Best Zoom Lens For Canon in 2024: 14 Awesome Zoom Lenses On the Market

Choosing the right camera for you is important. However, I think choosing the right lenses to go with is even more important. But what is the best zoom lens for canon?

Now, a camera is certainly the most vital piece of your photography arsenal. With lenses to accommodate it, your camera becomes an aimless tool without guidance. Lenses are what dictate the style, feel and look of your pictures.

I’d go as far as to say that you should consider the lenses before you consider the camera. That is if you’re taking photography. Since you’re reading this, I reckon you do.

What Is A Zoom Lens?

One of the questions novice photographers always ask me is “What type of lenses should I get first?” while there’s no concrete answer to this, I’d say the most important lenses to have are Zoom lenses.

They allow you to reframe and change the composition of a photograph without moving from your place. This is certainly useful if you’re in a restricted place or shooting objects from a distance.

You get to keep your subjects in focus from a great distance and without losing the sharpness of the picture. Seriously, what’s there not to like about zoom lenses?

How Do I Pick A Zoom Lens?

Well, to make it simple remember one thing. Zoom lenses are the ones with the highest focal length.

For your zooming purposes, you’ll need a telephoto lens with a focal length of 50 to 100mm. This will bring your subject as close as possible to focus even from a great distance. There are a few things to consider before buying a zoom lens, however.

Size

Zoom lenses are bulky and huge because they include controls to change the focal length.

So, carry them in a bag. Don’t let this bring you down. Having one zoom lens with multiple focal lengths is better than having multiple prime lenses with a single focal length.

Versatility

It’s also very versatile. It enables you to shoot in different ranges without the need to change your physical location.

Price

Zoom lenses are a little pricier than a prime lens for example. However, their cost is justified when you realize you’ll only need one instead of multiple cheap prime lenses that add up to the same cost or more.

Stabilization

You can get image stabilization whether it’s Canon’s image stabilization, Sigma’s optical stabilization, or any other variation of the name. This ensures a sharp quality of distant subjects without any blur or other undesired effects.

Compatibility

Make sure your zoom lens is compatible with your camera’s sensor (which is why I said the lenses are more important than the camera) some third-party lenses aren’t compatible with certain camera brands and modules.

So do your research into the specs of the camera and the lens to ensure you won’t buy a huge and useless magnifying glass.

With all of that said, the zoom lenses we’ll be focusing on are the ones made specifically for Canon (Sorry Nikon users.) I’m going to list a number of my favorite zoom lenses for Canon.

I’ll list their features, build quality, and price. So, without further ado let’s dive right into it.

 

 

Best Zoom Lens For Canon – The Lenses

Let’s jump right in with the Sigma 17-70mm!

1. Canon EF 70-200mm f/2.8L IS III USM

Optical Performance

The Canon EF 70-200mm f/2.8L IS III USM lens offers impressive optical performance across its focal length range.

Photographers will find that it delivers sharp, clear images with minimal aberrations, even when shooting wide open at f/2.8.

The lens’s 8-blade circular aperture renders smooth, creamy bokeh that portrait and event photographers especially admire.

Additionally, the lens benefits from Canon’s Air Sphere Coating (ASC), which effectively reduces ghosting and flare, ensuring clear and contrasty images even in challenging lighting conditions.

Build Quality and Handling

As with many of Canon’s L-series lenses, the build quality of the EF 70-200mm f/2.8L IS III USM is robust and reliable.

Its weather-sealed construction ensures it can handle diverse outdoor conditions, from dusty landscapes to misty shores, with confidence.

The lens feels solid in hand, but it’s worth noting its weight, which may be a concern for some photographers during extended shoots.

The zoom and focus rings are both smooth and well-damped, providing a tactile and precise user experience.

The included tripod collar also enhances its versatility for various shooting scenarios.

Image Stabilization and Autofocus

One of the standout features of the EF 70-200mm f/2.8L IS III USM is its image stabilization (IS) system.

Rated at up to 3.5 stops, it significantly aids in reducing camera shake, particularly at the longer end of the focal range.

This IS system is immensely beneficial for photographers shooting in low light or those capturing fast-paced events without a tripod.

The lens’s Ultrasonic Motor (USM) ensures rapid and silent autofocus, which is accurate and reliable.

Whether shooting portraits, wildlife, or sports, users will find its autofocus capabilities meet the demands of various photography styles.

In conclusion, the Canon EF 70-200mm f/2.8L IS III USM solidifies its place as a workhorse lens in many professional photographers’ kits.

Its exceptional optical performance, combined with its robust build quality and reliable IS and AF systems, make it a worthy successor in the storied 70-200mm lineage.

While its weight might be a consideration for some, the lens’s consistent results and versatility overshadow this minor drawback.

For those in need of a high-performing medium telephoto zoom lens, the EF 70-200mm f/2.8L IS III USM is hard to overlook.

2. Canon EF 24-70mm f/2.8L II USM

Optical Performance

The Canon EF 24-70mm f/2.8L II USM lens is renowned for its superior optical quality, showcasing outstanding sharpness, clarity, and color accuracy throughout its zoom range.

Its constant f/2.8 aperture facilitates beautiful bokeh and provides ample light-gathering capabilities, especially beneficial in low-light scenarios.

Flare and chromatic aberrations are expertly controlled, thanks to the lens’s multiple UD and Super UD glass elements.

This lens is especially proficient at maintaining sharpness from edge to edge, which is often sought after by professionals and enthusiasts alike.

Build Quality and Handling

Canon’s L-series is synonymous with rugged construction, and the EF 24-70mm f/2.8L II USM is no exception.

The lens boasts a dust and moisture-resistant design, making it suitable for challenging environments.

Weighing in at approximately 805g, it strikes a balance between durability and portability.

The ergonomic design ensures a comfortable grip, while the zoom and focus rings operate with smooth precision. Its redesigned structure has minimized its overall footprint, making it slightly more compact than its predecessor.

Autofocus Performance

Equipped with an Ultrasonic Motor (USM), the lens provides fast, accurate, and nearly silent autofocus.

It’s particularly efficient in tracking moving subjects, making it ideal for event photographers or those capturing dynamic scenes.

Manual focus override is available at all times, giving photographers the flexibility to make fine adjustments even when the lens is set to autofocus.

The close-focusing distance of 0.38 meters is also commendable, allowing for a degree of macro-style photography.

In wrapping up, the Canon EF 24-70mm f/2.8L II USM is a testament to Canon’s commitment to delivering high-caliber professional lenses.

Its exceptional optical prowess, combined with a rugged build and efficient autofocus, makes it a versatile choice for many, from portrait photographers to photojournalists.

It’s a staple zoom lens that delivers consistently high-quality results across various photographic situations.

Its reputation as one of the best standard zoom lenses in the Canon lineup is well-deserved, offering a blend of performance and reliability that is hard to surpass.

3. Canon EF 100-400mm f/4.5-5.6L IS II USM

Optical Performance

The Canon EF 100-400mm f/4.5-5.6L IS II USM demonstrates a commendable optical performance that befits its L-series designation.

Spanning a versatile telephoto range, this lens delivers sharp images across all focal lengths.

The lens incorporates one fluorite and one super UD element, which work harmoniously to reduce aberrations, resulting in superior clarity and contrast.

The nine-blade circular aperture produces pleasant bokeh, making subjects stand out against softly blurred backgrounds.

Its variable aperture, although not particularly fast, performs adequately in a plethora of lighting conditions.

Build Quality and Handling

Reflecting the ruggedness typical of Canon’s L-series, the EF 100-400mm f/4.5-5.6L IS II USM is constructed to endure challenging shooting conditions.

It boasts weather-sealing, guarding against dust and moisture.

The lens’s weight and size are what one would anticipate for a telephoto zoom of this caliber, but its ergonomic design ensures a balanced feel in hand.

A noteworthy feature is the lens’s twist-zoom mechanism, which provides smooth, precise zoom adjustments.

The integrated tripod collar, which is detachable, offers additional stability for tripod-mounted shooting.

Image Stabilization and Autofocus

The lens’s Image Stabilization (IS) system is a pivotal feature, offering up to four stops of shake correction, which is invaluable when shooting handheld at longer focal lengths.

This enhanced IS system comprises three distinct modes, catering to standard shooting, panning, and irregular movements, ensuring optimal performance in varied scenarios.

The ring-type Ultrasonic Motor (USM) ensures autofocus is swift, silent, and accurate.

Its focusing speed is particularly useful for wildlife or sports photography, where subjects can be unpredictable.

Concluding, the Canon EF 100-400mm f/4.5-5.6L IS II USM firmly establishes itself as a vital tool for photographers needing extensive telephoto reach.

Whether capturing distant landscapes, elusive wildlife, or action-packed events, this lens rises to the occasion with its stellar optical quality, robust build, and responsive autofocus.

While its variable aperture might be a limitation in extremely low light, its potent IS system compensates effectively.

For photographers in search of a telephoto lens that melds versatility with performance, the EF 100-400mm is a top-tier choice.

 

 

4. Sigma 150-600mm f/5-6.3 DG OS HSM Contemporary

Optical Performance

The Sigma 150-600mm f/5-6.3 DG OS HSM Contemporary stands out for its extended telephoto range, catering to photographers seeking both reach and flexibility.

Its optical design is commendable, integrating three Special Low Dispersion (SLD) elements that work to reduce chromatic aberrations and ensure sharpness.

While the variable aperture of f/5-6.3 isn’t exceptionally fast, it’s reasonable given the lens’s zoom range, delivering satisfactory results even at the telephoto end.

Image clarity and color rendition are consistent, making it a worthy contender in the super-telephoto zoom category.

Build Quality and Handling

Sigma’s Contemporary line strikes a balance between performance and portability, and this lens is no exception.

The build, though not as robust as some premium options, is solid and designed for practical use in the field.

The lens is not overly heavy, making handheld shooting feasible, especially with the lens’s Optical Stabilization (OS) system in play.

Its zoom and focus rings are ergonomically designed and ensure smooth operation.

One appreciable feature is the customizable switch that allows users to adjust focus modes and stabilization settings quickly.

Image Stabilization and Autofocus

The lens’s OS is crucial for a telephoto lens of this magnitude, offering substantial shake reduction to counteract camera movement, especially when shooting at longer focal lengths.

The stabilization is efficient and noticeably improves handheld shooting outcomes.

Powered by Sigma’s Hypersonic Motor (HSM), the autofocus is swift and mostly silent.

While it might not be the fastest in the class, it’s reliable and accurate for most applications, be it birding, sports, or nature photography.

In summary, the Sigma 150-600mm f/5-6.3 DG OS HSM Contemporary is an enticing option for those desiring significant reach without breaking the bank.

It provides a harmonious blend of optical quality, versatility, and portability, making it a suitable choice for varied telephoto applications.

While there might be faster or sturdier lenses available, the Sigma offers an attractive compromise between performance and price.

For photographers seeking a versatile super-telephoto zoom without the premium price tag, this Sigma lens emerges as a compelling candidate.

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

Ours is a world where capturing cinematic moments is key, and the Canon EF 70-200mm f/4L IS II USM does not disappoint.

It’s a lens that offers filmmakers a blend of versatility and quality in a lighter, more compact package than its f/2.8 sibling.

Its Image Stabilization is top-notch, providing up to five stops of shake correction.

That’s a godsend when you’re shooting hand-held in low light or at maximum telephoto.

The constant f/4 aperture ensures consistent exposure across the entire zoom range, a critical feature when filming scenes that require a dynamic focal length.

Optical excellence is ingrained in the 70-200mm f/4L.

With one fluorite element and two UD elements, it boasts incredible sharpness and clarity.

This cuts down on post-production work, ensuring that the captured footage has the professional look that clients demand.

Durability is also central to the design of this lens.

It’s dust and moisture resistant, making it ideal for the demands of outdoor shooting.

Whether you’re capturing a nature documentary or an indie film, this lens is built to withstand challenging environments.

Features to highlight include:

• Exceptional Image Stabilization – crucial for maintaining crisp footage
• Constant f/4 Maximum Aperture – essential for consistent lighting
• Professional Image Quality – with superior lens elements that reduce aberrations

Don’t expect lightning-fast autofocus, though.

Like most zoom lenses, the 70-200mm f/4L may take a moment to lock on when shifting quickly between subjects.

Yet, once it finds its mark, the results are reliably sharp, a must-have quality when recording 4K video.

The pull of the Canon EF 70-200mm f/4L IS II USM is undeniable for filmmakers shooting with Canon cameras.

It represents a fine balance between portability, image quality, and robust construction.

6. Tamron 28-75mm f/2.8 Di III RXD

When we talk about versatility and affordability, the Tamron 28-75mm f/2.8 Di III RXD stands out in the zoom lens category for Canon cameras.

It has made waves for delivering professional-quality results without very costly.

Our experience tells us that this lens strikes an excellent balance between performance and portability.

It’s significantly lighter than similar lenses from other brands.

This makes it an ideal companion for filmmakers who are on the move and need to minimize their gear weight.

Boasting a constant f/2.8 aperture, the Tamron 28-75mm ensures a consistent exposure throughout the zoom range.

This feature is vital for maintaining a uniform look and feel in scenes.

It becomes especially critical when shooting in variable lighting conditions.

What’s more, the Tamron lens has a Rapid eXtra-silent stepping Drive (RXD) motor which delivers exceptionally quiet and quick autofocus capabilities.

Essential for video production, fast autofocus allows you to captivate your audience with crisp visuals without the distraction of focusing noise.

The lens’s optical performance is noteworthy due to its:

• LD and XLD lens elements which practically eliminate chromatic aberrations and color fringing
• Robust construction with moisture-resistant features for reliability in varied climates

This lens’s performance in low-light situations is impressive and allows filmmakers to shoot in challenging circumstances with more confidence.

The Tamron 28-75mm doesn’t just uphold image quality at wider apertures; it excels at it.

Our testing confirms that the Tamron 28-75mm f/2.8 Di III RXD is a solid choice for filmmakers.

Its sharpness across the frame, even at its widest aperture, ensures that your footage will look top-notch.

Users also report a pleasant bokeh effect that can add depth and a cinematic quality to video content.

7. Canon EF 70-300mm f/4-5.6 IS II USM

When seeking out the best zoom lenses for Canon, we often come across the Canon EF 70-300mm f/4-5.

6 IS II USM.

This lens brings remarkable telephoto reach that’s especially beneficial for capturing distant subjects.

The lens not only excels in reach but also in image stabilization technology.

The innovative Nano USM motor ensures fast and silent autofocus, a feature filmmakers highly appreciate for uninterrupted audio capture.

With its advanced image stabilization (IS), the lens offers up to 4 stops of shake correction.

It’s great for hand-held shooting, which is often a necessity in dynamic film environments.

Offering a wide zoom range is a game changer.

Here are some key reasons why the Canon EF 70-300mm f/4-5.

6 IS II USM might be the right choice for your filmmaking needs:

• Variable zoom range – from 70mm to 300mm for flexible framing options
• Enhanced image stabilization – critical for shooting video without a tripod
• Nano USM motor – for smooth, silent autofocus during video recording

Optical performance is another notable strength of this lens.

It features an Ultra-Low Dispersion (UD) element to minimize chromatic aberration and deliver high-resolution and contrast-rich video.

The build quality and form factor of the lens also deserve mention.

It’s designed to be rugged yet manageable for filmmakers who are always on the move.

Let’s zoom in on compatibility and convenience.

The Canon EF 70-300mm f/4-5.

6 IS II USM pairs effortlessly with a variety of Canon’s DSLR cameras, making it a versatile addition to a filmmaker’s toolkit.

finally, its affordability compared to other telephoto lenses makes it an attractive option.

Whether you’re shooting a documentary or an outdoor event, cost-effectiveness is always a factor to consider.

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

When it comes to wide-angle lenses that excel in filmmaking, the Canon EF 16-35mm f/2.8L III USM stands out for its superior performance.

Known for its versatility and quality, this lens is a staple in many filmmakers’ gear bags.

With a constant f/2.8 maximum aperture, it provides consistent exposure throughout the zoom range and performs exceptionally well in low-light situations.

The construction of the lens is designed to meet the demands of professional use.

The EF 16-35mm f/2.8L III USM incorporates a series of aspherical and low dispersion elements that tackle aberrations and ensure sharp, clear video output.

Packed with features, this lens guarantees to enhance a filmmaker’s capability to capture expansive landscapes and tight interior shots with utmost precision.

• Ultra-Wide Zoom – versatility for creative compositions
• High Aperture – excellent in low light and for controlling depth of field
• Enhanced Optics – minimal distortion and chromatic aberration
• Weather-Sealing – reliable performance in challenging conditions

Autofocus performance is critical when recording video, and the Canon EF 16-35mm f/2.8L III USM doesn’t disappoint.

The ring-type Ultrasonic Motor (USM) delivers fast, silent autofocus operation, which is a key feature when the audio quality is just as important as the visuals.

Durability is also a top priority, and thanks to its robust build and weather-sealing, the lens is well-suited for the unpredictable nature of outdoor filming.

Its dust and moisture resistance mean filmmakers can confidently shoot in a variety of environmental conditions.

All these features come together to make the Canon EF 16-35mm f/2.8L III USM an excellent choice for filmmakers seeking a reliable, high-performing wide-angle zoom lens.

Whether shooting a documentary or an indie film, this lens provides the creative flexibility to bring a vision to life.

9. Canon RF 24-105mm F4 L IS USM

Upgrading our lens arsenal, we mustn’t overlook the Canon RF 24-105mm F4 L IS USM.

This versatile zoom lens is a powerhouse for both established and aspiring filmmakers.

It boasts a constant f/4 aperture, which ensures consistent exposure throughout the entire zoom range.

This feature is crucial for maintaining a uniform look and feel during shoots.

Its Image Stabilization system provides up to 5 stops of shake correction.

This is pivotal when we’re capturing footage handheld or in challenging conditions.

The less we’re concerned about camera shake, the more we can focus on the creative aspects of filmmaking.

The Canon RF 24-105mm F4 L IS USM lens integrates seamlessly with Canon’s new line of mirrorless cameras.

It’s part of the L series which is Canon’s premium lens line, promising high/optimal performance and image quality.

With its high build quality, it’s a lens that complements our filmmaking gear by delivering professional results.

Noteworthy attributes of this lens include:

• High resolution and sharp visuals across the entire zoom range
• A Nano USM motor that ensures quick, precise, and silent autofocus, vital for maintaining the immersion in our scenes

We appreciate the versatility that the 24-105mm focal length range provides.

It’s wide enough for landscapes and interiors while still offering the zoom necessary for close-ups and detail shots.

This makes it an essential lens for a variety of filmmaking scenarios.

As filmmakers, resilience to the elements is crucial and the Canon RF 24-105mm F4 L IS USM doesn’t disappoint.

Its weather-sealing feature means we can shoot in diverse environmental conditions without fearing damage to our equipment.

This reliability allows us to capture footage that tells compelling stories, regardless of rain or shine.

10. Sigma 24-105mm f/4 DG OS HSM Art

Continuing with our list of exceptional zoom lenses for Canon cameras, we can’t overlook the Sigma 24-105mm f/4 DG OS HSM Art.

It’s a fantastic alternative for those who seek superb optical performance without very costly.

With its versatile zoom range, this lens covers wide-angle to mid-telephoto shots, perfect for filmmakers looking to capture diverse scenes.

What stands out with this lens is its Optical Stabilization (OS) system.

Shake reduction is crucial while filming, and Sigma’s OS ensures your footage stays smooth and clear, even when you’re on the move.

Paired with a Hyper Sonic Motor (HSM), the autofocus is not only precise but also whisper-quiet, removing any concerns about disrupting the audio quality of your shots.

The Sigma 24-105mm Art lens also boasts:

• High resolution throughout the entire zoom range
• Constant f/4 aperture – ensuring consistent light transmission and depth of field control

As filmmakers committed to producing polished content, we appreciate the importance of being able to rely on our gear.

The lens’s build quality doesn’t disappoint.

The Sigma Art line is known for its durable construction, and weather-sealed design provides an added layer of protection against the elements.

When it comes to optimal image quality, the Sigma 24-105mm f/4 DG OS HSM Art performs remarkably.

It rival its counterparts with edge-to-edge sharpness and minimal distortion.

This makes it a strong contender for those who demand high-end visuals without committing to the heavier price tag of some of the proprietary Canon lenses.

11. Tamron 70-210mm f/4 Di VC USD

As we jump deeper into the world of filmmaking, we shouldn’t overlook the Tamron 70-210mm f/4 Di VC USD when it comes to top-tier zoom lenses for Canon cameras.

This lens punches above its weight with its impressive feature set and image quality.

Boasting a constant f/4 aperture across its zoom range, this Tamron lens ensures consistent exposure and depth of field control.

It’s especially useful during shoots where lighting conditions are variable.

The Tamron 70-210mm is a champion of versatility and stabilization, two aspects that are critical for filmmakers.

• It offers Vibration Compensation (VC) – Tamron’s image stabilization technology
• It ensures that footage is smooth and crisp, even when filming handheld

Filmmakers often praise the lens for its moisture-resistant construction and internal zoom mechanism.

It means you can keep shooting, irrespective of the weather conditions, and the lens maintains a consistent balance and center of gravity.

Sharpness and clarity are the hallmarks of this lens, delivering excellent performance that rivals its more expensive counterparts.

The optical design minimizes aberrations and flare, ensuring your footage always looks professional.

Autofocus on the Tamron 70-210mm is quiet and precise thanks to the Ultrasonic Silent Drive (USD) motor.

This feature is a boon for video production where unwanted noise can ruin a perfect take.

One cannot ignore the economical aspect either – this lens provides an affordable route to achieving high-quality zoom capabilities without very costly.

Its robust build and image quality make it a smart investment for filmmakers intent on producing top-notch content.

12. Canon EF 24-105mm f/4L IS II USM

Among the array of lenses that have solidified their place in a filmmaker’s kit, the Canon EF 24-105mm f/4L IS II USM lens demands special attention.

Its reputation for versatility and performance is well-earned, making it an indispensable asset for our filmmaking endeavors.

This lens is renowned for its impressive optical performance.

The signature L-series quality ensures that every frame we shoot is crisp and clear, even when stretching its zoom capabilities to the fullest.

We realize that reliable image stabilization is critical when recording motion.

Luckily, the Canon EF 24-105mm f/4L IS II USM lens delivers remarkably steady footage, counteracting the common challenges of hand-held shooting.

Consider its key features that Help our creative storytelling:

• Constant f/4 aperture – permitting consistent exposure throughout the zoom range
• Image Stabilization – reducing camera shake for smooth video capture
• Dust and Water-resistant design – durable enough to withstand challenging shooting environments

Our experience with the autofocus system of this lens has been nothing short of outstanding.

The speed and accuracy are superb, ensuring our subject remains in sharp focus without drawing attention to the camera’s operations.

Affordability is always on our minds, and in comparison to newer models, this lens proves to be an economical choice.

Its cost-effectiveness paired with high-end performance makes it a smart buy for filmmakers looking to expand their lens collection without very costly.

The Canon EF 24-105mm f/4L IS II USM lens remains a staple for us because it consistently provides the versatility, reliability, and quality we require.

Whether on location or in the studio, this lens frequently outperforms others in its class, securing its place as a standout pick for Canon users.

The combination of reach and impeccable image quality opens up a realm of possibilities for our narrative and documentary projects.

It’s this level of adaptability that endears it to both seasoned filmmakers and newcomers alike.

13. Canon RF 70-200mm f/2.8L IS USM

The Canon RF 70-200mm f/2.8L IS USM is a game-changer in our arsenal of zoom lenses.

Built for the EOS R system, it’s the lens filmmakers covet for its exceptional performance and build quality.

With a bright f/2.8 aperture, it excels in low light conditions, ensuring that our footage retains its crispness and clarity even in challenging environments.

This lens is renowned for its professional-grade image stabilization, offering up to 5 stops of shake correction.

Our handheld shots look incredibly stable, which is crucial when capturing dynamic scenes without a tripod.

The compact nature of this lens makes it an ideal companion for those long shooting days.

Some key features are worth noting:

• Fast and accurate autofocus enabled by the Dual Nano USM motors
• Optical Image Stabilization with up to 5 stops of shake correction
• Reduced focus breathing, beneficial for video work

The construction of the Canon RF 70-200mm f/2.8L IS USM withstands the rigors of professional use.

It’s equipped with weather-sealing that protects against dust and moisture, a necessity when we’re out in the field.

The lens also features a customizable control ring, which filmmakers can assign to adjust various settings quietly and efficiently.

When viewing our work, the outstanding image quality leaves a lasting impression.

The lens elements are designed to significantly reduce chromatic aberration and ghosting, enhancing overall image sharpness and contrast.

The bokeh generated by the RF 70-200mm is creamy and aesthetically pleasing, perfect for creating that cinematic depth in our scenes.

14. Sigma 100-400mm f/5-6.3 DG OS HSM Contemporary

For filmmakers who desire a blend of performance and portability, we’ve found the Sigma 100-400mm f/5-6.

3 DG OS HSM Contemporary lens to be a superb choice.

It strikes an excellent balance, offering a high-telephoto zoom range without the bulk typically associated with such lenses.

In our experience, one of the standout features of this lens has been its Optical Stabilizer (OS) system.

It compensates for camera shake, which is vital for hand-held shooting and panning scenes that require a steady hand.

Let’s look at some key advantages of this lens for our video projects:

• Significant reach with a 100-400mm zoom range – ideal for capturing distant subjects
• Remarkable clarity with minimal chromatic aberration or flare
• The Hyper Sonic Motor (HSM) ensures a quiet, fast autofocus that is essential during filming

Durability is also an asset of the Sigma 100-400mm lens.

Its build quality feels robust enough for the rigors of on-location shooting, something we appreciate when we’re out in the field.

The versatility of the Sigma 100-400mm lens is not to be understated.

It can easily switch from detailed close-ups to expansive scenes, providing a fantastic cinematic touch to various shots, all while maintaining sharpness and contrast.

Efficiently designed, this lens features a compact construction that makes it less intimidating and more manageable for everyday use.

On top of all these features, it’s somewhat lighter on the wallet, which is always a bonus for our production budget.

Best Zoom Lens For Canon – In Conclusion

This concludes my list of the best zoom lenses for Canon users. Whether you choose a third-party or first-party lens just make sure you pay attention to all the things I explained in this guide.

If you choose one of these lenses to make sure you search for the best deal you can get (while staying safe of course). If these don’t scratch your itch, though, that’s no problem.

You can always search for, and find good lenses out there. You just need to be aware of what to look for and what to avoid. Good luck!
 

We have Gear Buyer’s Guides on every type of Filmmaking Equipment!