Canon EF 55-200mm f/4.5-5.6 II USM

Canon EF

Review

The Canon EF 55-200mm f/4.5-5.6 II USM is a compact telephoto zoom lens that caters primarily to Canon EF camera users looking for a lightweight and versatile option for varied photography styles. With a focal range of 55-200mm, this lens serves well for everything from portraits to wildlife photography, offering enough reach while maintaining a manageable size and weight.

Build Quality and Design

The build quality of the EF 55-200mm is typical of Canon's mid-range lenses. While it may not have the ruggedness of higher-end options, it feels solid with minimal plastic components. Its compact and lightweight design makes it easily portable, which is ideal for travel and outdoor photography. The lens features a discreet black finish that blends well with most camera bodies, further enhancing its portability.

The zoom mechanism operates smoothly, allowing quick adjustments in focal length, however, it can feel slightly loose at times. Also, it's worth mentioning that the lens accepts 58mm filters, which is a common size, facilitating compatibility with numerous accessories.

Optical Performance

In terms of optical performance, the Canon EF 55-200mm produces decent image quality for its price point. At wider apertures, the images retain sharpness, especially in the central area of the frame, while corners may exhibit some softness. However, stopping down can significantly improve this soft corner issue, offering sharper results across the frame.

One notable aspect is the lens's color rendition. The images produced tend to have vibrant colors with commendable contrast, making it suitable for capturing dynamic scenes. Chromatic aberration is present but generally well-controlled, and the lens does a reasonable job of mitigating flare during backlit situations.

Autofocus Capabilities

Equipped with an Ultrasonic Motor (USM), the autofocus system is relatively fast and silent, making it a good choice for candid photography and video work. It's accurate in various lighting conditions, although it may struggle slightly in low-light environments, where it may hunt for focus. The lens also features a full-time manual focus override, allowing for fine-tuning of focus without having to switch modes.

Pros and Cons

Pros

• Compact and lightweight design, great for travel.
• Solid optical performance with decent sharpness and color rendition.
• Fast and silent autofocus due to the ultrasonic motor.
• Affordable price point for a telephoto zoom lens.

Cons

• Build quality may feel less premium with some plastic components.
• Some softness in the corners at wider apertures (can be improved by stopping down).
• Limited low-light performance due to maximum aperture.

Verdict

The Canon EF 55-200mm f/4.5-5.6 II USM is an excellent option for photographers seeking an affordable and portable telephoto zoom lens. While it may not compete with higher-end lenses in build quality and low-light performance, it delivers impressive image quality for general use. It’s particularly well-suited for those who desire versatility and convenience without breaking the bank. Whether you're capturing family gatherings, wildlife, or landscapes, this lens covers a broad range of photographic needs, making it a valuable addition to any Canon EF shooter’s kit.