Best Lenses under €500 for professional use

Best Pick

Nikon NIKKOR AF-S DX Micro-NIKKOR 40mm f/2.8G 40mm

74.9 Professional Score
40mmf/2.8Nikon FWeather Sealed
Why we recommend this

Delivering true 1:1 life-size magnification at a 163mm minimum focus distance, this 60mm-equivalent macro prime captures fine details with its Super Integrated Coated optics. Its featherweight 85g build and weather-sealed design make it an effortlessly portable, everyday macro tool. This lens is best for DX-format Nikon shooters needing an affordable, versatile optic for close-up product photography, delicate flora, and detailed collectables.

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Nikon NIKKOR Z 35mm f/1.8 S 35mm

54 Professional Score
35mmf/22Nikon FWeather Sealed
Why we recommend this ▼

The bright f/1.8 maximum aperture and 52.5mm equivalent field of view deliver strong subject isolation and low-light performance in a compact 200g body. Its Silent Wave Motor provides fast, near-silent autofocus with full-time manual override, while the aspherical element and Super Integrated Coating maintain sharpness and contrast. This lens is best for DX-format Nikon shooters seeking an affordable, lightweight prime for everyday photography and discreet street shooting.

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Best Lenses under €900 for professional use

Best Pick

Nikon NIKKOR Z 24-120mm f/4 S 120mm

70.9 Professional Score
24-120mmf/22Nikon FISWeather Sealed
Why we recommend this

The constant f/4 aperture across its 24-120mm range, combined with an advanced optical design featuring ED and aspherical elements, delivers consistent sharpness and clarity for a 5x zoom. Its relatively compact 630g build includes weather sealing and a programmable control ring, offering durable, customizable handling that belies its versatile reach. This lens is best for landscape and travel photographers needing a single, high-quality walkaround solution without sacrificing weather resistance.

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Nikon NIKKOR AF-S DX NIKKOR 16-80mm f/2.8-4E ED VR

70.5 Professional Score
16-80mmf/2.8Nikon FIS
Why we recommend this ▼

A 16-80mm zoom range with f/2.8 at the wide end and Vibration Reduction delivers flexible, stabilized shooting for Nikon DX bodies. The bundled UV filter and cleaning kit provide immediate protection and maintenance right out of the box. Portrait and travel photographers using APS-C cameras will find this a practical, single-lens solution for varied handheld conditions.

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Best Lenses under €1,500 for professional use

Best Pick

Nikon Micro-NIKKOR 2177 60mm

71.5 Professional Score
60mmf/2.8Nikon FIS
Why we recommend this

Delivering true 1:1 reproduction with edge-to-edge sharpness, its optical formula includes one ED and two aspherical elements alongside Nano Crystal Coat to suppress flare and chromatic aberration. The internal focusing design and silent wave motor provide fast, quiet autofocus without a rotating front element, making filter use straightforward. This lens is best for Nikon DSLR shooters who need a precise, lightweight macro lens for detailed close-up work and copy stand reproduction.

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Nikon NIKKOR AF-S NIKKOR 20 mm f/1.8G ED 20mm

58.8 Professional Score
20mmNikon F
Why we recommend this ▼

The f/1.8 maximum aperture and Extra-low Dispersion glass elements deliver strong low-light performance with controlled aberrations in a compact 355g body. Its Silent Wave Motor enables fast, near-quiet autofocus down to 7.8 inches, making it a discreet option for tight spaces. This lens is best for FX-format shooters capturing expansive landscapes or environmental portraits who need a lightweight ultra-wide prime.

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Best Lenses under €2,500 for professional use

Best Pick

Nikon NIKKOR AF-S NIKKOR 28mm f/1.4E ED 28mm

62.2 Professional Score
28mmf/16Nikon FWeather Sealed
Why we recommend this

The f/1.4 maximum aperture combined with three aspherical and two ED elements delivers exceptional sharpness and contrast even wide open, with Nano Crystal Coatings effectively suppressing flare. Its weather-sealed, 645g build houses a fast Silent Wave Motor for reliable autofocus, making it a durable tool for demanding environments. This lens is best for professional event and wedding photographers who need a bright, wide-angle prime with robust build quality for low-light, full-frame F-mount work.

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No Lenses found in this category. See our top picks under €2,500