Canon EF 28-135mm f/3.5-5.6 IS Image Stabilizer USM Autofocus Lens USA
The Canon EF 28-135mm f/3.5-5.6 IS Lens is a compact and lightweight standard zoom lens that offers superior optical performance, plus a built-in Image Stabilizer. The IS system reduces the possibility of blurred photographs caused by camera shake, which allows for handheld photography in comparatively dim light without a flash or tripod. At the wideangle end of the zoom range, the equivalent shutter speed gain is approximately 1.5 stops while at the telephoto end, it is approximately 2 stops.
In addition, the lens has a USM drive mechanism for faster and quieter AF operation, and the pulse control diaphragm (EMD) ensures precise aperture control.
- The IS system is composed of a pair of gyro sensors to detect vertical and horizontal motion and a microprocessor that compensates for it by shifting special lens elements in parallel with the perceived movement.
- The internal focusing mechanism allows the front of the lens to remain stationary and to easily accommodate specialty filters, such as polarizing filters.
Go To
| Performance | |
|---|---|
| Focal Length | 28 - 135 mm |
| Aperture |
Maximum: f/3.5 - 5.6 Minimum: f/22 - 36 |
| Camera Mount Type | Canon EF |
| Format Compatibility |
35mm Film / Full-Frame Digital Sensor Canon (APS-C) |
| Angle of View | 76° - 18° |
| Minimum Focus Distance | 1.64' (50 cm) |
| Magnification | 0.19x |
| Maximum Reproduction Ratio | 1:5.2 |
| Groups/Elements | 12/16 |
| Diaphragm Blades | 6 |
| Features | |
|---|---|
| Image Stabilization | Yes |
| Autofocus | Yes |
| Tripod Collar | No |
| Physical | |
|---|---|
| Filter Thread | 72 mm |
| Dimensions (DxL) | Approx. 3.1 x 3.8" (7.87 x 9.65 cm) |
| Weight | 1.19 lb (540 g) |
REVIEW SNAPSHOT®
by PowerReviews(based on 234 reviews)
Ratings Distribution
96%
of respondents would recommend this to a friend.
Pros
- Fast / accurate auto-focus (161)
- Easily interchangeable (127)
- Consistent output (113)
- Durable (102)
- Strong construction (83)
Cons
- Heavy (49)
- Lens creep (40)
- Poor in low light (16)
- Slow focus (7)
- Weak casing (6)
Best Uses
- General purpose (86)
- Sports/action (66)
- Landscape/scenery (60)
- Weddings (47)
- Portraits (46)
- Reviewer Profile:
- Photo enthusiast (47), Enthusiast (45), Semi-pro photographer (29), Semi-professional (23), Casual photographer (20)
- Was this a gift?:
- No (60), Yes (6)
Most Liked Positive Review
I've already bought this lens twice!
First, I am *not* a technical user, however, I am a tough customer. I take photos almost entirely of horses and horse people in their natural environments: trails, arenas, pastures, ...Read complete review
First, I am *not* a technical user, however, I am a tough customer. I take photos almost entirely of horses and horse people in their natural environments: trails, arenas, pastures, dressage courts, etc. Further, I take my camera with me on my horse. The places we go tend to be dry and dusty, or wet and muddy, and in getting there, my equipment is jostled and banged around. This lens is the one I always take along because of its versatility, and it's stood up to the abuse superbly.
Although I'm not qualified to comment on the technical aspects of the lens, I've had photos of running horses enlarged to poster size (well, 22" in the largest dimension) satisfactorily, which speaks well of both the innate lens quality and the performance of the image stabilization software.
This lens is a replacement: my camera fell from about 15 feet and landed directly on the lens - and I didn't hesitate for a moment to replace it with exactly the same thing.
VS
Most Liked Negative Review
wobbly
i use this as a general purpose lens
in fact i own 2 of these
the range for this lens as an everyday work horse is near perfect but there are some caveats
i use this as a general purpose lens
in fact i own 2 of these
the range for this lens as an everyday work horse is near perfect but there are some caveats
compared to some other lenses this doesn't seem as sharp, the lens creep becomes an issue after a few weeks esp if you carry the rig by a neck strap (lens down).
the autofocus seems very fast and accurate not to mention quiet
the IS performs without a flaw as near as i can tell
i haven't seen a chromatic issues either
1 last minor hiccup you will want a hood for this lens i have caught some nifty (nasty) flares
please canon do something about the lens wobble though i hate that i've sent it in twice for repairs.
the lens wobble is caused by the end element's internal seal wearing out, this may also introduce dust elements or other debris into the lens
Reviewed by 234 customers
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Displaying reviews 1-20
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Pros
- Consistent Output
- Durable
- Easily Interchangeable
- Fast / accurate auto-focus
- Lightweight
- Nice Bokeh
- Quiet focus
- Rugged
- Strong Construction
Cons
Best Uses
- Indoors/Low Light
- Landscape/Scenery
- Night Photography
- Sports/Action
- Video
Comments about Canon EF 28-135mm f/3.5-5.6 IS Image Stabilizer USM Autofocus Lens:
I call this my do it all (almost all) lens. Great DOF, fast (USM) acurate and a great range. I didn't want the kit 18-55mm becuase I have felt the restrictions that go with that kind of range, but the 28-135mm is great. I do miss the wide angle of a 18-55mm but would gladly exchange that for this AWESOME piece of glass.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Consistent Output
Cons
- Poor in Low Light
Best Uses
- Weddings/Events
Comments about Canon EF 28-135mm f/3.5-5.6 IS Image Stabilizer USM Autofocus Lens:
This lens works very well . For the price and focal range with IS this lens should be in everyone collection. I have not had any lens creep walking around yet.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Consistent Output
Cons
Best Uses
- Outdoors
Comments about Canon EF 28-135mm f/3.5-5.6 IS Image Stabilizer USM Autofocus Lens:
A very good walk around lens. No lens creep unless you do jumping jacks.
For it's range and being IS , it should stay in the bag at all times.
Good amature lens for the price.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Consistent Output
- Easily Interchangeable
Cons
- Heavy
Best Uses
Comments about Canon EF 28-135mm f/3.5-5.6 IS Image Stabilizer USM Autofocus Lens:
I'm primarily a concert/band photographer and this lens for the value is excellent for live shots. It's got a decent range on it, is way sharper than the shoddy work I'd done with my kit lens, translates colors beautifully, and has a decently quick autofocus. Not as fast as preferred and questionable at times, but I can't complain much for the price (plus that autofocus thing could just be user error!). And of course I would have preferred getting down to a 2.8 for low-light shots, but I didn't have the money, and working in the correct venue with this 3.5 and some light Photoshop really works wonders. It's a little heavy though, so also gets tiring to work with after a while.
I also played around with shooting my friend's new kittens as well as with my cats and it worked really well. They're adorable enough in person and this lens translated that adorableness perfectly. :)
If you're on a budget, this is a really great multi-purpose lens to use.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Consistent Output
- Easily Interchangeable
- Fast AF
Cons
- AF has trouble occasional
- Noisy auto focus
Best Uses
- Indoors/Low Light
- Landscape/Scenery
- Weddings/Events
Comments about Canon EF 28-135mm f/3.5-5.6 IS Image Stabilizer USM Autofocus Lens:
I love the versatility of this lens. My only real compliant this that with Image Stabilization turned on, it has a noisy motor sound after Autofocus followed by a loud click. I checked another lens thinking it could be a motor issue and found the the other 28-135 did the same thing. Pretty loud for an ultrasonic. I think that Canon should definitely address that little issue. Other than that, great lens. Also no lens creep.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Consistent Output
- Lightweight
- Nice Bokeh
- Price
Cons
- Poor in Low Light
Best Uses
- Landscape/Scenery
- Sports/Action
- Weddings/Events
Comments about Canon EF 28-135mm f/3.5-5.6 IS Image Stabilizer USM Autofocus Lens:
I use this lens at events where tends to be a lot of dancing inside or outside, I've had incredible success with the lens. Once you dial-in the proper setting on your camera, you're golden. You MUST use a flash indoors to get the best out of the lens.
I keep thinking I'm going to be disappointed with the lens, but it doesn't. Not as sharp as an L lens but it's also a 1/3 of the price too AND it has a more useable zoom in large group events.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Consistent Output
- Durable
- Easily Interchangeable
- Fast / accurate auto-focus
- Lightweight
- Nice Bokeh
Cons
- Lens Creep
Best Uses
- Landscape/Scenery
- Night Photography
- Sports/Action
- Video
- Weddings/Events
- Wildlife Photos
Comments about Canon EF 28-135mm f/3.5-5.6 IS Image Stabilizer USM Autofocus Lens:
I bought this lens because I'm planing a trip through Europe and wanted something that I could use wherever. I'm currently traveling around the US and have used it for video and stills.
It's sharp, fast enough and not heavy. This is a great first lens, I'll definitely keep it even if I get more expensive glass in the future.
There are 2 issues, but not big. The first one is it's not wide enough, but that's simply my fault for buying a camera with a 1.6 crop factor. I probably will look for a wider angle lens so I have something that will work in tight spaces. The second is the lens creep, it's just a little too happy to jump out to the fully extended zoom if you have it on your back while walking around. But these are nit picky issues, and the quality of the lens is very high and the pictures are sharp.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Consistent Output
- Fast / accurate auto-focus
- Rugged
Cons
Best Uses
- Weddings/Events
Comments about Canon EF 28-135mm f/3.5-5.6 IS Image Stabilizer USM Autofocus Lens:
B&H always comes through. I have been very happy with this lens. I was a little hesitant about buying a refurbished lens but it is great. I use B&H all the time for work and they never let me down.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Durable
- Easily Interchangeable
Cons
Best Uses
- Indoors/Low Light
- Landscape/Scenery
- Sports/Action
- Wildlife Photos
Comments about Canon EF 28-135mm f/3.5-5.6 IS Image Stabilizer USM Autofocus Lens:
I have several lens but this is just what the doctor order. I can use the lens as my everyday lens without having to change out when taking a vary of shots.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Consistent Output
- Easily Interchangeable
- Lightweight
Cons
- Blurry Focus
Best Uses
- Indoors/Low Light
Comments about Canon EF 28-135mm f/3.5-5.6 IS Image Stabilizer USM Autofocus Lens:
I rarely used this lens because it was way too soft on my 40D. Since upgrading to a 7D, I was able to micro-adjust the lens and get it reasonably sharp. The micro-adjust is set to -20 and it is still off by another -5 to -10, I'd guess. With the 7D it is usable now.
If you get one that matches your camera better, or is within the micro-adjust range of your camera, this might be a pretty good lens.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Consistent Output
- Easily Interchangeable
- Fast / accurate auto-focus
Cons
Best Uses
- Indoors/Low Light
- Landscape/Scenery
- Sports/Action
- Wildlife Photos
Comments about Canon EF 28-135mm f/3.5-5.6 IS Image Stabilizer USM Autofocus Lens:
I ordered it online from B&H website. The price was better that that listed at [@] and oother places.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Easily Interchangeable
- Fast / accurate auto-focus
- Strong Construction
Cons
- Heavy
- Poor in Low Light
Best Uses
- Landscape/Scenery
Comments about Canon EF 28-135mm f/3.5-5.6 IS Image Stabilizer USM Autofocus Lens:
I use the lens just for fun, im new in this thing but what I learn reading about it I know this lens its going to be exactly what I need.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Consistent Output
- Durable
- Easily Interchangeable
- Fast / accurate auto-focus
- Lightweight
- Rugged
- Strong Construction
Cons
- Lens Creep
- Lens slides out
Best Uses
- Indoors/Low Light
- Landscape/Scenery
- Macro Photography
- Night Photography
- Sports/Action
- Video
- Weddings/Events
- Wildlife Photos
Comments about Canon EF 28-135mm f/3.5-5.6 IS Image Stabilizer USM Autofocus Lens:
I love this lens. It's actually my second one; the first lens got lens creep after 5 years. This new one is great accept the lens will slide out when bending down, which my first lens did not do. I use this for weddings, portraits- everything really. It's light weight and works well in low light without the nasty blur of a 2.8.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Consistent Output
- Durable
- Easily Interchangeable
- Fast / accurate auto-focus
- Lightweight
Cons
Best Uses
- Indoors/Low Light
- Landscape/Scenery
- Night Photography
- Video
- Weddings/Events
- Wildlife Photos
Comments about Canon EF 28-135mm f/3.5-5.6 IS Image Stabilizer USM Autofocus Lens:
This is lens is good and definitely a go to because of the zoom range. I used this a lot during event video and photo shoots when situations can change at a moments notice and I don't have time to switch to a prime lens.
It's first drawback is that if you hold your camera and you tilt it too far down or to far up the weight of the lens zooms itself in or out depending on the situation. Knowing this I compensate by having one hand on the body of the camera and the other hand on the lens. I normally do this when I'm shooting anyway, but I'm not normally fighting the lens for it to stay on a selected focal length. Be careful if you carry this around in a camera vest or carry-lite system.
The second drawback is that the lens is a 72mmm lens. This makes a bit more costly when buying filters for the lens. But the lens is relatively cheap so it balances out.
Don't get me wrong it's a great lens. You just have to get used to it's quirks. It's image stabilization and speed make up for the inconvenience. The only faster zoom lens at this focal length range is from the Canon L series, so you are getting a great lens for the price.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Durable
- Easily Interchangeable
- IS works great
- Looks pro-ish
- Nice Bokeh
- Rugged
- Strong Construction
Cons
- Lens Creep
- No lens hood
- Slow focus in low light
Best Uses
- Landscape/Scenery
- Macro Photography
- Sports/Action
- Video
- Weddings/Events
- Wildlife Photos
Comments about Canon EF 28-135mm f/3.5-5.6 IS Image Stabilizer USM Autofocus Lens:
I bought a T2i w/ kit lens 18-55mm and needed something with a focal length past 55mm. I was missing a lot of shots I could have had. I couldn't splurge for the 24-105mm f/4L but still wanted something along those lines that was quality with USM and IS and an ok focal length. Everyone speaks of the lens creep and it's definitely there but as long as you're aware of it and have the correct shutter for your focal length and jittery hands it takes excellent, sharp pictures and is great for video use as well. The IS does make "the sound" when focusing for photos and if it's on while filming is consistent and can be heard in your video clips if used without an external microphone. This lens doesn't focus well (quickly) in the dark, hence the 4, but I am very satisfied overall.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Consistent Output
- Easily Interchangeable
- Strong Construction
Cons
- Heavy
Best Uses
- Weddings/Events
Comments about Canon EF 28-135mm f/3.5-5.6 IS Image Stabilizer USM Autofocus Lens:
I'd like to buy a "L" lens by Canon, but I didn't have enough money. So I bought the 28-135 IS and I loved it! It's fast and extremely easy to operate. Although it's quite heavy it's by far the best lens I try! I really recommend it!
I'm loving it! I hope you love it too!
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Easily Interchangeable
Cons
- Poor in Low Light
Best Uses
- Landscape/Scenery
- Weddings/Events
Comments about Canon EF 28-135mm f/3.5-5.6 IS Image Stabilizer USM Autofocus Lens:
My wife wanted to have a lens that would have a zoom as in compact camera, so I took that one for traveling. It's not so very heavy and I like wide 28 angle as possibility to get closer with a zoom to 135mm. I use it a lot along 50mm f/1.4 EF (USM) LENS and it gives me nice photos. In dark is a bit slower on focus and light, but it's OK. It's always on the road with me.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Consistent Output
- Easily Interchangeable
- Fast / accurate auto-focus
- Nice Bokeh
Cons
Best Uses
- Landscape/Scenery
- Macro Photography
- Wildlife Photos
Comments about Canon EF 28-135mm f/3.5-5.6 IS Image Stabilizer USM Autofocus Lens:
This lens has been great! I can't believe the clarity of my pictures now. I recommend this lens for anyone who needs a general purpose lens.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Fast / accurate auto-focus
Cons
- Heavy
Best Uses
- Video
- Wildlife Photos
Comments about Canon EF 28-135mm f/3.5-5.6 IS Image Stabilizer USM Autofocus Lens:
I use this lens for my photography class. Its a great everyday, multi-shot lens. It has a sturdy feel.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Consistent Output
- Durable
- Easily Interchangeable
- Fast / accurate auto-focus
- Nice Bokeh
- Rugged
- Strong Construction
Cons
- Slight Lens Creep
Best Uses
- Indoors/Low Light
- Landscape/Scenery
- Macro Photography
- Video
- Weddings/Events
Comments about Canon EF 28-135mm f/3.5-5.6 IS Image Stabilizer USM Autofocus Lens:
I bought this lens to add to my EF-S 18-55mm IS and 55-250mm IS set. It is my walk around lens and takes great pictures. Quiet and fast focus with the ring USM so you can always manually focus. I just recently compared it to the 24-105 L IS USM and could not tell much difference in the picture quality either way and I liked the longer zoom to 135mm. I returned the L lens. It is close enough to an L for me until Canon brings out a new improved version.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Displaying reviews 1-20
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What's in the Box
- 72mm Snap-On Lens Cap
- Lens Dust Cap E (Rear)
- 1-Year Warranty
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