic aberrations, minimize distortions, and prevent unwanted color fringing, ensuring impeccable image sharpness and clarity throughout the entire zoom range.

Nikon has also employed its renowned Nano Crystal Coat, which plays a pivotal role in reducing ghosting and lens flare, particularly when shooting against the light or in situations where multiple light sources can cause unwanted reflections.

This ensures that images maintain high contrast and color accuracy, a feature that photographers will appreciate, especially when there’s no room for compromise in image quality.

Robust Build and User-Centric Features

As with many lenses in Nikon’s professional range, the AF-S NIKKOR 14-24mm f/2.8G ED boasts a rugged construction.

Its build quality reflects its intended use for demanding professional applications, offering both dust and moisture resistance.

This resilience ensures that photographers can continue shooting with confidence, even when faced with challenging environmental conditions.

On the operational front, the lens features Nikon’s Silent Wave Motor (SWM), which ensures fast, accurate, and near-silent autofocus.

This is particularly beneficial for videographers and situations where swift subject tracking is essential.

Additionally, the lens’s rounded nine-blade diaphragm produces a creamy bokeh, which, when coupled with the f/2.8 aperture, can provide an appealing separation between the subject and the background.

In summary, the Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 14-24mm f/2.8G ED is an exceptional piece of optical engineering that resonates with professionals who demand the very best.

From its top-tier optics to its sturdy construction, it promises to be an indispensable tool for photographers aiming to capture the world with a broader perspective.

4. Sony FE 12-24mm f/2.8 GM

A Trailblazer in Ultra-Wide Lenses

Sony’s FE 12-24mm f/2.8 GM lens is a pivotal addition to the esteemed G Master series, representing a pioneering step forward for ultra-wide-angle zooms in the realm of full-frame mirrorless cameras.

The expansive 12-24mm focal range combined with a constant f/2.8 aperture firmly sets it in a class of its own, catering to photographers and videographers seeking a lens capable of wide perspectives without compromising on speed.

From sprawling cityscapes to dramatic landscapes and interiors, this lens offers unrivaled breadth, capturing vast scenes with impressive clarity and minimal distortion.

Astounding Optics and Precision Engineering

Diving into its optical anatomy, the lens boasts an intricate configuration of 17 elements in 14 groups, including three XA (extreme aspherical) elements and two Super ED (Extra-low Dispersion) and three ED glass elements.

This synergistic blend serves to correct aberrations and suppress chromatic inconsistencies, resulting in sharp, high-resolution imagery across the frame.

One of the standout features of the FE 12-24mm f/2.8 GM is its Nano AR Coating II—an evolved version of Sony’s proprietary anti-reflective coating.

This technology is meticulously applied to the lens’s internal elements, drastically minimizing internal reflections, ghosting, and flare, ensuring images remain vibrant, crisp, and free from unwanted artifacts.

Robust Design with Fluid Operability

Embodying Sony’s commitment to professional-grade build standards, the FE 12-24mm f/2.8 GM is meticulously crafted with resilience in mind.

Its design boasts a dust and moisture-resistant structure, allowing photographers to venture into a myriad of environments with the assurance that their gear is shielded from the elements.

Complementing its robust construction is the inclusion of several user-centric features. At the forefront is Sony’s XD (Extreme Dynamic) Linear Motor system, ensuring autofocus is not only swift but also exceptionally quiet—a critical consideration for videographers.

The lens also incorporates a customizable focus hold button, a rear filter holder, and a fluorine front element coating, which repels water, oil, and other contaminants, ensuring the lens remains clean and clear during intensive shooting sessions.

In summation, the Sony FE 12-24mm f/2.8 GM stands as a testament to Sony’s relentless pursuit of optical excellence.

Whether you’re a professional aiming to expand your creative horizons or an enthusiast seeking to capture the world in all its expansive glory, this lens promises to be an invaluable addition to your kit, delivering both breadth and brilliance in every frame.

5. Tamron 17-28mm f/2.8 Di III RXD

Compact Size Meets High-End Performance

The Tamron 17-28mm f/2.8 Di III RXD emerges as a compelling choice for those photographers and videographers working with Sony E-mount cameras and looking for a compact, yet high-performing wide-angle zoom.

While Tamron has long been recognized for producing quality lenses at relatively affordable prices, this particular lens defies the expectations that often come with budget-friendly tags.

Offering a versatile 17-28mm focal length combined with a fast, constant f/2.8 aperture, it manages to attract both seasoned professionals and budding enthusiasts seeking a reliable ultra-wide zoom for their full-frame mirrorless systems.

Impeccable Optical Design with Swift Autofocusing

At its core, the 17-28mm f/2.8 lens boasts an elaborate optical formula, encompassing 13 elements arranged in 11 groups.

This design incorporates a series of Low Dispersion (LD) and Xtra Low Dispersion (XLD) elements, diligently curated to tackle chromatic aberrations and enhance overall clarity.

The lens also employs Tamron’s BBAR (Broad-Band Anti-Reflection) coating, ensuring that flare and ghosting are minimized, leading to images imbued with contrast and color fidelity.

One of the standout attributes of this lens is the RXD (Rapid eXtra-silent stepping Drive) motor, which not only promises quick and accurate autofocus but does so with an almost silent operation.

This quiet performance becomes crucial for videographers who need discreet lens operation during video recording.

A Solid Build with User-Centric Features

For a lens offering such an expansive view, the Tamron 17-28mm is surprisingly compact and lightweight, a trait that frequent travelers and on-the-go photographers would deeply appreciate.

Its design doesn’t compromise on durability either.

The lens boasts a moisture-resistant construction and features a hydrophobic fluorine coating on the front element, which actively repels water and fingerprints, ensuring hassle-free shooting in challenging conditions.

An additional benefit is the relatively close minimum focusing distance of 7.5 inches at the wide end (17mm), which can be leveraged for some captivating wide-angle close-ups with smooth background bokeh, courtesy of the nine-blade diaphragm.

In essence, the Tamron 17-28mm f/2.8 Di III RXD is a testament to the brand’s commitment to delivering top-tier optics without the premium price tag.

The lens confidently caters to a wide array of photographic needs, from dynamic landscapes to interiors, making it a versatile companion for those eager to explore the world of wide-angle photography on their Sony E-mount systems.

 

6. Fujifilm XF 8-16mm f/2.8 R LM WR

A Wide-Angle Marvel for the X-Series

When the conversation veers towards ultra-wide zoom lenses for the Fujifilm X-series, the XF 8-16mm f/2.8 R LM WR is impossible to ignore.

Not just because of its imposing size in comparison to most other Fujifilm lenses, but largely due to the optical brilliance it packs within its barrel.

With a focal range stretching from a super-wide 8mm to a moderately wide 16mm and a constant f/2.8 aperture, this lens caters to those who refuse to compromise on field-of-view or low light performance.

Whether it’s sweeping landscapes, dramatic architecture, or immersive interiors, the 8-16mm has quickly become a favorite among professional Fujifilm users.

Optical Prowess and Quick, Silent Focusing

Delving into the optical design, the lens incorporates an impressive array of 20 elements arranged in 13 groups.

This includes four aspherical lens elements to manage spherical aberration and distortion, and six ED (Extra-low Dispersion) elements to counteract chromatic aberrations.

Fujifilm’s Nano-GI (Gradient Index) coating is applied to mitigate lens flare and ghosting, resulting in sharper and clearer imagery.

The attention to optical quality ensures that images rendered by this lens are sharp corner-to-corner, even when shot wide open at f/2.8. On the focusing front, the lens employs a linear motor, ensuring fast, smooth, and notably quiet autofocus operation.

This is particularly beneficial for videographers who demand silent AF in their footage.

Robust Build Ready for Any Adventure

The “WR” in its name stands for ‘Weather Resistant’, and Fujifilm ensures the lens lives up to this label.

The XF 8-16mm f/2.8 R LM WR boasts 11 distinct weather seals placed throughout its body, safeguarding it against dust, moisture, and temperatures as low as -10°C (14°F).

This degree of protection enables photographers to shoot confidently in challenging environmental conditions, be it a sandy desert or a mist-covered waterfall.

Furthermore, the lens exhibits a premium feel in hand, thanks to its all-metal construction.

While it’s among the heftier lenses in Fujifilm’s lineup, the weight is a fair trade-off for the optical excellence and build quality on offer.

In summation, the Fujifilm XF 8-16mm f/2.8 R LM WR is an engineering feat that combines stellar image quality, a rugged build, and top-notch usability.

For X-series users, particularly those who often find themselves yearning for wider perspectives without sacrificing image quality, this lens is a compelling proposition worth every penny of its premium price point.

7. Canon RF 15-35mm f/2.8L IS USM

Canon’s Wide-Angle Marvel for the RF System

The transition to mirrorless cameras has led to a renaissance in lens design, and Canon’s RF 15-35mm f/2.8L IS USM is a testament to that evolution.

Crafted specifically for Canon’s full-frame mirrorless RF system, this wide-angle zoom lens is a game-changer for both professional and enthusiast photographers.

With its 15-35mm focal range, users can capture breathtaking landscapes, expansive architectural marvels, and vivid street scenes with a clarity and richness that only a lens of this caliber can produce.

Further sweetening the pot, the lens features a bright and constant f/2.8 aperture, ideal for low light situations and achieving that pleasing, shallow depth-of-field effect.

Advanced Optics and Stabilization in Tow

Peering inside the lens, the RF 15-35mm is built around an advanced optical formula comprising 16 elements in 12 groups.

The design integrates three aspherical and two UD (Ultra-low Dispersion) elements, diligently working to correct aberrations and ensure high sharpness across the entire zoom range.

In tandem with the optics, Canon’s Air Sphere Coating (ASC) reduces lens flare and ghosting, even in backlit conditions.

But what truly sets this lens apart from its DSLR counterparts is the presence of Image Stabilization (IS).

Offering up to 5 stops of shake correction, this stabilization system is a boon for handheld shooting, allowing for slower shutter speeds without introducing motion blur.

Combined with Canon’s Nano USM autofocus system, focusing is not only rapid but remarkably quiet, catering to both photographers and videographers.

Robust Design Meets Ergonomic Excellence

One can’t help but admire the build quality of the RF 15-35mm f/2.8L IS USM. As part of Canon’s ‘L’ series, this lens has been built to withstand the rigors of professional use.

Weather-sealed against dust and moisture, it confidently accompanies photographers on their most challenging assignments, from arid deserts to misty forests.

Its barrel incorporates a customizable control ring, a feature distinct to Canon’s RF lenses, allowing users to adjust settings like aperture, shutter speed, or ISO directly from the lens.

This ergonomic consideration speeds up the workflow and keeps the photographer engaged with their subject.

In conclusion, the Canon RF 15-35mm f/2.8L IS USM is more than just a wide-angle lens—it’s a statement from Canon, showcasing their commitment to the mirrorless frontier.

Delivering impeccable image quality, paired with a robust design and user-centric features, it has quickly established itself as an indispensable tool for RF system users.

It’s a lens that promises and over-delivers, cementing its place in the kits of many photographers worldwide.

8. Nikon Z 14-30mm f/4 S

A Compact Ultra-Wide for the Z Series

The Nikon Z 14-30mm f/4 S is a groundbreaking offering in Nikon’s ever-expanding mirrorless lens lineup.

Designed for the Nikon Z system, it stands out as the world’s first full-frame 14mm lens that allows for filter attachment, a feature often missed in many ultra-wide-angle lenses.

The lens’s focal range from 14mm to 30mm makes it highly versatile, suitable for a plethora of scenarios from sprawling landscapes and vast architectural shots to tight interiors and dynamic street photography.

The constant f/4 aperture, while not as bright as an f/2.8, ensures consistent performance across the zoom range and keeps the lens compact and travel-friendly.

Optical Prowess with Thoughtful Features

Diving into its optics, the lens is constructed with 14 elements in 12 groups.

Four of these are Extra-low Dispersion (ED) glass elements, and four are aspherical elements. This intricate design ensures minimized chromatic aberrations, reduced distortion, and high-resolution images that stretch from edge to edge.

Nikon’s Nano Crystal and Super Integrated Coatings further enhance image quality by suppressing ghosting and flare, especially in backlit situations.

The lens also comes with a stepping motor, ensuring that autofocus operations are smooth, silent, and precise, making it equally useful for video recording.

Another noteworthy feature is its retractable design, which allows the lens to collapse when not in use, making it even more compact and ideal for on-the-go photography.

Built for the Modern Photographer

The Nikon Z 14-30mm f/4 S is not just about optics and performance; it’s also designed for the contemporary photographer’s demands.

It boasts a robust build with extensive weather sealing, making it resistant to dust and moisture. This ensures that photographers can continue shooting without worries, even in less-than-ideal conditions.

The lens also features a customizable control ring, which can be programmed to control various settings like aperture or exposure compensation, allowing photographers to make swift adjustments without taking their eye off the viewfinder.

Additionally, the ability to use 82mm screw-on filters is a major advantage for landscape photographers who frequently employ polarizers or ND filters in their work.

In essence, the Nikon Z 14-30mm f/4 S is a significant addition to the Z system’s lens arsenal.

It skillfully combines versatility with performance, all packed within a compact design.

Whether you’re a professional landscape photographer or a travel enthusiast looking for a reliable ultra-wide zoom, this lens is poised to deliver stunning results, making it a worthy investment for any Nikon Z system user.

Wide Angle Lens – Different Apertures

The lenses tested here have various apertures, such as f/4 (fixed) and f/3.5-4.5 (variable).

Some are still less bright with large openings such as f/4.5, while two lenses offer a higher aperture of f/2.8. These kind of apertures are good for low light environments.

A wide-angle lens with fixed focal length can be brighter – think for example a f/ 2.8 24mm for full frame.

However, the consumer is not waiting for such an expensive lens. Moreover, for crop cameras, there is no comparable f/2.8 16mm for sale.

A fixed brightness, such as with the f/4 12-24 mm lenses from Tokina and Nikon, has the advantage that the exposure remains constant when zooming in and out.

That advantage only works with manual exposure (M). In the other, automatic exposure modes, the shutter speed is adjusted by the camera at a variable light intensity.

If you’re still unsure about focal lengths, this chart from Travel Hungry Souls is really helpful:

Best Wide Angle Lens – Conclusion

So what should you consider when buying a good wide angle lens? As ever, some things are universally important. You should always:

• The reason for purchasing the lens.
• Your budget.
• The project requirements and style.
• The camera(s) you have already.
• The kind of mounts your cameras take.
• If you have any adapters.

Overall, you want to look at the kind of project you’re working on and why you need the wide angle lens.

There are lots of great wide angle lenses out there and we hope this article has helped you decide what the best wide angle lens is.

Ultimately, everyone’s requirements and reasons for buying are different. And lenses are pretty subjective after all – some people like Canon, some like Nikon and others like Sony, etc.

There’s no one-size-fits-all when it comes to lenses and you should do your due diligence to find the right wide angle lens for your particular circumstances and needs.

Did we miss out your favorite wide angle lens? Let us know in the comments just below.
 

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