Best Pick

Canon EF-S 18-135mm f/3.5-5.6 IS USM

95.1 Portrait Score
18-135mmf/3.5Canon EF-SIS
Why we recommend this

A 7.5x zoom range from 18-135mm on APS-C bodies provides a 29-216mm equivalent field of view, eliminating lens swaps for most daylight scenes. The built-in Image Stabilizer and lightweight 98g build make it a practical, single-lens solution for all-day handheld shooting. This lens is best for travel photographers and hobbyists who prioritize framing flexibility and minimal kit weight over wide-aperture performance.

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Great Alternatives

These options also score highly and may better suit your specific needs

Canon RF-S 55-210mm f/5-7.1 IS STM

77.1 Portrait Score
55-210mmf/7.1Canon RFIS
Why we recommend this ▼

The 55-210mm zoom range delivers an 88-336mm equivalent reach on APS-C bodies, with a 4.5-stop optical stabilizer and a 270g build that makes handheld telephoto shooting practical. Its STM motor provides near-silent autofocus for video, and the 0.28x magnification allows close-up detail without switching lenses. This lens suits EOS R-series APS-C users who want a lightweight, affordable telephoto for travel, wildlife, and sports.

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Canon RF-S 55-210mm f/5-7.1 IS STM lens
Price CA$358

Canon RF 24-50mm f/4.5-6.3 IS STM

67 Portrait Score
24-50mmf/6.3Canon RFIS
Why we recommend this ▼

At only 210g with 4.5-stop stabilization, the 24-50mm f/4.5-6.3 provides an ultralight stabilized standard zoom for full-frame RF cameras. A collapsible form, Super Spectra Coating, and dual aspherical elements ensure sharp, low-distortion shots at a budget price, while the STM motor operates silently for video. It’s ideal for vloggers and casual EOS R-series shooters who value a featherweight, stabilized walkaround lens over maximum aperture speed.

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Canon EF 7155C005 300mm

61.5 Portrait Score
75-300mmf/5.6Canon RF
Why we recommend this ▼

The constant f/4 aperture across its 75-300mm zoom range provides consistent exposure control, though its 3175g weight demands robust support. Its EF mount compatibility offers a straightforward entry point for Canon DSLR users seeking telephoto reach at a low cost. This lens is best for budget-conscious beginners practicing outdoor portraits or daylight sports where its lack of stabilization is manageable.

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Canon 6473A003

56.9 Portrait Score
75-300mm
Why we recommend this ▼

The 13-element optical design shared with Canon's USM version delivers 300mm reach in a lightweight 480g body, making it the most affordable entry into telephoto photography. The improved zoom mechanism with a silver accent ring provides smoother focal length changes, and the 4.9-foot minimum focus distance enables frame-filling shots of small subjects at the long end. This lens suits budget-conscious beginners wanting to explore sports, wildlife, or outdoor portraits without investing in premium glass.

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