The best 70-200mm lenses in 2024: top constant-aperture telephoto zooms

The best 70-200mm lens is a true workhorse lens. The most popular and well-known configuration of a 70-200mm lens is a 70-200mm f/2.8. These are the best choice, with their fast, constant f/2.8 aperture that gives you plenty of latitude to work in low light and also allows for the creation of shallow depth of field. 

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Canon EF 70-200mm f/4L IS II USM

Canon EF 70-200mm f/4L IS II USM
This lens, though one f-stop slower, costs more than some Sigma and Tamron 70-200mm f/2.8 lenses. Its f/4 aperture allows for a lighter build. Improvements include optical redesign, closer focus distance, upgraded coatings, and a 5-stop image stabilizer.

Sigma 70-200mm f/2.8 DG OS HSM | S

Sigma 70-200mm f/2.8 DG OS HSM | S
Sigma's revamped 70-200mm lens boasts 24 elements in 22 groups, including nine FLD and one SLD element. With 11 diaphragm blades, it offers smooth aperture control. The autofocus system offers both Auto-Priority and Manual-Priority modes, while the optical stabilizer excels in static and panning modes for versatile shooting.

Nikon AF-S 70-200mm f/4G ED VR

Nikon AF-S 70-200mm f/4G ED VR
Introduced in late 2012, Nikon's telephoto zoom filled a long-awaited gap, offering a compact 70-200mm option. Sadly discontinued, it's still a valuable find on the used market. Weighing 850g, it's tripod-friendly without a mount ring, though available at extra cost. Despite its plastic build, it's sturdy, sharp, and contrast-rich, with excellent stabilization. 

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Sebastian Oakley
Ecommerce Editor

For nearly two decades Sebastian's work has been published internationally. Originally specializing in Equestrianism, his visuals have been used by the leading names in the equestrian industry such as The Fédération Equestre Internationale (FEI), The Jockey Club, Horse & Hound, and many more for various advertising campaigns, books, and pre/post-event highlights.

He is a Fellow of The Royal Society of Arts, holds a Foundation Degree in Equitation Science, and is a Master of Arts in Publishing.  He is a member of Nikon NPS and has been a Nikon user since the film days using a Nikon F5 and saw the digital transition with Nikon's D series cameras and is still to this day the youngest member to be elected into BEWA, The British Equestrian Writers' Association. 

He is familiar with and shows great interest in street, medium, and large format photography with products by Leica, Phase One, Hasselblad, Alpa, and Sinar. Sebastian has also used many cinema cameras from the likes of Sony, RED, ARRI, and everything in between. He now spends his spare time using his trusted Leica M-E or Leica M2 shooting Street photography or general life as he sees it, usually in Black and White.