10 Best Budget Lens For Sports Photography Canon (2024 Update)

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As a sports photographer, you might be looking for a budget-friendly lens that can capture the fast-paced action of your subjects. While there are a lot of options out there, it can be challenging to know what to look for in a lens for sports photography. Here are five key points to consider when searching for a budget lens for sports photography on Canon cameras.

1. Aperture: The wider the aperture, the more light the lens can let in, which is essential for sports photography. Look for lenses with an aperture of f/2.8 or wider to get the best results.

2. Focal length: A lens with a longer focal length can help you zoom in on your subject and capture more detail. A focal length of 70-200mm is a good range for sports photography, but you can also consider longer lenses if your budget allows.

3. Image stabilization: When shooting sports, you may be shooting handheld, which can make it challenging to capture sharp images. Image stabilization can help reduce camera shake and ensure your shots are in focus.

4. Autofocus: You'll want a lens with fast and accurate autofocus to keep up with the action. Look for lenses with ultrasonic motors or other advanced autofocus systems.

5. Brand compatibility: Make sure the lens you choose is compatible with your Canon camera body. Some lenses may only work with certain models or require an adapter.

By considering these key points, you can find a budget lens for sports photography on Canon that meets your needs and helps you capture stunning images of your favorite athletes and events.

10 Best Budget Lens For Sports Photography Canon

1. Canon Rf100-400mm F5.6-8 Is Usm

The Canon RF100-400mm F5.6-8 IS USM is a compact, lightweight and high-quality telephoto zoom lens designed for photographers who require a versatile zoom range. This lens is compatible with Canon's RF mount, which is optimized for full-frame mirrorless cameras, providing superior optical performance with every shot.

One of the key features of this lens is the Optical Image Stabilizer, which provides up to 5.5 stops of shake correction, allowing photographers to capture sharp and clear images even in low light conditions or while shooting handheld. Additionally, when paired with EOS R series cameras featuring In-Body Image Stabilizer (IBIS), this lens can provide up to 6 stops of shake correction, ensuring that every image is sharp and blur-free.

The Canon RF100-400mm F5.6-8 IS USM also boasts a minimum focusing distance of 2.89 feet at 200mm and a maximum magnification of 0.41x at 400mm, making it ideal for capturing close-up shots of distant subjects such as wildlife, sports events, or action shots.

The lens also features Canon's Nano USM autofocus system, which provides high-speed, smooth and quiet autofocus, making it perfect for capturing fast-moving subjects. Additionally, the lens features a customizable control ring that can be used to adjust various camera settings such as aperture, shutter speed, and ISO, providing photographers with greater control over their shots.

In terms of design, the Canon RF100-400mm F5.6-8 IS USM is both lightweight and compact, making it easy to carry around and use for extended periods of time. The lens also features a dust and moisture-resistant construction, ensuring that it can be used in a variety of weather conditions.

Overall, the Canon RF100-400mm F5.6-8 IS USM is a high-quality telephoto zoom lens that provides photographers with a versatile zoom range, superior optical performance, and advanced features that make it easy to capture stunning images in any situation.

2. Sigma 150-600mm 5-6.3 Contemporary Dg Os Hsm Lens For Canon

The Sigma 150-600mm 5-6.3 Contemporary DG OS HSM Lens for Canon is a powerful and versatile lens designed for high-performance photography. With a lightweight and compact construction, this lens is easy to use and transport, making it an ideal choice for photographers who need to move quickly and capture images on the go.

One of the standout features of this lens is its water and oil repellent coating on the front glass element. This coating helps to protect the lens surface from damage and makes it easier to clean and maintain, even in challenging environments. This is particularly important for outdoor and wildlife photographers who may encounter rain, dust, and other elements that can damage their gear.

The Sigma 150-600mm lens has a filter size of 95mm, which is larger than many other lenses on the market. This allows for more light to enter the lens, resulting in brighter and more vibrant images. The lens also has a minimum focusing distance of 280cm or 110.2 inches, which makes it ideal for capturing images of distant subjects such as wildlife or sports events.

With a focal length of 150-600mm, this lens offers a wide range of zoom options, making it suitable for a variety of photography styles. Whether you are capturing portraits, landscapes, or wildlife, this lens has the versatility to help you get the shot you want.

Overall, the Sigma 150-600mm 5-6.3 Contemporary DG OS HSM Lens for Canon is a high-performance lens that offers exceptional image quality and versatility. Its lightweight and compact design make it easy to use and transport, while its water and oil repellent coating helps to protect it from damage and make it easier to clean. If you are looking for a powerful and reliable lens for your Canon camera, this is a great option to consider.

3. Canon Ef 100-400mm F/4.5-5.6l Is Ii Usm Lens, Lens Only

The Canon EF 100-400mm f/4.5-5.6L is II USM lens is a high-performance super-telephoto zoom lens designed for sports and wildlife photography. It is a part of the renowned L-series lenses from Canon, which have a reputation for delivering superior optical performance and build quality.

One of the standout features of this lens is its compact size, which makes it easy to handle and carry around. This, combined with its high performance, makes it an ideal choice for photographers who need to capture fast-moving subjects in challenging lighting conditions.

The lens has a rotation-type zoom ring, which allows for more precise composition and excellent balance when handholding. This feature is especially useful when shooting in fast-paced environments where every second counts.

The improved zoom torque adjustment ring allows for easy setting of zoom tension, focal length, and maximum aperture. This makes it easy for photographers to adjust the lens according to their shooting needs and preferences.

The Canon EF 100-400mm f/4.5-5.6L is II USM lens also features the new Air Sphere Coating (ASC), which significantly reduces backlit flaring and ghosting. This makes it easier for photographers to capture clear and sharp images in challenging lighting conditions.

The lens is highly resistant to dust and water, making it ideal for outdoor shooting in all kinds of weather conditions. It is also incredibly durable, enabling photographers to shoot even in harsh conditions without worrying about damaging the lens.

In terms of technical specifications, the lens has a focal length range of 100-400mm and a maximum aperture of 1:4.5-5.6. It has a closest focusing distance of 3.2 ft. / 0.98m, making it easy to capture close-up shots of subjects.

Overall, the Canon EF 100-400mm f/4.5-5.6L is II USM lens is a high-performance super-telephoto zoom lens that offers excellent optical performance, durability, and ease of use. It is an ideal choice for sports and wildlife photographers who need a lens that can keep up with their fast-paced shooting style.

4. Canon Eos 4000d Dslr Kit With Ef-S 18-55mm Lens, Complete Accessory Bundle, And 64gb Flash – Renewed (International Model)

The Canon EOS 4000D / Rebel T100 Digital SLR Camera Body is a powerful and versatile camera that delivers high-quality images and videos. This camera comes bundled with the Canon EF-S 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 Lens and a range of accessories, making it an excellent choice for both amateur and professional photographers.

The 18.0MP APS-C CMOS Sensor and DIGIC 4+ Image Processor ensure that images are captured with remarkable clarity and detail. The 2.7' 230k-Dot LCD Monitor allows for easy framing and review of images and videos. Additionally, the camera has a Full HD 1080p Video Recording capability at 30 fps, making it a great tool for videographers as well.

The camera's 9-point AF System and AI Servo AF ensure that images are in sharp focus, even when capturing fast-moving subjects. The Extended ISO 12800 and 3 fps Shooting capabilities make it possible to capture stunning images even in low light conditions.

The Canon EOS 4000D / Rebel T100 Digital SLR Camera Body also features built-in Wi-Fi, making it easy to share images and videos wirelessly. The Scene Intelligent Auto Mode, Creative Auto Modes, and Manual Modes provide photographers with a range of options for capturing the perfect shot in any setting.

The camera is known as the Canon EOS Rebel T100 in the United States and is an International Model, meaning that it does not come with a manufacturer's warranty. However, it is still a reliable and high-performing camera that is sure to impress.

The Deluxe Bundle with the Canon EOS 4000D / Rebel T100 Digital SLR Camera Body includes the camera, 18-55mm Lens, Wide-angle & Telephoto lenses, 64gb memory card, case, filter kit, flash, tripod, and more. This bundle provides everything a photographer needs to start capturing stunning images and videos right out of the box.

Overall, the Canon EOS 4000D / Rebel T100 Digital SLR Camera Body with the Complete Accessory Bundle is an excellent choice for photographers and videographers of all skill levels. Its high-quality images, easy-to-use features, and range of accessories make it a great value for anyone looking to capture stunning photos and videos.

5. Canon Ef 75-300mm F/4-5.6 Iii Telephoto Zoom Lens For Canon Slr Cameras, 6473a003 (Renewed)

The Canon EF 75-300mm f/4-5.6 III Telephoto Zoom Lens is an excellent choice for Canon SLR camera owners who want to capture distant subjects with stunning clarity. This renewed lens features an EF mount and an aperture range of f/4-45, allowing for a wide range of lighting conditions and creative control in your photography.

The lens is equipped with a DC autofocus motor that provides fast and accurate focusing, making it easy to track moving subjects. Plus, the lens has a minimum focus distance of just 4.9 feet, so you can get up close and personal with your subject while still maintaining sharp focus.

With a diagonal angle of view ranging from 32 to 8 degrees, this lens is perfect for capturing a variety of subjects, from sports and wildlife to portraits and landscapes. Measuring just 2.8 inches in diameter and 4.8 inches long, this lens is compact and lightweight, weighing in at only 16.8 ounces.

One of the standout features of this lens is its improved mechanism for smoother zooming. The front part of the zoom ring is also adorned with a silver ring, adding a touch of elegance to the lens's design.

Overall, the Canon EF 75-300mm f/4-5.6 III Telephoto Zoom Lens is an excellent choice for Canon SLR camera owners who want to take their photography to the next level. With its fast autofocus, versatile zoom range, and improved mechanism, this lens is sure to impress.

6. Gopro Hero3+ Silver Edition (Renewed)

The GoPro HERO3+ Silver Edition (Renewed) is a high-performance camera that offers Full HD 1920 x 1080p recording at 60 fps and HD 1280 x 720p recording at 120 fps. It also captures up to 10MP photos at 10 fps with its ultra-wide-angle glass lens. This camera is designed to be compact and portable, making it an ideal choice for adventurers who want to capture stunning footage on the go.

One of the standout features of the GoPro HERO3+ Silver Edition is its built-in Wi-Fi connectivity. This allows users to easily connect their camera to their smartphone or tablet via the GoPro app, which is available for both iOS and Android devices. With the app, users can control their camera, adjust settings, and even preview and share their photos and videos directly from their mobile device.

The HERO3+ Silver Edition is also compatible with the optional Wi-Fi remote, which can be used to control the camera from up to 600 feet away. This is ideal for situations where users need to capture footage from a distance, such as when filming wildlife or extreme sports.

Another key feature of the GoPro HERO3+ Silver Edition is its enhanced low-light performance. This makes it possible to capture clear and vivid footage even in dimly lit environments. Additionally, the HERO3+ is 15% smaller than the previous HERO3 model, making it even more compact and easy to transport.

The battery life of the HERO3+ Silver Edition is also impressive, lasting 30% longer than the previous HERO3 model. This means users can capture more footage on a single charge, making it an ideal choice for extended trips or adventures.

Overall, the GoPro HERO3+ Silver Edition (Renewed) is a versatile and powerful camera that is perfect for capturing high-quality footage in a variety of environments. Its compact size, built-in Wi-Fi connectivity, and enhanced low-light performance make it an excellent choice for adventurers and outdoor enthusiasts looking to document their experiences.

7. Canon Ef 70-200mm F/2.8l Is Iii Usm Lens For Canon Digital Slr Cameras, White – 3044c002

The Canon EF 70-200mm f/2.8L IS III USM Lens for Canon Digital SLR Cameras, White – 3044C002 is a high-performance telephoto zoom lens that boasts a constant f 2.8 maximum aperture throughout its entire zoom range. This lens is designed for professional photographers who demand exceptional optical performance and reliable durability in their equipment.

One of the key features of this lens is Canon's Air Sphere Coating (ASC), which minimizes ghosting and flare to produce sharp and clear images even in challenging lighting conditions. Additionally, the lens is equipped with optical image stabilization that provides up to 3.5 stops of shake correction, allowing photographers to capture sharp and steady images even when shooting handheld in low light situations.

The lens also features a fluorine coating on the front and rear elements that helps reduce smears and fingerprints, ensuring that the lens stays clean and clear even after repeated use. It is highly resistant to dust and water, and has improved durability even in harsh conditions, making it the perfect choice for outdoor photography.

The lens features an inner focusing system with ring ultrasonic motor that provides fast and quiet autofocus performance, as well as full-time manual focus for precise control over focus adjustments. It also includes one fluorite element and five UD elements for high image quality, ensuring that images captured with this lens are sharp, detailed, and full of contrast.

The lens has a minimum focusing distance of 3.9 feet, 1.2 meter, and a diagonal angle of view ranging from 34° to 12°, making it ideal for capturing a wide range of subjects, from landscapes to portraits to sports and wildlife. It comes with a lens cap, lens dust cap, lens hood, and lens case, providing photographers with everything they need to protect and transport their equipment.

Overall, the Canon EF 70-200mm f/2.8L IS III USM Lens is a versatile and high-performance lens that provides exceptional optical performance, reliable durability, and precise control over focus adjustments. It is the perfect choice for professional photographers who demand nothing but the best from their equipment.

8. Canon Rf800/11 Is Stm(N)

The Canon RF800/11 is STM(N) is the first compact and lightweight 800mm super telephoto RF lens designed for professional photographers and enthusiasts. This lens offers excellent portability, made easier with an extending and retracting locking lens barrel design. It is perfect for those who want to capture distant subjects without the added weight and bulk of a larger lens.

The RF800/11 is equipped with gapless double-layer diffractive optics (DO) that reduce chromatic aberration, ensuring high image quality. This technology helps eliminate color fringing, which is often seen in images taken with lenses that have a long focal length. The result is sharper, more vibrant images that accurately depict the colors of the subject.

The lens features a fixed f/11 aperture, which provides high image quality and helps to reduce the size and weight of the lens. This aperture setting is perfect for capturing images of distant subjects, such as wildlife or sports events, where a shallow depth of field is not necessary.

The Canon RF800/11 is also equipped with optical image stabilization, which provides up to four stops of shake correction. This feature is especially useful when shooting in low light conditions or when using the lens at the maximum focal length. The image stabilization technology helps to reduce blur caused by camera shake, resulting in sharper images.

Overall, the Canon RF800/11 is STM(N) is a highly versatile lens that combines excellent image quality with portability and ease of use. Whether you are a professional photographer or an enthusiast, this lens is sure to be a valuable addition to your photography gear.

9. Canon Eos Rebel T7 Dslr Camera Bundle With 18-55mm And 75-300mm Lenses, 500mm Preset Lens, Memory, Filters, Monopod, And Professional Accessories (Renewed)

The Canon EOS Rebel T7 DSLR Camera with 18-55mm IS II Lens Bundle is a comprehensive package for anyone looking to capture high-quality images and videos. This bundle includes several accessories that will enhance your photography experience.

The Canon EOS Rebel T7 DSLR Camera features a 24.1MP APS-C CMOS sensor and a DIGIC 4+ image processor, providing you with clear and detailed images. It also has a 3.0" 920k-Dot LCD monitor, making it easy to view your shots. The camera can record full HD 1080/30p videos and has a 9-point AF system with a center cross-type point, allowing you to capture fast-moving subjects.

The bundle also includes a Canon EF-S 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 IS II Lens, which is a versatile option for everyday shooting. This lens covers a 28.8-88mm equivalent focal length range, allowing you to capture wide-angle to portrait-length perspectives. Additionally, the bundle includes a Canon EF 75-300mm f/4-5.6 III Lens and a 500mm f/8 Telephoto Preset Lens, giving you even more versatility in your photography.

The SanDisk 32GB SDHC Memory Cards, Camera Shoulder Case, Slave Flash, High Definition UV Filters, and High-Speed USB Card Reader are also included in the bundle. These accessories will help you store and transfer your images and videos, while the shoulder case will protect your camera when you're on the go.

Furthermore, the bundle also includes a variety of high-quality accessories such as an HD filter kit, Monopod, Flexible spider tripod, T-Mount for 500mm Lens, and more. These accessories will help you capture stunning images and videos, no matter what your photography needs are.

In conclusion, the Canon EOS Rebel T7 DSLR Camera Bundle is an excellent choice for anyone looking for a complete photography package. With its high-quality camera, lenses, and accessories, you can capture stunning images and videos with ease.

10. Sigma 150-600mm Canon Zoom Telephoto Lens Bundle With Accessories And Memory Cards.

The Sigma 150-600mm Canon Zoom Telephoto Lens F/5-6.3 DG OS HSM Bundle is a comprehensive package that includes everything needed for capturing stunning long-reach photographs. This bundle comes with a Sigma Lens for Canon, Front and Rear Caps, Lens Hood, Lens Case, and 2X 128GB SanDisk Memory Cards.

The Sigma 150-600mm Canon telephoto lens is designed around the idea of maximum portability combined with the utmost image quality in a variable aperture hyper-telephoto zoom lens. This lens is ideal for a variety of photographic situations, including birding, wildlife, and motor photography.

The lens boasts updated Sigma technology, including a quiet and optimized Hyper Sonic Motor (HSM) with an accelerometer for improved panning photography both vertically and horizontally. The lens is feature-heavy, including a new zoom lock switch that can be locked at any focal length and a new manual override (MO) switch for improved focusing control.

Working with the Sigma USB dock, this lens allows for maximum customization such as firmware updates and adjustments to the focus limiter, AF speed, and OS view. The Optical Stabilizer system minimizes the appearance of camera shake for sharper imagery when shooting handheld, and the rounded nine-blade diaphragm contributes to a smooth and pleasing bokeh quality.

Constructed using a Thermally Stable Composite (TSC) material, this lens offers greater precision and use in wide temperature variations. Additionally, a brass bayonet affords improved mounting accuracy and rigidity. The removable, rotating tripod collar offers well-balanced support for photographing atop a tripod or monopod with either vertical or horizontal shooting orientations.

Water and oil repellent coating on the front glass element makes maintenance of the lens surface easy. The minimum focusing distance of this lens is 280 cm/110.2 inches, and the focal length is 150-600mm F5-6.3 DG OS HSM/C. This lens is the first hyper-telephoto zoom from the Contemporary line and features a dustproof and splash-proof mount with a 95mm filter.

Overall, the Sigma 150-600mm Canon Zoom Telephoto Lens F/5-6.3 DG OS HSM Bundle is a top-of-the-line option for those seeking a versatile, high-quality lens for long-reach photography. Its lightweight and compact design, along with its many features and included accessories, make it an excellent value for any photographer.

Best Budget Lens For Sports Photography Canon FAQs

Are there any budget lenses that can effectively capture fast-moving sports action?

Yes, there are budget lenses that can effectively capture fast-moving sports action. One option is the Tamron 70-300mm f/4-5.6 Di LD Macro lens, which is a versatile zoom lens that allows you to capture action from a distance. It has a fast autofocus system and image stabilization technology to help reduce blur caused by camera shake. Another option is the Sigma 70-200mm f/2.8 DG OS HSM Sports lens, which is a bit more expensive but still considered a budget lens compared to some of the high-end options. It has a fast maximum aperture of f/2.8, which allows for faster shutter speeds and better low-light performance. It also has advanced autofocus and image stabilization features. Both lenses are compatible with most camera brands and offer good value for their price range.

Are there any budget lenses that offer image stabilization for sports photography with a Canon camera?

Yes, there are budget lenses that offer image stabilization for sports photography with a Canon camera. One of the best options is the Canon EF 70-300mm f/4-5.6 IS II USM lens, which is specifically designed for sports and wildlife photography. It features a Nano USM focusing system and an Image Stabilizer that provides up to four stops of shake correction, allowing you to capture sharp images even when shooting handheld.

Another great option is the Tamron SP 70-300mm f/4-5.6 Di VC USD lens, which is also designed for sports and wildlife photography. It features a Vibration Compensation system that provides up to four stops of image stabilization, as well as a fast and accurate Ultrasonic Silent Drive autofocus system.

Both of these lenses offer excellent image quality and performance at an affordable price, making them ideal choices for sports photographers on a budget.

Can a budget lens with a lower aperture still produce sharp images for sports photography?

Yes, a budget lens with a lower aperture can still produce sharp images for sports photography, but the results may not be as impressive as those produced by higher-end lenses. The aperture is just one of several factors that affect image sharpness, including the quality of the lens, the camera's autofocus system, and the photographer's skill.

A lower aperture means a larger opening, which allows more light to enter the lens and can create a shallow depth of field. However, a wider aperture can also lead to softer edges and more distortion, especially at the edges of the frame. Therefore, it's important to choose a lens with good optics and build quality, and to use proper technique when shooting to maximize sharpness.

In general, a lens with a wider aperture will provide better results for sports photography, especially in low-light conditions. However, a budget lens with a lower aperture can still be a viable option for amateur or hobbyist photographers who want to capture sports action on a budget.

How do budget lenses compare to more expensive options when it comes to sports photography?

Budget lenses are generally not as sharp or fast as more expensive options, making them less ideal for sports photography. They may also have slower autofocus capabilities and lower quality optics. This can result in missed shots or images with lower quality and sharpness.

However, budget lenses can still be suitable for beginners or those on a tight budget who are just starting out in sports photography. They can still capture decent images, especially if the lighting is good and the subject is not moving too quickly.

Ultimately, the decision to invest in a more expensive lens for sports photography depends on the photographer's needs and goals. Professional sports photographers who need to capture fast-moving subjects in low light conditions will likely benefit from a higher-end lens, while hobbyists may be able to get by with a budget option.

What are some good budget lens options for sports photography with a Canon camera?

As a budget-friendly option for sports photography with a Canon camera, the Canon EF-S 55-250mm f/4-5.6 IS STM lens is a great choice. This lens provides a solid zoom range and image stabilization, making it easier to capture action shots. Another option is the Canon EF 75-300mm f/4-5.6 III lens, which offers a longer zoom range but lacks image stabilization. Both lenses are compatible with Canon APS-C DSLRs and are relatively affordable options for sports photographers on a budget. Additionally, consider investing in a fast prime lens such as the Canon EF 50mm f/1.8 STM for capturing portraits and close-up shots of athletes. With careful consideration and research, budget-friendly lens options can still provide great results for sports photography with a Canon camera.

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