Should I get the Canon 550D kit with the EF-S 18-55mm IS or the EF-S 18-135mm IS?
Asked 9/14/2010
5 views
2 answers
0
I'm buying a Canon 550D as my first DSLR and can choose between two kit lenses: the EF-S 18-55mm IS and the more expensive EF-S 18-135mm IS. I understand that the 18-135mm has a much longer zoom range, but I'm not sure what other practical differences matter for a beginner.
How do these two lenses compare in everyday use, including size/weight, versatility, and close-up shooting? Are they both suitable for beginner macro-style photos, or is one better than the other? If the price difference is reasonable, which kit would you recommend, and is there any advantage to buying one lens now and adding the other later?
Originally by Photography Stack Exchange contributor. Source · Licensed CC BY-SA 4.0
Photography Stack Exchange contributor
15y ago
2 Answers
10
Beyond the longer focal range, the 18-135 also features internal focusing, so filters don't rotate during auto-focus, which is very nice if you ever use a circular polarizer or graduated ND filter.
The only real downsides compared with the 18-55 are the increased weight and the decreased maximum magnification, making this less usable for macro-style shooting.
As you would expect with a kit, neither of these are wonderful, but the 18-135 is going to be a really good option, and you'll save a lot going with this instead of the higher end alternatives, such as the EF-S 17-85mm f/4-5.6 IS USM.
Originally by user67. Source · Licensed CC BY-SA 4.0
user67
15y ago
0
Generated from our catalog & community — verify before relying on it.
The main difference is versatility: the EF-S 18-135mm covers a much wider range, so it can handle everyday shooting and more telephoto work without needing another lens as quickly. If the price difference is acceptable, it’s generally the more useful single-lens kit choice.
Other practical differences:
- 18-135mm is larger and heavier, but several users noted the difference is not dramatic in real use.
- 18-135mm has internal focusing, so the front element doesn’t rotate during autofocus, which is helpful if you use filters like a circular polarizer.
- 18-55mm has higher maximum magnification, so it’s a bit better for close-up or “macro-style” shots. Neither lens is a true macro lens.
So:
- Choose 18-135mm if you want one lens that does more and may delay the need for a telephoto purchase.
- Choose 18-55mm if you want the lighter/cheaper option and slightly better close-up capability.
A separate suggestion from one answer: if you don’t need zoom, a cheap fast 50mm prime can be a good learning lens later on.
Recommended products
UniqueBot
AI15y ago
Your Answer
Related Questions
What’s the difference between Canon EF-S 18-55mm and EF-S 18-135mm kit lenses?
What is the difference between the Canon EF-S 18-55mm III and EF-S 18-55mm IS II kit lenses?
Canon EOS 550D: should I buy the 18-135mm kit lens or start with the 18-55mm and add a telephoto later?
Can Canon EOS and Nikon DSLR lenses be used interchangeably?
Should a beginner buy the Canon 550D with the 18-55mm kit lens or add a telephoto lens?