Selects: Top 5 DSLR Lenses for Canon APS-C Cameras

What are the best EF-S lenses? If you're using a Canon DSLR with an APS-C sensor, you can mount both EF (full frame) and EF-S (APS-C) lenses. However, using EF lenses on an APS-C camera will behave differently. For example, using a full-frame EF 50mm lens on an APS-C camera will capture images that 'look' more like 75mm. Many DSLR photographers with APS-C cameras use EF-S lenses because they tend to be more affordable. And you're not just limited to Canon-made lenses, either. Third-party manufacturers, like Sigma, offer some fantastic options to mount to Canon APS-C DSLRs.

In this article, we'll look at five of our top EF-S fit lenses. These are compatible with any Canon APS-C DSLR, like the Canon EOS 60D or Canon EOS 850D. This article includes:

• Canon EF-S 10-22mm f/3.5-4.5 USM

• Sigma 18-35mm f/1.8 DC HSM ART

• Canon EF-S 17-55mm f/2.8 IS

• Sigma 30mm f/1.4 DC HSM

• Sigma 50-100mm f/1.8 DC ART

1. Canon EF-S 10-22mm f/3.5-4.5 USM

This is a fantastic and reasonably light lens to have in your arsenal if you want a wide-to-mid all-purpose zoom. A classic. Originally released in 2004, the Canon EF-S 10-22mm f/3.5-4.5 USM has impressive construction and optical performance.

• Matt Ritchie uses the Canon EF-S 10-22mm f/3.5-4.5 USM in his top NYC sunset photo locations.

Some many prefer the constant and faster aperture of the Tokina 11-16mm f/2.8 AT-X Pro DX II EF-S. But for others, the slight gain in reach with the 10-22mm is a bigger benefit—particularly if you don't need a wide maximum aperture.

2. Sigma 18-35mm f/1.8 DC HSM ART

When Sigma rebooted in 2013, the Sigma 18-35mm f/1.8 DC HSM ART really kicked things off. This lens excited many people as it was one of the first f/1.8 zoom lenses. Even though it was for APS-C bodies, it was widely adopted by videographers shooting with 'Super-35mm' video cameras, like the Sony PXW-FS7 and Canon C100 II .

• In this article on becoming a travel photographer, Alex Armitage uses the Sigma 18-35mm f/1.8 DC HSM ART

The Sigma 18-35mm f/1.8 DC HSM ART has wonderful optics, which leave you wondering why you’d ever need prime lenses. Its focal range covers the wide-to-mid range, without leaving you wanting much else.

3. Canon EF-S 17-55mm f/2.8 IS

When Ian Howorth bought the Canon EOS 7D in 2010, the Canon EF-S 17-55mm f/2.8 IS USM was the lens he most wanted. Although not quite as clinically sharp as Sigma offerings, the Canon EF-S 17-55mm f/2.8 IS is a fantastic all-purpose zoom for Canon APS-C DSLRs. And it has image stabilisation! Sure, you could go for the Canon EF-S 16-35mm f/4 L IS USM and get L-series glass, but then you would only get an f/4 aperture and reduced reach. The larger aperture and extra reach make the Canon EF-S 17-55mm a real winner.

4. Sigma 30mm f/1.4 DC HSM

The Sigma 18-35mm f/1.8 DC HSM EF-S offers the perfect focal length for photographers who prefer to travel light and only have one lens. While its performance is not quite as strong as the Sigma 35mm f/1.4 DG HSM EF for full frame, the EF-S zoom version is much cheaper. Its compact size means it's never an encumbrance, and with a fast f/1.4 aperture, you won't need to push your sensor past its comfort zone.

5. Sigma 50-100mm f/1.8 DC ART

Sigma's dominance in this list is a testament to how much work they have put into their optics, and also to the importance of APS-C for beginners. Although by no means a light lens, the Sigma 50-100mm f/1.8 DC HSM EF-S ART, paired with the 18-35mm, will leave you wanting very little in terms of performance—both from a focal range and pure performance point of view.

With a fast f/1.8 aperture across the entire focal range, the exposure value will not change as you zoom. This is ideal, particularly if you’re having to work quickly and you’ve already nailed your exposure. This lens can create beautiful bokeh. While absolute lens performance is subjective, this lens may make you rethink your need for primes.

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