Canon Ef-s 55-250mm Vs Canon Ef 70-300mm: Which Telephoto Lens Is Right For You?
What To Know
- The EF-S 55-250mm has a focal length range of 55-250mm, while the EF 70-300mm has a focal length range of 70-300mm.
- However, the EF 70-300mm has a slightly wider maximum aperture of f/4 at the 70mm focal length, which gives it a slight advantage in low-light conditions.
- The EF-S 55-250mm has a 4-stop IS system, while the EF 70-300mm has a 3-stop IS system.
Choosing the right lens for your Canon camera can be a daunting task, especially if you’re a beginner. With so many different options available, it can be hard to know where to start. In this blog post, we’ll be comparing two of Canon’s most popular telephoto lenses: the EF-S 55-250mm f/4-5.6 IS STM and the EF 70-300mm f/4-5.6 IS II USM. We’ll discuss the key differences between these two lenses and help you decide which one is right for you.
Focal Length
The first thing you’ll want to consider when choosing a telephoto lens is the focal length. Focal length is measured in millimeters, and it determines how close or far away your subject will appear in your photos. The EF-S 55-250mm has a focal length range of 55-250mm, while the EF 70-300mm has a focal length range of 70-300mm. This means that the EF 70-300mm can get you closer to your subject than the EF-S 55-250mm.
Aperture
The next thing you’ll want to consider is the aperture. Aperture is measured in f-stops, and it determines how much light is allowed to pass through the lens. The lower the f-stop number, the wider the aperture and the more light that is allowed to pass through. This means that lenses with wider apertures (lower f-stop numbers) can be used in low-light conditions or to create a shallow depth of field. Both the EF-S 55-250mm and the EF 70-300mm have a maximum aperture of f/4-5.6, which means that they’re both good for low-light photography. However, the EF 70-300mm has a slightly wider maximum aperture of f/4 at the 70mm focal length, which gives it a slight advantage in low-light conditions.
Image Stabilization
Both the EF-S 55-250mm and the EF 70-300mm feature image stabilization (IS), which helps to reduce camera shake and blur. This is especially important when shooting at slow shutter speeds or when using a tripod. The EF-S 55-250mm has a 4-stop IS system, while the EF 70-300mm has a 3-stop IS system. This means that the EF-S 55-250mm is slightly better at reducing camera shake than the EF 70-300mm.
Autofocus
The EF-S 55-250mm uses a stepping motor (STM) for autofocus, while the EF 70-300mm uses a ring-type ultrasonic motor (USM). STM motors are quieter and smoother than USM motors, which makes them ideal for video recording. However, USM motors are generally faster and more accurate than STM motors, which makes them better for sports and wildlife photography.
Build Quality
The EF-S 55-250mm is made of plastic, while the EF 70-300mm is made of metal. This makes the EF 70-300mm more durable and weather-resistant than the EF-S 55-250mm. However, the EF-S 55-250mm is lighter and more compact than the EF 70-300mm, which makes it easier to carry around.
Price
The EF-S 55-250mm is typically less expensive than the EF 70-300mm. This makes it a good option for budget-minded photographers. However, the EF 70-300mm offers better image quality, build quality, and autofocus performance, so it’s worth the extra money if you can afford it.
Which Lens is Right for You?
The EF-S 55-250mm is a good option for beginner photographers who are looking for a versatile and affordable telephoto lens. It’s also a good option for travel photographers who need a lens that’s lightweight and easy to carry around. The EF 70-300mm is a better option for photographers who need a telephoto lens with better image quality, build quality, and autofocus performance. It’s also a good option for sports and wildlife photographers who need a lens that can focus quickly and accurately.
The Bottom Line: Canon EF-S 55-250mm vs Canon EF 70-300mm
Ultimately, the best lens for you will depend on your individual needs and budget. If you’re not sure which lens is right for you, I recommend trying out both lenses before you make a decision.
Answers to Your Questions
Q: Which lens has a longer focal length range?
A: The Canon EF 70-300mm f/4-5.6 IS II USM has a longer focal length range of 70-300mm, compared to the Canon EF-S 55-250mm f/4-5.6 IS STM’s focal length range of 55-250mm.
Q: Which lens has a wider maximum aperture?
A: Both lenses have a maximum aperture of f/4-5.6, but the Canon EF 70-300mm f/4-5.6 IS II USM has a slightly wider maximum aperture of f/4 at the 70mm focal length.
Q: Which lens has better image stabilization?
A: The Canon EF-S 55-250mm f/4-5.6 IS STM has a 4-stop IS system, while the Canon EF 70-300mm f/4-5.6 IS II USM has a 3-stop IS system. This means that the Canon EF-S 55-250mm f/4-5.6 IS STM is slightly better at reducing camera shake.
