Answer
What is the best telephoto lens?
For most users: the 70-200mm f/2.8 zoom from your camera's manufacturer. For wildlife/sports: 100-400mm or 200-600mm zooms. For budget: third-party options from Sigma and Tamron.
The 70-200mm sweet spot
The most versatile telephoto. Portraits, sports, weddings, wildlife at moderate distance. Every major brand's 70-200mm f/2.8 is a flagship lens.
Top picks
- Sony 70-200mm f/2.8 GM II — light, sharp, $2,800
- Canon RF 70-200mm f/2.8L IS — compact design, $2,700
- Nikon Z 70-200mm f/2.8 VR S — exceptional, $2,700
Longer reach
- Sony 200-600mm f/5.6-6.3 G — wildlife favorite, $2,000
- Canon RF 100-500mm f/4.5-7.1L — light, sharp, $2,900
- Sigma 60-600mm f/4.5-6.3 DG DN — extreme zoom range, $2,000
Budget alternatives
- Tamron 70-180mm f/2.8 (Sony E)
- Sigma 100-400mm f/5-6.3 Contemporary
- Used 70-200mm f/4 versions from any brand
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