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

Canon EF

Review

The Canon EF-S 18-135mm F3.5-5.6 IS USM is a versatile zoom lens designed for Canon's EF-S mount, making it a popular choice for both amateur and experienced photographers. This lens covers a focal range from wide-angle to moderate telephoto, allowing users to capture a broad array of subjects, from landscapes to portraits.

Build Quality and Design

The lens is lightweight, weighing just around 515 grams (1.14 lbs), which makes it an excellent option for travel or all-day shooting without causing fatigue. The compact design is complemented by a solid build that includes a textured grip for improved handling. The zoom mechanism operates smoothly, and the inclusion of weather sealing is a nice touch, allowing for some peace of mind during outdoor shoots in less-than-ideal conditions.

Optical Performance

Optically, the Canon EF-S 18-135mm IS USM performs admirably across its zoom range. The lens features advanced optics, including (but not limited to) Super Spectra coatings, which help reduce flare and ghosting. Image sharpness is high, especially in the center of the frame, although you may notice some softness at the edges when shooting at wider apertures.

The lens also benefits from Canon’s Image Stabilization (IS) technology, which provides up to 4 stops of stabilization. This is a significant advantage for handheld shooting in low-light conditions or at longer focal lengths, enabling you to achieve sharper images without needing to crank up your ISO or use a tripod.

Autofocus

The Ultrasonic Motor (USM) autofocus system in this lens is quick and quiet, making it ideal for both still photography and video recording. The AF performance is generally reliable, although in low-light conditions, it may occasionally hunt for focus.

Versatility

One of the standout features of the Canon EF-S 18-135mm is its versatility. Whether you’re photographing a scenic vista or snapping quick candid shots at an event, the zoom range allows for great flexibility. The lens also performs reasonably well for close-up shots thanks to its decent minimum focusing distance of 0.39m, which adds to its appeal for those interested in macro-style photography without needing to invest in a dedicated macro lens.

Pros and Cons

Pros

• Lightweight and portable design, ideal for travel.
• Versatile zoom range suitable for a variety of photography styles.
• Good image stabilization helps in low-light conditions.
• Quick and quiet autofocus performance.
• Reasonable optical quality across most focal lengths.

Cons

• Softness can be noticeable at the corners, especially at wider apertures.
• Autofocus can struggle in low-light situations.
• Limited maximum aperture might not cater to low-light or shallow depth of field needs as effectively as prime lenses.

Verdict

Overall, the Canon EF-S 18-135mm F3.5-5.6 IS USM is an excellent all-around lens for Canon EF-S mount users. Its versatility, combined with a solid build and decent optical performance, makes it a great option for everyday photography. However, photographers looking for ultimate sharpness across the frame or requiring low-light performance might find themselves wanting and may need to consider prime lenses or faster alternatives. For those looking for a reliable, multipurpose lens that won't weigh them down, this lens will not disappoint.