You need to have the right tools and gear if you truly want to gain unmatched pleasure from photography. They are also necessary for improving your photography skills and taking them to the next level. Your photography kit should not only include reliable cameras but also different types of lenses such as the FD lenses. Therefore, we are going to unveil the best Canon FD lenses for you to consider in this guide. We will also discuss when and where you can use these lenses.
What is an FD Lens?
FD lenses don’t have autofocus like EF lenses. They only allow focusing manually through a full-time manual focus motor. They easily and effectively connect to your camera’s aperture by using a manual connection. Typically, they are placed at a distance of 42mm from the sensor or the film.
FD lenses normally result in images with poor detail and focus but you can correct that during post-production. Therefore, an FD lenses come in handy when you want to adjust things manually. They also enable you to experiment with more camera angles besides providing you with more room for editing.
Best Canon FD Lenses List
Our experts have compiled a list of the best FD lenses by Canon. They have based their selection on different criteria such as the aperture width, the focal length, light depression, and construction quality, etc. We have also put hours and hours of time and effort into testing different lenses. Therefore, you can trust us for finding only the best FD lenses on the market. You can get best canon fd lens guide below.
Also, keep in mind that you will have to buy all FD lenses second hand because they are older lenses. Therefore, you may expect the body to have scratches and scuffs. They may also require some Thin-layer chromatography (TLC) to work properly.
| Image | Model Name | Dimensions | Best For | Check Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
 | Canon FD 50mm f/1.4 |
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| Check Price |
 | Canon FD 35-105mm F3.5 |
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| Check Price |
 | Canon FD 135mm F/2.5 |
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| Check Price |
 | Canon FD 70-210mm f/4.0 |
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| Check Price |
 | Canon FD 35-70mm F/4 |
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| Check Price |
 | Canon FD 100-200mm F5.6 |
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| Check Price |
 | Canon FD 80-200mm |
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| Check Price |
 | Canon FD 28mm 1:2.8 |
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| Check Price |
 | Canon FD 100-300mm F5.6 |
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| Check Price |
 | Canon EOS 6D Mark II |
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| Check Price |
1. Canon 50mm f/1.4 FD Manual Focus Lens: Best Canon FD Lens
Canon 50mm f/1.4 FD lens is quite popular among its users. It easily adjusts to both the new and old Cano FD cameras, much to the pleasure of their owners. It also imparts excellent clarity to the image thanks to its aperture type. Optics in general is very clean and clear as well.
Features
What separates the lens from the crowd is its practical yet simple construction. It is a particularly heavy lens with the dimensions of 6.1 x 3.9 x 3.7 inches and a weight of 11.2 ounces. However, it is rather convenient to use and store as well. The lens is also compatible with most micro lenses which easily compensates for the weight.
Another great thing about the lens is high levels of flair resistance. You would also love this the lens for its high resolution. Therefore, it ensures quite sharp and clear images at f/1.4. The images will start getting sharper in the middle if you start moving towards f/2.8.
As you would expect, a lens with such a wide apertur offers extremely creamy bokeh and brilliant low light performane as well.
Canon 50mm f/1.4 FD lens is more suitable for people with a micro Canon camera. You can use it with a DSLR but it will not produce the best of results.
Drawbacks
It is better to use the lens with a lightweight camera because of its weight. Pairing it with a heavy camera can result in wrist fatigue.
Our Verdict
You cannot buy a more affordable lens with such good quality. Everything about the lens such as its design, aperture width, and the focal length is exceptional. You just need to learn how to use its manual focus system and you are into something amazing.
Product Test Results
Here are the results of tests conducted on the lens.
Great lens that does what it is supposed to do. It’s just a lot heavier than I had originally thought which is why I went micro4/3s and not dslr. Quality product!
sample images taken with Canon 50mm f/1.4 FD lens.
2. Canon FD 35-105mm F3.5 Macro Lens: Best Canon FD Macro Lens
Canon FD 35-105mm F3.5 is a 40 years old lens with a cult following. Even today, you can rely on this lens to deliver a great performance whenever you need it.
Features
It is a non-L lens with a brilliant aperture (f3.5) and incredibly fast shutter speed.
It is an awesome choice for outdoor photography. The lens cover protects from scratches as well as prevents pollutants and dust from entering the lens. Therefore, it is also a great lens for adventure photographers. Similarly, it is also quite a popular lens for portrait photography because of its focal length range.
The canon fd macro lens has a great built quality. With dimensions of 5.5” x 3.6” x 2.9”, it is quite a small and lightweight lens, also making it easier to use and carry. You can also mount it on the camera without any hassle.
The best feature of the camera is its angle of view. The camera has awesome and easy to use viewing angles, especially the diagonal, horizontal, vertical angles.
Drawbacks
It is one of the most expensive Canon FD lenses. You may have to spend more than a hundred dollars on a 40 years old lens.
Our Verdict
It is still one of the best Canon FD lenses. Even professional photographers use it for its amazing functionality and design.
Product Test Results
Here are the results of tests conducted on the lens.
So far, the best pictures I’ve taken with my XT-1 are with this lens.
3. Canon FD 135mm F/2.5 S.C. MF Zoom Lens: Best Lens for Low Light Conditions
Canon FD 135mm F/2.5 Zoom lens has been around for 50 years. However, it is still going strong with no signs of slowing down.
Features
Most of these lenses are still in great shape because of their excellent design and sturdy construction. Some of them even have a plastic body but their solid build quality means you can use them without any problem.
Photographers mostly like this lens for its accurate manual focus ring. You can further adjust the manual focus to your liking. Therefore, it is the perfect lens to use in low light conditions. Similarly, it also produces very sharp images when you shoot them with low contrast.
Drawbacks
Since it is a very old lens, it may have a lot of dust inside which can negatively affect its performance.
Our Verdict
Canon FD 135mm F/2.5 Zoom lens has been among the Canon FD best lenses for five decades. However, it is still a very good lens if you regularly shoot in low light conditions. It is also quite an affordable lens.
Product Test Results
Here are the results of tests conducted on the lens.
Just got the lens in and I must say it is very impressive. Definite outer wear, but pretty good for a lens from 1974. Actual glass is in phenomenal condition. Flashlight test shows a healthy amount of dust inside, but nothing that should affect quality. Absolutely. No. Scratches. Beyond impressed with the previous owners’ care.
4. Canon FD 70-210mm f/4.0 Zoom Lens: Best Canon FD Zoom Lens
Canon FD 70-210mm f/4.0 offers a greater focal range of 70-21mm as well as a greater shutter speed. The 3x zoom is also quite impressive for an older lens.
Features
The main feature of the best canon fd wide angle lens is its extensive focal length range without any doubt. Photographers can use this focal range to experiment with different photography modes both indoors and outdoors. It is also easy to adjust focus because of the minimum focus distance of 0.44mm.
The lens can meet most of the requirements of the professional photographers. It especially excels when it comes to shooting in different lighting conditions. It also delivers good low light performance thanks to a reasonably wide aperture. Similarly, it is easier to handle due to its sleek design.
Drawbacks
The lens does have slight chromatic aberration but it is the only fault we can find with this lens.
Our Verdict
It is the best Canon FD lens you can buy at this price. It is compatible with both the micro and macro lens cameras and thus, compatibility with FD mount lenses will not be an issue. You also can do sharpest canon fd lens review before to buy.
Product Test Results
Here are the results of tests conducted on the lens.
Incredible lens, bought a KF Concepts adapter to use on my GH4. I have had fun all day with this lens. Im happy that the masses are satisfied with plastic auto focus lenses. Makes hidden gems like this even cheaper.
Sample images taken with Canon FD 70-210mm f/4.0.
5. Canon FD 35-70mm F/4 MF Zoom Lens: Good Lens for Indoor Photography
Canon FD 35-70mm f/4 MF zoom lens is also a very old lens. However, you can still use it for certain photography tasks just like all other best Canon FD lenses.
Features
The lens has maximum apertures of f/3.5 and f/4.5 at 35mm and 70mm respectively. It is ideal for all types of indoor photography. Similarly, you can also use this medium zoom lens for taking stunning portraits. The zoom is also excellent with sharp and distortion free images.
Drawbacks
It does not deliver good performance in the night or darker areas. Similarly, it may not be in an ideal condition because of its age.
Our Verdict
Canon FD 35-70mm is a lightweight lens that does an excellent job despite being an old lens. Available for around $80, it is also cheaper than some other FD lenses.
Product Test Results
Here are the results of tests conducted on the lens.
A particularly good performing zoom, sharp and near free of distortion. A good example can really surprise you with its high image quality. Nice finish, and strong construction, too. Focuses close at all focal lengths (.5m).
Unusual design in that the filter threads are recessed so need to zoom out and set focus towards min to access them.
6. Canon FD 100-200mm F5.6 11150 Lens: Best Canon FD Lens under 50
You must consider Canon FD 100-200mm F5.6 11150 Lens if you are on a tight budget. It is quite a capable lens despite its low price. However, you cannot expect anything special from such a cheap lens other than affordability.
Features
The lens performs relatively well during outdoor photography, delivering sharp images. It also has respectable zooming power.
Drawbacks
However, the maximum aperture of f/5.6 means it is not suitable for low light conditions. It is also quite bulky and heavy.
Our Verdict
You should only go for this lens if you are short of money or do not carry a lot of gear.
Product Test Results
Here are the results of tests conducted on the lens.
I bought this to use on my Panasonic Micro 4/3 camera which requires an adapter to fit the lens to the camera. The lens works fine with manual settings. I am very pleased with the lens
7. Canon FD 80-200mm Telephoto Zoom Lens: Best in Class FD Lens
Launched in 1985, the Canon FD 80-200mm Telephoto Zoom Lens still enjoys immense respect among photographers. Regarded as one of the best Canon FD lenses in its class, it was the last FD lens developed by Canon.
Features
It offers solid metal construction of the older FD lenses and optical maturity of the subsequent EF/EOS lenses.
It is a wide-angle lens that delivers very sharp images. Some experts even argue that it is sharper than many Canon Primes with the same aperture size.
The lens is compatible with both Full Frame and APS-C mounts, offering stunning results in both cases. The images are sharp and bokeh is lively, something you only expect from a prime lens.
Drawbacks
It is a very rare lens and difficult to find one in good condition. You may have to content with partially serviceable lens as well.
Our Verdict
We would not hesitate to recommend this lens if you are looking for a true L series performance. Similarly, the lens also excels when paired with Full-Frame or APS-C cameras.
Product Test Results
Here are the results of tests conducted on the lens.
Very sharp and zooms in well.
8. Canon FD 28mm 1:2.8 Lens: Best Budget Canon FD Lens
The most striking feature of the Canon FD 28mm 1:2.8 lens is its incredibly low price but very high quality.
Features
The lens is small and very easy to handle as well. Weighing only 2.35 pounds, you can use this lens both with lighter and heavier cameras without developing wrist fatigue.
It is also one of the best Canon FD lenses for video because of its focal length of 28mm. It also provides steady orientation, making it a good choice for outdoor photography.
This best fd lenses for video provides balanced shots because of its great steadiness. Therefore, amateur filmmakers widely use this lens to make videos and films. You can also get excellent detailing of the subjects thanks to a very smooth focus ring.
Drawbacks
The overall performance of the camera is satisfactory. However, the images could have been sharper.
Our Verdict
Canon FD 28mm 1:2.8 Lens offers a great balance of features and price. The excellent central focus and focal length make it ideal for videography as well as photography.
Product Test Results
Here are the results of tests conducted on the lens.
Gorgeous lens quality. I’m absolutely blown away by its crispness. For the price, it’s an absolute must for filmmakers. Obviously, it will need an adaptor for most cameras. But that is also a cheap option. Would definitely recommend to consumers and professionals alike.
Sample images taken with Canon FD 28mm 1:2.8 lens.
9. Canon FD 100-300mm F5.6 Zoom Lens: Most Versatile FD Zoom Lens
Canon FD 100-300mm F5.6 Zoom Lens is the lens for you if you are looking for a smaller closest focus distance, 2 meters in this case.
Features
The lens also delivers excellent focal magnification made possible by a new compensation lens system. What this system does is that decreases the overall length, offering higher zoom. Therefore, it is the best lens for taking long-range shots. Similarly, you can also use it for portrait photography.
Other prominent features of the lens are the grippier texture and excellent focus ring. The lens is larger but very lightweight.
Drawbacks
It is quite bulky and heavy. You cannot use it with lighter and smaller cameras.
Our Verdict
It is among the best Canon FD lenses if you are into portrait photography or want to take long-range shots.
Product Test Results
Here are the results of tests conducted on the lens.
A classic lens at a great price. My daughter just started learning film photography, and sometimes quality ‘old school accessories are required! This seller took great care to package the lens, including an unexpected camera and lens case.
10. Canon FD 200 mm F/4 MF Zoom Lens: Best for Sports Photography
Canon FD 200mm F/4 MF Zoom Lens is an ideal prime lens for sports photography, documentaries, and other challenging tasks.
Features
The lens comes with a glass having a high reflexive index. Comprising of 7 airspeed elements, which is quite impressive, the lens offers an exciting experience during shooting iconic sports moments.
The lens has a very smooth focus ring which also works very fast. Besides, a focal range of 20mm makes it a good choice for all the demanding tasks involving fast action.
The lens can handle all types of lighting conditions with the utmost ease thanks to its larger aperture size of f/2.8.
Drawbaks
Just like the lens above, it is also very heavy and bulky.
Our Verdict
This is the perfect lens for fast-action photography such as sports. However, it is quite a versatile lens that you can use for other purposes as well.
Best Time to Use Canon FD lenses
You can use an FD lens in any situation. They are suitable for all kinds of photography provided you know how to use your camera. However, there are certain times when an FD lens can be a better option compared to other types of lenses.
Bokeh
FD lenses offer awesome bokeh. The images look very aesthetic because bokeh always has a creamy texture. FD lenses merge background with the bokeh besides focusing on the subject uniquely, producing the said effect.
Nature Photography
FD lenses capture the landscape as a whole, making them an ideal option for nature photography. They help you draw attention to the entire image rather than on a specific spot. Best Canon LD lenses are also great for nature photography because of their amazing brightness abilities.
Portraits
FD lenses are quite effective when it comes to taking portraits or close-up shots. You can try different angles because of the space you get. Similarly, it is also very easy to customize settings.
Night Photography
FD lenses deliver excellent low light performance. Therefore, they are a great choice for night photography as well. They capture the maximum amount of light possible and you can clearly focus the subjects even if they are far away.
How to Buy the Best Canon FD Lens?
You need to keep certain factors in mind while shopping for an FD Lens. However, they are devoid of technical intricacies and thus very easy to choose.
Focal Length
The focal length is a major consideration when it comes to buying an FD Lens. The focal length has to be good and reliable as there is no autofocus in FD lenses. A good focal length helps you adjust the focus even if the lens doesn’t have a zoom feature.
Aperture
The aperture is of critical importance as it affects both the shutter speed and the brightness. A wider lens will capture more light compared to a smaller lens. Therefore, the increase in aperture width ensures greater clarity in images.
Light Depression
One thing that can ruin your photos is light depression. You must try your level best to avoid it. Go for the Canon FD lens with minimum chromatic aberration.
Construction Quality
Construction quality matters a lot as most FD lenses have been around for decades. You have to ensure the lens you are buying is in good shape as well as in proper fitting and size.
Merits and Demerits of an FD Lens
FD lenses have both merits and demerits. They have been serving photographers untiringly and loyally for decades now. Some photographers are in awe of how good these lenses are. FD lenses are generally very good but they have some shortcomings as well.
Advantages of FD Lenses
Firstly, we take a look at the benefits of the FD Lenses.
Best for Vintage Cameras
You would find an FD lens mount in all the vintage cameras. However, none of them has a mount to use an EF lens. So, you can only use an FD lens if you have a vintage or old camera.
Diversity in Photography
Best Canon FD lenses offer incredible diversity in photography. You can use FD lenses for all kinds of photography, especially night photography, nature photography, and wedding photography. They further add to your skill and broaden your horizon by enabling you to experiment with different angles and positions.
Skill Enhancement
You can greatly enhance your skill as photography and personalization are more mostly manual. You have to use your instincts and rely on your skill while using FD lenses and therefore, you learn a lot in the process.
Disadvantages of FD Lenses
The drawbacks of FD lenses include:
Manual Configuration Only
The biggest drawback of FD lenses is the availability of manual configuration only. However, most people who buy FD lenses are aware of this fact. They buy these lenses primarily for this feature.
Lesser Zoom
Manual lenses either don’t have any zoom or very small zoom. They also lack autofocus making it difficult to focus on miniature objects.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What is the Difference between FD and EF lenses?
FD and EF lenses differ in terms of their functioning and mounting. You need to manually connect FD lenses to the sensor or film. Electric Focus (EF) lenses, on the other hand, connect to the camera using electrical components. FD lenses don’t have autofocus but EF lenses have this feature
- Are FD Lenses Full-Frame Lenses?
Yes, FD lenses are full-frame lenses as most of them have been around for decades. All Canon cameras used these lenses till the turn of the 21st century that is just 20 years ago. Many Canon cameras still come with Canon FD lens mount by default. Therefore, you can still use these lenses reliably.
- Do Canon FD lenses fit EF mount?
You can mount FD lenses on a camera with an EF mount. However, you need an adapter for this task. Most adapters are quite cheap and fit the lens on the mount easily and perfectly. Of course, you cannot use the electronic components of the EF mount with an FD lens.
- Do Canon FD lenses work on EOS?
Yes, a Canon FD lens can work perfectly on an EOS camera as well despite what people may tell you. You once again need an adapter to connect the FD lens with the sensor of EOS camera.
Final Thoughts
Summing up, every photographer needs to have the best Canon FD lenses. You can use them in all types of situations besides enhancing your photography skills. They also broaden your horizon and help your try all the new techniques and ideas. Therefore, you must get an FD lens at the earliest.
I like that you are discussing FD lenses.
Please note that FD on EF bodies requires an adapter with glass in it that does degrade the image (I have this for my EF bodies. Though thankfully the RF mount adapter does not need glass to correct and allows the full quality of FD lenses to shine through.
the 80-200mm f4L is far superior to the regular 80-200mm f4.
The 100-200mm f5.6 is a super little and light lens.
Finally you need to mention that there are incredible Canon FL, R and M39 lenses besides the FD lenses. Again, use them on the RF mount bodies for full optical value these lenses offer.
Hello Lawrence,
Thank you for you input.