Where to purchase used lenses

You can pay more for lenses that are in brand new or never used condition, but you can also save some cash by getting some open box or slightly used ones as well. Where many sites that sell used lenses lump them in with other gear, Adorama has a special used lens store that makes it easy to find the exact one you want without any hassle. You can quickly narrow down by brands and everything has a day money back guarantee.

On top of that, their rating system is top notch and their name is extremely trusted in the photography world. While it may not be as focused as the above options, dedicated or determined users can find good used lens deals on Amazon. The retailer site has a used market that enables sellers of all different types to put up used equipment.

If you know how to search, there are plenty of lenses. As Amazon is so large and diverse, not everything you buy is going to have the same quality testing as a dedicated camera site. The largest online marketplace, eBay is a great way to find used camera lenses at a wide range of different prices.

Another reason eBay makes my list is that it offers an extremely wide selection. As there are so many sellers offering so many different prices, you get an incredible amount of choice when going on eBay. Especially when it comes to expensive items, I will message a seller as standard to gauge the feedback of response. If they respond quickly and in an informative way, it is a good initial sign.

Ebay can snag you a great lens bargain if you search hard and long enough. But you also really need to know the ins and outs of what you are looking for. From time to time, some choice picks pop to the surface, but this route is riskier than the rest. Many of these websites are enthusiasts selling to other enthusiasts, but you also have to put in your due diligence.

This involves communicating with the seller, checking all the details are as reported, and there are lots of high-quality images of the product. For those who like to wade through a forum-type website for juicy lens morsels, FredMiranda.

You generally have to go through the pages of listings until you find what you are looking for. But this method of searching also allows you to trip over other interesting things for sale.

If you have started the hunt for a particular lens, this website is worth checking on an occasional basis. The classified section of NaturePhotographers. But with the larger platforms being the main focus these days, listings are now few and far between. Used and refurbished camera lenses are two distinct categories. In this case, you need to find out as much about its present condition, from the quality of the optics, lens barrel and inner and outer workings. This can be as simple as a general check to make sure the lens is in working order to the fitting of new parts.

Refurbished lenses generally come from dedicated camera outlets, with a degree of peace of mind that they have been thoroughly checked and are in very good working order. Below are some key points to bear in mind with any lens acquisition. Note — always inspect a lens in natural daylight, ideally next to a large window on an overcast day. These outlets have a good list of lenses on a regular basis and come with guarantees and return policies. If you want to be more adventurous, then the personal listing websites can sometimes save you a few dollars.

At the very least, there are plenty of options to choose from online where you pick up your next prized lens. We will include them with the next update. Your email address will not be published. Save my name and email in this browser to see the comment immediatley and edit it if needed. You can clear your browser data at any time. Subscribe to our weekly newsletter.

Buying used is a good way of saving money while increasing one's gear available for use. However, there are some important factors to consider.

Gear sold by a major photo gear retailer will often provide a guarantee of functionality or, at the very least, in the condition listed. And if you are unsatisfied with your purchase, you can often return the gear without hassle. Because of the minimal risk involved, you are likely to pay a little more for your used gear when purchased from trusted retailers.