Are Yongnuo lenses any good? Yes, for budget photographers they punch well above their price. After six weeks testing eight current Yongnuo autofocus lenses across Canon EF, Nikon F, and Sony E mounts, I found the brand delivers surprisingly sharp optics, reliable DSM stepping motors, and real value. The catch is autofocus speed trails name-brand glass, and build consistency varies.
Yongnuo is a Chinese third-party lens manufacturer founded in Shenzhen that builds budget alternatives to Canon, Nikon, and Sony first-party glass. Their lineup focuses on affordable prime lenses for hobbyists, beginners, and anyone who wants solid image quality without dropping $500-$2000 on a single optic. After DxOMark ranked the Yongnuo 85mm f/1.8S among the top three lenses it has ever tested, the brand earned real credibility in the photography community.
In this guide, I cover every current Yongnuo autofocus lens for Canon, Nikon, and Sony cameras in 2026. I tested each for sharpness, autofocus reliability, build quality, and real-world usability. You will find mount-specific recommendations, sample image analysis, and clear guidance on which Yongnuo lens fits your camera and shooting style.
Top 3 Picks for Best Yongnuo Autofocus Lenses (September 2026)
Yongnuo 50mm f/1.8 for Nikon F
- F1.8 aperture
- 2158 reviews
- Full-frame compatible
- USB updates
Yongnuo 50mm f/1.8 for Canon EF
- F1.8 aperture
- 5367 reviews
- Full-frame compatible
- 7-blade aperture
Best Yongnuo Autofocus Lenses in 2026
| Product | Specifications | Action |
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| YN50mm f/1.8 for Canon EF |
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 YN 35mm f/2.0 for Canon EF |
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 YN35mm f/2 for Nikon F |
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| YN50mm f/1.8 for Nikon F |
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 YN 11mm f/1.8S for Sony E |
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 YN 50mm f/1.8 for Sony E |
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 YN 35mm f/1.8 Art for Sony E |
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 YN 16mm f/1.8 for Sony E |
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1. Yongnuo YN50mm f/1.8 for Canon EF – The All-Time Bestseller
YONGNUO YN50mm F1.8 Lens Large Aperture Auto Focus Lens Compatible with Canon EF Mount Camera
Pros
- F1.8 large aperture for low light
- Sharp images when stopped down
- Full-frame and APS-C support
- 7 aperture blades for smooth bokeh
- Gold-plated contacts for reliable signal
- 5367 reviews averaging 4.4 stars
Cons
- Loud AF motor not ideal for video
- Plastic build feels light
- Autofocus can hunt in dim light
- No weather sealing
I picked up the Yongnuo YN50mm f/1.8 for Canon EF on a recommendation from a photography club buddy, and it has spent more time on my Canon 6D than any other lens. The first thing you notice is the size. At 4.2 ounces, this lens disappears in your bag, which makes it perfect for casual walks or travel days when you do not want to lug heavy gear.
Image quality exceeded what I expected at this price. Center sharpness is solid wide open at f/1.8, and stopping down to f/2.8 or f/4 delivers crisp results across the frame. The 7-blade aperture produces smoother bokeh than the older Canon 50mm f/1.8 II, which only has 5 blades. For portraits at f/2.8 to f/4, the background melts away nicely.
The build is what you would expect from a budget lens. The barrel is mostly plastic, and the focus ring has a slightly gritty feel. That said, the gold-plated metal mount contacts provide reliable communication with my camera body. Aperture information shows up correctly in EXIF data, which matters for anyone who catalogs their shots.
Autofocus is the weak point. The motor is noticeably louder than the Canon 50mm f/1.8 STM, and hunting in low light is common. For video, this is not your best option. For stills in decent light, it locks on quickly enough. I would estimate 60% of my keeper shots had to wait for focus confirmation in dim conditions.
Best use cases for this lens
This YN50mm is ideal for beginners building their first prime lens kit, travel photographers who want a light carry option, and anyone needing a backup 50mm. It works on both full-frame Canon DSLRs and APS-C bodies, where it gives you an 80mm equivalent field of view. Skip it if you shoot primarily video or need silent focusing.
What you sacrifice versus the Canon EF 50mm f/1.8 STM
The Canon STM version costs roughly three times more but offers quieter autofocus, smoother video performance, and slightly better corner sharpness. If you shoot stills only and value the savings, the Yongnuo is a smart buy. If video matters or you need weather resistance, save up for the Canon.
2. Yongnuo YN35mm f/2.0 for Canon EF – Lightest Wide-Angle Prime
Pros
- Lightest wide-angle prime in lineup
- F2.0 aperture for low light
- 7-blade circular aperture
- 0.25m close focusing distance
- Multi-coated HD glass reduces flare
- Metal bayonet mount
Cons
- Manual focus can drift when moving camera
- AF accuracy inconsistent
- Plastic construction feels budget
The YN35mm f/2.0 for Canon EF is the lens I grab when I want to forget I am carrying a camera. At 155 grams, it weighs less than a smartphone. I strapped it to my Canon 80D for a street photography walk through downtown and barely felt it around my neck.
Optically, the 35mm focal length is one of the most versatile primes you can own. On a full-frame body, it covers a natural wide-angle field of view. On APS-C, it behaves like a 56mm standard lens, which is great for everyday shooting. The f/2.0 aperture is fast enough for indoor shots and street scenes after sunset.
Focusing is a mixed bag. Autofocus locks on quickly in good light, but in low-contrast situations the motor hunts more than I would like. The manual focus ring is smooth, though I noticed some users report the focus distance shifting when the camera is moved or tilted, which is something to test carefully when you first receive it.
Image quality is good for the price, especially stopped down to f/4 or f/5.6. The 7-blade circular aperture creates nice sunstars and pleasing bokeh for close-up subjects. Multi-coating helps reduce flare when the sun is in or near the frame, though it is not completely flare-proof.
Who should buy this 35mm prime
This lens makes sense for travel photographers, street shooters, and anyone who values a light kit. The 0.25m close focus distance is a nice bonus for detail shots or food photography. If you primarily shoot still subjects in good light, it performs well. Skip it if you need reliable continuous AF for moving subjects.
Mount compatibility considerations
Although the listing mentions Nikon Z compatibility in some fields, the product is built specifically for Canon EF mount. If you want a 35mm for Nikon, look at the YN35mm f/2N in this roundup instead. For Canon mirrorless shooters using an EF-to-RF adapter, this lens works but loses some autofocus speed.
3. Yongnuo YN35mm f/2N for Nikon F – The Nikon Shooter’s Bargain
YONGNUO YN35mm F2N Lens, 1:2 AF MF Wide-Angle Fixed Prime Auto Focus Lens for Nikon DSLR Cameras
Pros
- Half the price of Nikon 35mm f/1.8G
- Sharp images rivaling Nikon glass
- Solid build for a budget lens
- USB firmware upgrade capability
- 7-blade aperture for sunbursts
- Excellent 4.4-star rating across 853 reviews
Cons
- Autofocus slower than Nikon branded
- Lacks weather sealing
The Yongnuo YN35mm f/2N for Nikon F is the lens that convinced me Yongnuo is not just a Canon story. I tested it on a Nikon D750 for two weeks, and the image quality genuinely surprised me. Center sharpness wide open matches what I get from the Nikon 35mm f/1.8G FX, and stopping down to f/4 gives you near-tack-sharp results across the frame.
Build quality is a step up from the Canon 50mm. The YN35mm f/2N feels denser in the hand, and the metal bayonet mount is reassuring. At 318 grams, it has some heft, but it balances well on mid-size Nikon bodies like the D7500 or D7200. The rubberized focus ring turns smoothly, though it does not have the silky feel of a Nikkor prime.
The standout feature for Nikon shooters is the USB firmware port hidden under a rubber flap on the barrel. Yongnuo has released firmware updates that improved autofocus speed and compatibility with newer Nikon bodies. This kind of post-purchase support is rare in the budget lens world and shows the brand is investing in long-term product quality.
Autofocus is functional but not fast. In good light, lock-on takes about half a second. In low light, expect more hunting. For video, the motor is audible. None of this is shocking given the price, but if you shoot sports or wildlife, this is not your lens. For portraits, landscapes, travel, and street photography, it is plenty capable.
Why Nikon DSLR owners love this lens
The Nikon 35mm f/1.8G FX runs roughly twice the price of the Yongnuo, and for many shooting situations the optical difference is minor. If you want a 35mm for a hobby kit, travel bag, or as a backup, the YN35mm f/2N delivers excellent value. It also works on APS-C Nikon bodies like the D3500 and D5600, where it behaves like a 52mm equivalent.
What to know before buying
Check that your Nikon body supports autofocus with this lens. All modern Nikon DSLRs with a built-in autofocus motor (like the D7000 series, D500, D7500, D850, D750) will autofocus just fine. Older entry-level bodies without an in-body motor (D3xxx and D5xxx before 2018) will require manual focusing only. Confirm your camera model supports AF before purchase.
4. Yongnuo YN50mm f/1.8N for Nikon F – Editor’s Choice for Portraits
Pros
- Top-rated Yongnuo lens at 4.6 stars
- 2158 reviews confirm quality
- Sharp images rivaling Nikkor
- Solid build for the price
- F1.8 aperture for shallow DOF
- Works on full-frame and APS-C
Cons
- Loud AF motor not suitable for video
- Slower AF than Nikon branded
- No weather sealing
- Focus scale moves opposite to focus ring
With 2158 reviews averaging 4.6 stars, the YN50mm f/1.8N for Nikon F is the highest-rated Yongnuo autofocus lens in this roundup. After three weeks shooting with it on my Nikon Z6 (using the FTZ adapter), I understand why. This lens hits the sweet spot of price, image quality, and reliability that Nikon shooters have been waiting for in a third-party prime.
Sharpness is the headline feature. Wide open at f/1.8, center sharpness rivals the Nikon 50mm f/1.8G, which costs significantly more. By f/2.8, the lens is critically sharp across the frame. I shot a portrait session at f/2.0 and the detail in my subject’s eyes and hair was impressive for a lens at this price point.
The F1.8 aperture delivers the shallow depth of field that portrait shooters want. Background separation is smooth, and the 7-blade aperture produces creamy bokeh without the harsh busy patterns you sometimes see on budget lenses. For environmental portraits at f/2.8 to f/4, this lens sings.
One quirk to be aware of: the focus distance scale moves in the opposite direction from the manual focus ring. This is not a deal-breaker, but it can confuse you the first few times you switch from autofocus to manual focus. After a day of shooting, you adjust naturally.
Best use cases for the YN50mm f/1.8N
This lens shines for portrait photography, environmental portraits, product photography, and low-light indoor events. On a full-frame Nikon body, it provides a natural 50mm field of view. On APS-C, it behaves like a 75mm short telephoto, which is perfect for tight headshots. Beginners and intermediate shooters will get the most value here.
What about AF speed compared to Nikkor?
The Nikon 50mm f/1.8G focuses faster and quieter than the Yongnuo. If you shoot weddings, sports, or video, that speed gap matters. For portraits, landscapes, and casual shooting, the Yongnuo is fast enough. The price difference often justifies the trade-off for budget-conscious photographers.
5. Yongnuo YN11mm f/1.8S for Sony E – Premium Ultra-Wide for APS-C
Pros
- Sharpest ultra-wide in APS-C range
- Bright F1.8 aperture rare at this focal length
- Fast quiet DSM autofocus for video
- Click or stepless aperture ring
- BR-L1 wireless remote included
- Compact 260g design
- 105-degree angle of view
Cons
- Some units have remote connectivity issues
- No manual focus ring on lens body
- Limited compatibility on older Sony cameras
- Aperture ring not supported on A6000 series
The YN11mm f/1.8S is the most ambitious Yongnuo autofocus lens I tested, and it delivered. With a perfect 5.0-star rating across early reviews, this ultra-wide-angle prime for Sony APS-C cameras brings serious features to a price point that competes directly with Sigma and Viltrox offerings.
The 11mm focal length on APS-C gives you a 16.5mm full-frame equivalent field of view, which is one of the widest angles you can buy for a Sony E-mount APS-C body. I shot astrophotography, real estate interiors, and vlogging b-roll with this lens, and the F1.8 maximum aperture makes it possible to shoot in conditions where most ultra-wides force you to crank up the ISO.
Autofocus uses Yongnuo’s DSM (Digital Stepping Motor) system, which is quiet and smooth for video work. This is a major step up from the loud micro-motor systems found in older Yongnuo lenses. Paired with Sony’s Real-time Tracking on cameras like the A6700 or A7C II, focus stays locked on moving subjects.
The included BR-L1 wireless remote is a unique bonus. It lets you trigger the shutter or adjust focus from a distance, which is helpful for long exposures, self-portraits, or remote shooting setups. Some users report the remote does not pair on certain camera bodies, so test this immediately if the remote matters to you.
Best uses for this ultra-wide prime
Think astrophotography, real estate, landscape, architecture, and creative vlogging. The bright F1.8 aperture also makes it usable as a run-and-gun video lens in low light. If you shoot Sony APS-C and want the widest field of view possible without dropping on a fisheye, this is the lens to consider.
Compatibility with Sony cameras
This lens works with most modern Sony E-mount bodies including the A7 IV, A7C, A6700, A6600, A6400, FX30, and ZV-E10. Some older entry-level cameras like the A6000 do not support the click or stepless aperture ring, which limits some functionality. Check your camera body before expecting full feature support.
6. Yongnuo 50mm f/1.8 for Sony E – Budget Portrait Lens
Pros
- Excellent value for Sony shooters
- Sharp images for the price
- Fast enough autofocus for stills
- Compact 200g design
- USB-C firmware upgradeable
- 4.8-star average rating
- In-camera correction support
Cons
- No image stabilization
- Slight focus hunting in low light
- Some chromatic aberration wide open
- AF slower than premium Sony lenses
The YN 50mm f/1.8 for Sony E-mount is one of the most pleasant surprises in this roundup. At a 4.8-star average across early reviews, this little prime delivers portrait-grade results for APS-C Sony shooters at a fraction of what Sony charges for the FE 50mm f/1.8.
On an APS-C body like the Sony A6400 or A6700, the 50mm focal length behaves like a 75mm full-frame equivalent. That is classic portrait territory. I shot a series of environmental portraits at f/2.0 and the subject isolation was clean, with smooth bokeh that did not look nervous or busy.
Build quality is solid for the price. The 200g weight makes it one of the lightest 50mm primes you can buy for Sony E-mount. The metal mount feels secure, and the focus ring is well-damped. It does not have the silky feel of a G Master lens, but for the price, it is more than acceptable.
Autofocus uses an updated system that supports Sony’s Real-time Eye AF on compatible bodies. Lock-on is quick in good light and slows slightly in dim conditions. There is no image stabilization, so you will need to rely on IBIS in your camera body or use faster shutter speeds for handheld shooting.
Who this Sony 50mm is best for
Beginners and intermediate Sony APS-C shooters who want an affordable portrait lens. Vloggers shooting seated talking-head content at a desk will also benefit from the natural field of view and bright aperture. Skip it if you need stabilization for handheld video or shoot in very dim conditions regularly.
USB-C firmware updates explained
The USB-C port on the lens barrel lets you update firmware using a computer and a USB-C cable. Yongnuo has used this system to push autofocus improvements and compatibility fixes to existing owners. It is a small detail, but it shows the brand is committed to supporting products after launch, which is rare at this price.
7. Yongnuo 35mm f/1.8 Art Lens for Sony E – Cinematic Look on a Budget
Pros
- Cinematic look for photos and video
- Sharp images with beautiful bokeh
- Quiet stepping motor autofocus
- Solid metal bayonet mount
- Dust and water resistant
- 9 aperture blades for smooth rendering
- 4.7-star average rating
Cons
- No image stabilization
- Focus motor can vibrate during video
- APS-C only not full-frame
- Some focus hunting in low light
The Yongnuo 35mm f/1.8 Art lens for Sony E-mount is a serious contender for the title of best budget cine-style prime. With a 4.7-star average rating and 89% of users giving it 5 stars, this lens punches well above its weight class.
The optical formula uses 10 elements in 9 groups with 2 aspherical lenses and 2 ultra-low dispersion glass elements. That is a sophisticated design for a budget lens, and it shows in the results. I shot a video project at f/2.0 and the sharpness across the frame, even wide open, was impressive. The 9-blade aperture produces smooth, rounded bokeh that looks cinematic in stills and video.
The stepping motor autofocus is genuinely quiet. I tested it on a Sony ZV-E10 shooting video and the focus pulls were smooth enough to use in interview footage. There is a slight vibration during focus transitions that shows up in some shots, but it is far less noticeable than the gear-driven motors on older Yongnuo lenses.
Build quality feels premium. The metal bayonet mount is reassuring, and the dustproof and waterproof rubber ring at the mount adds a small amount of weather sealing. The 350g weight gives it some heft, which balances well on larger Sony bodies like the A7C II or FX30.
Why this lens stands out for video
The combination of quiet autofocus, smooth 9-blade aperture, and cinematic focal length makes this a strong choice for YouTube creators, short-form video producers, and indie filmmakers on a budget. The lack of image stabilization is a limitation for handheld video, but pair it with a Sony body that has IBIS and you have a portable video rig for under $200 total.
Photo performance for everyday shooting
For stills, this lens handles portraits, street photography, and travel with ease. The 35mm focal length on APS-C behaves like a 52mm equivalent, which is a versatile everyday focal length. The bright F1.8 aperture is great for indoor shots without flash. This is a true hybrid lens that works for both photo and video shooters.
8. Yongnuo 16mm f/1.8 for Sony E – Wide-Angle Video Beast
Pros
- Sharp images wide open
- Quiet DSM autofocus motor
- Premium build for the price
- USB firmware upgradeable
- Fn custom function button
- Great for vlogging and low-light video
- Compact 273g design
- APS-C only equivalent to 24mm full frame
Cons
- Autofocus breathing in video mode
- Some quality control issues reported
- Firmware update issues on Mac
- F1.8 has some vignetting wide open
- Less common 58mm filter size
The YN16mm f/1.8 for Sony E-mount is a hidden gem for Sony APS-C shooters. After comparing it against the Sigma 16mm f/1.4 DC DN Contemporary, which costs roughly three times more, I can confirm the Yongnuo holds its own for many shooting scenarios.
The 16mm focal length on APS-C behaves like a 24mm full-frame equivalent, which is the classic vlogging focal length. Pair it with a Sony ZV-E10 or A6700 and you have a portable video rig with a wide enough field of view for handheld talking-head footage. The F1.8 aperture also lets you shoot in dim indoor conditions without cranking up the ISO.
Optically, this lens is sharper than it has any right to be at this price. Wide open at f/1.8, center sharpness is excellent, and corners improve significantly by f/2.8. There is some vignetting at f/1.8, but it disappears by f/4. For landscape, real estate, and travel video, this lens delivers.
The DSM autofocus motor is quiet and reasonably fast. I did notice some focus breathing during video pulls, where the field of view shifts slightly during focus transitions. For serious cinema work, that is a real concern. For casual YouTube content, it is not noticeable to most viewers.
Best use cases for the YN16mm f/1.8
This lens is built for vlogging, travel video, real estate photography, and landscape work. The Fn button on the barrel is a nice touch for assigning custom functions like eye AF toggle or focus hold. If you shoot Sony APS-C and want a fast wide-angle, this is one of the best values in the Yongnuo lineup.
Quality control and warranty considerations
A small percentage of users report receiving defective units. Buy from an authorized dealer with a clear return policy. Yongnuo offers a 1-year warranty on most lenses, but if you buy gray market from a third-party seller, you may not have warranty support. Stick with Amazon direct or major retailers like B&H or Adorama for the best buying experience.
How to Choose the Right Yongnuo Autofocus Lens?
Choosing the best Yongnuo autofocus lens starts with your camera mount. Yongnuo makes lenses for Canon EF, Nikon F, and Sony E mounts, with limited options for Canon RF and Nikon Z. Picking the wrong mount is the most common mistake, so confirm your camera model before you buy.
Match the lens to your camera mount
Canon EF mount works on Canon DSLRs and Canon mirrorless cameras with an EF-to-RF adapter. Nikon F mount works on Nikon DSLRs with a built-in autofocus motor. Sony E mount lenses are built for Sony mirrorless cameras, both APS-C and full-frame. Using an EF or F mount lens on a Sony body requires an adapter and slows autofocus significantly.
Understand DSM stepping motor technology
DSM, or Digital Stepping Motor, is Yongnuo’s modern autofocus system. It is quieter and more accurate than the older micro-motor design found in lenses like the original YN50mm f/1.8 for Canon. If you shoot video, prioritize DSM lenses. For stills only, the older motor designs are perfectly capable.
Pick the right focal length for your shooting style
35mm works for street, travel, and everyday photography. 50mm is the classic portrait and standard prime. 16mm and 11mm are ultra-wide choices for landscapes, real estate, and vlogging. The 85mm and longer Yongnuo lenses exist but are not currently in this roundup. Pick based on what you shoot most, not what looks impressive on paper.
Budget versus performance trade-offs
The cheapest Yongnuo lenses in this roundup start around $82 for the original Canon 50mm f/1.8. Mid-range options with DSM motors and modern features run $100 to $150. Premium options with USB-C firmware updates and ultra-wide focal lengths push $280 to $300. None of these lenses match the optical perfection of $1500 first-party glass, but they deliver 80-90% of the performance at 15-30% of the price.
Avoiding common pitfalls
Buy from authorized sellers to ensure warranty coverage. Check that your camera body supports autofocus with the lens you want. Read recent reviews, since Yongnuo has improved quality control over the years. If a deal looks too good to be true from a third-party marketplace seller, it is probably gray market stock without warranty support.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are Yongnuo lenses any good?
Yes, Yongnuo lenses are good for budget photographers who want solid image quality without paying first-party prices. After DxOMark ranked the Yongnuo 85mm f/1.8S in the top three lenses ever tested, the brand earned real credibility. For everyday photography, portraits, and travel, Yongnuo delivers 80-90% of the performance of premium lenses at a fraction of the cost.
Which Yongnuo lens has the best autofocus?
The Yongnuo lenses with DSM (Digital Stepping Motor) autofocus are the best for speed and quietness. The YN11mm f/1.8S for Sony E, YN16mm f/1.8 for Sony E, and YN 35mm f/1.8 Art for Sony E all use stepping motors that deliver smoother and quieter focusing than older Yongnuo micro-motor designs. For Nikon F mount, the YN35mm f/2N has solid autofocus and USB firmware updates that improve speed over time.
Is Yongnuo a Chinese company?
Yes, Yongnuo is a Chinese company founded in Shenzhen. The brand started by making affordable flash units and triggers before expanding into budget camera lenses. Yongnuo lenses are popular worldwide with hobbyist and budget-conscious photographers who want alternatives to expensive Canon, Nikon, and Sony first-party glass.
Which Yongnuo lens is best for beginners?
For beginners, the YN50mm f/1.8 for Canon EF (B00QEXM4YC) is the best starting point thanks to its low price, simple operation, and 5367 reviews averaging 4.4 stars. Nikon DSLR beginners should consider the YN50mm f/1.8N (B01E38TZDC), which has 2158 reviews averaging 4.6 stars. Sony APS-C beginners get great value from the YN 50mm f/1.8 for Sony E (B0FKM263BC), which delivers portrait-grade results for beginners.
Final Verdict on the Best Yongnuo Autofocus Lenses
Yongnuo has earned its place in the budget lens conversation. After testing eight current Yongnuo autofocus lenses, I can confidently recommend the brand for photographers who want real value without sacrificing image quality.
For Nikon DSLR shooters, the YN50mm f/1.8N is the standout choice with 2158 reviews averaging 4.6 stars. For Canon EF shooters, the YN50mm f/1.8 remains a budget classic. For Sony APS-C mirrorless shooters, the YN 35mm f/1.8 Art and YN11mm f/1.8S deliver modern features and DSM autofocus that compete with much pricier options.
If you are shopping for the best Yongnuo autofocus lenses in 2026, match the mount to your camera, prioritize DSM motors if you shoot video, and pick a focal length that matches your shooting style. Any of the lenses in this roundup will deliver excellent value for your photography.