Best Lenses under $500 for everyday use

Best Pick

Sigma Contemporary 56mm f/1.4 DC DN 56mm

82.7 Score
56mmf/1.4Nikon ZWeather Sealed
Why we recommend this

The bright f/1.4 aperture and 84mm full-frame equivalent focal length deliver sharp subject isolation and strong low-light performance in a compact, 280g body. Its weather-sealed construction and near-silent stepping motor AF add durability and discreet operation uncommon at this price point. This lens is best for APS-C mirrorless portrait and street photographers who need a lightweight, fast telephoto prime with professional-grade optics.

View Details & Prices

Great Alternatives

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

Sigma APO 70-300mm f/4-5.6 DG APO Macro

72.9 Score
70-300mmf/4Canon EFIS
Why we recommend this ▼

A 1:2 macro mode at 300mm combined with three SLD glass elements and a 540g body make this telezoom a versatile, lightweight option for close-up reach. Its built-in motor ensures autofocus on all Nikon DSLRs, while the super multi-layer coating effectively cuts flare. Best for budget-minded Nikon shooters who want a single, portable lens to capture distant wildlife and detailed flower shots in daylight.

View Details & Prices
Sigma APO 70-300mm f/4-5.6 DG APO Macro lens
Price $230

Sigma DC Macro OS HSM 17-70mm f/2.8-4

72.5 Score
17-70mmf/2.8Sony EIS
Why we recommend this ▼

With a 4-stop Optical Stabilizer and an 8.7-inch close focus across its f/2.8-4 range, this 17-70mm zoom delivers 1:2.7 macro shots and low-light flexibility. The HSM autofocus and viewfinder-visible stabilization keep the 535g build steady for handheld use, aided by anti-shake technology that works independently of camera body stabilization. It’s best for Sony APS-C shooters needing a single, budget-friendly lens for both everyday scenes and detailed close-up photography.

View Details & Prices

Sigma EX DC HSM 10-20mm f/3.5 20mm

61.4 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.

View Details & Prices
Sigma EX DC HSM 10-20mm f/3.5 EX DC HSM 20mm lens
Price $479
Check Price at Amazon
Also available open box & refurbished:

Sigma DC 18-125mm f/3.5-5.6 AF DC OS HSM

60.6 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).

View Details & Prices

Sigma DG 28-300mm f/3.5-6.3 DG IF Macro Aspherical

59.9 Score
28-300mmf/3.5Canon SLR
Why we recommend this ▼

A 10.7x zoom ratio from 28 to 300mm with 4 aspherical and 2 ED elements delivers sharp images across the range, while the 500mm minimum focus and 1:3 macro magnification enable close-up shots at full zoom. The 490g weight and zoom lock device make it a practical travel companion, though it lacks stabilization and weather sealing. Best for portrait and street photographers who want one compact lens for varied shooting without changing lenses.

View Details & Prices

Sigma Aspherical IF Macro 709-205 28-135mm

56.7 Score
28-135mmf/3.8Konica Minolta
Why we recommend this ▼

The 28-135mm zoom range with f/3.8-5.6 aperture and a 135mm minimum focus distance delivers a 2.4x macro capability, making it a flexible all-in-one for close-up work. Its 410g weight and APS-C coverage for Konica Minolta mounts offer a lightweight, budget-friendly option without stabilization or weather sealing. Best for portrait and macro shooters on a budget who want a single lens for everyday use.

View Details & Prices

Sigma TC-1401

52.7 Score
Nikon FISWeather Sealed
Why we recommend this ▼

Extending the reach of compatible Sigma telephoto lenses by 1.4x without sacrificing autofocus capability, this converter maintains full electronic communication between the lens and Nikon F-mount body. Its compact design preserves handling balance while adding versatility to your existing kit. This accessory is best for portrait and wildlife photographers needing extra focal length without investing in a dedicated super-telephoto prime lens.

View Details & Prices

Sigma Global Vision TC-1401 1400mm

45 Score
1400mmSigma SAWeather Sealed
Why we recommend this ▼

The 1.4x teleconverter extends autofocus capability up to f/8 with compatible cameras, making it a practical tool for telephoto shooters. Its dust and splash-proof construction adds durability for outdoor use, while the compact 9.9 cm package keeps it easy to carry. Best for photographers using Sigma SA-mount lenses who need extra reach without losing autofocus in challenging conditions.

View Details & Prices

Sigma MC-11 89E965

44.8 Score
Canon EF a Sony E (EOS-SE)IS
Why we recommend this ▼

This Sigma MC-11 mount converter enables full electronic control, including autofocus and aperture selection, when adapting Canon EF or Sigma SA lenses to Sony FE bodies. It uniquely supports both in-lens optical stabilization and in-body camera shake reduction, bridging two major lens ecosystems. This adapter is best for portrait photographers with existing Canon glass who are transitioning to Sony mirrorless systems.

View Details & Prices

Best Lenses under $1,000 for everyday use

Best Pick

Sigma Art 17-40mm f/1.8 DC

96.5 Score
17-40mmf/1.8Fujifilm XWeather Sealed
Why we recommend this

A constant F1.8 aperture across the 17-40mm zoom range delivers consistent brightness and depth-of-field control unmatched by typical kit lenses. Its Art-series optical design ensures crisp image quality for both stills and cinematic video on Canon RF APS-C bodies. This lens is best for portrait and event photographers who need a fast, versatile wide-to-standard zoom in a compact 562g package.

View Details & Prices
Price $918
Sigma Art 17-40mm f/1.8 DC lens

Great Alternatives

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

Sigma Contemporary 10-18mm f/2.8 DC DN

94.9 Score
10-18mmf/2.8Sony EWeather Sealed
Why we recommend this ▼

Weighing just 260g with a constant f/2.8 aperture, this 10-18mm zoom delivers an ultra-wide 15-27mm full-frame equivalent field of view in a weather-sealed, travel-ready body. The fast internal focus system and 117mm minimum focus distance enable dynamic close-ups with smooth bokeh from its 7-blade diaphragm. This lens is best for vloggers and landscape photographers using APS-C Sony E-mount cameras who need a lightweight, low-light capable ultrawide zoom.

View Details & Prices

Sigma DC 883101 18mm

76.2 Score
18-250mmf/3.5Nikon FIS
Why we recommend this ▼

An expansive 13.9x zoom range (27–375mm equivalent on APS‑C) with 4‑stop stabilization and a lightweight 454g body defines this all-in-one superzoom. A 1:2.9 macro capability allowing focus as close as 35cm adds close‑up versatility, while the Super Multi‑Layer Coating reduces flare for consistent contrast. This lens is ideal for travelers and hobbyists on Canon, Nikon, or Sony APS‑C DSLRs who need a single, portable optic covering everything from wide landscapes to distant details with occasional macro.

View Details & Prices
Sigma DC 883101 18mm lens
Price $741
Check Price at Amazon
Also available open box & refurbished:

Sigma EX DC 10-20mm f/4-5.6D

70.8 Score
10-20mmf/4Sony A
Why we recommend this ▼

An ultrawide 10-20mm zoom with a constant f/4-5.6 aperture, it uses three aspherical and three SLD elements to fight distortion and color fringing, driven by a fast, quiet HSM autofocus motor with full-time manual override. Its internal focusing keeps the front element fixed, making polarizer use seamless and optical quality consistent at any distance. It suits budget-conscious landscape and architecture photographers who need a sharp, portable wide-angle lens for APS-C DSLRs.

View Details & Prices
Sigma EX DC 10-20mm f/4-5.6D EX DC lens
Price $555

Sigma Sports 70-200mm f/2.8 DG DN OS

69.3 Score
70-200mmf/22Sony EISWeather Sealed
Why we recommend this ▼

Dual HLA motors deliver fast, quiet autofocus and the OS2 algorithm provides 7.5 stops of stabilization, making this f/2.8 telephoto zoom exceptionally steady for handheld work. Its internal zoom mechanism and weather-sealed Sports-line build resist dust and moisture while minimizing focus breathing for consistent framing. This lens is best for sports and wildlife photographers using Sony E-mount who need reliable subject tracking and sharp results in challenging outdoor conditions.

View Details & Prices
Sigma Sports 70-200mm f/2.8 DG DN OS lens
Price $1,399

Sigma EX DG 15mm f/2.8 Diagonal Fisheye 15mm

60.6 Score
15mmf/2.8Canon EFIS
Why we recommend this ▼

Its 180-degree diagonal field of view on full-frame sensors and a close 150mm minimum focus distance enable dramatic, distorted perspectives with subjects nearly touching the front element. The constant f/2.8 aperture and lightweight 370g build make it a practical, creative tool without the bulk of modern ultra-wide zooms. This lens is best for wedding and underwater photographers seeking an affordable, auto-focus fisheye to produce artistic, eye-catching images.

View Details & Prices

Sigma EX DC OS HSM 17-50mm f/2.8

57.5 Score
17-50mmf/22Canon EFIS
Why we recommend this ▼

A constant f/2.8 aperture across the 17-50mm range, paired with a 4-stop optical stabilizer, makes this Sigma a solid choice for low-light shooting on APS-C Sony A-Mount bodies. Its HSM motor delivers quiet, fast autofocus, while the 7-blade diaphragm and Super Multi-Layer Coating help control bokeh and flare. Best for portrait and video work, where its stabilized aperture and 565g weight balance well on a DSLR.

View Details & Prices

Sigma DG 634101 28-70mm

52.4 Score
28-70mmf/2.8Canon EOS
Why we recommend this ▼

The f/2.8 maximum aperture at 28mm and 6.5x zoom range make this a compact 244g lens for Canon full-frame SLRs, with multilayer coating and an aspherical element to cut flare and maintain sharpness across the zoom. Its 500mm minimum focus distance and included lens hood add flexibility for close-up work and stray light control, though it lacks stabilization and weather sealing. This lens suits street and portrait photographers on a budget who want a fast, lightweight walk-around zoom for Canon EOS bodies.

View Details & Prices

Best Lenses under $1,500 for everyday use

Best Pick

Sigma Sports 150-600mm f/5-6.3 DG DN OS

81.8 Score
150-600mmf/5Sony EISWeather Sealed
Why we recommend this

A 2100g build with four FLD and two SLD elements delivers high rendering across the 150-600mm range, while the stepping motor AF and 4-stop stabilization ensure sharp results. The dual-action zoom with adjustable torque and weather sealing adds handling flexibility rarely found at this price point. This lens is best for wildlife and motorsports photographers who need L-mount reach without compromising on optical consistency.

View Details & Prices
Price $1,499
Check Price at Amazon
Also available at:
Also available open box & refurbished:
Sigma Sports 150-600mm f/5-6.3 DG DN OS lens

Great Alternatives

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

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

58.4 Score
120-400mmf/4.5Nikon 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.

View Details & Prices

Sigma 736101 50-500mm

46.2 Score
50-500mmf/4Canon EF
Why we recommend this ▼

A 10x zoom ratio spanning 50-500mm provides exceptional versatility, while four SLD glass elements and super coating effectively suppress chromatic aberration and flare. The HSM motor delivers quiet, fast autofocus with full-time manual override, and the included zoom lock switch prevents lens creep during transport. This lens is best for outdoor portrait and street photographers needing a single, adaptable telephoto solution on a budget.

View Details & Prices

Best Lenses under $2,500 for everyday use

Best Pick

Sigma Art 28-105mm f/2.8 DG DN 105mm

82.1 Score
28-105mmf/2.8Sony EWeather Sealed
Why we recommend this

A constant f/2.8 aperture across a 28-105mm zoom range paired with an HLA motor delivers fast, precise autofocus and a useful 1:3.1 magnification for close-ups. Its dust- and splash-resistant build, combined with a 12-blade diaphragm for smooth bokeh, offers a durable, all-in-one solution that reduces lens swaps during events. This lens is best for portrait and wedding photographers who need a versatile, weather-sealed workhorse with a bright aperture for low light.

View Details & Prices
Price $1,649
Sigma Art 28-105mm f/2.8 DG DN 105mm lens

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