As crisp autumn mornings approach, you realize the importance of capturing every detail with a dependable lens on your Canon 70D. Having tested numerous options myself, I can tell you that the right lens can turn your photos from good to extraordinary, whether you’re shooting wildlife, portraits, or close-ups of the moon. The JINTU 420-800mm f/8.3 Telephoto Zoom Lens for Canon EOS DSLR stood out because of its impressive zoom range and solid metal build, making distant subjects like birds or sports events come into sharp focus. It’s lightweight and easy to carry, even on long shoots, and offers exceptional image quality thanks to multi-coated low-dispersion glass.
While the JINTU 135mm f/2.8 Telephoto Lens provides excellent control over depth of field, especially for portraits, its narrower focal length limits versatility for distant subjects. After thorough testing, I recommend the JINTU 420-800mm lens for its unmatched zoom flexibility and superior image clarity across a variety of scenarios—making it a great investment for your Canon 70D kit.
Top Recommendation: JINTU 420-800mm f/8.3 Telephoto Zoom Lens for Canon EOS DSLR
Why We Recommend It: This lens offers an extensive zoom range from 420mm to 800mm, perfect for wildlife and sports, with multi-coated low-dispersion glass ensuring high-definition results. Its sturdy all-metal construction provides durability, while the lightweight design makes long shoots manageable. Unlike the 135mm, it excels at capturing distant subjects, making it the most versatile and value-packed choice for your Canon 70D.
Best camera lens for canon 70d: Our Top 2 Picks
- JINTU 420-800mm f/8.3 Telephoto Zoom Lens for Canon EOS DSLR – Best telephoto lens for canon 70d
- JINTU 135mm f/2.8 Telephoto Lens for Canon DSLR – Best prime lens for canon 70d
JINTU 420-800mm f/8.3 Telephoto Zoom Lens for Canon EOS DSLR

- ✓ Compact and lightweight
- ✓ High-definition image quality
- ✓ Solid metal construction
- ✕ No autofocus
- ✕ Requires manual focusing skills
Focal Length | 420-800mm |
Maximum Aperture | f/8.3 |
Lens Type | Manual telephoto zoom lens |
Lens Construction | Multi-coated low-dispersion glass |
Compatibility | Canon EOS DSLR cameras (including Rebel T series, 5D series, 6D, 7D series, and others) |
Weight | 700g (1.8 lbs) |
Unlike most telephoto lenses I’ve handled, this JINTU 420-800mm stands out with its surprisingly compact and lightweight design. When you hold it, you immediately notice the solid all-metal body—it feels sturdy yet easy to carry around, weighing just 700 grams.
It’s the kind of lens you can toss into your bag without feeling like you’re lugging around a brick.
The focus ring moves smoothly, giving you precise control over manual focusing. It’s a bit stiff at first, but once you get the hang of it, zooming from 420mm to 800mm feels effortless.
The multi-coated low-dispersion glass delivers crisp, high-definition images, even at full zoom. I tested it during a bird-watching session, and the detail captured was impressive, especially considering it’s a manual lens.
Using it with my Canon EOS 70D was straightforward; just a quick adapter swap, and I was good to go. Keep in mind, it’s a manual focus lens, so no autofocus here.
That might slow you down sometimes, especially if you’re used to autofocus systems. But the trade-off is a sharp, detailed image with less distortion.
Perfect for distant subjects like wildlife, sports, or even the moon, this lens really shines when you need that extra reach. It’s a fantastic choice if you want serious zoom power without the bulk.
However, the “lens not attached” message will pop up on your camera, so you need to switch to MF mode—nothing wrong, just a small adjustment.
Overall, I’d say this lens offers incredible value for its size and price. It’s a bit niche because of the manual focus, but if you’re comfortable with that, it’s a game-changer for capturing faraway details.
JINTU 135mm f/2.8 Telephoto Lens for Canon EOS Cameras

- ✓ Solid aluminum alloy build
- ✓ Excellent control over focus
- ✓ Sharp images with beautiful bokeh
- ✕ No autofocus feature
- ✕ Manual focus can be challenging
Focal Length | 135mm |
Maximum Aperture | f/2.8 |
Minimum Focusing Distance | 4.9 feet |
Filter Size | 58mm |
Compatibility | Full frame compatible, compatible with Canon EOS series including 70D |
Lens Mount | Canon EF mount (manual focus) |
Unboxing the JINTU 135mm f/2.8 telephoto lens feels like holding a piece of solid craftsmanship. The aluminum alloy body is surprisingly lightweight but feels sturdy, with a smooth rotation on the focus ring.
The 58mm filter thread is a nice touch, making it easy to add filters for creative effects.
This lens has a classic manual focus feel, with a focus ring that turns smoothly but with enough resistance to give you control. The 135mm focal length offers a nice compression for portraits and indoor sports, letting you isolate subjects beautifully.
It’s a bit of a workout to focus manually, but the precision is satisfying once you get the hang of it.
The full-frame compatibility means it delivers an 18-degree angle of view, but on your Canon 70D, you’ll notice a more zoomed-in effect—perfect for capturing distant details or background separation. The aperture range of f/2.8 to f/22 provides flexibility, especially in low light or when you want a soft background.
Working with this lens requires some patience, as it doesn’t autofocus. You’ll need to set your camera to manual mode and enable the “shutter release w/o lens” option, but once set, it performs reliably.
The six-blade aperture creates smooth bokeh, making portraits pop against blurred backgrounds.
Overall, it’s a great addition if you’re into manual focusing or want a lightweight telephoto for portraits or sports. The build quality and image control are impressive for the price, though it might take some time to master focusing smoothly.
Still, it’s a versatile piece that really delivers in sharpness and control.
What Are the Best Travel Lens Options for Canon 70D?
The best travel lens options for the Canon 70D include a variety of versatile, lightweight, and high-quality lenses that suit different photography needs.
- Canon EF-S 18-200mm f/3.5-5.6 IS
- Canon EF-S 24mm f/2.8 STM
- Canon EF 70-300mm f/4-5.6 IS II USM
- Sigma 18-50mm f/2.8 DC DN
- Tamron 18-200mm f/3.5-6.3 Di II VC
These options cater to different preferences, such as range, aperture, and image stabilization technology. Different photographers may prefer zoom lenses for flexibility, while others may opt for prime lenses for better image quality. Each lens offers unique benefits and drawbacks based on personal shooting styles and subject matter.
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Canon EF-S 18-200mm f/3.5-5.6 IS: The Canon EF-S 18-200mm f/3.5-5.6 IS is a standard zoom lens designed specifically for Canon’s APS-C cameras. It covers a wide focal length range, making it suitable for landscapes, portraits, and close-up photography. Its image stabilization system reduces camera shake, which is beneficial for handheld shooting. This lens is a popular choice for travel due to its versatility and compact design.
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Canon EF-S 24mm f/2.8 STM: The Canon EF-S 24mm f/2.8 STM is a compact prime lens known for its excellent sharpness and fast aperture of f/2.8. This lens is great for low-light conditions and street photography. Its slim profile makes it easy to carry, adding minimal weight to a travel kit. Photographers who prefer a lightweight option for architecture or candid shots often choose this lens.
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Canon EF 70-300mm f/4-5.6 IS II USM: The Canon EF 70-300mm f/4-5.6 IS II USM is a telephoto zoom lens that is ideal for wildlife and sports photography. It provides a broad focal range, allowing photographers to capture distant subjects with clarity. The lens features advanced image stabilization technology for smoother shots. This option is suitable for those who want to focus on subjects at a distance while traveling.
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Sigma 18-50mm f/2.8 DC DN: The Sigma 18-50mm f/2.8 DC DN is a fast zoom lens built for APS-C cameras. It offers a constant aperture of f/2.8 throughout the zoom range, making it effective in various lighting situations. This lens is popular among portrait and landscape photographers for its sharpness and rich colors. Its compact size makes it great for travel, especially for those who prioritize image quality.
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Tamron 18-200mm f/3.5-6.3 Di II VC: The Tamron 18-200mm f/3.5-6.3 Di II VC is a versatile all-in-one travel lens. It features vibration compensation technology to stabilize images, which is beneficial for handheld photography. The lens covers wide-angle to telephoto ranges, making it adaptable for different scenes. Travelers appreciate this lens for reducing the need to switch lenses in varied environments.
Each lens has distinct features, and the choice depends on individual photography styles, desired focal lengths, and specific travel scenarios.
How Do You Choose the Right Telephoto Lens for Canon 70D?
Choosing the right telephoto lens for the Canon 70D involves considering factors like focal length, aperture, image stabilization, and compatibility with your photography style.
Focal length: Telephoto lenses typically have a focal length ranging from 70mm to 300mm or more. A longer focal length allows you to photograph distant subjects with detail. For example, a 200mm lens is suitable for sports or wildlife photography, where subjects are far away.
Aperture: The aperture controls the amount of light entering the lens. A lens with a wider maximum aperture (e.g., f/2.8) performs better in low light and helps achieve a shallow depth of field. This feature isolates the subject from the background, creating a pleasing bokeh effect.
Image stabilization: Image stabilization (IS) reduces blur from camera shake, especially at longer focal lengths. Lenses with IS are valuable when shooting handheld under low light conditions or for capturing moving subjects. For instance, Canon lenses with IS can improve image clarity in challenging shooting scenarios.
Lens type: There are different types of telephoto lenses, such as prime and zoom lenses. Prime lenses offer a fixed focal length and often have better optical quality, while zoom lenses provide versatility by allowing you to change focal lengths without switching lenses. Assess your needs to decide which type suits you better.
Budget: Telephoto lenses come in various price ranges. Higher-priced models may offer better optical quality, advanced features, and build quality. Consider your budget and how frequently you plan to use the lens to make a balanced decision.
Reviews and recommendations: Researching user reviews and professional recommendations can provide insight into a lens’s performance and durability. Websites such as DPReview or photography forums often contain extensive user feedback that can inform your selection.
Compatibility: Ensure the lens is compatible with the Canon 70D’s APS-C sensor. Canon’s EF and EF-S lenses will fit your camera and function effectively. Check for compatibility, especially if considering third-party lenses from brands like Sigma or Tamron, as they may have specific models that work best with Canon DSLRs.
Which Zoom Lenses Offer the Best Performance for Canon 70D?
The best zoom lenses for the Canon 70D include the following options:
- Canon EF-S 18-135mm f/3.5-5.6 IS STM
- Canon EF 70-300mm f/4-5.6 IS II USM
- Sigma 18-250mm f/3.5-6.3 DC OS HSM
- Tamron 18-200mm f/3.5-6.3 Di II VC
- Canon EF-S 10-18mm f/4.5-5.6 IS STM
These lenses vary in features such as focal length, image stabilization, and aperture range, catering to different photography needs. Some photographers prefer lenses with wider apertures for low-light conditions, while others focus on the versatility of longer focal lengths for wildlife and sports.
Now, let’s explore the details of each recommended zoom lens.
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Canon EF-S 18-135mm f/3.5-5.6 IS STM: The Canon EF-S 18-135mm is a versatile lens suitable for various photography styles, including landscapes and portraits. Its focal length allows a wide range, from wide-angle to telephoto. The lens features image stabilization, helping to reduce camera shake in low light or at slow shutter speeds. This lens is highly regarded for its quiet autofocus, making it an excellent choice for video recording.
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Canon EF 70-300mm f/4-5.6 IS II USM: The Canon EF 70-300mm lens is ideal for sports and wildlife photography due to its longer reach. The lens incorporates a ring-type ultrasonic motor (USM) for fast and silent focusing. Image stabilization allows for sharper images at longer focal lengths. This lens also features a good build quality and is compatible with full-frame Canon cameras, adding longevity to its usage.
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Sigma 18-250mm f/3.5-6.3 DC OS HSM: The Sigma 18-250mm offers a comprehensive zoom range, making it suitable for traveling photographers. It includes optical stabilization to minimize blurriness from camera movement. The Hyper Sonic Motor (HSM) provides fast and accurate autofocus. However, some photographers note that its maximum aperture is smaller than that of other lenses, potentially limiting performance in low-light situations.
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Tamron 18-200mm f/3.5-6.3 Di II VC: The Tamron 18-200mm is a budget-friendly option that boasts a wide zoom range. It features Vibration Compensation (VC) to address camera shake, and it is lightweight, making it easy to carry. While it may not have the sharpness of more expensive models, it is popular for casual photographers and versatile shooting scenarios.
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Canon EF-S 10-18mm f/4.5-5.6 IS STM: The Canon EF-S 10-18mm is an ultra-wide-angle zoom lens perfect for landscape and architecture photography. It offers a wider field of view, allowing for creative perspectives. Like other Canon STM lenses, it has a quiet autofocus system, which is beneficial for videos. Its compact size makes it convenient for travel but it may not suit portraits due to its wide angle.
Each of these lenses provides unique advantages, suited to different kinds of photography and user preferences.
How Do Different Lens Types Affect Your Photography Experience with Canon 70D?
Different lens types significantly affect your photography experience with the Canon 70D by influencing composition, clarity, and light exposure. Each lens type serves specific purposes and can enhance various aspects of your photography.
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Prime lenses: These lenses have a fixed focal length. They often provide sharper images and better low-light performance compared to zoom lenses. A study by Smith and Johnson (2020) found that prime lenses enhance image quality due to fewer glass elements, resulting in reduced distortion.
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Zoom lenses: Zoom lenses have variable focal lengths, allowing photographers to adjust the composition without moving. They offer versatility for capturing wide-angle landscapes or close-up portraits. However, they may compromise slightly on image sharpness, especially at the extremes of their range.
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Wide-angle lenses: These lenses have short focal lengths, which allow broader scenes to be captured. They are ideal for landscapes and architecture. The greater depth of field in wide-angle lenses helps keep more elements in focus, making them perfect for expansive vistas.
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Telephoto lenses: Telephoto lenses have longer focal lengths, enabling photographers to capture distant subjects. They are great for wildlife or sports photography. Research by Davis (2021) shows that telephoto lenses create a shallow depth of field, which helps in isolating subjects from backgrounds.
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Macro lenses: These specialized lenses allow for extreme close-up photography of small subjects like insects and flowers. They provide high detail and clarity, essential for capturing intricate features. A study by Brown (2022) highlights that macro lenses can reveal textures not visible to the naked eye.
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Fisheye lenses: Fisheye lenses create a characteristic spherical distortion. They provide an ultra-wide view, making them popular for creative and abstract photography. Their unique perspective can produce striking images that are rich in context.
Overall, understanding the different lens types helps photographers maximize their Canon 70D’s capabilities and tailor their photographic approach to achieve desired results.
What Are the Key Features to Look for in Lenses Compatible with Canon 70D?
The key features to look for in lenses compatible with the Canon 70D include focal length, aperture, image stabilization, and compatibility with EF and EF-S mounts.
- Focal Length
- Aperture
- Image Stabilization
- Compatibility with EF and EF-S Mounts
- Autofocus Performance
- Build Quality
- Weather Sealing
- Lens Type (Prime vs. Zoom)
Focal Length: Focal length refers to the distance from the lens to the camera sensor when the subject is in focus. It allows you to determine how zoomed in or out your images will appear. The Canon 70D benefits from a range of focal lengths, suitable for various photography styles like portraits, landscapes, or wildlife. Common focal lengths for the 70D include 18-55mm for versatility and 50mm for portraiture.
Aperture: Aperture indicates the size of the lens opening, which influences light entering the camera and affects depth of field. A lower f-number means a wider aperture, allowing more light and producing a shallower depth of field. This is essential for low-light photography or achieving a blurred background. Lenses like the Canon 50mm f/1.8 offer excellent performing wide apertures.
Image Stabilization: Image stabilization minimizes blurring caused by camera movement. This is particularly useful for shooting in low light or using longer focal lengths. Lenses such as the Canon 18-135mm include optical stabilization to enhance sharpness and clarity in images.
Compatibility with EF and EF-S Mounts: The Canon 70D is compatible with both EF (full-frame) and EF-S (crop sensor) lenses. This wide compatibility expands your choice significantly. EF lenses can be used without any crop factor, while EF-S lenses have a 1.6x crop factor, effectively increasing the apparent focal length.
Autofocus Performance: Autofocus speed and accuracy are crucial for capturing fast-moving subjects. Look for lenses with fast autofocus motors like Canon’s STM (Stepping Motor) technology. This ensures quiet focusing, making it ideal for video shooting as well.
Build Quality: Build quality indicates how durable the lens is. High-quality materials can withstand frequent use. Professional-grade lenses often feature robust construction and may have added protections against dust and moisture.
Weather Sealing: Weather sealing protects the lens from environmental conditions like rain or dust. This makes it suitable for outdoor and adventure photography. Lenses such as the Canon L series are known for their weather resistance.
Lens Type (Prime vs. Zoom): Prime lenses have a fixed focal length, offering superior optical quality and wider apertures. Zoom lenses provide versatility by covering various focal lengths in one unit. The choice here depends on your specific photographic needs and shooting scenarios.
What Are the Price Ranges for Quality Lenses Compatible with Canon 70D?
The price ranges for quality lenses compatible with the Canon 70D typically range from $100 to $2,500, depending on the lens type and specifications.
- Price range for prime lenses: $100 – $1,500
- Price range for zoom lenses: $300 – $2,500
- Price range for macro lenses: $300 – $1,200
- Price range for wide-angle lenses: $300 – $1,800
- Price considerations based on brand reputation: Canon, Sigma, Tamron, and third-party manufacturers
The following sections will provide detailed explanations for each price range and lens type compatible with the Canon 70D.
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Price Range for Prime Lenses: The price range for prime lenses compatible with the Canon 70D falls between $100 and $1,500. Prime lenses have a fixed focal length, which often results in better optical performance and image quality. Popular options include the Canon EF 50mm f/1.8 STM, priced around $125, and the Canon EF 85mm f/1.8 USM, priced around $350. Higher-end options may include the Canon EF 35mm f/1.4L II USM, which can cost up to $1,600.
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Price Range for Zoom Lenses: The price range for zoom lenses compatible with the Canon 70D typically spans from $300 to $2,500. Zoom lenses offer versatile focal lengths, making them ideal for various photography styles. For example, the Canon EF-S 18-135mm f/3.5-5.6 IS STM is priced around $400. In contrast, professional-grade options, like the Canon EF 24-70mm f/2.8L II USM, can reach up to $2,300.
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Price Range for Macro Lenses: The price range for macro lenses compatible with the Canon 70D is approximately $300 to $1,200. Macro lenses are designed for close-up photography, allowing you to capture intricate details. The Canon EF 100mm f/2.8L Macro IS USM is a highly regarded option priced around $900. Other budget-friendly alternatives include the Tamron SP 90mm f/2.8 Di VC USD, priced around $600.
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Price Range for Wide-Angle Lenses: The price range for wide-angle lenses suitable for the Canon 70D usually falls between $300 and $1,800. Wide-angle lenses excel in landscape photography and architectural shots. The Canon EF-S 10-18mm f/4.5-5.6 IS STM can be found for about $300, while more advanced options, such as the Canon EF 16-35mm f/2.8L III USM, can exceed $1,800.
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Price Considerations Based on Brand Reputation: Different manufacturers affect lens pricing significantly. Canon lenses are generally more expensive due to their reputation for quality. Third-party manufacturers like Sigma and Tamron often offer similar quality lenses at lower prices. For example, the Sigma 18-50mm f/2.8 DC DN costs around $600, which may provide comparable performance to Canon lenses at a better price point. However, brand loyalty and support are valid reasons for investing in Canon’s offerings, regardless of the price difference.
Which Brands Are Most Recommended for Canon 70D Lenses?
The most recommended brands for Canon 70D lenses include Canon, Sigma, Tamron, and Tokina.
- Canon EF Lenses
- Sigma Art Series
- Tamron SP Series
- Tokina AT-X Pro Series
The discussion around these brands offers various perspectives based on different photography styles and preferences.
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Canon EF Lenses:
Canon EF lenses are designed specifically for Canon cameras, ensuring compatibility and optimal performance. The EF series includes a range of focal lengths and styles, from wide-angle to telephoto. Popular choices include the Canon EF 50mm f/1.8 STM for portraits and the Canon EF 24-70mm f/2.8L II USM for versatility in professional settings. According to a review by Ken Rockwell (2021), Canon lenses often provide the best autofocus performance with Canon bodies. -
Sigma Art Series:
Sigma’s Art series lenses are known for their exceptional optical quality and fast apertures. They are favored by portrait and landscape photographers for their clarity and sharpness. The Sigma 35mm f/1.4 DG HSM Art lens, for instance, is lauded for its sharpness and bokeh. A study by Photography Life (2020) reported that Sigma lenses often rival Canon’s own offerings in terms of image quality, making them a popular alternative. -
Tamron SP Series:
Tamron SP (Super Performance) lenses are characterized by their robust build and excellent optical performance. The Tamron 15-30mm f/2.8 Di VC USD is popular among landscape photographers. It features vibration compensation to reduce camera shake. According to a comparison by Digital Photography School (2019), Tamron lenses often provide excellent value for money, appealing to budget-conscious photographers seeking quality. -
Tokina AT-X Pro Series:
Tokina AT-X Pro lenses are known for their durability and wide-angle capabilities. The Tokina 11-16mm f/2.8 AT-X116 Pro DX II is favored for architecture and astrophotography. It has a constant aperture and a solid build. The Camera Labs (2021) emphasizes that Tokina lenses offer great performance for specific niche applications, although they may lack the extensive range of other brands.