Wainoni, Christchurch -- (SBWIRE) -- 09/01/2011 -- When someone is looking for a nice quality, affordable and versatile lens, the Canon EF-S 18-135 F3.5-5.6 IS Lens is one of the lenses we frequently recommend. The Canon EF-S 18-135mm f/3.5-5.6 IS Lens is designed as a step up from the standard 18-55mm IS kit lens.

The 18-135?s most attractive features are a wide (7.5x) focal length range, competitive price point all in a relatively light weight/compact package, featuring “IS” (Image Stabilization) implementation. The build quality of this Canon lens is a step-up compared to the typical entry level/”budget” class zoom lenses by Canon. The plastic quality is quite decent and the lens feels pretty “tight” in terms of build tolerances.

Unlike the Canon EF-S 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 IS Kit Lens, the 18-135 focuses internally and filters do not rotate when focusing. The 18-135?s focus ring is a usable size (again, unlike the 18-55 IS) – 11.7mm.

The 60.8mm zoom ring, starting at the focal length numbers and ending immediately before the focus ring, consumes a majority of the outer lens barrel. Canon EF-S 18-135mm Lens uses a Micro Motor to drive AF. It is neither fast nor silent, but is adequate for casual use.

Specifications:
- Optical construction : 16 elements in 12 groups inc. 1x UD and 1x aspherical elements
- Number of aperture blades : 6 (circular)
- min. focus distance : 0.45m (max. magnification ratio ~1:5 @ 135mm)
- Dimensions : 75x101mm
- Weight : 455g
- Filter size : 67mm (non-rotating)
- Hood : optional, petal-shaped, snap-on type
- Other features : IS (Image-Stabilizer)

If you’re looking for a single lens to do a lot of jobs, then the EF-S 18-135/3.5-5.6 IS is a solid choice.