Before buying the best Canon lens for vlogging, it is essential to consider its type, focal length, and maximum aperture. With these in mind, I handpicked my favorite products below. Continue reading to understand how these factors might be important to you.
I always appreciate how Canon cameras usually offer high-quality sensors, fast autofocus technology, and an easy-to-use interface. Thus, they are among the best gear for vlogging.
However, if you want to take full advantage of all these features, you might want to consider investing in the right lenses.
Fortunately, I got you covered! This article will walk you through the best Canon lenses for vlogging. Each item includes a detailed review as well as pros and cons to help narrow down your choices.
There is also a handy buying guide below. It will discuss the factors you need to consider before finalizing your purchasing decision.
Without any further ado, let us jump right into our top picks!
A Quick Comparison of Our Favorites
| IMAGE | PRODUCT | |
|---|---|---|
Editor’s Pick  |
| View On Amazon →Read Our Review |
Runner-Up  |
| View On Amazon →Read Our Review |
Best Lens for Canon Mirrorless Camera  |
| View On Amazon →Read Our Review |
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| View On Amazon →Read Our Review |
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| View On Amazon →Read Our Review |
5 Best Canon Lenses for Vlogging
Below are our top picks for the best Canon lenses for vlogging. Each one offers a wide-angle focal length and a lightweight design, which makes it easier to record yourself.
1. Canon EF-S 24mm f/2.8 – Editor’s Pick
The Canon EF-S 24mm f/2.8 might not seem much due to its compact and slim build. But do not be fooled! This pancake lens offers several features handy for vlogging.
First, it has a fixed focal length of 24mm. Thus, it gives you a wide field of view, making it easier to fit more elements within the frame.
Additionally, this wide-angle lens features a constant maximum aperture of f/2.8. It delivers brighter and clearer photos, even when you are shooting in low-light situations. At the same time, it can isolate the subject from the background, owing to the shallow depth of field.
Furthermore, it includes Canon’s Stepper Motor (STM) technology. It can automatically track the subject’s movement across the frame to keep it sharp and in focus. Besides the impressive autofocus performance, this prime lens also enables full-time manual focus for total creative control.
All these benefits come in a lightweight and compact package. It only weighs 4.41 ounces, which is easy to carry around while filming yourself. Plus, it is less than an inch in width, making it a very slim product.
Most reviews for this Canon lens were positive. However, some users said that the lens has a loud autofocus motor. A few users even noticed slight barrel distortion when using this prime lens. Fortunately, that issue is easy to fix on editing software.
And as you can see, the pros far outweigh the cons.
For this reason, we deemed the EF-S 24mm f/2.8 as the best Canon lens for vlogging.
Pros:
- Ultra-wide perspective perfect for vlogging
- Reliable performance in low-light situations
- Shallow depth of field for stunning background blur
- STM technology offers fast autofocus
- Lightweight and compact lens
Cons:
- Autofocus produces a loud sound
- Some users noticed barrel distortion
2. Sigma 16mm f/1.4 Contemporary DC DN – Runner-Up
Do you need a broader perspective? If so, consider looking at the Sigma 16mm f/1.4 Contemporary DC DN.
It features a fixed focal length of 16mm, which offers a wider angle of view than the Canon EF-S 24mm. Thus, it allows you to fit more elements within the frame, suitable for vlogging.
Meanwhile, this prime lens has a large maximum aperture of f/1.4 that offers two significant benefits. First, it enables more light to hit the image sensor. That can result in brighter and clearer photos when shooting in low-light situations. At the same time, it creates a shallow depth of field to make the subject stand out from the background.
Moreover, there is a fast and accurate autofocus motor. This technology can follow your movement across the frame. Therefore, it can keep you sharp and in focus while vlogging.
To further improve image quality, this Sigma lens includes advanced optics and a super multi-layer coating. These can reduce chromatic aberration and purple fringing to give you accurate photos.
Finally, this wide-angle lens has weather sealing around the rubber ring. It can resist a certain amount of dust and moisture, handy for outdoor conditions.
However, before buying this product, it is essential to know its downsides. First, it is only compatible with Canon mirrorless cameras. Second, some users said the manual focusing is not as smooth as they expected.
Nevertheless, the Sigma 16mm f/1.4 Contemporary DC DN is still among the best Canon lenses for vlogging. We highly recommend it to content creators who want an ultra-wide perspective.
Pros:
- Ultra-wide focal range allows more elements to fit within the frame
- Impressive low-light performance
- Narrow depth of field to isolate the subject from the background
- Fast and accurate AF system
- Dustproof and splashproof lens
Cons:
- Lens might not be compatible with Canon DSLRs
- Some users said that the manual focus is not as smooth
3. Canon EF-M 22mm f/2 STM – Best Vlogging Lens for Canon Mirrorless Cameras
If you own a Canon mirrorless camera like the Canon EOS M50, it is best to invest in a mirrorless lens as well. Fortunately, we got the right item for your needs—the Canon EF-M 22mm f/2 STM.
This prime lens features a wide-angle focal length of 22mm. As a result, it can give you a broad perspective that makes it easier to position the subject within the frame.
In addition, it offers a maximum aperture of f/2. This large lens opening lets more light into the camera sensor. So if you often shoot in low-light situations, expect to take brighter and clearer photos compared to using a lens with a smaller aperture.
Besides the impressive low-light performance, a large aperture also produces a shallow depth of field. Thus, you can look forward to a stunning background blur when using this Canon lens.
What’s more, a built-in Stepper Motor (STM) provides accurate and smooth autofocus. So whether you are standing or moving around a lot, this technology ensures that images are sharp and in focus.
On top of all these benefits, this Canon lens is lightweight and compact. Therefore, it is easy to carry and pack when traveling and vlogging.
There are still a few disadvantages to this product, though. First, it is not fully compatible with Canon DSLRs; it requires an adapter if you wish to attach it. Second, a few users said that they had trouble fitting the lens to their mirrorless cameras.
Nevertheless, the Canon EF-M 22mm f/2 STM is still among the best lenses for the Nikon. We highly recommend it to those with Canon mirrorless cameras.
Pros:
- Wide-angle focal length without noticeable distortion
- Bright maximum aperture
- Narrow depth of field
- Stepper Motor offers fast and accurate autofocus
- Lightweight and compact lens
Cons:
- Lens requires an adapter if you use DSLRs
- A few users said they had difficulties attaching their lenses to mirrorless cameras
4. Canon EF-S 10-18mm f/4.5-5.6 IS STM – Best Zoom Lens for Vlogging
For those who prefer a little more flexibility when vlogging, consider getting the Canon EF-S 10-18mm f/4.5-5.6 IS STM.
It features a wide-angle zoom length ranging from 10 to 18mm. At its shortest focal range, it enables you to showcase architecture and landscapes when vlogging. Meanwhile, the longest zoom length at 18mm still provides a broad perspective, so you can fit yourself and the background in the frame with ease.
Additionally, this wide-angle zoom lens offers a variable maximum aperture. That simply means the lens opening can vary based on the focal length you use. For instance, it opens at f/4.5 if you set the focal range to 10mm. Meanwhile, when zoomed in at 18mm, the aperture becomes smaller at f/5.6.
Moreover, Stepper Motor (STM) technology delivers fast and accurate autofocus. It can keep you and other subjects within the frame sharp and in focus. Plus, there is an option to switch to full manual focus mode.
Lastly, this wide-angle zoom lens has built-in image stabilization. So whether you shoot handheld or at slower shutter speeds, this Canon lens can minimize camera shake.
But before buying this lens, it is best to consider its downsides too. First, it gives you a cropped angle of view if you use it on a full-frame Canon camera. That is because this lens is specifically engineered for APS-C sensors, hence the term AF-S. Second, several users said it is not as sharp as they expected.
With that said, the Canon EF-S 10-18mm f/4.5-5.6 IS STM is still an excellent lens for vlogging, especially considering its price. It is our top choice if you are looking for zoom lenses.
Pros:
- Wide-angle zoom range gives you more flexibility when vlogging
- Fast and accurate autofocus
- Built-in image stabilizer technology
- Relatively lightweight for its focal length
- Budget-friendly lens
Cons:
- APS-C lens is not suitable for full-frame Canon cameras
- Aperture range might not be bright enough for low-light situations
- Some users said the lens is not as sharp as they expected
5. Canon EF 24mm f/1.4L II USM – Best Professional Canon Lens for Vlogging
If you are serious about vlogging, it pays to invest in a high-end lens to record quality videos. However, you probably do not have the budget to do so. Fortunately, we did the hard work for you and found a professional lens that would not cost you that much money.
The Canon EF 24mm f/1.4L II USM is part of Canon’s Luxury (L) series of lenses. That means it has a weather-sealed construction to resist dust and moisture. Thus, it can withstand vigorous professional use and outdoor conditions.
Meanwhile, the 24mm focal length gives you a wide-angle perspective. So if you are vlogging, this prime lens can make it easier to position yourself within the frame.
Additionally, the constant maximum aperture of f/1.4 offers two significant advantages. First, it allows more light into the sensor, ideal for low-light situations. Second, it creates a shallow depth of field for stunning background blur or bokeh.
Moreover, this wide-angle lens features anti-reflective Sub-Wavelength Coating (SWC). Unlike traditional glass coating, the SWC reduces flaring and ghosting across the lens surface. So regardless of the angle with which light enters or exits, it can correct optical aberrations.
Finally, it includes a built-in autofocus technology. This Canon lens for vlogging can keep track of your movements across the frame as smoothly and quietly as possible. Plus, there is a full-time manual focus option if you wish to achieve total creative control.
Despite all these advantages, this lens is pretty heavy due to its high-quality build. A few users also noticed inconsistent autofocus performance when shooting in high-contrast settings.
But considering its other advanced features, the Canon EF 24mm f/1.4L II USM is still one of the best lenses for vlogging. We highly recommend it to professional content creators who want to ensure high image quality.
Pros:
- Luxury lens with weather sealing
- Bright maximum aperture is ideal for low-light situations
- Shallow depth of field
- Ultrasonic Motor (USM) offers autofocus performance
- Advanced glass elements can minimize flaring and ghosting
Cons:
- Heaviest lens on our list
- A few users said that the autofocus performance is inconsistent
How to Choose the Best Canon Lens for Vlogging
If you are still unsure which lens to buy, fret not! Below, we will talk about the factors to consider to ensure that you invested in the right product.
Prime or Zoom
There are two main types of Canon lenses: primes or zooms. Each lens type offers its own pros and cons. And it is up to you to choose which one best suits your needs.
If you want to ensure sharp images and a compact design, consider a prime lens. It usually features a large maximum aperture to deliver clear and bright images in low-light situations. The only downside is that it has a fixed focal length, which significantly limits you.
So for those who prefer versatility, go with a zoom lens. It enables you to adjust your perspective instantly, ideal for different types of photography and videography. However, this lens type can be pretty heavy and bulky. And if you are vlogging, it is likely that you do not need to zoom in or out as much.
Focal Length
Besides the lens type, you might also want to consider the focal length of the lens. It determines how much of the view in front of you can be captured by the camera.
When looking for a Canon lens for vlogging, get one with a broad field of view, such as 16mm or 24mm. This wide-angle lens enables you to fit more elements within the frame. Thus, it is ideal for filming yourself and the background or collaborating with other people.
Maximum Aperture
This factor dictates how much light enters the image sensor. The aperture also affects how much you have over the depth of field. It is measured in f-stop or f-numbers.
The larger the aperture, the better it is in low-light situations. At the same time, a wide lens opening produces a shallow depth of field to make the subject stand out from the background.
So when buying a Canon lens for vlogging, it is best to invest in one with a large aperture, such as f/1.8 or f/2.8.
Autofocus
If you want to ensure your videos are sharp and in focus, consider getting a lens with a fast autofocus performance. It can follow your movement across the frame, ideal for vlogging.
It might also be best to look for a quiet autofocus performance. A noisy lens will be distracting, especially if you plan to talk in front of the camera.
Stabilization
Vloggers tend to move around a lot when recording themselves. Thus, it would help if you purchase a Canon lens with a built-in image stabilizer.
This technology can correct camera shake by up to several stops. So if you tend to shoot handheld or at slower shutter speeds, it delivers stabilized and smooth videos.
Price
You might also want to set your budget first before buying a Canon lens. Doing so makes it easier to narrow down your choices.
Ask yourself if you are willing to spend thousands of dollars on a single lens. If yes, you can find multiple options on the market that deliver professional-quality results.
But if not, there are still several budget-friendly lenses with reliable performance. Just do not expect the sharpest or fastest autofocus features when using these cheaper lenses.
Warranty
Finally, consider investing in a lens that has a warranty. This ensures that you can easily request a return or refund if you were disappointed with the lens.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can you vlog with a 50mm lens?
When vlogging, it is best to choose a wide-angle lens so you can easily fit more elements within the frame. However, a 50mm lens is still acceptable if you also plan to use it on other types of videos, such as short films or live events. That is because it offers a natural field of view without noticeable distortion. It is also one of the most versatile focal lengths for lenses.
What is the difference between Canon EF and EF-S lenses?
When shopping for the best Canon lens for vlogging, you might come across the terms “EF” and EF-S.” These simply refer to the mount type of the lens.
Canon EF lenses are compatible with both full-frame and APS-C or crop-sensor cameras. Meanwhile, EF-S lenses are specifically designed for APS-C cameras. They are often smaller and lighter, but they can produce vignetting when used on a full-frame camera.
Which autofocus motor is better: STM vs. USM?
Besides the mount type, you might also notice the terms “STM” and “USM” when shopping for the best Canon lenses for vlogging. These describe the kind of autofocus system of the lens.
STM stands for Stepper Motor. This autofocus system is silent, ideal for shooting videos. However, they are not as fast when tracking movements across the frame.
Meanwhile, USM refers to UltraSonic Motor. It offers fast and smooth autofocus, suitable for action, bird, and wildlife photography. However, this AF system produces a loud noise.
Choosing between the two will depend on your needs and personal preferences. But if you will ask us, we recommend lenses with STM for its near-silent operation.
Conclusion
That sums up our list of the best Canon lenses for vlogging! We highly recommend every item for its wide-angle perspective, autofocus capabilities, and other features ideal for vlogging.
However, if we only have to suggest one, it would be the Canon EF-S 24mm f/2.8. It may not seem much due to its compact and slim build. But it packs several useful features for vlogging. These include a wide-angle perspective, bright maximum aperture, shallow depth of field, and a fast AF system.