Best Wide Angle Zoom Lenses for Canon DSLR Cameras Under $500
Whether you are a photography enthusiast looking to capture stunning landscapes or capture candid moments in daylight, a wide angle zoom lens is often the perfect tool. In this article, we will explore some of the best wide angle zoom lenses for Canon DSLR cameras that are under $500, focusing on durability, image quality, and convenience. We will begin with some popular choices and discuss their features and performance.
Canon EFS 10-18mm f/4.5-5.6 USM
Price: Around $249 (used), $300 (new)
Image Quality: Good for daylight and sunrise scenarios.
Speed: Not very fast due to its f/4.5-5.6 maximum aperture.
Stabilization: No optical stabilization.
Build Quality: Good, with metal mounting ring and weather-sealed rubberized zoom and focus rings.
Wednesday Deal: Consider buying this lens when it’s on sale or through promotional offers.
The Canon EFS 10-18mm f/4.5-5.6 USM is a solid choice for beginners and those on a budget. This lens has a wide 150-degree angle of view for capturing expansive scenery. In bright conditions, the f/4.5-5.6 aperture can still provide decent performance for snapshots and sunlit landscapes. Its weather-sealed construction and metal mount make it a reliable choice for outdoor use. However, its lack of image stabilization means it may not perform as well in low light or shaky hand-held situations.
Canon EF-S 17-85mm f/4-5.6 IS USM
Price: Around $700 (new), but there are deals to find.
Image Quality: Generally good, offers better performance compared to the 10-18mm in low light.
Speed: Reasonably fast with a f/4-5.6 maximum aperture.
Stabilization: Includes image stabilization for greater sharpness in the face of camera shake.
Build Quality: Solid build with metal mounting ring and rubberized zoom and focus rings.
Wednesday Deal: The EF-S 17-85mm f/4-5.6 IS USM is a more versatile lens, offering an 85mm focal length that can also serve as a flattering portrait lens. The image stabilization feature, especially useful in low light, can help capture clearer images. The f/4-5.6 aperture is faster than the EFS 10-18mm, allowing for better low-light performance and allowing for a wider range of creative possibilities, such as shallow depth-of-field effects. This makes it a more well-rounded choice for both landscape and portrait photography. However, it comes at a higher price than the EFS 10-18mm.
Canon EF-S 18-135mm f/3.5-5.6 IS
Price: Around $400 (new), available with discounts. Image Quality: Improved in recent versions, with better close-up performance and low-light capabilities. Speed: Mid-range speed with a f/3.5-5.6 maximum aperture. Stabilization: Includes image stabilization for enhanced sharpness. Build Quality: Stable and reliable with a weather-sealed design. Wednesday Deal: Not as well known, the EF-S 18-135mm f/3.5-5.6 IS covers a more extensive focal length range than the previous two options, ideal for a variety of situations. It tries to balance the wider zoom range with the 18-55mm kit lens but falls short in both quality and speed. Its f/3.5-5.6 aperture is a bit faster than the 17-85mm, which could help capture more light in low-light conditions but still may not be as effective as more expensive zoom lenses. This one is the most affordable of the three, and it has a wider range of focal lengths, making it a versatile choice for those who want to cover a broad spectrum of shooting needs. However, it may not perform as well under challenging low-light conditions.
Choosing the Right Wide Angle Zoom Lens for Canon DSLR
When selecting a wide angle zoom lens for your Canon DSLR camera, it’s important to consider your specific needs and budget. The Canon EFS 10-18mm f/4.5-5.6 USM is a good starting point for the budget-conscious photographer, offering a wide angle for capturing expansive landscapes. For those looking for a balance between price and versatility, the EF-S 17-85mm f/4-5.6 IS USM is an excellent choice, although it comes at a higher price point. For photographers with a wide range of shooting needs, the EF-S 18-135mm f/3.5-5.6 IS can be a solid option if you can stretch your budget a bit further.
Ultimately, the best wide angle zoom lens for your Canon DSLR depends on how you plan to use it. Consider the quality, speed, and image stabilization options, as well as your personal shooting style and preferences. Happy shooting!