Canon Ef-s 18-135 Usm Vs Stm: Which Lens Is Right For You?
What To Know
- 6 IS USM lens features a more robust construction with a metal lens mount, while the STM version has a plastic lens mount.
- The IS system in both lenses is effective at reducing camera shake by up to 4 stops, making them suitable for handheld shooting in a variety of situations.
- A compact and lightweight lens with a slightly wider focal length range, making it suitable for a variety of shooting scenarios.
When it comes to choosing the right lens for your Canon EF-S mount camera, two popular options that often come to mind are the Canon EF-S 18-135mm f/3.5-5.6 IS USM and the Canon EF-S 18-135mm f/3.5-5.6 IS STM. Both lenses offer a versatile focal length range, making them suitable for a wide range of photography genres, from landscapes to portraits and wildlife. However, there are some key differences between the two lenses that may influence your decision. In this blog post, we will compare the Canon EF-S 18-135mm f/3.5-5.6 IS USM and STM lenses, highlighting their strengths and weaknesses to help you make an informed choice.
Optical Quality and Performance
Both the Canon EF-S 18-135mm f/3.5-5.6 IS USM and STM lenses deliver excellent optical quality, producing sharp and detailed images throughout the focal length range. However, there are subtle differences in their performance. The USM (Ultrasonic Motor) version is known for its fast and accurate autofocus, making it a good choice for capturing moving subjects or fast-paced action. On the other hand, the STM (Stepper Motor) version offers quieter autofocus operation, which is beneficial for video recording or situations where silence is essential.
Build Quality and Design
The Canon EF-S 18-135mm f/3.5-5.6 IS USM lens features a more robust construction with a metal lens mount, while the STM version has a plastic lens mount. The USM lens also includes a focus distance window, which can be useful for manual focusing. Both lenses have a zoom lock switch to prevent the lens from extending accidentally during transport.
Image Stabilization
Both the Canon EF-S 18-135mm f/3.5-5.6 IS USM and STM lenses incorporate Canon‘s Image Stabilization (IS) technology, which helps to minimize camera shake and produce sharper images, especially in low-light conditions or when using slower shutter speeds. The IS system in both lenses is effective at reducing camera shake by up to 4 stops, making them suitable for handheld shooting in a variety of situations.
Aperture and Maximum Aperture
The Canon EF-S 18-135mm f/3.5-5.6 IS USM and STM lenses have a variable maximum aperture that ranges from f/3.5 at the wide end to f/5.6 at the telephoto end. This means that the maximum amount of light that can reach the sensor varies depending on the focal length. The wider f/3.5 aperture at the wide end allows for better low-light performance and shallower depth of field, while the f/5.6 aperture at the telephoto end is suitable for capturing distant subjects.
Price and Availability
The Canon EF-S 18-135mm f/3.5-5.6 IS USM lens is generally priced higher than the STM version. However, the price may vary depending on factors such as the retailer, promotions, and market conditions. Both lenses are widely available from authorized Canon dealers and online retailers.
Which Lens Should You Choose?
The decision between the Canon EF-S 18-135mm f/3.5-5.6 IS USM and STM lenses ultimately depends on your specific needs and preferences. If you prioritize fast and accurate autofocus for capturing action or moving subjects, the USM version is the better choice. If quiet autofocus operation is more important, especially for video recording, then the STM version is a suitable option. Additionally, consider factors such as build quality, image stabilization effectiveness, and your budget when making your decision.
Beyond the Comparison: Exploring Other Options
In addition to the Canon EF-S 18-135mm f/3.5-5.6 IS USM and STM lenses, there are other versatile and high-quality options available for Canon EF-S mount cameras. Here are a few alternatives to consider:
- Canon EF-S 15-85mm f/3.5-5.6 IS STM: A compact and lightweight lens with a slightly wider focal length range, making it suitable for a variety of shooting scenarios.
- Canon EF-S 17-55mm f/2.8 IS USM: A professional-grade lens with a constant f/2.8 aperture throughout the focal length range, providing excellent low-light performance and shallow depth of field control.
- Canon EF-S 10-18mm f/4.5-5.6 IS STM: An ultra-wide-angle lens that is ideal for capturing expansive landscapes, architecture, and group photos.
- Canon EF-S 55-250mm f/4-5.6 IS STM: A telephoto lens that extends the reach of your camera, making it suitable for wildlife, sports, and portrait photography.
Answers to Your Questions
1. Q: What is the main difference between the Canon EF-S 18-135mm f/3.5-5.6 IS USM and STM lenses?
A: The primary difference lies in the autofocus system. The USM lens uses an ultrasonic motor for fast and accurate autofocus, while the STM lens employs a stepper motor for quieter operation, making it ideal for video recording.
2. Q: Which lens is better for low-light photography?
A: Both lenses have a variable maximum aperture ranging from f/3.5 to f/5.6. At the wide end (18mm), both lenses can gather a similar amount of light. However, at the telephoto end (135mm), the USM lens has a slight advantage due to its slightly wider maximum aperture of f/5.6 compared to the STM lens’s f/5.9.
3. Q: Is the USM lens worth the extra cost compared to the STM lens?
A: The decision depends on your specific needs and budget. If fast and accurate autofocus is essential, the USM lens is worth considering. However, if quiet autofocus operation is more important, the STM lens is a suitable and more affordable option.
