Best Canon wide-angle lenses

Those who have been following me on this photography blog since the beginning know that I indeed have a passion for camera equipment. I’ve already talked a lot about photography equipment around here, and in direct relation to this article, I’ve already written two articles that might be of interest to you: how to choose your wide-angle lens and which lenses to choose for landscape photography. This article is kind of a new thing on the blog since I’ll be going into a bit more detail than usual. Today I’m talking about the best Canon wide-angle lenses available. This is a perfect article for people willing to evolve from their kit lens and start photographing landscapes.

You’re going to tell me that most of this information is already in the two articles mentioned above and you’re right. However, I had not previously tried to present the lenses in detail with their characteristics as well as their use, interest, price, etc. So, this article is specifically about Canon’s wide-angle lenses, for both DSLR and mirrorless cameras.

Wide-angle lenses are mainly used for several purposes: to take pictures with a wide angle of vision, to increase and enhance perspectives, to give impressions of vastness and to be able to fit in, an entire scene when you are indoors for example (thus limited in space).

This article is the result of an important amount of work researching, allowing me to offer, according to my vision of things and my analysis, the best Canon wide-angle lenses today. I will of course update this article as new releases are made. For each Canon lens presented below, you will get a visual, its main characteristics and my opinion on it. When possible, I also give the reference for the filter systems. For your convenience, I’ve regrouped my selection of lenses by sensor size (APS-C and full-frame) for DSLR and mirrorless cameras.

This article focuses on landscape photography. Indeed, the use of a telephoto lens or a transtandard lens is less common in this field. However, I won’t be going into technical details about lenses such as distortion, chromatic aberration, etc. The software programs manage these defects perfectly in post-production. Plus, I won’t talk here about Fisheye lenses, as there are for capturing special effect and not especially used for landscape photography.

For those wondering, i actually shoot landscape photography with a Canon DSLR camera, a 6D and mostly a Canon 16-35mm f/4 (and lot of camera lens filters). I’m actually considering buying a prime lens, something like a 14mm lens. One day, i will need to found a new camera bag !!

The range of Canon wide-angle lenses for mirrorless camera, RF (full-frame) and RF-S (APS-C) mounts continues to grow.

Here are the Canon wide-angle lenses for full-frame mirrorless cameras that I consider the best. You can click directly on the lens(es) you’re interested in to get the details:

1. Canon RF 10-20mm f/4 L IS STM
2. Canon RF 14-35mm f/4 L IS USM
3. Canon RF 15-30mm f/4.5-6.3 IS STM
4. Canon RF 15-35mm f/2.8L IS
5. Canon RF 16mm f/2.8 STM
6. Canon RF 24mm f/1.8 Macro IS STM

The table below lists all the characteristics of these lenses.

The Canon RF 10-20mm f/4 L IS STM, available since the end of 2023, is an ultra-wide-angle zoom lens for full-frame mirrorless cameras (RF mount). With a focal length of 10-20mm and a constant f/4 aperture, it will be the widest angle lens on the market. The lens features 16 elements in 12 groups, including aspherical lenses and an ultra-low dispersion (UD) glass element.

This lens is primarily intended for architectural, landscape, interior and astrophotography. Whether you are a professional or an amateur, this high-end lens will meet your expectations! Admittedly, it is not cheap compared to the RF 14-35mm f/4 L IS USM, but that is understandable given its ultra-wide angle and high performance.

Available since August 2021, the Canon RF 14-35mm f/4 L IS is an excellent alternative to the RF 15-35mm f/2.8 L IS, offering a wider focal length and effective stabilization while being more compact and lighter. The lens is weather-sealed and accommodates 77mm screw-in filters, which may be appealing for landscape photography. Optically, as expected, the image quality is outstanding, with sharp resolution right from the widest aperture. Its 114° field of view at 14mm makes it ideal for capturing expansive landscape or architectural shots.

In summary, this lens is a high-end option, yet less expensive than the 15-35mm f/2.8. Key strengths include its compactness, optical stabilization, and low-light performance. In my opinion, this Canon lens ticks many boxes! You won’t be disappointed!

Launched in August 2022, the Canon RF 15-30mm f/4.5-6.3 IS STM is a high-quality wide-angle zoom lens. It presents itself as a more accessible alternative to Canon’s premium lenses. Priced at around €700, it is half the cost of the Canon RF 14-35mm f/4 L IS, for example. While its aperture is adequate for many situations, it is somewhat limited. Its size and weight make it a practical and lightweight option for long photography sessions.

In summary, this lens delivers excellent image quality with very good sharpness at the center. It features a zoom ring, a customizable focus ring, and effective autofocus. In my opinion, even though the lens has some shortcomings, it remains a good choice for photographers seeking a compact ultra-wide-angle lens at an affordable price.

In June 2021, Canon enhanced its ultra-wide-angle lens by reducing the focal length from 16mm to 15mm on its new RF 15-35mm f/2.8 IS lens, which now offers an expanded field of view of 110° and stabilization up to 7 stops. The build is robust, weather-sealed, and features three adjustment rings, including zoom, focus, and a customizable ring.

Performance-wise, the image quality is outstanding from 24mm onward. To enhance sharpness, it is advisable to stop down to f/5.6. However, there are some optical flaws such as vignetting and distortion, though these can be corrected in post-production. Ultimately, while this lens is quite expensive, it remains a high-end option, ideal for landscape and astrophotography. If your budget allows, I highly recommend it! Otherwise, consider more affordable alternatives.

Available since late 2021, the Canon RF 16mm f/2.8 STM was a pleasant surprise from the brand with its attractive price and ultra-wide angle. Indeed, this lens presents itself as an affordable option. No longer do you need to spend over €1,500 to enjoy a wide aperture. Compared to the RF 15-30mm f/4.5-6.3 IS STM, this fixed 16mm is more compact and benefits from a constant aperture of f/2.8. Light and compact, the lens includes a 43mm filter diameter. It should be noted that the construction is entirely plastic, but this does not impact its quality. However, it is neither weather-sealed nor stabilized.

In terms of optical quality, this lens excels from f/2.8, but the edges lag behind, even when stopped down to f/4 or f/5.6. Optical flaws, including vignetting and distortion, are noticeable (although correctable). In summary, the lens offers a very good value for money for a compact and bright ultra-wide-angle. In my view, it’s a great deal!

Available since August 2022, the Canon RF 24mm f/1.8 Macro IS STM is a bright wide-angle lens that stands out for its effective stabilization (5 stops) and its close-focusing capability (0.5x magnification ratio). It clearly joins Canon’s lineup of affordable prime lenses, alongside the RF 35mm f/1.8 and 50mm f/1.8. Its plastic construction is adequate but not weather-sealed. Its size and dimensions make it discreet and easy to carry, making it perfect for street photography, reportage, and close-up shots.

In terms of performance, the sharpness is remarkable at the center right from f/1.8, although it lacks uniformity at the edges. To achieve good rendering, including at the edges and corners, it is necessary to stop down to f/2.8 or f/5.6. Distortion and vignetting are quite visible, so they will need to be corrected in post-processing. I would say this lens is an excellent option for those looking for a versatile focal length. The price may seem high, but it remains a good choice if you want a large aperture and effective stabilization in a lightweight and compact format.

Below you’ll find a table summarizing the characteristics of the lenses mentioned.

Here are the Canon RF-S wide-angle lenses for APS-C mirrorless cameras that I find interesting. Click on the name(s) of the lenses you’re interested in to see the details:

1. Canon RF-S 10-18mm f/4.5-6.3 IS STM
2. Sigma 10-18mm f/2.8 DC DN Contemporary RF-S
3. Tamron 11-20mm f/2.8 Di III-A RXD RF-S
4. Samyang 12mm f/2 AF RF-S
5. Sigma 16mm f/1.4 DC DN Contemporary RF-S

Next, I’ve prepared a table summarizing the essential features of each of these lenses.

On sale since December 2023, the Canon RF-S 10-18mm f/4.5-6.3 IS STM is a very good ultra-wide zoom lens. It offers a focal range of 10 to 18mm (equivalent to 16-29mm in full-frame), allowing for shots with wide perspectives. With its aperture range of f/4.5 to f/6.3 and effective stabilization, the lens performs well. Moreover, its sharpness is excellent and manages chromatic aberrations well.

Its dimensions and weight make it practical and lightweight for long photo sessions. It is perfectly suited for landscape, architectural, and street photography. In summary, if you are looking for a versatile ultra-wide-angle at a good price, I recommend it!

Launched in September 2024, the Sigma 10-18mm f/2.8 DC DN is an ultra-wide-angle zoom lens that delivers quality outcomes. Compared to its Canon counterpart, it features a constant aperture of f/2.8, ideal for low-light situations. Its optical construction includes 13 elements in 10 groups, along with a 7-blade diaphragm and a magnification ratio of 0.25x. However, it lacks stabilization, though this is not crucial for a wide-angle lens.

In terms of performance, the lens offers excellent central sharpness, although it lacks uniformity at the edges and corners. As you might understand, this Sigma is geared towards landscape, architectural, and astrophotography. Moreover, it is priced attractively, making it an interesting alternative to the Canon RF-S 10-18mm f/4.5-6.3. In my opinion, you’ll be thrilled with it!

Just released in December 2024, the Tamron 11-20mm f/2.8 Di III-A RXD positions itself as a premium ultra-wide-angle zoom. Its focal range of 11-20mm and compact design are among its highlights. The constant aperture is beneficial in low-light conditions. The lens features 12 elements in 10 groups, including 5 special lenses (aspherical and low dispersion). It also includes a fast and efficient autofocus.

In terms of image quality, sharpness is exceptional at the center starting at f/2.8. For more uniform rendering, simply narrow the diaphragm slightly. While distortion and vignetting are noticeable, they can always be corrected in post-production. In short, this Tamron is ideal for landscape, architectural, and astrophotography. In my view, this lens offers a quality alternative to the Canon RF-S 10-18mm f/4.5-6.3, with better performance.

Recently launched in January 2025, the Samyang AF 12mm f/2 RF-S presents itself as an accessible ultra-wide-angle lens. It offers a focal equivalent to 19mm in full frame and a bright aperture of f/2, ideal in low-light situations. The lens is robust and weather-sealed, allowing use in any conditions.

On the field, sharpness is remarkable at the center from f/2, although it lacks uniformity at the edges. To enhance sharpness, simply close the diaphragm to f/5.6. Overall, the lens manages optical flaws well, including flare and chromatic aberrations. It is perfect for landscape, architectural, and astrophotography. In a few words, if you’re looking for a bright and especially affordable wide-angle, this is a no-brainer choice!

Available since January 2025, the Sigma 16mm f/1.4 DC DN Contemporary is a bright fixed focal lens. It offers a focal equivalent to 24mm in full frame, making it ideal for landscape, architectural, and astrophotography. In low-light situations, its f/1.4 aperture allows for good control of depth of field.

Optically, it incorporates 16 elements in 13 groups, including 2 SLD and 3 FLD lenses. Among its strengths, it features reactive and effective autofocus, though less so than some premium lenses. Ultimately, the lens is a very good option that combines quality, large aperture, and lightweight format.

The following table summarizes the characteristics of the lenses presented:

For those with a Canon APS-C mirrorless body, the entire Canon EOS-M range (until the release of Canon RF APS-C cameras in June 2022), from the M100 to the M200, M50, M6 to the M6 Mk II, unfortunately you don’t have much choice at the moment when it comes to choosing a wide-angle lens. At the time of writing this article, only the Canon 11-22mm IS STM f/4-5.6 exists, with a “17-35mm” full-frame equivalent. This stabilized lens has a very good reputation and offers very good image quality. Considering its weight, dimensions and price, you have no reason to hesitate!

Regarding third party brands, to my knowledge, there are three Samyang/Rokinon manual focus lenses that might be interesting to consider if you’re looking for a wide-angle lens for your Canon mirrorless camera body: a 10mm f/2.8, the 12mm f/2 and the 14mm f/2.8. The benefit of these three lenses is that they offer a large maximum aperture compared to Canon’s “f/5.6”.

Remember that there are many other wide-angle lenses available for this EF-M mount, especially from Sigma. I present on this page all the lenses dedicated to the Canon EF-M mount. Besides, I describe in another page all Canon APS-C cameras with this EF-M mount.

When it comes to wide-angle and ultra-wide-angle lenses for Canon full-frame cameras, you’ve instantly got more choices. Here is a selection of the six best lenses in this category in my opinion. However, I also present below the possible alternatives to these six lenses.

If you want to go further, I invite you to check our full page listing all Canon EF lenses for full frame cameras. You will obviously find these wide-angle lenses, but also a nice overview of what the brand offers in other focal lengths.

You will find below the 6 lenses that I consider to be the best for a full frame Canon camera:

1. Tamron SP 15-30mm Di VC USD f/2.8 G2
2. Sigma 14-24mm f/2.8 DG HSM
3. Sigma 14mm f/1.8 DG HSM
4. Sigma 20mm f/1.4 DG HSM
5. Sigma 24mm f/1.4 DG HSM
6. Canon 24mm f/2.8 IS USM

If you want to compare the technical characteristics of the 6 lenses and find the cheapest prices, I have summarized everything in the table below.

This is in my opinion today, as I write this article, the best wide-angle lens for a Canon full-frame sensor. According to tests and feedback from many people, this Tamron lens competes directly with the world’s greats, the Nikon 14-24mm f/2.8 and the Canon 16-35mm f/2.8 III.

Its sharpness is simply amazing at full aperture of f/2.8, which is perfect for astrophotography. Moreover, the lens is stabilized (which is uncommon) and people often shooting handheld or in low light conditions will appreciate this little bonus.

Finally, the price of around 1000€ appears simply perfect in my opinion compared to the competition which remains far more expensive.

Among the very high-quality optics offered by third-party brands, this Sigma wide-angle lens appears to be superb. Many photographers compare it with the almost similar (in weight and size) Sigma 12-24mm f/4, but the latter has the advantage of an integrated lens hood which limits the flare, but above all, is faster (f/2.8), which is appreciable in low light conditions.

About sharpness, you’re very close to the Tamron 15-30mm f/2.8 mentioned above, and as soon as you zoom in a little, the Sigma offers a remarkable level of quality; especially at 24mm. The lens offers globally more sharpness than the Canon 14mm f/2.8 L II or the 14-24 f/2.8G, reference at Nikon. If you want a nice wide-angle lens to be added to your 24-70mm f/2.8, this Sigma is a superb lens.

We’re leaving the world of wide-angle zoom lenses to focus on wide-aperture fixed focal length lenses. If you’re looking for the best fixed focal wide-angle lens for your Canon full-frame camera, look no further, the Sigma 14mm f/1.8 offers simply extraordinary quality.

This lens has a 9-blade diaphragm and is capable of offering a very nice bokeh at full aperture. In direct competition with the Canon 14mm f/2.8 L II and the Nikon 14mm f/2.8D, this Sigma is of much better quality on all levels (the references at Canon/Nikon are much older too). For astrophotography or interior architecture fans, this lens is really worth considering!

Sigma has done a great job by offering an aperture never before available in a wide-angle lens. If you are looking for a very nice wide-angle lens with a large aperture, take a look at this lens. The price is still decent compared to the results.

Still in the area of wide-angle lenses, Sigma offers a superb 20mm f/1.4, something that no native brand (Canon/ Nikon) has ever produced. Sigma now offers a very fast lens capable of performing well for low light photography, landscape photography and architecture photography.

Sigma has hit hard with the release of this new 20mm and for the price, this lens is an excellent wide-angle lens to consider!

Some of you might be thinking by now that I work for Sigma, but I don’t! Sigma once again offers excellent optics with a very large aperture. Its quality and sharpness are renowned above the 24mm f/1.4 Canon.

Moreover, the price offered by Sigma Art compared to the Canon (100% more expensive) is very interesting. If you are looking for a nice 24mm wide aperture lens, this Sigma is really worth considering!

Last wide-angle lens on the list, this Canon 24mm f/2.8 has a very nice image quality for an unbeatable price (less than 500€). At this price, the quality delivered is very good, not to mention that the lens is light and small.

The lens, in addition to being stabilized, has a nice f/2.8 maximum aperture which can help as soon as the light decreases. Moreover, it allows screw filters with a small diameter of 58mm, which will save you money. This is a very nice alternative to the slightly more expensive Sigma 24mm f/1.4 mentioned above. For people looking for a 24mm focal length, light, reliable, small size and at an acceptable price, this is a great lens.

In order to have a broad view of things and to compare the lenses between them as well as the characteristics, I have decided to provide you with a summary table of these 6 lenses below. You can sort the table according to the information you are interested in.

These are, in my opinion, the six best lenses to consider for your choice. The only concern, and it is in my option important, is that most of these lenses do not allow to accommodate conventional screwing filters or even standard 100mm filter holder systems. All these lenses (except the last Canon 24mm f/2.8 IS) have a curved/bulbous front element which prevents it. So, you will have to use special expensive filter systems, most of the time a 150mm or even 180mm filter holder and adapted (expensive) filter. I have spent so much time comparing, checking and searching for all the information about filters for wide angle and ultra-wide-angle optics, that I decided to write a dedicated article about it. If you have the motivation, here are all the filter holder systems for WA/UWA lenses requiring 150mm or 170mm filter holders. The alternatives below accept most standard screw-in filters, which will delight filter lovers, especially for landscape photography.

Canon’s range of APS-C sensor cameras is quite broad and extends from entry-level body such as the 4000D to the 7D Mk II, a professional-grade body. APS-C wide-angle sensor lenses have the advantage of being much lighter and more compact than their full-frame equivalent. In my opinion, these are the best lenses for Canon APS-C DSLRs.

If you are interested by other wide-angle alternatives and/or you are curious, here is the full page summarizing all Canon EF-S mount lenses.

Here are in my opinion the 4 best Canon wide-angle lenses for APS-C cameras:

1. Tamron 10-24mm f/3.5-4.5 Di II VC HLD
2. Canon EF-S 10-18mm f/4.5-5.6 IS STM
3. Tokina AT-X 116 PRO DX II AF 11-16 mm f/2.8
4. Sigma AF 10-20mm f/3.5 EX DC HSM

I have summarized for comparison the main technical characteristics of the 4 lenses in the table below.

This new version of the Tamron 10-24mm now features an integrated stabilizer (VC) that works very well. It has the widest focal range in its class of wide-angle lenses, superior to Canon’s classic 10-18mm and 10-22mm. This Tamron wide-angle lens has a solid construction with a total weight of 439g.

The maximum aperture of this lens in itself is not excellent, but the stabilization can help you in low-light situations. Sharpness tests demonstrate very good quality, especially in the center of the image and at the shortest focal lengths (between 10 and 15mm), superior to Canon wide angle lenses. The quality decreases in the angles but is still acceptable. If you are considering buying a Canon APS-C wide angle DSLR lens, I’m of the opinion that this is the most interesting lens today!

In direct competition with its little brother the Canon EF-S 10-22mm, this ultra-wide-angle lens will satisfy those looking for a good quality, lightweight, properly constructed lens. The focal range is ideal and matches perfectly with the 18-55mm trans-standard lenses.

Compared to its big brother, the sharpness is said to be better, especially at full aperture. Even though the aperture is smaller than the Canon 10-22mm, you get a stabilized lens, which will be useful in low light situations. Finally, the price remains quite reasonable. It’s in my opinion a very good alternative to the Tamron if you’re looking for an Ultra-Wide Angle (UWA) lens from Canon, in a similar price range.

With a nice f/2.8 constant aperture and a very solid construction (well beyond the two Canon’s mentioned above), this new version of the Tokina 11-16mm f/2.8 remains a very nice alternative when choosing your wide-angle lens.

For amateurs of photography in low light conditions, at night or for astrophotography, this is clearly a lens to consider. The sharpness is lower than the other two Canons’ in my opinion, but still very good, especially in the center of the image. The optic accepts filters without any problem, but in 77m. I shot with this lens for almost 2 years, especially when traveling, and it was perfect for me.

The latest ultra-wide-angle lens for a Canon APS-C DSLR which appears to be a good choice for people on a tight budget. This second version is much better than the first 10-20mm from Sigma. This ultra-wide-angle lens has a nice fixed aperture of f/3.5, which will help you in low light conditions.

Of course, there are other wide-angle lenses for APS-C cameras, but these are the four I would advise you to consider. You can also look at the Tokina 11-20mm f/2.8 Pro Dx. Here is a summary and comparative table of the main characteristics of the lenses mentioned above.

Please note that all the lenses characteristics mentioned in the two paragraphs below are summarized in the table that follows.

Of course, not everyone will agree with the earlier selection of the best optics. Concerning the possible alternatives to the six lenses mentioned above, here are a few to consider. For a bright ultra wide angle zoom (other than the Tamron), you can of course go for the excellent Canon 16-35mm f/2.8 L III. But it is much more expensive and a little less sharp. On the contrary, it will accept screw filter, which is great! For less expensive and those who don’t necessarily want a large aperture, the f/4 version of the 16-35mm is nicely renowned (and almost as good in sharpness). I personally bought this lens and fell in love with it. A nice alternative three times lighter than the Tamron 15-30mm f/2.8 mentioned above, is the Tamron 17-35mm f/2.8-4. The latter however has a smaller aperture on its longest focal length and has no stabilization. However, the lens can be found for less than 500€, which is a perfect price for small budgets. Finally, there is only the old Canon 17-40mm f/4 left but it remains in my opinion the least interesting alternative now (no IS and lower sharpness than all the others).

Concerning wide angle wide aperture zoom lenses and as an alternative to the Sigma 14-24mm f/2.8 DG HSM, you can look at the very good Sigma 12-24mm f/4. The equivalent Canon 11-24mm f/4 stays a very nice alternative too, offering superb image quality, but its price is still twice as expensive as the Sigma, so I wouldn’t recommend it.

Finally, for an ultra bright wide-angle lens for your Canon full frame camera, you can look at the Canon 14mm f/2.8 II even if it is still behind and is more expensive. The Samyang AF 14mm f/2.8 version is in my opinion a very nice alternative with a decent quality and goes for a much lower price.

Here are the main characteristics of Canon wide-angle lenses with autofocus. There’s plenty to choose from!

I will mention here four models that stand out from the crowd. Zeiss offers three very beautiful references of wide angle with a constant wide aperture, the 15mm f/2.8, the 18mm f/2.8 and the 21mm f/2.8. All three optics are extremely well known and everyone agrees that they can’t be bad choices. The optics are superbly constructed, of superior quality and have excellent sharpness. The only thing you need to know is that they are non-autofocus lenses and you will have to deal with manual focusing, which between us, for landscape or architecture photography (surely the main idea to buy such a lens) won’t cause any trouble.

Finally, for people with a small budget and looking for a cheap wide-angle lens, Samyang offers a very good 14mm f/2.8 MF. According to the feedback, this lens would offer a quality close to the native Canon and Nikon 14mm lenses.By the way, I almost forgot, but recently, Irix released a wide angle lens that made a lot of noise, the Irix 15mm f/2.4. Many consider it as a very nice alternative to the Canon wide angle lenses which remains expensive compared to this “low cost” wide angle lens (less than 500€). Note that there are two versions of the lens: Firefly and Blackstone.

I won’t repeat all the extra information given in the article on how to choose your wide-angle lens, but I invite you to read it if you need to know all the details before making your choice. However, here are the main points summarized below. All you have to do is click on the scrollbar to make all these elements appear in detail (I deliberately hid it because these elements are already found in other articles, but it seemed essential to me to remind them here).

The sensor is the first thing to consider. Depending on the brand, for instance at Canon, not all lenses (wide-angle and others) will fit on all sensor sizes and will therefore not be compatible. For example, a Canon 10-22mm f/3.5-4.5 wide-angle lens is a lens dedicated to an APS-C sensor. Therefore, it cannot be attached on a full frame camera (24×36). Be careful when choosing as to be sure that the lens will be compatible with your sensor. It’s not necessarily the same with Nikon DSLR as the camera will automatically crop the image…

At Canon, you have to remember this :

• Canon EF lenses are dedicated for Full Frame cameras
• Canon EF-S lenses are built for APS-C cameras

We will see it below in the list of wide-angle lenses for Canon that I recommend, but more and more third-party brands offer very nice lenses, very often as good quality as the native brands, or even better. The price/quality ratio is often unbeatable. I am thinking in particular of the brands Sigma, Tamron, Zeiss or Samyang/Rokinon. However, these brands offer different lenses for Canon, Nikon or sometimes even Sony. Be careful to check the compatibility so that your wide-angle lens fits well on your Canon camera…It will be dumb to buy a lens for Nikon if you own a 6D Mark II or a 5d Mark IV, right ?! Be sure then to check that the lens is for the EF mount (for full frame cameras) or EF-S mount (for APS-C cameras).

If you are reading this article, chances are you already know the term focal length. It is found written on all lenses, in millimeters (Ex: 10mm, 35mm, 300mm). It is more simply the “zoom level” that you will see in your viewfinder, which will influence your “framing / field of view” when shooting. For this article on wide-angle lenses, we’re referring to short focal lengths. Obviously, you will have to pay attention to the size of the sensor you use, because it influences the angle of view you get (crop factor x1.5 between an APS-C sensor and a full frame).

We can consider a wide angle:

• For a full frame body: Between 16 and 35mm (lower than that is an UWA, ultra-wide angle),
• For an APS-C body: Between 10 and 24mm.

Of course, you will found here wide-angle prime lenses (Ex: 14mm f/1.8) and zooms lenses (Ex: 16-35mm f/4). In this article, I won’t talk about Fisheye-lens.

Remember, this is the number behind the “f/” written on your camera lens. The maximum aperture is important in many ways and will allow you to: shoot faster, limit blurred shots in low light situations, blur your background (to get a great bokeh/out of focus area) or reduce your depth of field. In a large majority of cases, you often buy a wide-angle lens for landscape and/or architecture photography. Of course, it can also be used for street photography, indoor photography, etc…

Personally, I use my WA lens mainly for landscape photography. In the middle of the day, except if you plan long exposures (but you will be on a tripod anyway), you will often shoot between f/8 and f/16. The maximum aperture of your lens won’t really matter then. However, you might get the idea of blurring an unsightly background/foreground by shooting wide open (e.g. f/2.8). In this case, it may be important. The same goes for architectural or indoor photography where sometimes, you will not have enough light and being able to open your diaphragm may save you in some situations. Have a large aperture will definitely help you to shoot with a slower shutter speed.

Then again, if you are shooting with a tripod, it won’t matter because you will often try to make the whole image sharp (so rarely at wide aperture). Let’s just say that generally speaking, lenses with a large maximum aperture are usually heavier, more expensive and bulkier. So be careful when making your choice.

This is another aspect to consider when buying your wide-angle lens. For short focal lengths, having a stabilized lens is less important in my opinion. However, when in low light situations and you don’t have a tripod, having a stabilized lens can save your life and you will get sharper image with it. There is a lot of Canon EF lenses with stabilization actually.

This is another question you will have to ask yourself when making your choice. Everyone has their own vision of the advantages and disadvantages of each. To simplify, I would say that a fixed focal length (also known as prime lens) is generally brighter but less flexible. It’s a matter of taste. I personally love the versatility of a zoom lens like my Canon EF 16-35mm f/4.

If you buy a wide-angle lens, there’s a good chance that landscape photography is somewhere in the back of your mind, right? If you’re like me, you might like to use filters (GND, ND, polarizing). You’ll have to be careful then as some wide-angle lenses have a curved/bulbous front element which prevents the use of standard filters, or screw-in filters. Even the “conventional lens filter holder 100mm system” cannot be used with these lenses and you will have to consider more expensive systems.

Each brand has its own range of lenses. Canon has a number of entry-level lenses with a more plastic construction and “L” range lenses with a stronger construction. Of course, the prices differ between the two line-ups (and the characteristics of the lenses for that matter…fortunately).

That’s it, I’ve come to the end of this article on the best Canon wide angle lenses for both DSLR and mirrorless cameras. Now, who said choosing a lens was simple, huh? This article will be updated frequently to incorporate any new features that may come along in the meantime. I hope you liked the article and don’t hesitate to give me your opinion on the selection of lenses presented in this article! For Nikon fans, you will find a similar article presenting the best Nikon wide-angle lenses.

See you soon,

Written by Sylvain PONS

I've been passionate about photography since 2010, learning as I went along. Today, I dedicate myself to guiding others in their choice of camera gear and sharing a variety of tips to improve their photography skills.

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