In the past, APS-C camera reviews often came with a warning: regardless of the camera’s quality, limited lens options would likely restrict its potential. This issue was especially glaring for Nikon and Canon’s mirrorless systems. In contrast, Sony maintained its practice of welcoming third-party lens development, while Fujifilm’s APS-C-exclusive X-mount offered an unmatched selection. Meanwhile, Nikon’s Z mount and Canon’s RF mount remained nearly inaccessible to third-party manufacturers, resulting in only a handful of APS-C lens options.
New Developments for Canon and Nikon APS-C Systems
Over the past year, the situation has improved significantly. Canon and Nikon have introduced more APS-C lenses, addressing key gaps in their lineups. For instance, Sigma recently launched four APS-C prime lenses for Canon’s RF mount, complementing the 10-18mm F2.8 and 18-50mm F2.8 lenses released earlier in the year. Nikon, meanwhile, permitted Sigma to produce several Z-mount primes, including 16mm, 30mm, and 56mm F1.4 lenses. However, Sigma’s 23mm F1.4 prime remains absent from Nikon’s Z-mount lineup, likely due to its proximity to Nikon’s own 24mm F1.7 lens.
Other manufacturers have also stepped in. Nikon has allowed brands like Viltrox and Sirui to release autofocus-equipped Z-mount prime lenses, covering a range from a 13mm F1.4 (20mm equivalent) to a 75mm F1.2 (113mm equivalent). This development offers photographers access to most classic focal lengths within the APS-C format.
A Growing Selection for Enthusiasts
These additions are a game changer for APS-C photographers. Historically, manufacturers treated APS-C as a stepping stone to full-frame systems rather than a viable choice for professionals and enthusiasts. Canon and Nikon were slow to release new APS-C lenses, leaving users with limited first-party options or heavier, pricier full-frame lenses. Today, the landscape looks brighter, with an increasing number of third-party autofocus lenses available alongside first-party offerings.
That said, limitations persist. For example, while Nikon offers a range of APS-C prime lenses, fast zoom options remain unavailable. Nikon’s zoom lenses begin at F3.5 and go up to F5.6 or F6.3, leaving a gap for those seeking brighter options. Furthermore, Nikon has yet to see any third-party APS-C zoom lenses, even though such lenses are readily available for Sony and Fujifilm systems.
Canon’s Struggles with Third-Party Collaboration
Canon’s RF mount fares better with two constant F2.8 zoom lenses from Sigma and another expected from Tamron. However, autofocus prime lenses for Canon’s APS-C cameras are scarce, as manufacturers like Viltrox and Sirui have yet to enter the space. Canon’s stringent policies appear to be a factor—Viltrox reported that Canon instructed it to halt RF-mount lens production. Similarly, Samyang’s 85mm F1.4 RF lens disappeared from the market shortly after its launch in 2020.
A Vision for an Ideal APS-C Landscape
In an ideal world, Canon and Nikon would fully support their APS-C systems by producing a comprehensive range of lenses. Third-party manufacturers would also face no restrictions, fostering healthy competition and providing photographers with diverse choices. Unfortunately, this scenario remains unlikely. Still, the recent wave of lens releases has given APS-C photographers more flexibility, even within the confines of Canon and Nikon’s regulations.
Looking Ahead
For APS-C shooters, these changes are encouraging. Cameras like Canon’s EOS R7 and Nikon’s Z50II are now more competitive with the Sony a6700 and Fujifilm X-T5, thanks to an expanding lens ecosystem. While Canon and Nikon’s commitment to APS-C may not match their focus on full-frame systems, the current trend suggests a more promising future for smaller-sensor formats.