Canon Ef-s 18-135 Is Vs Stm: Which Lens Is The Clear Winner?
What To Know
- The IS STM lens offers up to four stops of image stabilization, reducing camera shake and allowing for sharper images in low-light conditions or when using slower shutter speeds.
- The STM lens is slightly lighter and more compact than the IS STM lens, making it a more portable option for travel and everyday use.
- Whether you choose the IS STM lens for its image stabilization and low-light capabilities or the STM lens for its affordability and fast autofocus, both lenses will provide you with years of exceptional image-making experiences.
In the realm of photography, choosing the right lens can make all the difference in capturing stunning images that tell a story. When it comes to versatility, the Canon EF-S 18-135mm IS STM and STM lenses stand out as compelling options for photographers of all skill levels. In this comprehensive guide, we will delve into the intricacies of these two lenses, comparing their features, performance, and suitability for various photography genres. Whether you’re a seasoned professional or just starting out, this comparison will help you make an informed decision to elevate your photography to new heights.
Understanding the Canon EF-S 18-135mm IS STM Lens
The Canon EF-S 18-135mm IS STM lens is a versatile, all-in-one zoom lens designed specifically for APS-C format cameras. With its wide focal length range of 18mm to 135mm, this lens offers immense flexibility, allowing photographers to capture a wide variety of subjects, from sweeping landscapes to intimate portraits. Additionally, the lens features a built-in optical image stabilizer, providing up to four stops of shake correction, ensuring sharp images even in low-light conditions.
Key Features:
- Focal Length: 18mm to 135mm
- Aperture Range: f/3.5-5.6
- Image Stabilization: Optical Image Stabilizer (IS)
- Minimum Focusing Distance: 1.48 feet (0.45 meters)
- Filter Size: 67mm
- Weight: 1.09 pounds (495 grams)
Exploring the Canon EF-S 18-135mm STM Lens
The Canon EF-S 18-135mm STM lens is another versatile zoom lens, similar to its IS STM counterpart. However, it lacks the built-in optical image stabilizer, making it a more affordable option. Despite this, the STM lens still delivers impressive image quality and performance. Its stepping motor (STM) technology ensures smooth and silent autofocus, making it an excellent choice for videography and capturing moving subjects.
Key Features:
- Focal Length: 18mm to 135mm
- Aperture Range: f/3.5-5.6
- Image Stabilization: No
- Minimum Focusing Distance: 1.48 feet (0.45 meters)
- Filter Size: 67mm
- Weight: 0.93 pounds (420 grams)
Comparing the Canon EF-S 18-135mm IS STM and STM Lenses
1. Image Quality: Both lenses produce sharp and detailed images throughout their focal length range. However, the IS STM lens may have a slight edge in low-light conditions due to its image stabilization feature.
2. Autofocus: The STM lens excels in autofocus speed and accuracy, making it ideal for capturing moving subjects and videography. The IS STM lens, while still capable of fast autofocus, may not be as responsive in certain situations.
3. Image Stabilization: The IS STM lens offers up to four stops of image stabilization, reducing camera shake and allowing for sharper images in low-light conditions or when using slower shutter speeds. The STM lens lacks image stabilization, making it less suitable for low-light photography.
4. Weight and Size: The STM lens is slightly lighter and more compact than the IS STM lens, making it a more portable option for travel and everyday use.
Which Lens is Right for You?
The choice between the Canon EF-S 18-135mm IS STM and STM lenses ultimately depends on your individual needs and preferences. If you prioritize image quality and low-light performance, the IS STM lens is the better choice. However, if you’re looking for a more affordable option with fast and silent autofocus, the STM lens may be a better fit.
Suitable for:
- IS STM: Landscape photography, wildlife photography, portrait photography, low-light photography, and videography
- STM: Street photography, travel photography, event photography, videography, and capturing moving subjects
Recommendations: Making the Right Choice for Your Photography Journey
The Canon EF-S 18-135mm IS STM and STM lenses offer distinct advantages and cater to different photography styles. By understanding their strengths and weaknesses, you can make an informed decision that aligns with your creative vision and photographic pursuits. Whether you choose the IS STM lens for its image stabilization and low-light capabilities or the STM lens for its affordability and fast autofocus, both lenses will provide you with years of exceptional image-making experiences.
Quick Answers to Your FAQs
1. Q: What is the difference between the Canon EF-S 18-135mm IS STM and STM lenses?
A: The IS STM lens features built-in optical image stabilization, while the STM lens does not. Additionally, the STM lens has a slightly faster and quieter autofocus system.
2. Q: Which lens is better for low-light photography?
A: The IS STM lens is better for low-light photography due to its image stabilization feature, which helps reduce camera shake and allows for sharper images in low-light conditions.
3. Q: Which lens is better for videography?
A: The STM lens is better for videography due to its fast and silent autofocus system, which ensures smooth and accurate focus tracking during video recording.
