If you want to learn about the prices of varifocal lenses and invest in this technology, read our price overview for 2025 as well as our recommendations for worthwhile lenses.
As new software technologies like AI and networks advance rapidly, this can also be observed in other industries, including camera hardware. One of the biggest and most sought-after innovations in this industry are varifocal lenses, valued for their flexibility and creative potential.
What are varifocal lenses?
Varifocal lenses are often confused with zoom lenses. They have an internal optical design with variable focal length, allowing the user to adjust the magnification without moving the camera. This multi-focal length enables a subtle, gradual transition between focal lengths.
These lenses are conquering the industry thanks to their ability to quickly adjust framing and composition without having to change the lens. They help filmmakers shoot in fast-paced or unpredictable shooting environments without causing blur or losing shots.
The previous generation of these lenses had problems with losing focus after changing focal length. However, newer generations have minimized these issues. High prices for varifocal lenses still have a bad reputation.
Prices for varifocal lenses in 2025:
Such lenses are generally significantly more expensive than conventional prime or zoom lenses. Factors like high-quality glass and coatings as well as construction features like carbon fiber, magnesium alloy, and weather protection drive the price up.
In 2025, an entry-level varifocal lens costs between 300 and 1,000 US dollars. A mid-range varifocal lens costs between 1,000 and 3,000 US dollars, and a professional lens that can compete with a high-end zoom lens costs between 3,000 and 15,000 US dollars, in some cases even more.
The high prices of these lenses are mainly due to their construction. The calculation and grinding of the lens surfaces in this lens system are significantly more complex, which is necessary for smooth transitions between different focal lengths. Additionally, expensive materials like mineral glass or special plastics are used to avoid scratches and reflections. All this leads to higher costs.
Should you buy a varifocal lens?
It depends; varifocal lenses are a good choice for experienced photographers and videographers. They are not suitable for professionals. There are two reasons for this: First, these lenses require considerable skill due to the necessary refocusing after zooming, unless you have already spent over 10,000 dollars on a newer generation of such lenses.
Second, you can get an equally powerful and more user-friendly lens for half the price, with which you can still take professional photos and videos. Furthermore, in 2025 there are many new brands offering professional lens features at a significantly lower price than a mid-range varifocal lens.
Don't get us wrong: these lenses are ultra-sharp and deliver excellent results. However, they need to be refocused, which can significantly slow down shooting and even lead to missed moments for inexperienced users, especially beginners.
Summary:
In short: when analyzing the prices of varifocal lenses in 2025, choosing zoom lenses or conventional prime lenses is recommended. These are significantly cheaper and offer a comfortable long-term investment with industry-leading optical quality. An example is the SIRUI Saturn 35/50/75 mm T2.9 1.6x anamorphic carbon full-frame lens, which covers the most common focal lengths of 35 mm, 50 mm, and 75 mm in high-quality housings. All these lenses are designed as powerful tools for beginners and professionals to optimally support their creative work.
With a price under 1000 dollars and well below the average price for varifocal lenses, this lens delivers high-quality cinematic images with unique horizontal flare, a characteristic feature of Hollywood-style video recordings. You also get an ultra-wide cinematic aspect ratio with true anamorphic character and full-frame coverage.
