Welcome to our definitive guide to the best Canon prime lenses of 2024, meticulously compiled to aid your photography journey.
Our selections are not just random picks; they’re grounded in the rigorous and reliable PhotoWorkout review score system.
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Leading up to 2024, we’ve delved into the world of Canon prime lenses, renowned for their exceptional image quality and performance. Our list is curated based on a comprehensive evaluation framework that ensures you receive a clear and trustworthy assessment of each lens.
When you buy through links on our site, we may earn a commission at no cost to you. We evaluate products independently. Commissions do not affect our evaluations. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.
Best Canon Prime Lenses
The top Canon prime lenses in 2024:
Summary Table
Note: For more details about each lens, click on a model name below.
| Model Name | Image | Our Rating | Amazon Price Updated on 04/15/2024 12:01:43 PST | Launch Date | Sample Shots | Buy from Amazon | Last Updated | Amazon (Int.) | Buy from B&H | Buy from Adorama | All Buying Options |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Canon RF 16mm f/2.8 STM |  | 89.5 | $299.00 | 2021/10 | Flickr Sample Shots | $299.00 from Amazon.com | 26/03/2024 11:01:53 | Not in the US? Check the price on Amazon near you. Supports AU, BE, CA, FR, DE, IN, IT, JP, NL, PL, SG, ES, SE, and the UK. | $299.00 from B&H | $299.00 from Adorama | See All Buying Options |
| Canon EF 85mm f/1.4L IS USM |  | 88.3 | $1,599.00 | 2017/08 | Flickr Sample Shots | $1,599.00 from Amazon.com | 26/03/2024 11:01:53 | Not in the US? Check the price on Amazon near you. Supports AU, BE, CA, FR, DE, IN, IT, JP, NL, PL, SG, ES, SE, and the UK. | $1,599.00 from B&H | $1,599.00 from Adorama | See All Buying Options |
| Canon RF 50mm f/1.2L USM |  | 88.3 | $2,299.00 | 2018/09 | Flickr Sample Shots | $2,299.00 from Amazon.com | 26/03/2024 11:01:53 | Not in the US? Check the price on Amazon near you. Supports AU, BE, CA, FR, DE, IN, IT, JP, NL, PL, SG, ES, SE, and the UK. | $2,299.00 from B&H | $2,299.00 from Adorama | See All Buying Options |
| Canon EF 100mm f/2.8L Macro IS USM |  | 87.4 | $1,299.00 | 2009/09 | Flickr Sample Shots | $1,299.00 from Amazon.com | 26/03/2024 11:01:53 | Not in the US? Check the price on Amazon near you. Supports AU, BE, CA, FR, DE, IN, IT, JP, NL, PL, SG, ES, SE, and the UK. | $1,299.00 from B&H | $1,299.00 from Adorama | See All Buying Options |
| Canon EF-M 22mm f/2 STM |  | 86.5 | $199.00 | 2012/07 | Flickr Sample Shots | $199.00 from Amazon.com | 26/03/2024 11:01:53 | Not in the US? Check the price on Amazon near you. Supports AU, BE, CA, FR, DE, IN, IT, JP, NL, PL, SG, ES, SE, and the UK. | $199.00 from B&H | $199.00 from Adorama | See All Buying Options |
| Canon EF-S 24mm f/2.8 STM |  | 86.5 | $149.00 | 2014/09 | Flickr Sample Shots | $149.00 from Amazon.com | 26/03/2024 11:01:53 | Not in the US? Check the price on Amazon near you. Supports AU, BE, CA, FR, DE, IN, IT, JP, NL, PL, SG, ES, SE, and the UK. | $299.00 from B&H | $149.00 from Adorama | See All Buying Options |
| Canon RF 85mm f/1.2L USM |  | 86.5 | $2,799.00 | 2018/10 | Flickr Sample Shots | $2,799.00 from Amazon.com | 26/03/2024 11:01:53 | Not in the US? Check the price on Amazon near you. Supports AU, BE, CA, FR, DE, IN, IT, JP, NL, PL, SG, ES, SE, and the UK. | $2,799.00 from B&H | $2,799.00 from Adorama | See All Buying Options |
| Canon RF 85mm f/2 Macro IS STM |  | 85.8 | $599.00 | 2020/10 | Flickr Sample Shots | $599.00 from Amazon.com | 26/03/2024 11:01:53 | Not in the US? Check the price on Amazon near you. Supports AU, BE, CA, FR, DE, IN, IT, JP, NL, PL, SG, ES, SE, and the UK. | $599.00 from B&H | $599.00 from Adorama | See All Buying Options |
| Canon EF 50mm f/1.8 STM |  | 85.6 | $125.00 | 2015/05 | Flickr Sample Shots | $125.00 from Amazon.com | 26/03/2024 11:01:53 | Not in the US? Check the price on Amazon near you. Supports AU, BE, CA, FR, DE, IN, IT, JP, NL, PL, SG, ES, SE, and the UK. | $125.00 from B&H | $125.00 from Adorama | See All Buying Options |
| Canon RF 35mm f/1.8 IS Macro STM |  | 85.6 | $499.00 | 2018/12 | Flickr Sample Shots | $499.00 from Amazon.com | 26/03/2024 11:01:53 | Not in the US? Check the price on Amazon near you. Supports AU, BE, CA, FR, DE, IN, IT, JP, NL, PL, SG, ES, SE, and the UK. | $499.00 from B&H | $499.00 from Adorama | See All Buying Options |
Learn more about how we rate products…
At PhotoWorkout, our 2024 product ratings offer a thorough and dependable guide to help you choose the best cameras and lenses. Our unique rating system is designed to provide a well-rounded evaluation, considering several crucial factors. Here’s a brief breakdown of our rating process:
Customer Reviews: The core of our rating system lies in customer feedback from major retailers. We prioritize actual user experiences and satisfaction levels in our scoring.
Review Volume Bonus: Products with a significant number of reviews get a slight boost in their score. A high review count often signifies a product’s reliability and popularity.
Age Factor: We adjust scores for older models, acknowledging that newer products may have more advanced features or enhancements.
Price Consideration: We recognize the importance of value for money. As such, very pricey items might see a modest deduction in their score to balance their cost factor.
Our final score is displayed on a clear 1 to 100% scale. A higher percentage reflects a superior overall rating, derived from customer satisfaction, value, and current technology trends. This straightforward system ensures you get a clear picture of how each product stands in the market.
1. Canon RF 16mm f/2.8 STM
If you’re seeking an ultra-wide angle lens for your Canon mirrorless system, the RF 16mm f/2.8 STM offers impressive capabilities in a remarkably compact form.
Price at publication: $249.00
We find the Canon RF 16mm f/2.8 STM to be a stand-out lens for landscape, architecture, and interior photography. Its ultra-wide view allows us to capture expansive scenes with ease. The bright maximum aperture of f/2.8 is also a benefit, letting in ample light to keep our shots crisp in various lighting conditions.
Despite being an ultra-wide lens, this model maintains a delightfully small footprint. Carrying it around all day doesn’t weigh us down, which is a significant advantage when our adventure or work demands mobility and discretion.
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On the flip side, this lens isn’t without its drawbacks. Sharpness can wane towards the edges, and we recognize that some distortion is present – common traits for lenses of this kind. Additionally, photographers craving the flexibility of a zoom may miss the ability to reframe their shots without physically moving.
On balance, our assessment is that the Canon RF 16mm f/2.8 STM is a highly competent lens that hits a sweet spot for enthusiasts keen on capturing wide vistas without lugging around a heavy kit.
2. Canon EF-M 22mm f/2 STM
We believe this lens is a great choice for EOS M users seeking a compact, lightweight prime lens with excellent low-light performance.
Price at publication: $199.00
As photography enthusiasts, we appreciate the importance of having that one lens you can always rely on. Canon’s EF-M 22mm f/2 STM strikes a balance between compactness and image quality. Its slender profile ensures your mirrorless setup remains lightweight — a joy for street and travel photography.
© happycreator/Shutterstock
Image quality is a priority, and this lens doesn’t disappoint. The bright f/2.0 aperture isn’t just about keeping your shots crisp in dim conditions; it also gifts your portraits with a beautifully blurred background that highlights your subjects. Moreover, the aspheric lens element plays its part in producing high-contrast, sharp images across the frame.
Videographers, we’ve got something for you too. Those of us who dabble in both stills and motion know the annoyance of noisy focus motors. But with this lens, the built-in stepping motor ensures smooth, silent focusing, so your footage sounds clean and professional. Whether you vlog or shoot short films, this feature could prove to be invaluable.
3. Canon RF 85mm f/2 Macro IS STM
Our recommendation is to consider this lens for its versatility in portrait and macro photography without breaking the bank.
Price at publication: $499.00
With our collective eye for photography, we’ve noticed the Canon RF 85mm f/2 Macro IS STM strikes a fine balance between price and performance. It serves as an invaluable asset to photographers looking for a lens that can produce sharp, detailed portraits with a beautifully soft background.
Its macro capability opens up a world of detail, letting us explore close-up photography with clarity and precision.
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We find the optical image stabilization especially useful. It ensures that even when the light isn’t ideal, or our hands aren’t completely steady, we still have the chance to capture that perfect shot without a tripod. Five stops of shake correction is a benefit for videographers too, keeping footage smooth and professional.
It’s worth noting that this lens is a compact travel companion for Canon’s full frame mirrorless cameras. Whether we’re navigating the busy streets for street photography or packing light for a trip, its lightweight design doesn’t weigh us down. Despite some trade-offs, like the f/2 aperture and lack of weather sealing, our experience shows that the value offered by the Canon RF 85mm f/2 Macro IS STM lens is hard to overlook for photographers of all levels.
4. Canon EF-S 24mm f/2.8 STM
When looking for a compact and capable prime lens, the Canon EF-S 24mm f/2.8 STM is a solid performer that provides crisp images in a tiny package.
Price at publication: $129.00
We recognize that shopping for the right lens can often feel overwhelming. However, the Canon EF-S 24mm f/2.8 STM boasts several features that make it stand out. Its sleek profile ensures it won’t add much weight to your gear bag, perfect for day-to-day shooting or travel photography.
Optics are important in lens selection, and this Canon lens does not disappoint. The aspherical element and specialized coatings work in tandem to minimize aberrations and flare, achieving high image quality across the frame. Photographers will appreciate the clarity and detail in their captured images.
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It’s evident that this lens caters to both stills and video creators, thanks to its STM motor that ensures quiet operation during movie Servo AF mode. Also, for enthusiasts who enjoy a hands-on approach, the lens provides an easy switch to full-time manual focus, allowing users to tweak focus in One Shot AF mode.
Despite the drawback of no image stabilization, its 24mm focal length somewhat mitigates camera shake.
In summary, the Canon EF-S 24mm f/2.8 STM presents itself as an adaptable and high-performing choice, especially for APS-C camera owners who value image quality and portability.
5. Canon EF 50mm f/1.8 STM
We think the Canon EF 50mm f/1.8 STM is a great choice for both amateur and experienced photographers looking for a quality prime lens without breaking the bank.
When seeking out a reliable, budget-friendly prime lens, this Canon 50mm often rises to the top of the list. Its wide aperture of f/1.8 makes it adept in low-light conditions, allowing you to capture stunning shots with a beautifully shallow depth of field.
Whether you’re diving into portrait photography or exploring street scenes at night, this lens opens up opportunities without asking for a substantial investment.
One of the standout aspects of this lens is its autofocus system. The Stepping Motor Technology (STM) ensures focus adjustments are smooth and barely noticeable. This is particularly useful when recording video, as it minimizes disruptions to your footage. Considering its price, the sharpness and clarity it provides are exceptional, making it a well-regarded addition to any photographer’s kit.
© devmograph/Shutterstock
However, being a prime lens means that it has a fixed 50mm focal length, which lacks the flexibility of a zoom lens. This limitation might encourage you to move around to frame your shot perfectly, which can be seen as a positive or a negative, depending on your style of photography.
The construction is predominantly plastic, which some might see as less durable than metal-bodied lenses. Also, note that this lens doesn’t have built-in image stabilization, so a steady hand or tripod will be necessary in shaky scenarios or when using slower shutter speeds.
In sum, the Canon EF 50mm f/1.8 STM lens provides remarkable value. Its strengths far outweigh its weaknesses, particularly if you’re in search of that prime lens look without a hefty price tag. Our consensus? It’s a worthy addition that punches well above its weight class in terms of performance and output.
6. Canon RF 35mm f/1.8 IS Macro STM
If you’re looking for a versatile wide-angle prime that can tackle everything from street photography to macro shots, this lens is an excellent choice.
Price at publication: $449.00
Canon’s RF35mm f/1.8 IS Macro STM blends wide-angle capabilities with macro functionality, making it a valuable asset for various shooting scenarios. The built-in image stabilization works effectively to minimize camera shake, ensuring sharp images even at slower shutter speeds. The control ring on the lens provides swift, intuitive adjustments which can be a real boon in rapidly changing situations.
We appreciate the close focusing distance, which allows you to get up close and personal with your subjects, magnifying finer details and textures. In well-lit conditions, the super spectra coating comes into its own, combating flare and ghosting to maintain high image quality.
© Maarten Zeehandelaar/Shutterstock
Potential buyers should be aware, though, the macro magnification is limited to 0.5x, which may not satisfy those dedicated to true macro photography. Furthermore, this lens, being part of the Canon RF line, is designed for mirrorless bodies and won’t natively fit the EF/EF-S mount cameras, something to consider if you’re not fully transitioned to the mirrorless ecosystem. Despite its versatility and performance in a wide range of situations, the lens feels more substantial than expected, which could be slightly more cumbersome for those used to lighter setups.
7. Canon EF 100mm f/2.8L Macro IS USM
We recommend this lens for those who demand high-quality macro capabilities, precision, and flexibility in various shooting scenarios.
Price at publication: $1099.00
The Canon EF 100mm f/2.8L Macro IS USM lens stands out for its exceptional image quality. As photographers, we appreciate the precision optics it offers, ensuring crisp and clear images every time. The built-in Image Stabilization technology is a game-changer for close-up work, minimizing camera shake when shooting at slower shutter speeds or when a tripod isn’t at hand.
© plg photo/Shutterstock
Autofocus is another area where this lens excels. The Ultrasonic Motor (USM) delivers fast, accurate, and nearly silent focusing, which is crucial when capturing fleeting moments in nature or during live events. Moreover, the ability to switch to manual focus seamlessly gives us the control needed for fine adjustments.
Though it’s an investment, the Canon EF 100mm f/2.8L Macro IS USM lens is a versatile tool. It’s not only superb for macro photography but also performs admirably in portrait and concert settings. The solid construction and L-series designation confirm its place as a durable and reliable choice for serious photographers looking to expand their creative potential.
8. Canon EF 85mm f/1.4L IS USM
If you’re in search of a lens that elevates your portraiture, the Canon EF 85mm f/1.4L IS USM could be your pick for its professional-grade imagery and stabilization.
The Canon EF 85mm f/1.4L IS USM lens pulls together Canon’s heritage of high-quality L-series optics with the versatility of image stabilization. We appreciate the importance of this combination for professionals and hobbyists who demand sharp images even in less than ideal lighting conditions.
© BK foto/Shutterstock
Many lenses coerce a trade-off between aperture size and image stability, but here we find a harmonious balance. The f/1.4 aperture is generous enough to captivate beautiful portraits with creamy bokeh, while the built-in Image Stabilizer bolsters our confidence in hand-held shooting.
Opting for this lens means you’ll be well-equipped to tackle various photography scenarios confidently. Whether it’s a dimly lit wedding hall or a bustling sports event, the lens’s rapid autofocus system doesn’t falter, ensuring we don’t miss a beat.
Its optics are a testament to Canon’s commitment to produce lenses that serve the needs of demanding photographers, reflecting in the satisfaction of those who have welcomed this lens into their kit.
9. Canon RF 50mm f/1.2L USM
We find that the Canon RF 50mm f/1.2L USM is a premium choice for photographers aiming for stellar performance in low light conditions and beautiful bokeh with their EOS R system cameras.
Price at publication: $2099.00
Those who chase after outstanding optical performance will appreciate this lens’ supreme imaging capabilities. It elevates portrait and low-light photography to new heights, capturing crisp, detailed shots with a pleasing background blur.
© charnsitr/Shutterstock
Our attention goes towards the seamlessly integrated control ring—a user-friendly feature that allows quick manual adjustments to settings without taking your eye off the subject. This ergonomic addition enhances the shooting experience considerably.
While we praise the high-end build and image quality, we acknowledge the lens’s significant weight and size, which may demand a period of adjustment for those accustomed to lighter gear. Additionally, while the lack of image stabilization can be a notable absence, the lens’s wide aperture often compensates with faster shutter speeds in dim conditions.
10. Canon RF 85mm f/1.2L USM
We consider the Canon RF 85mm F1.2 L USM an essential tool for those seeking a lens that excels in portraiture and low-light photography.
Price at publication: $2499.00
Photographers have always held the 85mm lens in high regard, especially when it comes to shooting portraits, and this lens is no exception. It produces photos that are not only sharp and detailed but also embellished with a pleasing background blur, thanks to its wide f/1.2 aperture. This is a lens that doesn’t disappoint when you desire a professional finish to your images.
Moving to its usability, we find the RF 85mm F1.2 remarkably refined in operation. Its autofocus is snappy, which complements the eye detection AF present in Canon’s EOS R series quite well. The precision in focusing makes capturing the emotional depth in portraits or the subtle details in event photography effortless.
Our take on this Canon lens also considers the practicalities of everyday use. As much as we appreciate the hefty construction conveying durability, it’s undeniable that such heft can be a strain during extended handheld use. The investment for such optical prowess is significant as well, and as such, it may lie beyond the reach of hobbyists.
To sum up our thoughts, the Canon RF 85mm F1.2 L USM stands as a shining example of the balance between high-end optic engineering and tangible improvements in image-making for professionals.
Buying Guide
Canon Lens Mounts Explained
To better understand our lens selections, let’s first differentiate between Canon’s lens mounts and motor types:
- Canon RF Mount: Tailored for Canon’s full-frame mirrorless camera system, these lenses are engineered for advanced features and top-tier performance, primarily catering to professional photography needs.
- Canon EF Mount: This is the universal mount for Canon’s full-frame and APS-C DSLR cameras, with EF lenses celebrated for their adaptability and broad compatibility.
- Canon EF-M Mount: Exclusively designed for Canon’s APS-C mirrorless cameras, EF-M lenses offer a compact and lightweight design, ideal for travel and daily photography.
Motor Types – STM vs USM:
- STM (Stepping Motor): Known for smooth and quiet focusing capabilities, making them suitable for video recording. STM lenses are typically more cost-effective.
- USM (Ultrasonic Motor): These lenses are lauded for their swift and precise autofocus, an essential feature for capturing fast-paced action in sports and wildlife photography.
Understanding Prime Lenses
Before we purchase prime lenses, we must understand that these lenses have a fixed focal length, meaning zooming is done physically by moving closer or farther from the subject. Their typical advantage is a larger maximum aperture, allowing more light and enabling sharper images with a shallow depth of field.
Key Features to Consider
Aperture
The maximum aperture, indicated by f-numbers such as f/1.4, f/2.0, etc., is crucial. A lower number means the lens can open wider to allow more light, which is ideal for low-light situations and achieving a bokeh effect.
Focal Length
Choose a focal length that fits our photography style. Wide-angle lenses are excellent for landscapes while telephoto lenses suit portrait photography. Consider the crop factor on our camera’s sensor, which affects the effective focal length.
Compatibility
Ensure the lens mount is compatible with our camera body. Check the sensor size as well because a lens designed for a full-frame camera may have a different effect on a crop sensor.
Build Quality and Features
Assess the lens’s build quality, focusing on the materials used and design. Weather sealing, image stabilization, and autofocus speed are additional features that might influence our decision.
| Feature | Why It Matters |
|---|---|
| Maximum Aperture | Low-light performance, bokeh |
| Focal Length | Compositions suited to style |
| Compatibility | Match with camera body, sensor |
| Build Quality | Durability, longevity |
| Extra Features | Weather sealing, autofocus, etc. |
Budget Considerations
We must balance cost with necessity. While high-quality lenses may be expensive, they are an investment in the quality of our work. Look for the sweet spot between performance and expense that meets our requirements without overextending our budget.
Canon has an extensive array of high-quality lenses for its various camera systems, including dozens of prime lenses. Prime lenses typically offer superior quality to their zoom counterparts and are ideal for specialist photography like landscapes, macro, and portraiture.
In this guide, we’ve selected ten of the best Canon prime lenses you can buy, including EF, RF, and EF-M mount picks.
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