Best Lenses under $500 for landscape

Best Pick

Panasonic LUMIX G VARIO 12-60mm F/3.5-5.6 G Power O.I.S. Micro Four Thirds

75.2 Landscape Score
12-60mm f/3.5 Micro Four Thirds IS
Why we recommend this

Its compact 227g Micro Four Thirds design and splashproof build make it a durable, lightweight travel companion. The 12-60mm range (24-120mm equivalent) provides versatile focal lengths for daily shooting, aided by integrated Power O.I.S. stabilization. This lens is best for travel photographers and videographers needing a reliable, all-weather zoom paired with a compatible Lumix camera body.

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Price $330
Panasonic LUMIX G VARIO 12-60mm F/3.5-5.6 G Power O.I.S. Micro Four Thirds lens

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Yongnuo YN12-35mm F2.8-4M Standard

74.9 Landscape Score
12-35mm f/2.8 Four Thirds IS
Why we recommend this

Its constant f/2.8 aperture across a 24-70mm equivalent zoom range provides reliable low-light performance and a versatile field of view for Micro Four Thirds shooters. The lens features a metal mount with a dust-proof seal and uses an STM motor for quiet, smooth autofocus, making it a practical and well-built option. It's best for Micro Four Thirds videographers and documentary shooters who need a compact, all-purpose zoom with silent focusing.

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OM System M.Zuiko Digital ED 40-150mm f/4-5.6 R

68.6 Landscape Score
40-150mm f/4 Micro Four Thirds
Why we recommend this

Its 80-300mm full-frame equivalent reach in a 190g body makes it exceptionally portable for its focal range. The inclusion of an extra-low dispersion element helps control chromatic aberration for clearer images. This lens is best for Micro Four Thirds shooters who need a lightweight, versatile telephoto option for street and travel photography.

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Sigma Contemporary 16mm f/1.4 DC DN

65.6 Landscape Score
16mm f/1.4 micro_four_thirds
Why we recommend this

Its fast f/1.4 maximum aperture provides excellent low-light performance and shallow depth of field for a Micro Four Thirds system. The lens offers a versatile 24mm equivalent focal length, making it a compact and practical wide-angle prime. This lens is best for portrait photographers seeking a flattering wide-angle perspective and videographers needing strong performance in dim environments.

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Panasonic G Vario

74.5 Landscape Score
45-200mm f/4.0 Micro Four Thirds IS
Why we recommend this

Its 45-200mm focal range and built-in optical image stabilization provide a versatile, compact telephoto option for Micro Four Thirds cameras. The lens is notably lightweight at 380g, making it a highly portable choice for extended handheld use. This lens is best for photographers needing a carry-friendly zoom for travel and macro subjects, given its 1.00m minimum focus distance.

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Panasonic LUMIX G G 25mm f/1.7 ASPH.

63.6 Landscape Score
25-50mm f/1.7 Micro Four Thirds
Why we recommend this

With its fast f/1.7 maximum aperture and 50mm-equivalent focal length, this lens excels at creating sharp portraits with smooth background blur. Its inclusion of two aspherical elements helps control optical aberrations for strong image quality at a very accessible price point. This lens is best for Micro Four Thirds photographers seeking an affordable, lightweight prime for everyday shooting and portraiture.

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Panasonic LUMIX G X Vario G X Vario PZ 45-175mm f/4-5.6 ASPH. POWER O.I.S.

62.6 Landscape Score
175mm f/4 Micro Four Thirds IS
Why we recommend this

Its 90-350mm equivalent focal range provides a versatile telephoto reach in a compact package, supported by Power Optical Image Stabilization for handheld shooting. The lens incorporates a Nano Surface Coating to reduce flare and ghosting, enhancing contrast in challenging light. This lens is best for photographers needing a lightweight, extended zoom for portraits or distant subjects like wildlife, where its stabilization is a key asset.

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Panasonic LUMIX G X Vario G X Vario PZ 45-175mm f/4-5.6 ASPH. POWER O.I.S. lens
Price $448
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Laowa 7.5mm f/2 MFT

61.7 Landscape Score
8mm f/2 Micro Four Thirds
Why we recommend this

Its ultra-wide 15mm equivalent focal length and bright f/2 aperture make it ideal for capturing expansive scenes in low light. The lens is exceptionally lightweight at 150g and features a manual focus design that prioritizes precise control. This lens is best for Micro Four Thirds photographers who need a compact, wide-angle prime for astrophotography or immersive street photography.

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Laowa 7.5mm f/2 MFT lens
Price $399

Laowa Zero-D

60 Landscape Score
9mm f/2.8 Micro 4/3 Weather Sealed
Why we recommend this

Its standout feature is a 9mm f/2.8 prime design with a "Zero-D" optical formula that delivers exceptionally low distortion, making it ideal for architectural and landscape photography. The lens is remarkably compact and lightweight at 215g, and its weather-sealed, water-repellent build is perfect for outdoor use. This lens is best for Micro Four Thirds shooters who need a portable, ultra-wide prime for travel and astrophotography where manual focus control is preferred.

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Rokinon Rokinon 12mm f/2.0 CS Lens for Micro Four Thirds

54.4 Landscape Score
12mm f/2 Micro Four Thirds
Why we recommend this

Its fast f/2.0 aperture and 12-element optical construction deliver bright, sharp images for low-light and astrophotography. This 255g manual-focus prime is exceptionally compact, making it a highly portable choice for travel. It's best suited for Micro Four Thirds photographers seeking an affordable, wide-angle 24mm-equivalent lens for landscapes and night sky shots.

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Olympus M.Zuiko

53.1 Landscape Score
14-42mm f/3.5 Micro Four Thirds
Why we recommend this

Its 113g weight and compact design make it exceptionally portable for a wide-angle zoom lens. The versatile 14-42mm range and MSC autofocus system provide reliable performance for general shooting. This lens is best for Micro Four Thirds photographers seeking a lightweight, affordable walkaround or travel option.

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Laowa Argus 18mm f/0.95 MFT APO

53.1 Landscape Score
18mm f/0.95 Micro Four Thirds
Why we recommend this

Its f/0.95 maximum aperture provides an ultra-fast, wide-angle 36mm full-frame equivalent field of view for exceptional low-light performance and shallow depth of field. The manual focus design and robust build quality prioritize precise control for photographers who value a tactile shooting experience. This lens is best for portrait and street photographers using Micro Four Thirds systems who prioritize creative bokeh and low-light capability over autofocus convenience.

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Laowa Argus 18mm f/0.95 MFT APO lens
Price $449

Samyang 14mm f/2.8 MK2

51.9 Landscape Score
14mm f/2.8 Micro Four Thirds Weather Sealed
Why we recommend this

Its 14mm f/2.8 design excels for astrophotography and low-light landscapes, aided by a de-clickable aperture switch ideal for video work. The weather-sealed build and smooth, damped manual focus ring make it robust and precise for field use. This lens is best for Micro Four Thirds videographers and photographers specializing in nightscapes or demanding outdoor conditions.

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Samyang 14mm f/2.8 MK2 lens
Price $449

Brightin Star 7.5mm F2.8 III Wide Angle Fisheye

51.6 Landscape Score
8mm f/2.8 Micro Four Thirds IS
Why we recommend this

Its standout 190-degree angle of view and fast f/2.8 aperture make it exceptionally capable for astrophotography and capturing vast scenes. The lens is also notably portable for a fisheye, weighing just 260g, and its optical design produces distinctive 10-point sunstars. This lens is best for Micro Four Thirds photographers specializing in immersive landscape, architectural, or night sky photography.

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TTArtisan 17mm f/1.4

51.6 Landscape Score
17mm f/1.4 Micro Four Thirds
Why we recommend this

Its fast f/1.4 aperture and compact 247g metal build make it a standout for its price, offering excellent low-light capability and a solid feel. The lens provides a versatile 34mm equivalent focal length and a smooth 10-blade diaphragm for pleasing bokeh, though it lacks autofocus and weather sealing. This lens is best for Micro Four Thirds shooters seeking a manual, affordable prime for environmental portraits and street photography where its character and speed are assets.

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TTArtisan 17mm f/1.4 lens
Price $139

Mitakon Zhongyi Speedmaster 35mm f/0.95 Mark II

50.9 Landscape Score
35mm f/0.95 Micro Four Thirds
Why we recommend this

Its f/0.95 maximum aperture delivers exceptional low-light performance and a very shallow depth of field for a Micro Four Thirds lens. The manual focus design and solid metal construction provide a tactile, deliberate shooting experience. This lens is best for portrait and studio photographers seeking a unique, character-rich look on their MFT cameras.

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Mitakon Zhongyi Speedmaster 35mm f/0.95 Mark II lens
Price $359

Best Lenses under $1,000 for landscape

Best Pick

Panasonic 12-60mm f/2.8-4.0 G Leica DG Vario-Elmarit Power OIS

96.1 Landscape Score
12-60mm f/2.8 Micro Four Thirds IS Weather Sealed
Why we recommend this

With a constant f/2.8 aperture and built-in stabilization, it delivers reliable performance in a compact Micro Four Thirds zoom lens. Its versatile 12-60mm focal range and strong video score make it a practical all-rounder for travel and run-and-gun filmmaking. This lens is best for Micro Four Thirds shooters who need a lightweight, stabilized zoom for everyday photography and handheld video work.

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OM System M.Zuiko Digital ED 14-150mm f/4-5.6 II

73.3 Landscape Score
150mm f/4 Micro Four Thirds Weather Sealed
Why we recommend this

Its 28-300mm equivalent focal range provides exceptional versatility in a compact 283g package, ideal for Micro Four Thirds users. The inclusion of two aspherical and two HR elements helps maintain image quality across the zoom range. This lens is best for street photographers and travelers who need a single, lightweight lens to cover a wide variety of subjects without switching optics.

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Olympus M.Zuiko Digital ED 7-14mm f/2.8 Pro

63.4 Landscape Score
7-14mm f/2.8 Micro Four Thirds
Why we recommend this

Its constant f/2.8 aperture across the 7-14mm zoom range provides excellent low-light capability and creative flexibility for wide-angle shots. The lens's robust build and ZERO coating effectively minimize flare, making it a reliable tool for demanding outdoor conditions. This lens is best for Micro Four Thirds landscape and architectural photographers who need a sharp, fast, ultra-wide zoom.

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Bower 24mm f/1.4 Wide-Angle

53.6 Landscape Score
24mm f/1.4 Four Thirds
Why we recommend this

Its 24mm focal length and extremely fast f/1.4 maximum aperture provide excellent low-light performance and shallow depth of field for a wide-angle lens. The inclusion of two aspherical elements and multi-coating helps control optical aberrations and flare, enhancing image quality. This lens is best for portrait photographers on the Four Thirds system seeking a unique, wide-angle perspective with beautiful background separation.

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Panasonic LUMIX G X Leica DG Vario-Elmarit 12-35mm f/2.8 ASPH POWER O.I.S.

88.2 Landscape Score
35mm f/2.8 Micro Four Thirds IS Weather Sealed
Why we recommend this

Its constant f/2.8 aperture and built-in POWER O.I.S. stabilization make it a versatile, fast wide-angle zoom for Micro Four Thirds cameras. The lens offers a practical 24-70mm full-frame equivalent focal range in a compact, 306g package, balancing performance with portability. It is best for photographers needing a reliable, all-purpose zoom for everyday shooting and stabilized video work.

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Panasonic LUMIX G Vario HFSA100300

85.4 Landscape Score
100-300mm f/4 Micro Four Thirds IS Weather Sealed
Why we recommend this

This lens offers a significant 600mm equivalent reach in a compact 522g package, making it a highly portable telephoto option for Micro Four Thirds shooters. Its built-in optical image stabilization is a key feature for handheld shooting at long focal lengths, helping to mitigate camera shake. It is best for travel and wildlife photographers on a budget who need a lightweight, long-reach lens without the premium price tag.

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Samyang 24mm f/1.4 ED AS UMC Wide-Angle

46.3 Landscape Score
24mm f/1.4 Four Thirds
Why we recommend this

Its fast f/1.4 aperture and 24mm focal length make it a versatile tool for achieving a shallow depth of field in wide-angle shots. The robust, all-metal construction with a 77mm filter thread provides a premium feel and compatibility with common accessories. This lens is best for portrait photographers seeking dramatic environmental portraits and for videographers needing a sharp, bright prime lens on a Four Thirds system.

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Olympus Zuiko Digital OM SYSTEM 18-180mm f/3.5-6.3 Zuiko

45.4 Landscape Score
18-180mm f/3.5 Micro Four Thirds
Why we recommend this

Its 10x zoom range (36-360mm equivalent) and compact 434g build make it a versatile travel companion. The inclusion of ED glass helps control aberrations for sharper images across the focal range. This lens is best for budget-conscious travelers who prioritize a lightweight, all-in-one zoom over maximum aperture speed or weather sealing.

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AstrHori 18mm f/8 Macro Probe

37 Landscape Score
18mm f/8 Micro Four Thirds
Why we recommend this

Its 18mm focal length and unique probe design enable extreme 2:1 magnification for incredibly close-up macro work, though its f/8 maximum aperture limits light. The 1735g weight and fixed f/8 aperture make it a specialized tool rather than a general-purpose lens. This lens is best for dedicated macro photographers who need to capture minute details in controlled studio environments.

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Best Lenses under $1,500 for landscape

Best Pick

OM System M.Zuiko Digital ED 12-100mm f/4 IS PRO

100 Landscape Score
12-100mm f/4 Micro Four Thirds IS Weather Sealed
Why we recommend this

This lens stands out with its versatile 24-200mm equivalent zoom range, constant f/4 aperture, and built-in image stabilization for sharp handheld shots. Its robust IP53-rated weather sealing makes it a reliable choice for outdoor photography in challenging conditions. This lens is best for travel and landscape photographers who need a single, durable all-in-one zoom without sacrificing optical quality.

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Olympus M.Zuiko Digital ED 100-400mm f/5-6.3 IS

90.7 Landscape Score
100-400mm f/5 Micro Four Thirds IS Weather Sealed
Why we recommend this

Its standout feature is its remarkably compact 120g build paired with an extensive 200-800mm equivalent zoom range, making it exceptionally portable for its reach. The lens is fully weather-sealed, allowing photographers to shoot confidently in adverse conditions without worrying about moisture or dust. This lens is best for travel and wildlife photographers who need a lightweight, all-weather telephoto option for handheld shooting on the go.

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Panasonic LUMIX G Leica DG Vario-Elmarit 8-18mm f/2.8-4.0 Professional MFT

71.6 Landscape Score
8-18mm f/2.8 Micro Four Thirds
Why we recommend this

With a constant f/2.8 aperture across its 8-18mm zoom range, this lens delivers consistent performance for wide-angle shooting. Its Micro Four Thirds mount and compact 2.25x zoom design make it a versatile and portable option for travel and landscape photographers. This lens is best for Micro Four Thirds users needing a reliable, wide-angle zoom for environmental portraits and travel vlogging.

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Best Lenses under $2,500 for landscape

Best Pick

Panasonic Leica DG Vario-Summilux Leica DG Vario-Summilux 25-50mm f/1.7 ASPH.

79.5 Landscape Score
25-50mm f/1.7 Micro Four Thirds Weather Sealed
Why we recommend this

Its constant f/1.7 aperture across the 25-50mm zoom range provides exceptional low-light capability and background blur for a Micro Four Thirds lens. It meets strict Leica optical standards, ensuring professional-grade sharpness and rendering for photographers and videographers. This lens is best for Panasonic LUMIX shooters prioritizing portrait work and run-and-gun video where a fast, consistent aperture is critical.

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Olympus M.Zuiko OM-D E-M5 Mark II Kit

33.5 Landscape Score
150mm f/4 Micro Four Thirds IS
Why we recommend this

Its standout feature is a highly effective 5-axis image stabilisation system, enabling sharp handheld photos and stable, cinema-quality video without a tripod. The camera pairs this robust, weather-sealed metal body with a compact, lightweight design for exceptional mobility. This kit is best for travel and adventure photographers who need reliable, high-quality performance in challenging outdoor conditions.

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Panasonic Panasonic LUMIX G Leica DG Vario-Summilux 10-25mm

63 Landscape Score
10-25mm f/1.7 Micro Four Thirds
Why we recommend this

Its constant f/1.7 aperture across the entire 10-25mm zoom range provides exceptional low-light performance and creative flexibility. The robust Leica-grade build quality and sharp optics deliver reliable, professional results for both photos and video. This lens is best for Micro Four Thirds hybrid shooters who need a versatile, bright zoom for run-and-gun videography or event photography in challenging light.

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Premium Lenses for landscape

Best Pick

OM System M.Zuiko Digital ED 50-200mm f/2.8 IS PRO

81.8 Landscape Score
50-200mm f/2.8 Micro Four Thirds IS Weather Sealed
Why we recommend this

Its constant f/2.8 aperture and 7-stop 5-axis Sync IS provide exceptional low-light performance and handheld stability for a super-telephoto zoom. The lens offers a full-frame equivalent 100-400mm reach in a relatively compact and portable package for its class. This lens is best for wildlife and sports photographers who need a long, fast zoom but prioritize a lighter kit for hiking or travel.

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Price $3,500
OM System M.Zuiko Digital ED 50-200mm f/2.8 IS PRO lens

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Panasonic Panasonic Leica DG Elmarit 200mm f/2.8 Aspherical

48.2 Landscape Score
200mm f/2.8 Micro Four Thirds IS Weather Sealed
Why we recommend this

Its fast f/2.8 aperture and built-in optical image stabilization enable sharp, low-light telephoto shots, supported by a robust, weather-sealed construction. The inclusion of a 1.4x teleconverter extends its reach, while the Leica-branded optics with Ultra Extra-Low Dispersion elements ensure high resolution. This lens is best for professional wildlife and sports photographers using Micro Four Thirds systems who require a durable, long-reach prime.

Vazen 65mm T2 1.8x Anamorphic

20.5 Landscape Score
65mm Micro Four Thirds IS
Why we recommend this

Its 1.8x horizontal squeeze and T2 aperture deliver the signature widescreen look, oval bokeh, and classic blue flares essential for cinematic footage. The robust 1680g construction is built for set durability, offering reliable performance with minimal focus breathing. This lens is best for Micro Four Thirds filmmakers using cameras like the Panasonic GH5 who want a dedicated anamorphic prime for narrative projects.