Best Lenses under $500 for street photography

Best Pick

Sigma 258205

72.6 Street Score
105mmf/2.8Canon EFISWeather Sealed
Why we recommend this

Delivering true 1:1 macro reproduction with a 295mm minimum focus distance, this lens combines one SLD element and Super Multi-Layer Coating for sharp, high-contrast images free of aberrations. Its weather-sealed, 710g build and built-in optical stabilization provide reliable handheld shooting in the field. This is best for macro photographers and portraitists on Sony E-mount who need a stabilized, life-size optic with strong color accuracy.

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Price $345
Sigma 258205 lens

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Sigma 883101 18mm

65.8 Street Score
18-250mmf/3.5Canon EF-SIS
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.

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Sigma APO EX DG OS HSM Macro 150mm f/2.8 APO

54.1 Street Score
150mmf/2.8Canon EFISWeather Sealed
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Sigma DG Macro 70-300mm f/4-5.6

52.5 Street 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.

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Sigma 8-16mm f/4.5-5.6 DC HSM

46.3 Street Score
8-16mmf/5.6Canon EF
Why we recommend this ▼

An 8-16mm focal range delivers a 121° angle of view on APS-C sensors, with HSM autofocus and three aspherical elements with Super Multi-Layer Coating to minimize ghosting. Weighing just 555 grams, it remains highly portable for an ultra-wide zoom without compromising optical precision. This lens is best for architectural interiors and street shooters who need dramatic, distortion-free perspectives in tight spaces.

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Sigma 8-16mm f/4.5-5.6 DC HSM lens
Price $493

Best Lenses under $1,000 for street photography

Best Pick

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

49.8 Street Score
15mmf/2.8Canon EF
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.

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Sigma 8-16mm F4.5-5.6 DC HSM 8-16mm

31.3 Street Score
8-16mmf/22Canon EF
Why we recommend this ▼

Its 8mm starting focal length delivers a 12.8mm equivalent field of view on APS-C Canon bodies, making it one of the widest rectilinear zooms available for the system. The optical design incorporates three aspherical and five ED elements to control distortion, while the bundled accessory kit adds practical value for field work. This lens is best for landscape photographers who need an extreme, uncropped perspective without switching to a fisheye.

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Best Lenses under $1,500 for street photography

Best Pick

Sigma 736101

52.2 Street 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.

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Best Lenses under $2,500 for street photography

Best Pick

Sigma Art 35mm f/1.2 DG II 30mm

42.4 Street Score
30mmf/0.95Canon EF-M
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No Lenses found in this category. See our top picks under $2,500