Best Lenses under $500 for landscape

Best Pick

Tamron Di III 28-75mm f/2.8 VXD G2

73.1 Landscape Score
28-75mmf/2.8Sony EWeather Sealed
Why we recommend this

The updated optical design and VXD linear motor deliver sharper resolution and faster, quieter autofocus than its predecessor, all in a weather-sealed, 540g body. Its standout 1:2.7 magnification at a 7.1-inch minimum focus distance adds genuine close-up versatility rarely found in a constant f/2.8 standard zoom. This lens is best for hybrid shooters and portrait photographers who need a lightweight, do-it-all workhorse without the premium price of first-party glass.

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Best Lenses under $1,000 for landscape

Best Pick

Tamron Di III 18-300mm f/3.5-6.3 Di III-A VC VXD

86.6 Landscape Score
18-300mmf/3.5Sony EISWeather Sealed
Why we recommend this

The 16.6x zoom range covering a 27-450mm full-frame equivalent field of view and a 1:2 maximum magnification at just 5.9 inches eliminates the need to swap lenses. Its VXD linear motor delivers fast, quiet autofocus, complemented by effective Vibration Compensation and weather-sealed construction in a compact 620g body. This lens is best for travel and landscape photographers using Sony E-mount APS-C cameras who prioritize framing flexibility over a wide aperture.

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Great Alternatives

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

Tamron Di III VC 50-300mm f/4.5-6.3 VXD

78.8 Landscape Score
50-300mmf/6.3Sony EISWeather Sealed
Why we recommend this ▼

Its unique 50mm wide end in a 300mm telephoto zoom offers framing flexibility no other lens in its class provides, all within a compact 665g body. The VXD linear motor delivers fast, precise autofocus and the lens achieves a useful 1:2 half-macro magnification at the 50mm end with a 0.22m minimum focus distance. This lens is best for wildlife and sports photographers using Sony E-mount who need a lightweight, single-lens solution for both distant action and wider environmental shots.

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Tamron Di III VXD 20-40mm f/2.8

69.6 Landscape Score
20-40mmf/2.8Sony EWeather Sealed
Why we recommend this ▼

Combining a constant f/2.8 aperture with a compact 365g build, this lens stands out for its fast VXD linear autofocus and useful 20-40mm range on full-frame Sony E-mount bodies. Its 6.7-inch minimum focus distance and moisture-sealed construction add practical close-up capability and durability in a portable package. This lens is best for travel photographers and vloggers who prioritize a lightweight, fast standard zoom over telephoto reach.

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Tamron Di III-A B061 18-300mm

59 Landscape Score
18-300mmf/22Sony EISWeather Sealed
Why we recommend this ▼

Covering a massive 18-300mm focal range with VXD linear autofocus and VC stabilization, this lens eliminates the need to swap glass from wide landscapes to tight telephoto shots. Its 1:2 maximum magnification at a 5.9-inch minimum focus distance enables near-macro detail, while the weather-sealed 621g body remains portable for all-day carry. This lens is best for travel and hiking photographers who want a single, versatile solution for capturing everything from sweeping vistas to distant wildlife.

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Tamron Di III-A B061 18-300mm lens
Price $629

Tamron Di III VC VXD AF020N700 28-300mm

46.5 Landscape Score
28-300mmf/4Sony EIS
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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No Lenses under $1,500 yet. See our top picks under $2,500

Best Lenses under $2,500 for landscape

Best Pick

Tamron SP A022 150-600mm

61.6 Landscape Score
150-600mm32-40Sony EISWeather Sealed
Why we recommend this

Covering a 150-600mm focal range with built-in VC image stabilization, this f/5-6.3 zoom brings distant subjects within reach for Nikon F-mount cameras. Its Ultrasonic Silent Drive autofocus motor operates quickly and quietly, while eBAND and Fluorine coatings combat flare and repel moisture and oil. The lens suits budget-minded wildlife and sports photographers who need significant telephoto power without the weight or cost of exotic primes.

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