Canon EF-S 18-135mm F3.5-5.6 IS

Canon EF

Review

The Canon EF-S 18-135mm F3.5-5.6 IS is a versatile zoom lens designed for Canon's APS-C DSLR cameras. With a focal length range equivalent to 29-216mm in 35mm format, this lens caters to a variety of photography styles—from sweeping landscapes to intimate portraits and fast-paced action shots. Its compact and lightweight design makes it a popular choice for travel and everyday photography.

One of the standout features of the 18-135mm is its image stabilization (IS) technology, which compensates for camera shake, allowing for sharper images in low-light conditions and when shooting at slower shutter speeds. The lens also boasts a good balance of sharpness and color rendition across its focal lengths, making it well-suited for both casual and more serious photographers.

A key downside to the lens is its maximum aperture range, which spans from f/3.5 to f/5.6. While this is typical for a kit lens, it can be limiting in darker environments or for achieving a shallow depth of field. Additionally, some users may find that the bokeh produced isn't as aesthetically pleasing compared to higher-end lenses, particularly when shooting at the longer end of the focal range.

The autofocus system is generally fast and reliable, but it may struggle in extremely low-light situations or with fast-moving subjects. Furthermore, the build quality, while solid for its price point, is primarily made of plastic, which might deter professionals or enthusiasts looking for more robust options.

Pros and Cons

Pros

• Versatile focal length range.
• Effective image stabilization.
• Good color rendition and sharpness.
• Lightweight and portable design.

Cons

• Maximum aperture may limit performance in low light.
• Bokeh quality is less desirable compared to higher-end lenses.
• Autofocus may struggle in low-light or fast-paced conditions.

Verdict

The Canon EF-S 18-135mm F3.5-5.6 IS is an excellent all-around lens for those using Canon's APS-C cameras. It strikes a good balance between versatility and performance, making it a valuable addition to any photographer's kit—particularly those who want a lens for varied shooting scenarios. While it may not meet the expectations of professional photographers needing superior low-light performance or build quality, casual shooters and travel photographers will appreciate its ease of use and broad functionality. If you're in the market for a reliable lens that can adapt to numerous situations, the EF-S 18-135mm is certainly worth considering.