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If youve just unboxed a new mirrorless or DSLR camera, it probably came with a kit lens.
Often a mid-range zoom (such as 18-55mm), these bundled barrels are great for getting started.
But because theyre built to a budget, their performance is usually limited.
Youll also find macro, wide-angle and premium zoom lenses on the market.
Thats why weve rounded up a few of our favorites in the list below.
Each has been chosen as a good example of what to look for when shopping for a second lens.
Its wide maximum aperture is ideal for portraiture and useful in low light.
Its inexpensive, too.
That makes it a very versatile lens for shooting a range of everyday scenarios.
Plus its consistently sharp across focal lengths.
If youd prefer even longer range over constant aperture, consider the Nikon Z 24-200mm f/4-6.3.
This stabilized Sony number represents the latter.
Its a remarkably flexible lens, with excellent image quality, fast AF and half-macro support for close focusing.
For further recommendations, check out our specific features on thebest Nikon DSLR lensesand thebest Canon DSLR lenses.
It handles well, while weather sealing complements the high-quality build.
It also benefits from good sharpness and contrast, aided by a quick AF system and optical image stabilization.
Its sold for Canon EF and Nikon F mounts.
Paired with a full-frame sensor, 30mm looks notably wider.
Its well-built, fast to focus and impressively sharp even at f/1.4.
Its also fast to focus, features a useful built-in display and weighs a relatively light 710g.
