Canon EF-S 18-55mm F3.5-5.6 IS Review
General information
This is a zoom lens manufactured by Canon and the lens was released 2007.
The lens belongs to the category
standard zoom lenses, a normal lens where you have the possibility to zoom in and out.
Product description from Canon
At launch 2007 Canon wrote this regarding Canon EF-S 18-55mm F3.5-5.6 IS:
"The “EF-S18-55mm F3.5-5.6 IS” is a standard zoom lens with a very small Image Stabilization (IS) unit. Image stabilization reduces blur due to camera shake by the equivalent of about four shutter-speed steps*, while maintaining excellent cost effectiveness. The inclusion of a precision aspherical element in the design provides excellent aberration correction, particularly of spherical aberrations, and ensures excellent image quality at all focal lengths. The closest focusing distance is 0.25m at all focal lengths, and the zoom-ring pattern and coating used on our high-end models is used resulting in a firmer grip and a high-grade exterior finish.
In response to demands of photographers, this standard zoom lens is designed with Canon´s Optical Image Stabilizer technology while retaining the compactness and lightness of previous models. Its stabilization allows sharp hand-held shots at shutter speeds up to four stops slower than otherwise possible. It consists of 11 elements in 9 groups and uses an Aspherical lens element to correct aberration for excellent image quality throughout the zoom range and a circular aperture for exquisite rendering of out-of-focus backgrounds. Without a lot of size, weight or cost, this lens expands picture-taking possibilities any time slow shutter speeds are needed."
Compatibility, autofocus and focal length
This lens is designed and meant for Canon cameras with a smaller sensor (often referred to as 'APS-C') which means that the lens does not fit all camera models. By clicking on the link below you can make sure that the lens works with your camera model and you should do an additional check with your local dealer as well, before you buy the lens just to be sure.
The ability to use autofocus is available for all cameras.
The lens has a focal length of 18-55 mm. Since the lens is designed to be used on a camera with smaller sensor ('APS-C') the focal length will be equivalent to 29-88 mm on your Canon camera.
- See compatible cameras and perceived/equivalent focal length
- See a full camera compatibility chart for Canon EF-S 18-55mm F3.5-5.6 IS
- Read more about focal length and your field of view
- Read more on the cameras impact on the perceived focal length
Lens brightness and image stabilizer
The lens brightness and aperture value is f/3,5-5,6.
This lens is not considered to have a good aperture value and brightness. It is something to consider before you purchase the lens. To compensate for this you might, while photographing in less favorable light conditions, be forced to either use higher ISO settings (which generates more noise in the image), slower shutter speeds (which may give some motion blur) or flash lightning. Read more at the link below what lens brightness means to you as a photographer.
One thing to consider is that the lens has a variable brightness, which means that depending on how much you are zooming the lens will have a different maximum aperture value. At 18 mm the lens brightness is f/3,5 and at 55 mm the brightness is f/5,6. Through the link below you can read more about what this could mean for you as a photographer.
The lens lacks image stabilization, which otherwise os good for avoiding the blur that can occur when using slow shutter speeds.
- Read more about the aperture and lens brightness
- Read more about changing brightness at different focal lengths
- Read more about how an image stabilizer works
Filter and Lens Hood
The lens has a traditional filter thread on the front and its measuring 58 mm which also the filter you will use must have. If you use for example an UV filter can be a cheap insurance against scratches and dust.
There is a lens hood that fits the lens (model name "EW-60C") but unfortunately this is something that is not included when purchasing the lens and must be ordered and bought separately, as an accessory.
Images of Canon EF-S 18-55mm F3.5-5.6 IS
In order to see larger product images of the lens, click the link below.
Things to consider before buying
Below you will find some summarized points and facts that can be considered as the 'pros and cons' of this lens. These are based entirely on the facts and values that are accessible through the lens specification, so we highly recommend that you also read the reported reviews available (see tab 'Reviews'); this in order to get a more complete view of the lens and its capabilities. Reviewer opinions reflect the lens, its use and its optical performance in a more accurate way, but any way - here a few different points to consider before buying this lens.
- The price (more info)
- A versatile lens for those who own their first DSLR camera
- Light weight (200 gr)
- Works only on cameras with APS-C sensor
- No built-in image stabilizer
- Poor aperture value with its f/5,6
- A variable lens brightness at different focal lengths
- No lens hood is included
- The lens is not sealed against moisture and dust
Our Review Ratings
Time to grade Canon EF-S 18-55mm F3.5-5.6 IS.
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| Value |
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| Overall rating | 3 of 5 |
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