The Best Macro Lenses

What to Consider When Buying:

- Magnification: Determine what magnification you need for your specific photography needs.
- Compatibility: Consider the compatibility of the lens with your camera body.
- Aperture: Choose a lens with a large aperture for better low light performance.
- Autofocus: Look for a lens that has fast and accurate autofocus capabilities.
- Image Stabilization: Consider a lens with image stabilization to help reduce camera shake.

Winner: Canon EF 100mm f/2.8L IS USM Macro Lens

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Review ratings:
Amazon: 4.9 out of 5 stars (880 ratings)
B&H: 5 out of 5 stars (50 ratings)
Retail price: $799

Important specs:
- Magnification: 1:1
- Aperture: f/2.8 to f/32
- Autofocus: Ultra-sonic Motor (USM) for fast, accurate autofocus
- Image Stabilization: Yes
- Weather Sealing: Yes

Why it’s recommended: This Macro Lens from Canon has top-notch image quality and a built-in image stabilization system that helps reduce camera shake. It's perfect for professional photographers who need to take detailed close-ups, as well as for hobbyists who want to capture stunning macro shots.

Runner-up: Nikon AF-S VR Micro-NIKKOR 105mm f/2.8G IF-ED Lens

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Review ratings:
Amazon: 4.8 out of 5 stars (530 ratings)
Best Buy: 4.9 out of 5 stars (16 ratings)
Retail price: $799.95

Important specs:
- Magnification: 1:1
- Aperture: f/2.8 to f/32
- Autofocus: Silent Wave Motor (SWM) for quiet, fast autofocus
- Image Stabilization: No
- Weather Sealing: Yes

Why it’s recommended: The Nikon AF-S VR Micro-NIKKOR 105mm f/2.8G IF-ED Lens offers great image quality and is highly recommended by experts. It’s a great choice for Nikon users who need a macro lens for close-up photography.

Also great: Sigma 105mm F2.8 EX DG OS HSM Macro Lens

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Review ratings:
Amazon: 4.7 out of 5 stars (468 ratings)
B&H: 4.8 out of 5 stars (19 ratings)
Retail price: $569

Important specs:
- Magnification: 1:1
- Aperture: f/2.8 to f/22
- Autofocus: Hyper-sonic Motor (HSM) for fast and quiet autofocus
- Image Stabilization: Yes
- Weather Sealing: No

Why it’s recommended: The Sigma 105mm F2.8 EX DG OS HSM Macro Lens is a great option for photographers who need a high-quality lens at a more affordable price point. It has image stabilization and fast autofocus capabilities, making it a great all-around macro lens.