Prime lenses are the cheapest path to sharp, fast images. 109 primes under $500 — including legendary "nifty fifties" and modern third-party offerings.

Lenses
109
Price range
$79 – $499
Avg price
$331
Weight range
55–490g (0.12–1.08 lb)

Most Popular: Top 3

#1 · Laowa
10mm f/4 Cookie
$149
#2 · 7Artisans
18mm f/6.3 II
$79
#3 · 7Artisans
18mm f/6.3 II (Fujifilm X)
$79

All 109 Lenses

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Frequently Asked Questions

Why prime lenses?

Primes (fixed focal length) are typically sharper, lighter, and faster (wider aperture) than zooms at the same price. They also teach you to compose with your feet rather than zooming.

How many budget primes are tracked?

Gearbase tracks 109 prime lenses with MSRP under $500.

Other Lens Guides

Portrait LensesLenses for AstrophotographyLenses Under $500Lenses Under $1,000f/1.4 and Faster LensesLenses with Image Stabilization (OSS/IS/VR)Lightweight Lenses (Under 300g)Weather-Sealed Lenses