While phones and laptops tend to improve at a breakneck pace, progress in cameras is generally more gradual. But conversely, this slow progress can make it especially difficult to choose a camera. The minute differences between cameras can require specialized knowledge to understand, so it can be hard to know where to start looking if you’re a beginner. One of the more recent improvements in camera technology came with the advent of mirrorless cameras.
DSLRs use a reflex mirror to display an image in the optical viewfinder, but mirrorless cameras are different. As the name suggests, they don’t have mirrors — a digital display is used in the place of an optical viewfinder. Both mirrorless and DSLR cameras have interchangeable lenses, which makes them a more customizable and professional option compared to cheaper and easier to use point-and-shoots.
What makes mirrorless cameras great is that they’re less bulky than DSLRs, which is great for photographers on the go. If you’ve decided to go all-in on mirrorless, the tricky part can come down to choosing lenses. Using the kit lens is fine, but if you’ve spent serious cash on your mirrorless, why limit its potential with a lens that can only do so much? That’s why we’ve rounded up some of our favorite mirrorless lenses on Amazon. Naturally, not every lens will fit every camera, so be sure to check Amazon’s “Confirmed Fit” feature before adding anything to your cart.
1. Sony E 50mm Portrait Lens
Portrait lenses are an essential thing to have for close-ups (and portraits, obviously) and this is a reliable and reasonably priced option from a top brand. This 50 mm lens from Sony has built-in image stabilization. It has a large maximum aperture of F1.8.
Pros: Good aperture and built-in image stabilization. Powerful lens in a lightweight and compact body.
Cons: Focus can be a little slow.
2. Panasonic LUMIX Mirrorless Camera Lens
This compact, lightweight camera lens has a medium-range zoom, making it a versatile all-purpose camera lens. The lens has 7 aperture blades, and the lens is coated to reduce ghosting and lens flare. The built in Lumia optical image stabilization makes it easier to get clear shots.
Pros: Built-in image stabilization. Medium-range zoom, making it a good all-around option. Compact and lightweight.
Cons: Some issues were reported with the lens hood.
3. Neewer 35mm for Sony Mirrorless
This highly affordable fixed lens is designed to be compatible with a variety of Sony mirrorless cameras. It’s a 35mm lens with a maximum aperture of F1.7. It’s a manual lens, meaning it will not auto-focus. It can be used to shoot landscapes or portraits, including creating a blurred background effect.
Pros: Highly affordable, includes lens front and rear caps, as well as a microfiber cleaning cloth. Useful for capturing various kinds of shots.
Cons: Manual focus only, which may take time to get used to.