Canon EF 28-135mm f/3,5-5,6 IS USM

This is a zoom lens manufactured by Canon and the model was launched 1998.
The lens belongs to the category
normal zoom lenses, a normal lens where you have the possibility to zoom in and out.
Compatibility, autofocus and focal length
This lens is constructed to fit all models of Canon cameras, regardless of camera model or type of sensor.
The ability to use autofocus is available for all cameras.
The lens has a focal length of 28-135 mm. Depending on which camera the lens is used, the experienced and perceived focal length will be different. Please visit the list of compatible cameras below, it will provide the equivalent focal length you get on each camera.
- See compatible cameras and perceived/equivalent focal length
- See a full camera compatibility chart for Canon EF 28-135mm f/3,5-5,6 IS USM
- 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 28 mm the lens brightness is f/3,5 and at 135 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.
Inside the lens there is an image stabilizer, which helps to fend off possible movements and tremors. This is very positive and can be of great help in situations and conditions where the light is inadequate and not enough for decent 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 72 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-78B II") but unfortunately this is something that is not included when purchasing the lens and must be ordered and bought separately, as an accessory.
Prices and awards

EISA Awards 1998-1999: Lens
Pictures (product and sample images)
In order to see larger product images of the lens, click the link below.
Besides looking at product images it is also of interest to see pictures taken with this specific lens. This can give you a hint of what kind of images this lens can achieve, what the focal length will be like etc.
- Images of Canon EF 28-135mm f/3,5-5,6 IS USM
- Sample pictures taken with Canon EF 28-135mm f/3,5-5,6 IS USM
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 capabilites. 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.
- Has a built-in image stabilizer
- Works on all sensor types
- The lens was awarded at EISA Awards 1998-1999: Lens
- 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
Specification
Product Name: | Canon EF 28-135mm f/3,5-5,6 IS USM (See dictionary) |
Release date: | 1998 |
Manufacturer: | Canon |
Type of lens: | Normal Zoom Lens |
Construction: | Zoom lens (with the ability to zoom in and out) |
Works with cameras from: |
Canon (see compatible cameras) |
1:1 at Macro: | No Macro lens |
Compatibility: | Works on all sensors (see compatible cameras) |
Autofocus (AF): | Yes |
Built-in autofocus (AF) motor: | Yes (more info) |
Maximum aperture: |
f/3,5-5,6 The lens aperture and brightness varies at different focal lengths. f/3,5 at 28 mm f/5,6 at 135 mm (Read more) |
Focal Range: |
28-135 mm
Depending on which camera this lens is used the focal length can seem different. This is because different camera sensors can have a slight crop factor and the focal length will be equivalent to:
Read more on the cameras impact on the perceived focal length |
Lens Construction: | 16 elements / 12 groups |
Image Stabilizer: | Yes, IS |
Closest Focusing Distance: | 50 cm |
Filter: | Filter Thread, 72 mm |
Lens Hood: | EW-78B II (not included) |
Tripod mount: | No (Read more) |
Weather sealing: | No |
Dimensions (diameter x length): | 78 x 96 mm |
Weight: | 540 g (see the total weight, camera+lens) |
Product Page (Canon):
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Link to Canon (product page) |
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Link to Canon (product page) |
Send in a product link |
Best deals on Canon EF 28-135mm f/3,5-5,6 IS USM
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Reviews
![]() | fotosidan.se (reviews by users) |
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Does this lens work with my camera?
Below you will find all registered cameras here on Lensora. Wether the actual camera works with this lens or not is displayed with a green or a red symbol, and if you want to know more about why the lens and the camera work or do not work together you click for further information..
Pictures (product and sample images)
In order to see larger product images of the lens, click the link below.
Besides looking at product images it is also of interest to see pictures taken with this specific lens. This can give you a hint of what kind of images this lens can achieve, what the focal length will be like etc.
- Images of Canon EF 28-135mm f/3,5-5,6 IS USM
- Sample pictures taken with Canon EF 28-135mm f/3,5-5,6 IS USM
Alternatives to Canon EF 28-135mm f/3,5-5,6 IS USM for Canon photographers
Below you will find four interesting alternatives to Canon EF 28-135mm f/3,5-5,6 IS USM . Make sure to compare these (and other) options before deciding which lens you will buy.
Make your own comparison
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