So you have a new Canon DSLR. Congratulations! You are probably excited about all of the possibilities that camera holds, and you’ve likely discovered that there’s an entirely new world of information to learn about: lenses.

The unique part of DSLRs over other digital cameras is that they feature interchangeable lenses. This means that you can find the best lens for whatever type of picture you want to take – landscape, portraits, extreme close-ups, and so forth.

This guide is meant to introduce you to the world of Canon DSLR lenses. We’ll talk about some of the common terms and lens types you’ll encounter, as well as some of our favorite lenses for you to consider.

Why Buy Lenses?

If you purchased an entry-level Canon body with a lens kit, you probably received the Canon 18-55 f/3.5-5.6 lens along with it. This is a good starter lens to help you get used to shooting your new camera. However, it is pretty basic, and many budding photographers find themselves limited by its abilities.

Here’s a little bit to know about the typical entry-level kit lens. 18-55mm is the focal length. The numbers here mean that you can zoom between 18mm and 55mm. This range is good for landscapes or for family pictures. However, it has a narrow aperture (f/3.5-5.6), so it won’t work great in low light. (To learn more about DSLR terminology, check out our Beginner’s Guide!)

The 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 is a great value when you get it in a kit, and it is an easy to use lens for beginners. So why would you want to buy more lenses?

Buying new lenses for your DSLR camera lets you start shooting different situations and gives you more creative freedom. In fact, it’s often said that if you feel like your camera is holding you back and you want to upgrade, try upgrading your gear first.

Typically, lenses you buy for your entry-level DSLR will work on other DSLRs of the same brand, so if you do move to a mid-range camera down the road, you can keep those lenses to use with the new one. (There are some exceptions here, so always double check compatibility before you buy.)

DSLR lenses match up to your purpose, so you can get the best possible shot in any circumstance. For example, if you are interested in portraits, you can pick up a lens with the focal length and aperture that work best for that kind of session. You can find a lens that gives you the speed you need for shooting sports. Or you can find a telephoto lens that will help you capture stunning landscape shots.

Most importantly, lenses help you advance as a photographer. Photographers never stop learning their craft, but gear helps them keep pushing themselves for better shots. You have so much more power with different lens options. However, there are some things you’ll want to know and do before you buy.

Before You Buy

If you’ve researched DSLR lenses at all, the first thing you probably noticed is that they can be very expensive. In fact, if you bought an entry-level camera, in particular, many lenses are close to twice as much as the price of the body – if not more.

It is well worth it to save your pennies to get the lens you actually want, so you should spend some time figuring out what you want out of a lens. You can also get to know Canon’s terminology regarding lens labeling. Let’s take a look at what the names of Canon lenses actually mean.

Canon Lens Terminology

You’ll notice numbers and letters on canon lenses, and this is meant to tell you nearly everything you need to know about a particular lens.

• Focal Length: As we mentioned above, this a number (usually a range) followed by millimeter (mm). This number lets you know the range of zoom you have. In addition to helping you get the right angle of your shot, focal length also affects the perspective of the shot, so it’s worth learning more about focal length before you buy (especially if you’re looking at telephoto lenses).
• Aperture: Typically this number indicates the maximum aperture of the lens, but it also may show a range (f/3.5-5.6) which simply means that the aperture narrows as you zoom. For Canon lenses, this number is always preceded by f/.
• Generation: Sometimes you’ll see II or III on a lens name, and that just tells you which version of the lens it is. You’ll usually want to get the most recent version of a lens.
• Image Stabilization: When the lens has IS in the name, this means that it has optical image stabilization. This is an important technology added to lenses that use slow shutter speeds – it helps to counter shake and provide sharper images.
• Sensor: The letters EF (full frame) and EF-S (crop) tell you which sensor type the lens is for. EF lenses will work with any full frame or crop sensor DSLR, but EF-S only work on the crop sensor and aren’t compatible with full frame cameras. This probably won’t matter now but is something to keep in mind if you foresee yourself buying a full frame camera in the future.
• Focusing Motor: If the lens reads USM, this means that comes equipped with UltraSonic Motor, a technology that helps you focus quickly and quietly.

There are, of course, plenty of other terms and specs that you’ll run into on your journey through the land of Canon lenses, but this is a good list to help you get started with your first lenses.

Canon vs. Third-Party Lenses

In your quest for the perfect lens, you’ll eventually stumble across third-party lenses. Third-party lenses, by companies like Sigma and Tamron, are less expensive lenses that mount on different camera bodies. So, for example, you might see one that offers the focal length and max aperture you’re after, and you’ll see that the third-party lens requires a mount to attach to your canon. You’ll also see that it costs much less than the same specs on a Canon lens.

Talking about first-party versus third-party lenses inevitably opens up a debate that is unlikely to be resolved anytime soon. Purists will claim that only first-party lenses have the quality and compatibility you need for good photography. Others will point out that many lenses are only in budget if you consider a third-party model.

There are important elements to each side of this debate, and it’s worth it to do your own research to decide what you believe and what you will buy. For our part, we’re not going to choose sides, but we will stick to recommending lenses manufactured only by Canon, just to keep things simple.

What to Look For

Now that you know a little bit more about lens terminology and features, let’s talk about the next steps you can take when you’re ready to buy a lens.

Purpose

By the time you start shopping for a new lens, you will probably have a good idea what you want out of a lens. At the very least, you can refine your purpose and the types of photos you like taking. Do you gravitate toward landscape shots? Are you taking family photos or action shots of your kids?

Here are a few of the primary categories you’ll see when discussing lens purposes:

• Landscape
• Portrait
• Wedding
• Sports
• Wildlife
• Architecture
• Creative

Types of Lenses

There are three main lens categories: normal, telephoto, and wide angle. However, you’ll see more categories than that when you start looking for the best lenses. Some types you’ll see include:

• Standard
• Prime
• Telephoto zoom
• Wide angle
• Macro
• Fish eye

Price

Price is going to be a huge factor when it comes to lens purchases for most photographers. It can be difficult to justify spending several hundred to over one thousand dollars for a single lens. There are some budget-friendly options, but the fact of the matter is, you will likely have to spend a significant amount on gear at some point.

However, there is more to the story than the initial price. Most photographers will upgrade their camera body at some point – especially if they start out with an entry-level model and advance their photography skills. Lenses, on the other, might be a one-time purchase. At the very least, a lens is something that can last you a long, long time, and move with you to both new camera bodies and to richer photography skills.

Remember: purchasing a new lens is an investment in your photography.

Our Lens Recommendations

We’ve thrown a lot of information at you, and there is a lot more to know! But for now, you might be wondering, “Which lens should I buy right now?” To help you answer that question, here are some of our favorite lenses for beginners.

Best Budget Lenses

Canon EF 50mm f/1.8 STM

This lens is exceptionally priced and is a perfect option for a first lens. It captures lovely pictures in low light conditions. It also lets you attain a shallow depth of field due to its large aperture. Practically, what this means for you is that you can get those great shots where the subject is clear but the background is soft and blurry.

Shallow DOF

Canon EF 10-18mm f/4.5-5.6

This affordable wide angle lens lets you capture architecture and landscapes. This is also a great lens for you if you shoot interiors or indoor shots and find it difficult to capture everything. Remarkably given the price, the lens also features Image Stabilization (IS).

Best Lens for Portraits

Canon EF 85mm f/1.8 USM

You might think that basically any lens can be used for portraits, and you wouldn’t be wrong. However, there is a lot to learn about perspective and focal length and aperture in order to get the best possible portrait shots. A lot depends on where you usually shoot (ex. indoors or out in nature) and the kinds of shots (close-up, etc.) you prefer to take. As a general rule, wide-angle lenses are bad for portraits and short telephoto lenses are good. But – as with everything related to photography – it depends.

Having said all of that, the Canon EF 85mm f/1.8 is our pick for the best portrait lens. It is reasonably priced and produces consistently high-quality portraits. Many photographers actually find this to be a great all-around lens that becomes their go-to for most shots. It is a bit more technical than the budget lenses we mentioned above, so you’ll want to dedicate some time to get to know it before doing a photo shoot.

Best Lens for Landscapes

Canon EF 70-200mm f/4 IS USM

There are plenty of options for landscape lenses at nearly any price point. Wide-angle lenses are usually a good choice for landscape shots, and even the standard 18-55 f/3.5-5.6 kit lens will do a decent job. For our pick in this category, we considered price, versatility, and longevity.

The Canon EF 70-200mm f/4 isn’t cheap, but it is a well-made, highly rated lens that is excellent for landscape photography. It’s also a versatile telephoto lens that many photographers find useful for a range of shooting conditions. This version features Image Stabilization – a valuable element – but you can get the budget-friendly version without IS and save yourself some money.

Best Lens for Action

Canon EF 135mm f/2L

You might be looking for specific kinds of action shots – certain indoor or outdoor sports, or wildlife in action for example – so it’s a good idea to do a bit of research if you have some specific needs. A few key things to look for no matter what when it comes to action/sports shots: Image Stabilization, fast shutter speed, and (sometimes) zoom lenses.

Our pick for this category took into account price (most lenses meant for action/sports are expensive!) and versatility, and we landed on the 135mm f/2L. It is fast and has good autofocus capability, and it’s liked by many for portraits and weddings.

Best Wide-Angle Lens

Canon EF 35mm f/2 IS USM Wide-Angle Lens

Wide angle is coveted for travelers and nature enthusiasts, in addition to many other shutterbugs. The nice thing about wide angle lenses is that they don’t immediately jump up in price like telephoto lenses or lenses meant for action. Our pick for the best wide angle lens is budget-friendly and beautiful.

The EF 35mm f/2 is light and compact, and the image quality is outstanding. Some complain that the autofocus is a little buggy, but for the most part, this lens is a bargain – and one that will last you for years to come.

Best Macro Lens

Canon EF 100mm f/2.8 Macro

Macro lenses have great quality and get you closer to your subject than non-macro lenses can even dream of. Like other types of lenses, there is a pretty wide range of prices for this type of lens. You might want to consider things like weight (for longer focal lengths) and purpose (is it only for shooting flowers up close, or do you have other expectations?).

For our pick, we again chose based partially on price, but we also considered quality and usability. The 100mm f/2.8 is a macro lens, so it’s going to do all the macro shooting you want it to do – but it’s also good for portraits. It has excellent quality and sharpness.

Best Creative Lens

Canon EF 40mm f/2.8 STM

There are several different options for “creative” lenses in any brand. Canon has lenses such as tilt-shift, fish eye, and extreme telephoto. These can be fun to add to your collection, or they might be central to your photography – it all depends on your style. These have dramatic price differences – especially when you’re considering the extreme telephoto lenses.

Our pick for this category is the inexpensive “pancake” 40mm f/2.8 lens. This is a fun, portable lens that gives you some options for creative shooting.

If you have joined the world of DSLR with a new Nikon, congratulations! Perhaps you’ve been wondering about adding additional lenses to your camera bag, but you’re not sure where to start. That’s understandable – after all, Nikon has around 100 lens options for DSLR cameras.

In this guide, we’ll discuss some of the basics of Nikon DSLR lenses, including how to read and understand DSLR lens terminology. This guide is meant to introduce new photographers to Nikon lenses, so we’ll also offer some recommendations of our favorite lenses.

Why Buy Additional Lenses?

There’s a good chance that your Nikon DSLR came with the 18-55mm kit lens. This is an excellent lens for you to start with if your experience with DSLR shooting is limited. You can get to know your camera settings and how to use it, as well as get some good shots in the meantime.

The 18-55mm kit lens has a focal length between 18mm and 55mm. For you, this means that it gives you a fairly good range of shots for things like landscapes or pictures in the backyard of your family. The narrow aperture will make it a bit tricky to shoot in low light conditions, however. That might be one of the driving forces for you to grab another lens.

Aside from the limitations you might encounter with your kit lens, adding new lenses to your repertoire helps you become a better photographer. You can find the best lens for your favorite kinds of shots, and you can look for lenses that will help you push yourself as a photographer. Your DSLR camera has a ton of potential with just a change of the lens.

It takes quite a bit of time to learn about DSLR photography. There are many terms and settings to learn, and taking good pictures is more about skill than the equipment you use. However, as your skills develop, purchasing lenses that match your specific purposes will help you put your skills to good use.

Finally, when you invest in lenses, you’re making a long-term investment. When you first start shopping for lenses, you will probably be shocked at the prices. Most lenses are much more expensive than even the camera body you purchased, and you can spend thousands of dollars on a single lens. But these lenses can be used for years to come, including on new camera bodies if and when you decide to upgrade. (This is typically the case, but always double check lens compatibility to be sure.)

Now that we’ve discussed why you should consider additional lenses, let’s take a look at some of the things you’ll want to know and do before you buy.

Before You Buy

As we mentioned, DSLR lenses can be very expensive. However, it is worth it to save your money and get the lens you actually want and need rather than buying what you can afford at the time just to get a new lens. We strongly recommend spending some time figuring out what you want out of a lens.

We also recommend getting to know Nikon’s terminology and types of lenses so you understand what each lens can do for you and what the names of each lens means. (For basic DSLR terminology, check out our Beginner’s Guide to DSLR.)

Nikon Lens Terminology

• NIKKOR: This is the name of Nikon DSLR lenses.
• Autofocus: Expressed as AF on the barrel, you might also see AF-D (AF with distance information), AF-S (AF with Silent Wave Motor), or AF-P (AF with Stepping Motor, a new, ultra-quiet motor).
• Sensor: APS-C (cropped) sensor, or DX, is probably what you have – all entry level and the majority of mid-range DSLRs have a cropped sensor. A full-frame sensor, or FX, is a more expensive, professional-level format. Both DX and FX lenses are compatible with the APS-C sensor. However, if you have an FX full-frame camera, you probably won’t want to use the DX lenses (that’s a discussion for another time!)
• Focal Length: This a number (sometimes a range of numbers) followed by millimeter (mm). It tells you the range of zoom you have. Focal length affects the perspective of the shot, so it’s worth learning more about focal length before you buy (especially if you’re looking at telephoto lenses).
• Aperture: Typically this number indicates the maximum aperture of the lens, but it also may show a range (f/3.5-5.6) which simply means that the aperture narrows as you zoom. This number is always preceded by f/.
• Vibration Reduction: When the lens has VR in the name, this means that it has optical image stabilization. This is an important technology added to lenses that use slow shutter speeds – it helps to counter shake and provide sharper images.
• Focusing Motor: AF-S and AF-P lenses have built-in focusing motors and can be used on any current Nikon body with or without a focus motor. Lenses without a focus motor are AF NIKKOR lenses.

There are many, many more terms to know when it comes to lenses, but this should help you understand a bit about lens purposes, features, and naming conventions. For more, check out this article from Nikon, which offers a comprehensive look at their DSLR lens types.

A Note on Third-Party Lenses

As you embark on a quest to find your next lens, you will likely come across third-party lenses. These manufacturers, like Sigma and Tamron, offer less expensive options that mount on different camera bodies.  First-party versus third-party lenses inevitably opens up a debate about the pros and cons of buying third-party. It’s definitely worth conducting your own research to decide whether you want to go the third-party route in your lens purchase. Our aim in this guide is to stay out of that debate and just recommend Nikon produced lenses, just to keep it simple.

Finding Your Lens

By the time you’re ready to start shopping, you will hopefully have some ideas about what you need. You can narrow selections down by purpose (landscape, sports, etc.) or by types (prime, telephoto, etc.). You may also be limited by your budget.

Purpose

While photographers shoot all sorts of different types of subjects and scenes, there are a few fairly standard purposes that can help refine your lens needs. Each has a specific feature that suits that purpose; for example, sports and action shots need a fast shutter speed. Here are a few of the primary categories you’ll see regarding lens purposes:

• Landscape
• Portrait
• Wedding
• Sports
• Wildlife
• Architecture
• Creative

Types of Lenses

There are a few types or categories that you’ll see when you’re looking at lenses.

• Standard/Kit Lenses: Come with the camera body
• Prime: Has only one focal length
• Telephoto zoom: Gives you a range of focal lengths
• Wide angle: Allows shots with a very wide perspective
• Macro: Designed for shots that are up close

The focal length of any lens can help you determine what purpose and/or type of lens you’re looking at. Telephoto, for example, is 70-200mm. Wide angle is 21-35mm, while ultra wide angle has a range of 10-21mm. A standard or portrait lens will typically be 35-70mm.

Zoom lenses are considered to be more versatile because they have more options in focal length. Prime lenses, on the other hand, are usually faster and clearer, with less distortion. Prime lenses are often great for low light shots and for portraitures with good bokeh.

Price

DSLR lenses range in price from a few hundred dollars to thousands of dollars. Of course, your budget will dictate which lenses you can add to your camera bag, but we do recommend saving up for lenses you actually need instead of simply buying less expensive gear.

However, spending on gear like lenses is an investment in your photography. Most upgrade to a new camera body at some point – especially if they start out with an entry-level model and develop their photography skills. Lenses, on the other, might be a one-time purchase – most lenses will work on upgraded camera bodies. At the very least, a lens is something that can last you a long, long time, and move with you to both new cameras and contribute to richer photography skills.

Our Lens Recommendations

To make our recommendations, we took into account several things. First, this list is designed for newcomers to photography, so our lens selection is meant for entry-level DSLR cameras (and perhaps some mid-range/enthusiast bodies). We considered purpose, usability, versatility, and price for each of these categories.

There are, of course, so many lens options on the market. Our list is by no means exhaustive, but these recommendations are our favorites for budding shutterbugs who want to make the most of both their camera and their budget.

Best Budget Lenses

Nikon AF-S 35mm f/1.8

The Nikon 35mm f/1.8 is the clear winner as the very first lens you should add to your camera bag. It’s affordable and will give you sharp, beautiful images. This lens is a prime lens, so you have just one focal length. This can be a useful way to consider composition and aperture without worrying about how adjustments to focal length affect your perspective.

Even experienced Nikon users love this lens. Its wide aperture lets you create background blur, instantly improving your ability to take portraits and other pictures that focus on a single subject. It also works great in low light, so this lens paired with your kit lens should keep you busy for quite some time.

Nikon 55-200mm f/4-5.6

Our second pick for budget lens is this ultra-affordable zoom lens. There’s quite possibly no other telephoto lens on the market that gives you more bang for your buck. It includes Vibration Reduction (VR) image stabilization and produces great bokeh.

This is another excellent choice for a first (or second) lens and it offers a lot of versatility for an incredible price. The autofocus is pretty good – and considering the price, that’s saying a lot. The main drawback of this lens is that it feels inexpensive.

Best Lens for Portraits

Nikon 50mm f/1.8

Like the 35mm we discussed above, this is a wallet-friendly prime lens that provides sharp photos and excellent low-light functionality. If you are after great bokeh or tend to shoot primarily portraits, this is a great go-to camera that’s suitable for everyday use. Bloggers looking for a versatile camera will love this one, too.

The 50mm is actually an FX lens, though it works perfectly for crop frame bodies. This is a great investment if you think you may someday make the switch to full frame. Even if not, this is an excellent lens for beginners and enthusiasts alike. Like the 55-200mm, the only complaint we have is that it is primarily plastic, and feels inexpensive. That shouldn’t deter you from picking it up if it will be a good fit for your needs, but it is something to keep in mind on all lenses that are at this price point.

Best Lens for Landscapes

Nikon 16-85mm f/3.5-5.6

The 16-85mm f/3.5-5.6 is a big jump in price from the lenses we’ve covered thus far. However, we think that for the price, this is the best option for landscape shooting. We like the versatility of the lens, and the sharpness coupled with the width makes this a really excellent lens that you will get a lot of use out of.

This is also known for being a great travel lens due to its specs and size. The 16-85mm has a great autofocus and the image quality can’t be beat for this price range. You’re still looking at a price that’s significantly under $1000 for this lens. Many landscape lenses are above $1000, so we think it’s a pretty sweet deal if you can budget for it.

Best Lens for Action

Nikon 70-300mm f/4.5-5.6

There is a newer version of the 70-300mm f/4.5-5.6 out, but we’re including this older version here for both its price and the fact that we haven’t checked out the brand new version yet. This is an excellent lens for action – outdoor sports, busy kids, and so forth. It has quick AF and produces clear, crisp shots.

Price-wise, you can’t do much better than this for a lens that works well for action shots. Typical sports lenses are pretty expensive, making them out of budget for beginner or even enthusiast photographers. This is also a popular choice for nature photographers, with a great zoom range and quiet shutter.

Best Wide-Angle Lens

Nikon 10-24mm f/3.5-4.5

When your kit lens just isn’t cutting it for landscapes or architecture shots, you’ll want to make the leap to a wide angle lens. Nikon 10-24mm f/3.5-4.5 is our pick for a wide angle lens that is still (relatively) affordable. It is still a bit pricey, but when you want the best in photography for your passion projects, you have to spring a little for results.

The Nikon 10-24mm f/3.5-4.5 features excellent engineering and gives you a versatile range coupled with extra-low dispersion glass (to reduce chromatic aberrations) and a silent AF system. This lens also takes great macro shots with a unique perspective. We definitely think this one is worth the money – and worth saving up for if you are into nature or architectural shoots.

Best Macro Lens

Nikon 40mm f/2.8

When shooting macro, it feels more natural to have a lightweight, compact lens over a bigger, bulkier one. This one fits that bill and takes stunning up-close shots with excellent detail. It is another budget-friendly lens that users who want the ability to take great macro shots will be glad to add to their camera bag.

The Nikon 40mm f/2.8 includes Nikon’s Silent Wave Motor, so you’ll see fast, quiet AF. Because it’s meant for macro shooting, Nikon has the Close-Range Correction system, which provides superior performance at those close distances. It performs best for macro, but that doesn’t mean you can’t use it for other shots, as well. For the price, it’s a great addition to your lens selection.

Most Versatile Lens

Nikon 18-300mm f/3.5-6.3

For those who want just one lens to cover a wide range of situations, the Nikon 18-300 f/3.5-6.3 is where it’s at. This incredibly versatile all-in-one takes the place of two lenses, which makes it ideal for traveling. For the price, there’s simply no better lens in terms of flexibility and usability.

There will be some limitations to this lens, of course – with such a huge focal length range and relatively low weight, there are tradeoffs (aperture, for example). But for users with an entry level DSLR learning how to shoot and desiring a versatile lens, this really is a sweet lens that will last you a long time. This lens takes quality shots and lets you leave the other lenses at home.

Canon has a fantastic lineup of entry-level DSLR cameras in their Rebel line. Canon is no slouch when it comes to mid-level cameras, either. With five different models falling within Canon’s “intermediate” category, there is plenty to choose from at nearly any price point.

This guide will cover the current mid-range models of Canon EOS DSLRs. Two things to note first: the Rebel T6s is considered intermediate, but we reviewed it in our Canon Rebel guide. And second, the Canon 70D has been replaced by the 80D, but is still available through many sellers at a great price.

Without further ado, here is Canon’s current lineup of mid-range/intermediate DSLRs.

Canon EOS 77D

The 77D is the lowest price mid-level (excepting the Rebel T6s), and it’s the most recently released. Its features put it somewhere between a Rebel T7i and the 80D. It’s a solid model, but nothing overly exciting.

Here are some of the key specs:

• 24MP sensor with Dual Pixel autofocus
• 45-point all-cross-type phase-detect AF system
• Digic 7 processor
• 3″ fully-articulating touchscreen LCD
• Top plate LCD
• 6fps continuous shooting
• 1080/60p video capture with microphone input

We like the AF system and the touchscreen, and the image quality is fantastic. However, it lacks the ability to capture video in 4K, which is very disappointing given both DSLR trends and the 77D’s status as a mid-range DSLR.

The 77D does feature Wi-Fi connectivity, which is a plus. The overall functionality of the touchscreen LCD is outstanding, and the top plate LCD is handy. In short, the EOS 77D is a good – though not great – camera.  If you’re looking for a bit more oomph, we recommend saving your dollars for an 80D.

Canon EOS 80D

The next step up from the 77D is the fantastic EOS 80D. It is under $1000 for the body, and it has a ton of excellent features. We chose the 80D as one of the best DSLRs for video in our review of the best DSLR cameras.

Here are a few of the specs on the EOS 80D:

• 24MP APS-C CMOS sensor with Dual Pixel AF
• 45-point AF system with all cross-type points
• 3″ 1.04M-dot articulating touchscreen
• 1080/60p video capture
• 7 fps continuous shooting with AF
• 7560-pixel RGB+IR Metering Sensor
• Weather-resistant body

Based on the specs and the price, you might think that this model was designed to appeal to a broad range of photographers. We would agree. The 80D works fantastic for a variety of shot types, and the sensor, AF, and design work well for everything from nature shots to weddings. It’s really a great buy, especially for an enthusiast upgrading their entry-level DSLR.

While it doesn’t have 4K video options, the 1080/60p capture is excellent. Regarding changes from the 70D, which it replaced, it absolutely matches and elevates performance and has additional features that make it a worthy successor. The body is comfortable and well-designed. Overall, we think this is one of the best mid-range DSLRs on the market.

Canon EOS 6D

The EOS 6D is the first of two full frame DSLRs in the mid-range category. It is essentially a “budget” full frame; for a nice price you can pick up a full frame DSLR that features Wi-Fi and GPS.

Let’s take a look at a few of the specs:

• 20.2MP full frame CMOS sensor
• DIGIC 5+ image processor
• ISO 100-25600 standard, 50-102800 expanded
• 4.5 fps continuous shooting
• ‘Silent’ shutter mode
• 1080p30 video recording, stereo sound via external mic
• 11 point AF system, center point cross-type and sensitive to -3 EV
• 63 zone iFCL metering system

One of the best parts of the 6D is its ability to focus in low light levels. It also has in-camera HDR and is ergonomically appealing. We’re fans of the LCD screen on the 6D. And the important stuff: the image quality is excellent.

There are two drawbacks to the 6D however. The first is that it only has one memory card slot. The second is that it lacks a built-in flash. If you can handle those missing features, this affordable full frame EOS 6D will impress the heck out of you.

Canon EOS 7D Mark II

The second full frame mid-level option, and Canon’s highest price point for intermediates, the 7D Mark II is an excellent choice for enthusiasts. It has made it to the top of many “Best” lists, and it remains a popular option for a mid-range DSLR.

Here are some of the exciting specs of the 7D Mark II:

• 20MP Dual-Pixel AF CMOS Sensor
• 10 fps continuous shooting with AF
• 65 all cross-type AF sensor
• 150,000 RGB + IR pixel metering sensor
• Dual Digic 6 processors
• Compact Flash (UDMA) & SD (UHS-I) slots
• USB 3.0
• Built-in GPS
• Shutter speeds up to 1/8000th seconds
• Shutter rated to 200,000 cycles (vs 150,000 on 7D)

The 7D Mark II captures gorgeous images and offers high ISO performance. It also features enhanced environmental sealing, making it an excellent camera to take out into the elements. The built in GPS is a nice addition, but the 7D Mark II lacks built in Wi-Fi (it’s only available with an adaptor).

The fixed LCD is one drawback in addition to the missing Wi-Fi. However, we still think it’s a great option for a move to full frame – and, while still priced high for a mid-range, it’s still a decent price for the specs and full frame sensor. The design is intuitive and comfortable, and it’s a well-loved DSLR by pros and new enthusiasts alike.

Canon’s Rebel series is one of the best known across the world. Several of the models are considered by many to be the best among entry-level options for DSLR cameras. There are numerous model numbers in the Rebel series, and it can be tricky to keep them straight. This guide will take a look at all of the current entry-level models of the Canon Rebel line.

The Solid Starter: Canon EOS Rebel SL2

The Rebel SL2 just came out, and it’s earning raves all around. It replaces the ultra-small, ultra-lightweight SL1 (one of the best rated entry-level DSLRs). It keeps the spirit of the SL1 in its compact and light design (though it is a bit larger), but adds a ton of features that make it feel much more relevant.

Here are the key specs of the Rebel SL2:

• 24.2-megapixel image sensor
• ISO 100-25,600
• 9-point AF system
• 3-inch vari-angle touchscreen display
• Dual Pixel CMOS AF during Live View and video recording
• Continuous shooting up to 5 fps
• DIGIC 7 image processor
• Full HD video recording at up to 60 fps
• Built-in Wi-Fi, NFC and Bluetooth

The improvements from the SL1 to the SL2 are really notable. The sensor is much improved, and the addition of the touchscreen and movable screen help it be both functional and highly usable for new shutterbugs.

Most users coming to the SL2 are likely not upgrading from the SL1, so the improvements in the new model really don’t mean much. So we’ll say this: if you’re looking for a user-friendly, lightweight, and affordable DSLR, look no further than the SL2.

The Budget Beauty: Canon EOS Rebel T6

This model is the lowest price point of the current Rebel models (not to be confused with the T6i – More on that next up!), the T6 is a super affordable entry into DSLR cameras.

Here are some of the specs of the T6:

• 18 megapixel APS-C CMOS sensor
• ISO 100-6400
• 9-point AF system
• 1080/30p video capture
• Fixed 3″ 920k-dot LCD
• 3 fps burst shooting
• Built in Wi-Fi with NFC

The Rebel T6 will likely appeal to newcomers, especially those who simply cannot stomach the thought of spending so much on a camera. In that regard, this is a nice introduction to DSLR shooting and the price tag does give you room to add on gear or lenses.

If you are serious about shooting DSLR, though, we recommend spending a bit more for the SL2 (above) – you get more bang for your buck and lots of additions that will make a big difference in your photography. Having said that, if the T6 meets your budget needs, it will make a great camera to learn on.

The Essentially Mid-Level: Canon EOS Rebel T6i

Canon considers the T6i to be entry-level (they list it as “beginner”), but this baby is so great we think it deserves to be an honorary mid-level (“intermediate”) DSLR. Price wise, you are looking at a few hundred bucks more than the T6, but it’s just a bit more than the SL2.

Let’s take a look at some of the key specs:

• 24.2MP APS-C CMOS sensor
• 19-point autofocus system
• 7560 pixel RGB + IR metering sensor with skin tone detection
• 3″ fully articulating touchscreen LCD
• 5 fps continuous shooting
• 1080/30p video
• Wi-Fi with NFC

Looking at the specs, you’ll see a pretty huge difference between the T6i and even the SL2. Many reviewers have called the T6i the “best Rebel yet,” and it’s pretty easy to see why. The primary difference for many shoppers is going to be price. Because this camera is approaching the high end of entry-level DSLRs, the price might be the tipping point. Of course, we love the SL2, so you can’t go wrong there. However, if you have a bit of extra cash, it might be worth grabbing the T6i.

The Intermediate: Canon EOS Rebel T6S

Canon considers the T6s an “intermediate” DSLR. It’s nearly identical to the T6i with just a few other features added to it. The price is very similar to the T6i, as well.

Here are the specs:

• 24.2MP APS-C CMOS sensor
• 19-point autofocus system
• Hybrid CMOS AF III focus system (live view)
• 7560 pixel RGB + IR metering sensor with skin tone detection
• 3″ fully articulating touchscreen LCD
• Eye sensor for use with optical viewfinder
• LCD information display on top plate
• Quick control dial on rear
• 5 fps continuous shooting
• 1080/30p video
• Servo AF in live view
• Wi-Fi with NFC

So what’s the difference between the T6i and the T6s? The T6s is slightly more money through most vendors for one. In terms of features, the T6s has a top mounted LCD and a more customizable control dial. The T6s control pad has exposure compensation, a feature important to pros but not so much for beginners. And finally, the T6s can shoot video in HDR video.

These small differences might not alleviate the price difference for novice photographers. They will come in handy for intermediates and pros, though, and the additional price isn’t too terribly much more.

The Peak Entry-Level: Canon EOS Rebel T7i

The final Rebel model that is considered entry level is the Rebel T7i. While this is still under $1000, it has a high price point for a beginner DSLR. However, investing in this model gives you a ton of great specs and should minimize the desire to upgrade for quite some time.

Here are some of the key specs of the T7i:

• 24MP APS-C sensor with Dual Pixel design
• 45 point AF
• 1080p video at up to 60 fps
• Fully articulated 1.04M-dot rear LCD
• Built-in Wi-Fi with Bluetooth and NFC

Obviously, you’re getting quite a bit when you jump from any of the lower priced models to the T7i – most notably, the additional points of AF. The T7i also includes the connectivity features that are becoming standard in Canon DSLRs.

The T7i is responsive and the autofocus is the cross-type that Canon includes on the 80D. The clarity even at higher ISOs is great. And the design of both the body and controls is intuitive, comfortable, and easy to use for longer periods of time. This model is worth every penny if you can work it into your budget.

The Hasselblad H5D-60 Medium Format DSLR is the most expensive camera we have ever and probably will ever review. It’s so expensive that you – as many joking reviews will note – could have a huge down payment on a house, pay off student loans, or buy a very nice car for the price of this camera.

But here’s the thing:  this isn’t a camera that a semi-pro photographer or weekend shutterbug would ever need or want. But for professional photographers, the H5D-60 is the granddaddy of all DSLR cameras.

Here are the specs of this beast:

• 60 Megapixel Resolution
• 2 x 53.7mm CCD Sensor
• 0″ 24-Bit Color LCD w/ 460,320 Pixels
• True Focus II and Focus Confirm
• 16-Bit Color Definition
• Hasselblad RAW 3FR File Format
• Compatible with H-System Components
• DAC Automated Lens Correction System
• Digital Spirit Level
• Phocus and Lightroom 4 Software Included

This camera is designed for professionals in fashion, advertising, commercial, architecture, and so forth, so its design and functionality matches that core user. There isn’t much to say to convince a casual user or semi-pro to drop this kind of money on a camera.

All of this is to get to the point that, yes, we know this is a very expensive camera that is completely impractical 99% of the time. For those other times, however, here’s what to know.

The design of the H5D-60 is completely unique. There’s an aesthetic quality to the look of it, but the ergonomics are smartly laid out and intuitive. The back, lens, viewfinder, and viewing screen are all interchangeable. All the control functions you need are available for your hand as it holds the camera. It’s quick and easy to adjust settings as you shoot.

The image quality is what you would expect from an absolute top of the line DSLR. ISO performance is astounding, and images are crisp, detailed, and gorgeous. The True Focus AF is fantastic, of course, and the Focus Confirm means you don’t have to stop and check the focus.

The H5D-60 comes with Hasselblad’s processing software as well as Adobe Lightroom 4. Hasselblad Image Processing Architecture provides fast performance and transfer speed.

Aside from price, there’s nothing to dislike about this peak medium format DSLR. If it’s for you, you will get everything you need for your professional shots, and you will appreciate the design and layout overall. There’s simply no better professional camera on the market, so if you can get it, do. Hasselblad has a devoted following for good reason.

While it may be significantly less than the beastly H5D-60, the Hasselblad H6D-50C is still a very, very expensive camera. The price tag is likely to give many photographers a heart attack, and it’s unlikely that anyone other than pros will ever buy one. It’s also medium format, which is sort of the pinnacle of the pro photographer’s career – one that not everyone needs or wants, but that feels necessary for many at some point.

Having said all that, the Hasselblad H5D-60 is designed for professional photographers, and it is an excellent medium format camera. It’s for daily professional use when the highest quality output matters. It’s a tough, versatile DSLR that produces incredibly detailed images.

Here are some of the key specs:

• 50MP 43.8 x 32.9mm CMOS Sensor
• 16-Bit Color, 14-Stop Dynamic Range
• Hasselblad Natural Color Solution
• Full HD 1080p RAW Video at 30 fps
• ISO 100-6400, Shooting Up to 2.3 fps
• Shutter Speeds: 60 min to 1/2000 sec
• 0″ 920k-Dot Touchscreen LCD Monitor
• Dual CFast and SD Memory Card Slots
• Built-In Wi-Fi, USB 3.0 Type-C

The design of the H5D-60 is very different than most DSLR cameras. However, photographers find that it is comfortable to hold for long stretches of time. The physical controls on the body make sense in location and control – situated in positions for each of your fingers to easily adjust settings.

As you would expect at this price point, the picture quality is phenomenal. The camera is also very responsive and fast. It shoots Full HD 1080p video at 30 fps, which can be saved in Hasselblad RAW format for easy conversion and editing, in H.264 compressed format for even more flexibility. It does not have 4K video capabilities, however, so if you want that you’ll need to spring for the 100MP sensor.

Built-in Wi-Fi feels like a necessity for a pro camera of this magnitude, so it’s a good thing Hasselblad included it here. They also worked on power consumption, ensuring that it better utilizes battery life than older models.

Every feature you would expect from a professional medium format DSLR, and everything you would expect from Hasselblad is here. What this boils down to is this: there is nothing to regret if you pick up the H5D-60. For full-time pros who need the best possible quality and versatility, the H5D-60 is the camera for you. The Hasselblad name has something of a cult following, and this is due in large part to their attention to detail and consistent quality. If you can get over the price tag (it is probably tax deductible!), you’ll have yourself a professional medium format camera that will shoot the ultra high-quality stills and video you need it.

The D7500 is the new mid-range DSLR from Nikon. It replaces the D7200 and offers some great upgrades from that model, as well as many borrowed elements from some of their other cameras – including the well-loved flagship D500.

Let’s take a peek at some of the specs:

• 20.9MP APS-C CMOS Sensor
• 51-point phase detect AF with 15 cross-type sensors
• 8 fps burst for 100+ JPEGS or 50 Raws
• 180k-pixel RGB sensor for metering and subject recognition
• 3.2″ 922K dot tilting touchscreen LCD
• 4K Ultra HD and 1080p Full HD video with stereo sound, power aperture control, auto ISO, 4K UHD Time-Lapse and more
• In-camera batch Raw processing
• Built in Wi-Fi and Bluetooth
• Weather-sealing

Some of the new features include that 4K video capability, metering that matches the D500, and a tilting touchscreen. Enhanced sealing and a better grip round out the changes to the body and are welcome additions that make the D7500 feel like an upgrade.

The things it loses are worth noting, however. First, the loss of 3MP of resolution might seem troublesome, but it doesn’t matter because it doesn’t detract from the quality and it provides better speed. What is bothersome is the second memory card slot, as well as the elimination of the Ai indexing tab that allowed the older model to be compatible with some older manual focus lenses.

The sensor is paired with Nikon’s EXPEED 5 image processor, and Nikon made the smart decision to omit the low-pass filter. The D7500 features an ISO range of 100-51,200, with an unbelievable expanded range of 50-640,000.

The D7500 is just slightly lighter than the D7200, but the feel of the body is about the same. It still feels comfortable and stays that way for longer shoots. The optical viewfinder is bright and crisp, and it gives you a full view of the scene.

The built in Wi-Fi and Bluetooth features signal Nikon’s continued push to connect with the SnapBridge technology. However, as we’ve said with some past models that utilize SnapBridge, it’s still a bit buggy and unpredictable.

Conclusion

The Nikon D7500 is priced well for a thought out enthusiast/mid-range DSLR. It has exceptional speed, great low light performance, and competitive video features. It has some real improvements over the D7200 and older D7* models, and it would be a great upgrade model for a photographer looking to make the jump up from entry-level.

It has some important specs borrowed from the flagship D500 and will make an excellent addition to your camera bag.

The Canon EOS 1DX Mark II  is a professional DSLR that meets and exceed expectations based on the price point and the completion. It’s an all-around excellent camera that will appeal to everyone from photojournalists to wildlife photographers.

Here are some of the key specs of the 1DX Mark II:

• 20.2MP CMOS full-frame sensor with Dual Pixel autofocus
• 14 fps continuous shooting (16 fps in live view)
• 200+ shot buffer with Raw+JPEG (CFast 2.0)
• 61-point AF system with 41 cross-type sensors
• 360,000-pixel RGB+IR metering sensor
• Native ISO from 100-51,200 (expandable to 50-409,600)
• 4K/60p video in DCI format (4096 x 2160 pixels) using Motion JPEG
• 1.62 million dot LCD touch screen

The flagship DSLR offers Canon’s new full-frame sensor and Dual Pixel AF system. The AF system provides that 61 point system and 24% more coverage. With a bit more resolution, the 1DX Mark II produces gorgeous captures. The resolution balances with detail well at high ISO. However, Canon made the decision to include an AA filter to this model, which seems a bit out of place given the target buyers are typically sports and wildlife photographers.

The 1DX Mark II can shoot up to 30 minutes of 4K video with good quality. IT also has a CF and CFast card slot, the second of which will let you shoot 4K/50/60p. However, it lacks 4K external recording. The new in-camera Digital Lens Optimizer technology helps eliminate image degradation from lens aberration and diffraction – plus, it stores that data so you don’t have to register it on previously released lenses. Dual DIGIC 6+ Image Processors ensure corrections can be made with hardly any effect on speed.

The body is solid and tough. It’s heavy but designed to take a beating. The touchscreen has a good response, with a “tap to focus” feature. The new live view/video switch is handy, but that is the only significant body change from its predecessor.

Final Take:

The overall performance of the EOS 1DX Mark II is impressive and doesn’t disappoint. This is a pro camera that will appeal to a variety of photographers and videographers. For a professional camera and at the list price, it’s well worth the purchase for seasoned Canon shooters.