The 18-135mm f/3.5-5.6 EF-S IS STM Lens from Canon is a wide angle zoom lens with an 18-135mm focal range that is equivalent to 29-216mm in the 35mm format. This wide set of focal lengths offers flexibility in shooting everything from expansive landscapes and cramped interiors to group shots, portraits and distant subjects. Optical Image Stabilization reduces the blurred effect of camera shake up to 4 stops and the new Dynamic Image Stabilization improves the look of video while tracking moving subjects or walking with your camera.
This EF-S lens is designed to match the APS-C sensor size and its STM designation (Stepping Motor) gives it a smooth and quiet autofocus that is ideal for shooting video with the Movie Servo AF feature found on select Canon DSLRs. Autofocus speed is achieved thanks to the lens' high speed CPU connection with the camera and its Inner Focusing System. Auto and manual focusing is possible, aspheric and UD lens elements provide quality imaging and a zoom lock ring prevents the lens from accidentally extending. Given its wide focal range, it is particularly compact and lightweight, which is also beneficial when shooting video.
Note! The STM feature of this lens presently works only with the Canon EOS Rebel T4i Digital Camera.
| Performance | |
|---|---|
| Focal Length |
18 - 135 mm Comparable 35mm Focal Length: 29 - 216 mm |
| Aperture |
Maximum: f/3.5 - 5.6 Minimum: f/22 - 36 |
| Camera Mount Type | Canon EF-S |
| Format Compatibility | Canon (APS-C) |
| Angle of View | 74° - 11° |
| Minimum Focus Distance | 1.3' (0.40 m) |
| Magnification | 0.28x |
| Groups/Elements | 12/16 |
| Features | |
|---|---|
| Image Stabilization | Yes |
| Autofocus | Yes |
| Tripod Collar | No |
| Physical | |
|---|---|
| Filter Thread | Front: 67 mm |
| Dimensions (DxL) | Approx. 3.02 x 3.78" (76.6 x 96 mm) |
| Weight | 16.93 oz (480 g) |
REVIEW SNAPSHOT®
by PowerReviewsPros
Cons
Best Uses
Most Liked Positive Review
For a
Even putting aside the STM feature, which is nicely matched to the t4i video capabilities, this zoom performs admirably across its full focal length range.Compared to the primes in my bag (Canon 200mm f...Read complete review
Even putting aside the STM feature, which is nicely matched to the t4i video capabilities, this zoom performs admirably across its full focal length range.Compared to the primes in my bag (Canon 200mm f/2.8 II L, and 40mm f/2.8 STM pancake) this lens does a very solid job for a zoom. It's incredibly versatile due to its substantial range and surprisingly light and compact form (when retracted). As a result, you can use it all by itself for outings, family events, hikes, vacation, etc. without hauling along a lot of lens gear. Although it's a tad slower than wider aperture alternatives, the quality of the image at even its f/3.5 full open is quite respectable. What little color aberration you might detect at the outer fringes of the image can be easily addressed in DPP or Lightroom. In any event, you have to blow up the image significantly to find such issues anyhow - for family/vacation/walk-around shots, you'll never notice.Of course, to be fair, if you want to go high end with L glass/prime lenses, of course you'll see a difference. But this is a non-L zoom that's really nicely designed - and works wonders across a wide range of FLs at a very affordable price point.If you use this as your walk-around zoom, and then perhaps add a few primes of selected lengths, you won't be lacking for any need that might arise. Having said that, if I ONLY had ONE lens I was allowed to take along on a long trip (even though I have more expensive lenses to choose from) this would be the one.(PS - I bought this as my "kit" lens with my t4i and am really glad I did)
VS
Most Liked Negative Review
The jury is still out
Like the roving focus area, but it can kill your work if you are not mindful.
Had a hard time w manual focus if the initial focus is way off. Like the weigh...Read complete review
Like the roving focus area, but it can kill your work if you are not mindful.
Had a hard time w manual focus if the initial focus is way off. Like the weight and zoom range. I am still used to my old zooms, found the auto zoom too slow when shooting in low light. Prefer my 18-55 or old 50-200. Will keep working on it.
REVIEWS
Reviewed by 32 customers
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Displaying reviews 1-20
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Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Canon 18-135mm f/3.5-5.6 EF-S IS STM Lens:
I have used this lens for indoor and outdoor photos
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Canon 18-135mm f/3.5-5.6 EF-S IS STM Lens:
I have an old full-frame 28-135 IS lens that I stopped using long ago. This new lens has a significantly greater range that is ideal on an APS-C camera. I expect to still use my 17-55 f2.8 IS for it's bigger maximum aperture and less distortion, but the zoom range, really quick and silent auto-focusing, good image-stabilization, and light weight of this lens may make it the one I use most often--at least when I travel.
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Canon 18-135mm f/3.5-5.6 EF-S IS STM Lens:
The lens is light, consistent, durable, fast autofocus and great for portraits.
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Canon 18-135mm f/3.5-5.6 EF-S IS STM Lens:
USE IT WITH A CAMERA CANON XTI Y t4i, AND WORKS GREAT, GOOD AND WIDE ANGLE ZOOM, SUFFICIENT TO MY WORK ..
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Canon 18-135mm f/3.5-5.6 EF-S IS STM Lens:
Covers a nice range so that I don't have to change lenses much. It's not an "L" butthen it doesn't cost like and "L" either.
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Canon 18-135mm f/3.5-5.6 EF-S IS STM Lens:
I purchased this lens with my T4i and based on the reviews I read, they were all accurate since this lens is very quiet. The standard T4i kit lens is very loud when autofocusing and is terrible to use for video capturing. This lens removes that problem and can autofocus without pesky motor noise. It is a tad slow when focusing but when shooting with a DSLR and no external audio capturing device, I'd rather have a slow focus than ruined audio.
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Canon 18-135mm f/3.5-5.6 EF-S IS STM Lens:
I use this with a Canon Rebel T4i. I have tested it with video and photos and it feels sturdy and smooth to manually focus.
The IS and STM features seem to work quite well.
Over all very satisfied.
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Canon 18-135mm f/3.5-5.6 EF-S IS STM Lens:
Very versatile zoom range with above average picture quality for the price.
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Canon 18-135mm f/3.5-5.6 EF-S IS STM Lens:
Lot better than the 18-55 that comes stock with the cam this one is lot more valuable then the price difference
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Canon 18-135mm f/3.5-5.6 EF-S IS STM Lens:
I really enjoy this lens, and with the Canon 100-400 lens, it covers all of my needs, especially wildlife photography.
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Canon 18-135mm f/3.5-5.6 EF-S IS STM Lens:
What can't you shoot with this lens! Great.
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Canon 18-135mm f/3.5-5.6 EF-S IS STM Lens:
Even though this lens is a f/3.5-5.6, it takes a 67mm filter and is quick. The clarity is terrific, and it's very quiet. Exceptional kit lens.
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Canon 18-135mm f/3.5-5.6 EF-S IS STM Lens:
Essential lens if you plan on shooting video. Well built, solid, great pics.
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Canon 18-135mm f/3.5-5.6 EF-S IS STM Lens:
Like the roving focus area, but it can kill your work if you are not mindful.
Had a hard time w manual focus if the initial focus is way off. Like the weight and zoom range. I am still used to my old zooms, found the auto zoom too slow when shooting in low light. Prefer my 18-55 or old 50-200. Will keep working on it.
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Canon 18-135mm f/3.5-5.6 EF-S IS STM Lens:
I had the 18-55 with my T2i, I got this one for my T4i. It's WAY better.
Much more range, quiet, fast focusing, smooth/easy zooming. For video there is no question this lens is WELL worth the upgrade.
But it's nice for stills too. I can use this lens for most pics instead of swapping all the time to a telephoto. I can usually carry just one lens now unless I know I'll need a big tele.
The only drawback is it's bigger/heavier than the 18-55 but if I'm not bringing the 55-250 it's lighter overall.
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Canon 18-135mm f/3.5-5.6 EF-S IS STM Lens:
I use this lens with a Canon T4I and primarily use it for video (1920x1080 30fps). I feels solid in your hand but is not heavy enough you couldn't swap the lens using one hand. The controls are easily accessible while shooting.
I tend to use the lower range of the lens for video and the higher range for photos. Both are giving me the quality that I want. I went with this lens over the kit lens for that reason. Its been great in low light shooting.
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Canon 18-135mm f/3.5-5.6 EF-S IS STM Lens:
I got this lens with the canon t4i, works great for the price and why I bought it. I will be looking into a prime lens in a few months. This is a crisp lens. It is a little longer compared to the 18-55 but it zooms further too.
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Canon 18-135mm f/3.5-5.6 EF-S IS STM Lens:
for casual photography
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Canon 18-135mm f/3.5-5.6 EF-S IS STM Lens:
Bought this after reading that this was the best lens for shooting video with the t4i and so far so good. Fast autofocus, quiet, great range
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Canon 18-135mm f/3.5-5.6 EF-S IS STM Lens:
long range, nearly all purpose for me.
REVIEW SNAPSHOT®
by PowerReviewsPros
Cons
Best Uses
Most Liked Positive Review
For a
Even putting aside the STM feature, which is nicely matched to the t4i video capabilities, this zoom performs admirably across its full focal length range.Compared to the primes in my bag (Canon 200mm f...Read complete review
Even putting aside the STM feature, which is nicely matched to the t4i video capabilities, this zoom performs admirably across its full focal length range.Compared to the primes in my bag (Canon 200mm f/2.8 II L, and 40mm f/2.8 STM pancake) this lens does a very solid job for a zoom. It's incredibly versatile due to its substantial range and surprisingly light and compact form (when retracted). As a result, you can use it all by itself for outings, family events, hikes, vacation, etc. without hauling along a lot of lens gear. Although it's a tad slower than wider aperture alternatives, the quality of the image at even its f/3.5 full open is quite respectable. What little color aberration you might detect at the outer fringes of the image can be easily addressed in DPP or Lightroom. In any event, you have to blow up the image significantly to find such issues anyhow - for family/vacation/walk-around shots, you'll never notice.Of course, to be fair, if you want to go high end with L glass/prime lenses, of course you'll see a difference. But this is a non-L zoom that's really nicely designed - and works wonders across a wide range of FLs at a very affordable price point.If you use this as your walk-around zoom, and then perhaps add a few primes of selected lengths, you won't be lacking for any need that might arise. Having said that, if I ONLY had ONE lens I was allowed to take along on a long trip (even though I have more expensive lenses to choose from) this would be the one.(PS - I bought this as my "kit" lens with my t4i and am really glad I did)
VS
Most Liked Negative Review
The jury is still out
Like the roving focus area, but it can kill your work if you are not mindful.
Had a hard time w manual focus if the initial focus is way off. Like the weigh...Read complete review
Like the roving focus area, but it can kill your work if you are not mindful.
Had a hard time w manual focus if the initial focus is way off. Like the weight and zoom range. I am still used to my old zooms, found the auto zoom too slow when shooting in low light. Prefer my 18-55 or old 50-200. Will keep working on it.
REVIEWS
Reviewed by 32 customers
Sort by
Displaying reviews 1-20
Previous | Next »
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Canon 18-135mm f/3.5-5.6 EF-S IS STM Lens:
I have used this lens for indoor and outdoor photos
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Canon 18-135mm f/3.5-5.6 EF-S IS STM Lens:
I have an old full-frame 28-135 IS lens that I stopped using long ago. This new lens has a significantly greater range that is ideal on an APS-C camera. I expect to still use my 17-55 f2.8 IS for it's bigger maximum aperture and less distortion, but the zoom range, really quick and silent auto-focusing, good image-stabilization, and light weight of this lens may make it the one I use most often--at least when I travel.
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Canon 18-135mm f/3.5-5.6 EF-S IS STM Lens:
The lens is light, consistent, durable, fast autofocus and great for portraits.
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Canon 18-135mm f/3.5-5.6 EF-S IS STM Lens:
USE IT WITH A CAMERA CANON XTI Y t4i, AND WORKS GREAT, GOOD AND WIDE ANGLE ZOOM, SUFFICIENT TO MY WORK ..
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Canon 18-135mm f/3.5-5.6 EF-S IS STM Lens:
Covers a nice range so that I don't have to change lenses much. It's not an "L" butthen it doesn't cost like and "L" either.
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Canon 18-135mm f/3.5-5.6 EF-S IS STM Lens:
I purchased this lens with my T4i and based on the reviews I read, they were all accurate since this lens is very quiet. The standard T4i kit lens is very loud when autofocusing and is terrible to use for video capturing. This lens removes that problem and can autofocus without pesky motor noise. It is a tad slow when focusing but when shooting with a DSLR and no external audio capturing device, I'd rather have a slow focus than ruined audio.
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Canon 18-135mm f/3.5-5.6 EF-S IS STM Lens:
I use this with a Canon Rebel T4i. I have tested it with video and photos and it feels sturdy and smooth to manually focus.
The IS and STM features seem to work quite well.
Over all very satisfied.
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Canon 18-135mm f/3.5-5.6 EF-S IS STM Lens:
Very versatile zoom range with above average picture quality for the price.
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Canon 18-135mm f/3.5-5.6 EF-S IS STM Lens:
Lot better than the 18-55 that comes stock with the cam this one is lot more valuable then the price difference
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Canon 18-135mm f/3.5-5.6 EF-S IS STM Lens:
I really enjoy this lens, and with the Canon 100-400 lens, it covers all of my needs, especially wildlife photography.
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Canon 18-135mm f/3.5-5.6 EF-S IS STM Lens:
What can't you shoot with this lens! Great.
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Canon 18-135mm f/3.5-5.6 EF-S IS STM Lens:
Even though this lens is a f/3.5-5.6, it takes a 67mm filter and is quick. The clarity is terrific, and it's very quiet. Exceptional kit lens.
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Canon 18-135mm f/3.5-5.6 EF-S IS STM Lens:
Essential lens if you plan on shooting video. Well built, solid, great pics.
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Canon 18-135mm f/3.5-5.6 EF-S IS STM Lens:
Like the roving focus area, but it can kill your work if you are not mindful.
Had a hard time w manual focus if the initial focus is way off. Like the weight and zoom range. I am still used to my old zooms, found the auto zoom too slow when shooting in low light. Prefer my 18-55 or old 50-200. Will keep working on it.
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Canon 18-135mm f/3.5-5.6 EF-S IS STM Lens:
I had the 18-55 with my T2i, I got this one for my T4i. It's WAY better.
Much more range, quiet, fast focusing, smooth/easy zooming. For video there is no question this lens is WELL worth the upgrade.
But it's nice for stills too. I can use this lens for most pics instead of swapping all the time to a telephoto. I can usually carry just one lens now unless I know I'll need a big tele.
The only drawback is it's bigger/heavier than the 18-55 but if I'm not bringing the 55-250 it's lighter overall.
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Canon 18-135mm f/3.5-5.6 EF-S IS STM Lens:
I use this lens with a Canon T4I and primarily use it for video (1920x1080 30fps). I feels solid in your hand but is not heavy enough you couldn't swap the lens using one hand. The controls are easily accessible while shooting.
I tend to use the lower range of the lens for video and the higher range for photos. Both are giving me the quality that I want. I went with this lens over the kit lens for that reason. Its been great in low light shooting.
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Canon 18-135mm f/3.5-5.6 EF-S IS STM Lens:
I got this lens with the canon t4i, works great for the price and why I bought it. I will be looking into a prime lens in a few months. This is a crisp lens. It is a little longer compared to the 18-55 but it zooms further too.
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Canon 18-135mm f/3.5-5.6 EF-S IS STM Lens:
for casual photography
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Canon 18-135mm f/3.5-5.6 EF-S IS STM Lens:
Bought this after reading that this was the best lens for shooting video with the t4i and so far so good. Fast autofocus, quiet, great range
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Canon 18-135mm f/3.5-5.6 EF-S IS STM Lens:
long range, nearly all purpose for me.