SLR lenses

What's behind our SLR lens Ratings?

Experts at our National Testing and Research Center tested 33 models in SLR lenses to see which ones perform best.

We look for:

Overall score
This is based almost entirely on the lens¿s image quality, based on tests of sharpness (modulation transfer function), geometric distortion, reflexes within the lens (flare), veiling glare index, vignetting, and macro performance. Ease of use was also considered.
Image quality
Image quality is based on tests of sharpness (modulation transfer function), geometric distortion, reflexes within the lens (flare), veiling glare index, vignetting, and macro performance.
Modulation transfer function
This is a measure of lens performance and shows how well a lens reproduces object detail in the image it produces.
Geometric distortion
All lenses have degrees of geometric distortion, which will depict straight lines as slightly curved. Two most common types are barrel distortion and pin-cushion distortion. These types of distortions are often seen in zoom lenses at both ends of the zoom range.
Reflexes within lens (Flare)
Stray light in lenses and optical systems caused by reflections between surfaces of lens elements and the inside barrel of the lens.
Veiling glare index
Veiling glare index is a ratio that measures the effect of flare on image contrast.
Vignetting
Vignetting is a lens defect that occurs when the light coming through the lens does not do so evenly. An image that has a lot of vignetting, for example, will have darker or underexposed corners in comparison to the center of the image.
Ease of use
Ease of use is determined by how easy is it to do basic functions such as zooming, focusing and mounting the lens on the camera body.
Macro performance
This test indicates the quality of an image in its closest focus.

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Recommended SLR lenses

Recommended SLR lenses are standout choices with high scores. They include CR Best Buys, which offer exceptional value. When narrowing your choices, weigh features, price, and attributes that matter to you.

Recommended SLR lenses

SLR lens buying guide

To find the SLR lens that is right for you, read our expert advice on which features to consider and how to find the best value.

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Digital SLR lenses typically are quicker to focus and come with a variety of creative features, including built-in optical image stabilization for steadying shaky shots and wide apertures for shooting in low light. f you're looking for information about SLR lenses, Consumer Reports is your best resource. Consumer Reports’ SLR lense reviews will give you honest buying advice that you can trust. Use our SLR lense buying guide to discover which features are most important to consider. We also provide unbiased Ratings and SLR lense reviews to help you choose the best SLR lense for your needs.

Ratings & recommended SLR lenses

SLR lenses (33)

All rated lenses are either good or very good, making most in our table worth considering. Because there is no universal lens mount that allows a lens from any company to fit every SLR, recommended models are listed by brand. Third-party lenses, available in separate versions for major SLR brands, are also listed. Our recommendations for Olympus, Leica and Panasonic are all Four-third lenses, which have a mount that fits all three brands.

If you have an SLR body already, choose a lens from that brand or a third-party lens that has a compatible lens mount. If you do not have an SLR body yet, check the Kit SLR Bodies column, which lists SLRs that are sold in a kit with the listed lens.

The SLR lens tests were conducted in partnership with International Consumer Research & Testing, a worldwide association of 40 consumer organizations of which Consumer Reports is a leading member.

SLR lens buying guide

Digital SLR lenses typically are quicker to focus and come with a variety of creative features, including built-in optical image stabilization for steadying shaky shots and wide apertures for shooting in low light. The problem is that many of the best lenses are expensive—not to mention so big and heavy that you wouldn't want to carry one around all day. This SLR lens guide can help take some of the confusion out of shopping.

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