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DPChallenge Forums >> Hardware and Software >> Is Canon EF-S 18-135mm f/3.5-5.6 IS worth buying?
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 11/30/2012 02:31:19 PM · #1
I've just returned from our local Canon Expo. I was mainly curious to see the EOS M, which I have no intention of buying due to the lack of viewfinder. However, while trying out some of their other cameras was really tempted by the Canon EF-S 18-135mm f/3.5-5.6 IS.

I've already got this range covered as I have the Sigma 18-200mm stabilized lens (old version). But what struck me was how much quicker the 18-135mm is to focus than any lenses I have, as none of mine have a focusing motor.

I have until Sunday to make a decision if I want to buy it at the reduced price, and I'm really undecided on whether to buy it and contemplate selling off some of my existing lenses. Given the fact that I'm seriously considering an Olympus OMD, I really don't want to spend any unnecessary money right now.
 11/30/2012 02:39:04 PM · #2
Originally posted by GinaRothfels:
I've just returned from our local Canon Expo. I was mainly curious to see the EOS M, which I have no intention of buying due to the lack of viewfinder. However, while trying out some of their other cameras was really tempted by the Canon EF-S 18-135mm f/3.5-5.6 IS.

I've already got this range covered as I have the Sigma 18-200mm stabilized lens (old version). But what struck me was how much quicker the 18-135mm is to focus than any lenses I have, as none of mine have a focusing motor.

I have until Sunday to make a decision if I want to buy it at the reduced price, and I'm really undecided on whether to buy it and contemplate selling off some of my existing lenses. Given the fact that I'm seriously considering an Olympus OMD, I really don't want to spend any unnecessary money right now.


You have the range covered [and would lose some]...do you need the faster focus when you are about to buy the fastest focusing system camera?

hint; i'd go for the oly
 11/30/2012 03:33:24 PM · #3
It's my most frequently used lens, and covers everything from moderately wide to a decent amount of zoom. Suits everything for me but wildlife and airshows. When I head out on the bike for a photography outing, this is what is on the camera. It's not an expensive lens, so I don't worry too much about taking risks with it, but it is very sharp at all focal lengths. Very rarely do I have a shot at the long end which appears soft. It's also fairly light. Not L glass, but very sharp, nonetheless.

As previously mentioned, you already have that range covered with one lens, plus some. If the faster focusing is important to you and you can readily afford it, I can recommend it.
 11/30/2012 03:49:02 PM · #4
Love my Lens. Have the exact same one, and find it immeasurably better than the Tamron I had that covered the same range. Really enjoy it. Rarely disengage it.
 11/30/2012 04:01:54 PM · #5
Here is another thing to consider - you are buying it at a good reduced price, if you end up not liking it - sell it on www.outdoorphoto.co.za and you won't lose much at all
 11/30/2012 04:27:13 PM · #6
is it the new STM version or the old? not that the new version would benefit you, it has improved video focusing for the t4i and M, other IQ is the same.

i don't know what you can get it for but they sell used for about $250, most are practically brand new since it is a kit lens for the 60D and 7D.

its built really well. the IQ isn't all that great which is to be expected from such a wide range. not sure what kind of benefit you' see over your sigma.

i'd pass.
 11/30/2012 04:44:55 PM · #7
Originally posted by mike_311:
the IQ isn't all that great

I disagree with this statement, but you may be making comparisons against much pricier glass.
 11/30/2012 06:49:23 PM · #8
No you are right, compared to the sigma I don't think she'd any improvement though.
 11/30/2012 09:48:16 PM · #9
Originally posted by mike_311:
is it the new STM version or the old? not that the new version would benefit you, it has improved video focusing for the t4i and M, other IQ is the same.

i don't know what you can get it for but they sell used for about $250, most are practically brand new since it is a kit lens for the 60D and 7D.

its built really well. the IQ isn't all that great which is to be expected from such a wide range. not sure what kind of benefit you' see over your sigma.

i'd pass.


The salesman said it is the new version. They had it on one of their demo models of the 650D, so it should be the latest technology.
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