Best Telephoto Lenses for 2025

We analyzed top picks from leading reviewers to find the best for every need
Published: January 19th, 2025

📸If you're into capturing distant subjects with clarity and detail, a good telephoto lens is a must-have. They’re perfect for snapping wildlife, sports, or even isolating your subject in portrait shots with a dreamy background blur. We've done the homework for you, diving into expert reviews and doing lots of analysis to uncover the top telephoto lenses for 2024. Here are our finds, from wallet-friendly options to those packed with high-performance features.

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Overall Best: Fujinon XF100-400mm f/4.5-5.6 R LM OIS WR

Fujifilm XF100-400mmF4.5-5.6 R LM OIS WR Black

With its impressive focal length range, the Fujinon XF100-400mm f/4.5-5.6 R LM OIS WR stands out as our overall best pick for 2024. This lens excels in outdoor photography, making it ideal for capturing both dynamic sports and elusive wildlife. The robust weather sealing ensures durability in challenging conditions, while its fast autofocus can precisely lock onto subjects, ensuring sharp images even in fast-paced situations. Although there's a slight drop in sharpness at the extreme ends of its range, the overall image quality and versatility are exceptional. Additionally, its relatively lightweight design and maximum focal length of 609mm mean you can get close to distant subjects with ease and comfort.

Lowest at any Popular Retailer
$1,899.00 at Amazon

More Answers

Still curious about the Fujifilm XF100-400mm? Here are some answers you might find interesting:

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How does the Fujifilm XF100-400mmF4.5-5.6 R LM OIS WR compare to the Canon 100-400mm lens?
When you're looking at the Fujifilm XF100-400mmF4.5-5.6 R LM OIS WR and the [Canon 100-400mm lens](https://www.shopsavvy.com/redirect?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2Fs%3Fk%3Dcanon%2B100-400mm%2Blens%26tag%3Dssw.ans.tx-1-20), there are a few key things to think about: build quality, how they perform, and what they're best at. For starters, the Fujifilm lens is known for its durability. According to the manufacturer's description, it can handle some pretty rugged conditions—think very cold weather, like down to -10°C (14°F), and it's water and dust-resistant, which is handy if you're out in bad weather a lot. There's also a special fluorine coating on the front that helps keep dirt and water off the lens. When it comes to image quality, the Fujifilm lens offers a great zoom range for things like wildlife and sports photography. Plus, it has image stabilization that reduces blur, which is helpful when shooting handheld in tough lighting or when trying to capture fast action. Our research found that lots of people really like this feature because it helps them get sharp pictures even in tricky conditions. On the flip side, the Canon 100-400mm is also a favorite among photographers, praised for its solid performance and build quality. But remember, the Fujifilm lens is made for Fujifilm’s X-series mirrorless cameras, while the Canon lens works with Canon DSLRs. This compatibility aspect is a big deal if you already own a camera from either brand. Both lenses offer impressive zoom and work well for capturing faraway subjects clearly. If you often shoot in cold or rough environments, the Fujifilm's robust design might be more appealing. But think about what gear you already have and what you really need from a lens. Ultimately, both lenses have their strengths. Your decision should boil down to your style of shooting, the conditions you usually encounter, and how they fit with what you already own. No matter which lens you go with, they can both deliver amazing photos if used right. Just make sure to keep up with proper lens care, especially when you're switching between different shooting scenarios.
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How effective is the image stabilization on the Fujifilm XF100-400mmF4.5-5.6 R LM OIS WR?
The image stabilization on the Fujifilm XF100-400mm F4.5-5.6 R LM OIS WR lens is generally quite effective. It's designed to work well with Fujifilm X mount cameras, like the [X-T4](https://www.shopsavvy.com/redirect?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2Fs%3Fk%3Dfujifilm%2Bx-t4%26tag%3Dssw.ans.tx-1-20) and [X-Pro3](https://www.shopsavvy.com/redirect?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2Fs%3Fk%3Dfujifilm%2Bx-pro3%26tag%3Dssw.ans.tx-1-20), and is a good match for the X Series cameras. From what we've found, this lens really shines when capturing sharp images, especially paired with high-performance models like the [Fujifilm X-T3](https://www.shopsavvy.com/redirect?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2Fs%3Fk%3Dfujifilm%2Bx-t3%26tag%3Dssw.ans.tx-1-20) and X-T4. The lens is made up of 21 elements in 14 groups and includes 5 extra-low dispersion elements and 1 super extra-low dispersion element, which help deliver impressive clarity and color. As for the image stabilization (IS) feature, this lens offers a strong 5-stop IS system. It does a good job at reducing camera shake, so you can shoot handheld more easily, even when you're zoomed in. This is particularly helpful for things like wildlife or sports photography, where you often can't use a tripod. Though the IS is solid overall, our research notes a slight dip in image sharpness when you're at the maximum 400mm zoom. Even so, it's still pretty effective throughout its range. Aside from that, the lens is built to handle outdoor conditions quite well. The manufacturer claims it's weather-resistant, which means it should hold up in dusty or wet environments. Its durability can be reassuring if you often find yourself shooting outside. All in all, if you’re looking to boost your Fujifilm X mount setup, this lens is a good option. It combines solid optical performance, effective image stabilization, and tough build quality, making it a reliable choice for photographers needing both flexibility and durability.
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How sharp is the Fujifilm XF100-400mmF4.5-5.6 R LM OIS WR lens at different focal lengths?
If you're thinking about the Fujifilm XF100-400mmF4.5-5.6 R LM OIS WR lens and wondering about its sharpness, here's what we've found. This lens is pretty sharp across its focal lengths, from wide to zoomed in. At 100mm, the lens delivers clear, precise images, even when you're using those wider apertures. When you zoom all the way to 400mm, it still holds up well in terms of sharpness. This means it’s a solid choice if you're shooting anything from close-ups to distant wildlife or sports and need that reliability throughout the zoom range. The Optical Image Stabilization (OIS) is a big plus too. It helps keep your shots clear and reduces shake, especially handy if you’re shooting handheld at 400mm. This stabilization is rated with a significant 5-stop protection according to the manufacturer's product description, which helps prevent your images from getting blurry even at the max zoom. Speaking of the lens construction, it has a pretty advanced setup with 21 optical elements in 14 groups, including five ED lenses and one Super ED lens. This design helps minimize things like chromatic aberrations that could mess with image sharpness, as the manufacturer specifies. And a quick note on the build—it's solid and a bit heavier, about 3.03 pounds, but folks who use it say it's manageable, especially compared to some [DSLR telephoto lenses](https://www.shopsavvy.com/redirect?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2Fs%3Fk%3DDSLR%2Btelephoto%2Blenses%26tag%3Dssw.ans.tx-1-20). The lens is also dust and water-resistant, which comes in handy for shooting outside. Overall, this lens does a great job maintaining sharpness from one end of its range to the other. Just make sure you've got a compatible [Fujifilm X-series camera](https://www.shopsavvy.com/redirect?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2Fs%3Fk%3DFujifilm%2BX-series%2Bcamera%26tag%3Dssw.ans.tx-1-20) body to get the most out of it. If you’re into wildlife, sports, or anything needing a close focus across distances, this could be the lens for you.
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Runner-up: Sigma 100-400mm f/5-6.3 DG DN OS | C

Sigma 100-400mm F5-6.3 Contemporary DG DN OS for Sony E Mount

The Sigma 100-400mm f/5-6.3 DG DN OS | C is our runner-up, and it's particularly suited for mirrorless cameras. Redesigning it for lighter weight and enhanced zoom capabilities, Sigma has crafted a lens that balances portability and performance. Its optical stabilization feature ensures images remain sharp across its entire focal range, making it an excellent choice for diverse scenarios from wildlife to sports photography. While it doesn't have the extensive weather sealing found in more expensive models, its high image quality and ease of use make it a reliable choice for anyone seeking a versatile telephoto lens.

Lowest at any Popular Retailer
$809.00 at Amazon

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Budget Pick: Panasonic Lumix G Vario 45-150mm f/4.0-5.6 Asph Mega OIS

Panasonic LUMIX G VARIO 45-150mm F4.0-5.6 ASPH Mirrorless Camera Lens with Optical Stabilizer, Micro Four Thirds Mount, H-FS45150AK (USA Black)

For those on a budget, the Panasonic Lumix G Vario 45-150mm f/4.0-5.6 Asph Mega OIS offers remarkable telephoto capabilities without breaking the bank. Designed for Micro Four Thirds cameras, this compact and lightweight lens is great for travel and casual wildlife photography. Despite its lower price point, it features good optical stabilization and delivers commendable sharpness. While it may lack the advanced features of higher-end lenses, it offers excellent performance for its price, making it a smart choice for budget-conscious photographers.

Lowest at Amazon
$197.99 at Amazon
Lowest at any Popular Retailer
$197.00 at Abt Electronics & Appliances

Best for Wildlife: Panasonic Leica DG Vario-Elmar 100-400mm f/4-6.3 ASPH. POWER O.I.S. Lens

Wildlife photographers will find the Panasonic Leica DG Vario-Elmar 100-400mm f/4-6.3 ASPH. POWER O.I.S. Lens an invaluable tool. Its extensive focal length range provides significant reach, allowing for exceptional shots of distant animals. The lens is also lightweight and portable, making it perfect for field use. Equipped with optical image stabilization, it reduces blur from camera shake, ensuring crisp and clear images. Though it comes with a higher price tag, the lens's performance and adaptability make it a worthy investment for serious wildlife photographers.

Lowest at any Popular Retailer
$1,397.99 at Amazon

Best for Sports: Sony E 70-350mm f/4.5-6.3 G OSS

Sony SEL70350G E-Mount APS-C 5X Super-telephoto Zoom G Lens with up to 350mm Reach (525mm equiv.)

For sports photography, the Sony E 70-350mm f/4.5-6.3 G OSS is a standout choice. Built for APS-C mirrorless cameras, this lens boasts excellent build quality and handling. Its rapid autofocus and superb image stabilization are crucial for capturing fast-action scenes with clarity. The versatile focal length range makes it suitable for various sports, while its high-quality optics ensure sharp, vibrant images. Though slightly heavier than some alternatives, its robust features and superior performance make it a top pick for sports enthusiasts.

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