Best Lenses under $500 for landscape

Best Pick

Nikon NIKKOR AF-S VR 70-300mm f/4.5-5.6G IF-ED 70-300mm

77.1 Landscape Score
70-300mmf/4.5Nikon FISWeather Sealed
Why we recommend this

Effective Vibration Reduction enables three-stop slower handheld shooting, and the 272g lens' Silent Wave Motor provides fast, quiet autofocus. The refurbished unit offers like-new optics with ED glass and Super Integrated Coating, plus a 90-day warranty at a budget price. It's best for Nikon DX beginners needing a compact stabilized zoom for close-ups, portraits, and daily walkaround use.

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Price $473
Nikon NIKKOR AF-S VR 70-300mm f/4.5-5.6G IF-ED 70-300mm lens

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Tamron Di II A14M 18-200mm

73.1 Landscape Score
18-200mmf/18Nikon FIS
Why we recommend this

The world’s lightest 11x zoom at 397g, this Nikon APS-C lens covers 18-200mm with a built-in motor for compatibility with newer bodies. A budget-friendly all-in-one travel zoom, it includes a hood and 6-year warranty but lacks stabilization and weather sealing. Best for casual shooters wanting a single versatile lens for travel, portraits, and close-up macro work.

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Tamron Di II A14M 18-200mm lens
Price $90
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Sigma EX DC HSM 10-20mm f/3.5 20mm

70.1 Landscape Score
10-20mmf/22Nikon FIS
Why we recommend this

A constant f/3.5 aperture across the 10-20mm zoom range provides consistent exposure control, supported by 3 ED and 4 aspherical elements to curb distortion. The HSM autofocus motor delivers quiet, fast focusing, while the built-in stabilization aids handheld shooting in tight interiors. This lens is best for APS-C landscape photographers needing an ultra-wide perspective without the bulk, weighing just 520g.

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Sigma EX DC HSM 10-20mm f/3.5 EX DC HSM 20mm lens
Price $479

Tokina atx-i 17-35mm f/4 FF 35mm

58.9 Landscape Score
17-35mmf/22Nikon FWeather Sealed
Why we recommend this

A constant f/4 aperture and weather-sealed build pair with three aspherical and two ED elements for consistent edge-to-edge sharpness across the 17-35mm range. The one-touch focus clutch instantly switches between AF and MF, while the 9-blade diaphragm provides smooth out-of-focus rendering at close distances. This lens is best for Nikon F-mount landscape and architecture photographers needing a lightweight 569g zoom that focuses down to 280mm for 1:4.7 magnification near-far compositions.

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Sigma Art 28mm f/1.4 DG HSM

63 Landscape Score
28mmf/1.4Nikon FWeather Sealed
Why we recommend this

The f/1.4 maximum aperture and an optical design with three aspherical and five SLD/FLD elements deliver exceptional sharpness and contrast control for low-light scenes. Its weather-sealed, robust build and Super Multi-Layer Coating ensure reliable, flare-resistant performance in demanding conditions. This lens is best for professional landscape and street photographers needing a fast, wide-angle prime with uncompromising optical clarity.

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Nikon Zoom-Nikkor 2162 18mm

55.4 Landscape Score
18-135mmf/3.5Nikon F
Why we recommend this

The lens stands out with a 7.5x zoom spanning 18-135mm, an ED glass element that controls chromatic aberrations, and an AF-S motor delivering fast, quiet autofocus. A seven-blade rounded diaphragm renders pleasing out-of-focus backgrounds, and the 67mm filter thread accepts common accessories, while the renewed option offers tested reliability at a lower cost. This lens is best for DSLR beginners and travel photographers needing a single, affordable cover-all zoom for everyday shooting.

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Sigma 18-125mm f/3.5-5.6 DC IF Aspherical Zoom 18-125mm

48.2 Landscape Score
18-125mmf/3.5Nikon FIS
Why we recommend this

Its 7x 18-125mm range and optical stabilization, packed into a 385g body, deliver versatile focal length coverage with an aspherical element for improved sharpness. The Internal Focus design keeps the front barrel from rotating, simplifying the use of polarizing filters, a thoughtful touch for a budget lens. It’s a strong match for Nikon DX DSLR users wanting a lightweight, stabilized walk-around lens that can handle close-up subjects, as reflected in its highest test score for macro (59.1/100).

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Rokinon 10mm f/2.8 ED AS NCS CS 10mm

46 Landscape Score
10mmf/22Nikon F
Why we recommend this

Its 10mm f/2.8 focal length combined with Nano Crystal Coating, ED and two aspherical elements delivers 110-degree edge-to-edge coverage on APS-C Nikon bodies, aided by an AE chip for auto metering. The manual-focus lens includes built-in stabilization and an inner focusing system that maintains a constant length while enabling a 9.5-inch close-focus distance for near-macro shots. This lens is best for architectural and landscape photographers who need dramatic ultra-wide perspectives, as well as journalists working in confined spaces.

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Laowa 1180039

45 Landscape Score
14mmf/4Nikon F
Why we recommend this

Its 14mm focal length provides a 114° angle of view with near-zero distortion, achieved through two aspherical and two extra-low dispersion elements. The lens weighs just 360g and features a calibratable focusing scale for precise manual focus, while its 5.7-inch minimum focus distance enables strong foreground emphasis. This is ideal for architectural and landscape photographers who need a compact, distortion-free ultra-wide prime with manual control.

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Samyang CS SY16M-C 16mm

41.5 Landscape Score
16mmf/2Nikon F
Why we recommend this

A bright f/2.0 maximum aperture and optics with two aspherical and one extra-low dispersion element produce sharp, flare-resistant images in this manual-focus wide-angle lens. The 24mm equivalent perspective and precise focus ring provide deliberate control for deep depth-of-field landscapes and low-light scenes. Astrophotographers and Nikon APS-C landscape shooters looking for an affordable, fast prime will find it a sturdy, no-compromise option.

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Samyang CS SY16M-C 16mm lens
Price $371

Meike MK-00835FU

39 Landscape Score
8mmf/22Nikon FWeather Sealed
Why we recommend this

Its 8mm focal length on a full-frame sensor produces a dramatic 180-degree circular fisheye image with strong, deliberate distortion. The multi-layer nano coating effectively suppresses flare and ghosting for maintained contrast in challenging light, while the all-metal, weather-sealed build adds durability at a budget-friendly price. This lens is best for experimental photographers and landscape shooters wanting an extreme, stylized perspective without a major financial investment.

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Meike MK-00835FU lens
Price $149

Rokinon CINE DSX RK24MAF-N 24mm

38.1 Landscape Score
24mmf/22Nikon F
Why we recommend this

Its f/1.4 maximum aperture and 24mm wide-angle view, coupled with two aspherical and four ED elements, deliver sharp low-light imaging with minimal flare. The fully manual focus and aperture design, along with a 9.84-inch minimum focus distance, give precise control for close-up wide-angle compositions. This lens suits astrophotographers and independent filmmakers needing a fast, deliberate manual prime on Pentax K-mount, but not action or wildlife shooters due to the slow manual operation.

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IRIX Dragonfly IL-30DF-EF 30mm

36 Landscape Score
30mmf/16Nikon FWeather Sealed
Why we recommend this

A fast f/1.4 maximum aperture paired with an 11-blade rounded diaphragm and weather-sealed construction delivers smooth, cinematic bokeh with 0.95% distortion across full-frame sensors. The 140-degree focus ring rotation and rear-focus design maintain constant lens length for precise, non-extending manual focus control. This lens suits still-life, macro, and portrait photographers who prioritize rugged build quality and deliberate manual focusing over AF convenience.

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Samyang SY12M-N

35.2 Landscape Score
12mmf/22Nikon F
Why we recommend this

The 12mm full-frame fisheye provides a 180° diagonal field of view and an f/2.8 aperture, with an optical design incorporating three ED and two aspherical elements with Nano Coating to suppress aberrations. Its manual-focus-only build with an integrated AE chip gives full exposure control on Nikon F bodies while keeping weight at 500g. Best for architectural interior photographers and creative shooters pursuing extreme, immersive barrel distortion without needing autofocus or weather sealing.

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Samyang SY12M-N lens
Price $329

BENOISON 420-Nikon--F 420-800mm

34.4 Landscape Score
420-800mmf/16Nikon FIS
Why we recommend this

The 420-800mm zoom range on a full-frame F-mount body provides extreme reach for distant subjects, though the manual focus and variable f/8.3-16 aperture demand careful technique and ample light. Its lightweight 717g build and direct F-mount compatibility eliminate the need for adapters, making it a portable option for Nikon DSLR users. This lens is best for hobbyist wildlife observers and moon photographers on a strict budget who are comfortable working entirely in manual mode.

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Big Mike's BM-SLY420NK-K2 420-1600mm

33.9 Landscape Score
420-1600mmf/8.3Nikon FIS
Why we recommend this

The 420-1600mm zoom range and constant f/8.3 aperture offer extreme reach in a lightweight 989g body, but the lens is entirely manual focus with no electronic communication. Its F-mount compatibility spans a wide range of Nikon DSLRs, making it a low-cost entry point for super-telephoto photography. This lens is best for budget-conscious Nikon DSLR users who are comfortable with manual focus and want to experiment with long-distance wildlife or sports shots in good light.

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Best Lenses under $1,000 for landscape

Best Pick

Tamron SP 24-70mm f/2.8 Di VC USD G2

79.1 Landscape Score
24-70mmf/22Nikon FISWeather Sealed
Why we recommend this

The constant f/2.8 aperture combined with 5-stop Vibration Compensation and a sophisticated 17-element optical design with eBAND coatings delivers sharp, high-contrast images in challenging light. Its weather-sealed, moisture-resistant construction and fluorine-coated front element provide durability for field use without a premium price tag. This lens is best for landscape and travel photographers who need a reliable, stabilized standard zoom with full-frame coverage.

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Nikon NIKKOR Z 24-70mm f/2.8 S 70mm

75.2 Landscape Score
24-70mmf/22Nikon FWeather Sealed
Why we recommend this

The constant f/2.8 aperture and internal zoom mechanism, a first for its class, maintain the lens's center of gravity for stable gimbal use while its Nano Crystal Coat and ED elements suppress flare and ghosting. Its optical formula delivers sharpness and pleasing bokeh in a weather-sealed, 900g body that is smaller and lighter than typical 24-70mm f/2.8 lenses. This lens is best for landscape photographers and video shooters who need a durable, stabilized workhorse zoom with silent, fast autofocus.

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Nikon NIKKOR Z 24-70mm f/2.8 S 70mm lens
Price $1,250

Sigma Contemporary 18-300mm f/3.5-6.3 DC Macro OS HSM 18-300mm

71 Landscape Score
18-300mmf/3.5Nikon FIS
Why we recommend this

The 16.7x all-in-one 18-300mm focal range with 1:3 macro capability makes this bundle stand out for sheer versatility, supported by a Hyper Sonic Motor and Optical Stabilization. Its optical design with aspherical and ED elements ensures decent sharpness across the zoom range in a compact, travel-friendly build that pairs with extensive accessories. Best for street photographers and Nikon DX hobbyists needing a single-lens solution that can also capture detailed close-ups without switching glass.

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Canon NIKKOR AF-S DX Zoom-NIKKOR 12-24mm f/4G IF-ED 12-24mm

45.4 Landscape Score
12-24mmf/22Nikon F
Why we recommend this

The constant f/4 aperture across the 12–24mm zoom range, with three aspherical and two ED elements, ensures sharp ultra-wide shots with well-controlled distortion. Its quiet AF-S motor and a 77mm filter thread add creative flexibility, while the 88g build keeps it exceptionally light for an ultra-wide zoom. Best for street photographers on Nikon DX bodies who need a portable perspective that excels at wide-angle scenes, though it performs poorly for macro work.

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Tamron Di VC USD 100-400mm f/4.5-6.3

75.2 Landscape Score
100-400mmf/4.5Nikon FISWeather Sealed
Why we recommend this

Its magnesium alloy construction and 4-stop Vibration Compensation enable sharp, handheld shooting at 400mm without adding heft. The lens's 1.5m minimum focus distance and 1:3.6 maximum magnification deliver close-up detail rarely found in super-telephoto zooms. This lens best suits travel and wildlife photographers who need a compact, weather-sealed option for all-day handheld use.

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Sigma 120-400mm f/4.5-5.6 AF APO DG OS HSM

56.4 Landscape Score
120-400mmf/22Nikon FIS
Why we recommend this

Featuring a 4-stop Optical Stabilizer and HSM autofocus, this lens delivers a flexible 120-400mm zoom range on full-frame Nikon F-mount bodies. Its rear focus system and three SLD glass elements maintain sharpness, while the 150cm close-focus distance enables 1:4.2 macro-style detail shots. This lens is best for budget-conscious Nikon DSLR photographers starting out in wildlife and sports, where the stabilized 400mm reach offers practical handheld shooting.

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Tamron AF020N700 28-300mm

49.2 Landscape Score
28-300mmf/6.3Nikon FIS
Why we recommend this

Capturing a 10.7x zoom range from 28mm wide to 300mm telephoto with Vibration Compensation, this 540g lens offers a minimum focus distance of just 67mm for macro shooting. Its built-in motor ensures compatibility with Nikon DSLRs that lack a focus drive, while XR Di aspherical optics keep the form compact and portable. This lens suits amateur photographers seeking a single, affordable travel solution for everything from landscapes to close-up details.

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Sigma APO DG OS HSM 737306 150-500mm

45.5 Landscape Score
150-500mmf/5Nikon FIS
Why we recommend this

Covering a 150-500mm focal length with 4-stop optical stabilization, this lens delivers handheld reach for full-frame Sony A-mount bodies. The HSM autofocus is quiet and responsive, while three ED elements with multi-layer coating help control aberrations at the variable f/5-6.3 aperture. It’s best suited for outdoor wildlife and sports enthusiasts needing an affordable super-telephoto zoom without sacrificing stabilization.

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Samyang SYTS24-N 24mm

41 Landscape Score
24mmf/22Nikon F
Why we recommend this

The 16-element optical design with two aspherical and two ED elements delivers sharp, aberration-controlled images, while the +/-12mm shift and +/-8.5º tilt provide precise perspective correction on full-frame Canon bodies. Its manual focus and 680g build offer a straightforward, affordable entry into tilt-shift photography without electronic complexity. This lens is best for architecture and product photographers who need to control converging lines and depth of field on a budget.

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Zeiss 000000-2096-554

34.2 Landscape Score
35mmf/22Nikon FWeather Sealed
Why we recommend this

Its Distagon optical design with one anomalous partial dispersion element and ZEISS T* coating delivers sharp, high-contrast images with minimal chromatic aberration. The all-metal, weather-sealed barrel and de-clickable aperture ring provide a precise, tactile shooting experience built for demanding conditions. This lens is best for landscape and architectural photographers who prioritize manual focus control and robust build quality over autofocus convenience.

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Best Lenses under $1,500 for landscape

Best Pick

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

66.8 Landscape Score
16-80mmf/2.8Nikon FIS
Why we recommend this

The 16-80mm focal range and bright f/2.8-4 aperture make this a versatile 5x zoom, with Nano Crystal Coatings and four ED elements controlling flare and aberrations effectively. Its compact 59g build and 4-stop VR stabilization enable sharp handheld shooting across a 24-120mm equivalent field of view. This lens is best for street and travel photographers using Nikon DX bodies who need a single, high-quality walkaround zoom.

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Zeiss 000000-1457-856

50.4 Landscape Score
15mmf/22Nikon FWeather Sealed
Why we recommend this

The Distagon optical design with 5 ED and 2 aspherical elements delivers distortion-controlled, sharp 15mm images with the ZEISS T* coating effectively suppressing flare. Its all-metal, weather-sealed build and de-clickable aperture ring offer a precise, tactile manual focus experience for video and stills. This lens is best for landscape and architecture photographers using Nikon F-mount who prioritize optical precision and robust build over autofocus convenience.

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Laowa Aurogon FF 10-50x Supermicro 10-50mm

34.1 Landscape Score
10-50mmNA0.5Nikon F
Why we recommend this

Featuring a 50:1 maximum magnification and a 20mm fixed working distance, it uses NA 0.5 optics with full-frame coverage to resolve microscopic detail. Interchangeable magnification tubes let you dial from 10x to 50x without swapping lenses, streamlining extreme macro workflows. This lens is best for scientific researchers and industrial inspectors who need extreme close-up imaging on a Nikon F-mount system.

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Best Lenses under $2,500 for landscape

Best Pick

Nikon NIKKOR 2208 80-400mm

59.3 Landscape Score
80-400mm32-40Nikon FIS
Why we recommend this

Three ED glass elements and Vibration Reduction providing a 3-stop advantage define this 80-400mm f/4.5-5.6 5x full-frame zoom lens. A 9-blade rounded diaphragm ensures smooth out-of-focus rendering, and renewed availability makes it an affordable entry into telephoto photography. It's ideal for budget-minded wildlife and sports shooters who prioritize reach and stabilization over constant aperture or weather sealing.

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Price $1,728
Nikon NIKKOR 2208 80-400mm lens

Premium Lenses for landscape

Best Pick

Nikon NIKKOR 20071 400mm

59.8 Landscape Score
180-400mmf/32Nikon FISWeather Sealed
Why we recommend this

A built-in 1.4x teleconverter instantly transforms this zoom into a 252-560mm f/5.6, while its constant f/4 aperture, one fluorite, and eight ED elements maintain clarity. Vibration Reduction stabilization and Nano Crystal Coatings ensure sharp, high-contrast images in demanding light and during handheld use. This lens is best for wildlife and sports photographers who need rapid focal length flexibility in a single, weather-sealed housing.

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

Sigma 185955

47 Landscape Score
500mmf/32Nikon FISWeather Sealed
Why we recommend this

The constant f/4 aperture combined with two FLD and one SLD element delivers exceptional clarity and chromatic aberration correction, while the magnesium alloy body provides a dust- and splash-proof build at 3310g. Its optical stabilization offers a 4-stop advantage, and the Hyper Sonic Motor provides fast, accurate autofocus that excels in challenging low-light conditions. This lens is best for wildlife and sports photographers who need a durable, hand-holdable 500mm prime with full-frame coverage and reliable weather sealing for extended outdoor shoots.

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Sigma 185955 lens
Price $6,599

Zeiss Otus 100mm f/1.4 ZF.2 100mm

32.9 Landscape Score
100mmf/16Nikon F
Why we recommend this

The apochromatic Sonnar design incorporates 9 low-dispersion and 1 aspherical element, minimizing color fringing at f/1.4 with Zeiss T* anti-reflective coating. Its anodized metal barrel, 1336g weight, and long manual focus throw provide deliberate, vibration-free control ideal for tripod-based work. This lens is best for portrait and product photographers who will sacrifice autofocus and weather sealing for maximal sharpness across the frame.

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