Best Ultrasonic 28-135mm Lens for Canon DSLRs
Exploring the best ultrasonic 28-135mm lenses helps shooters balance versatility and speed across landscapes, portraits, and everyday photography. This guide covers five options that leverage Canon’s USM (Ultrasonic Motor) and image stabilization to deliver fast, quiet autofocus and sharp results. Each entry includes setup considerations, performance highlights, and suitability for different Canon bodies.
| Product | Key Benefit | Included Features |
|---|---|---|
| Canon EF 28-135mm f/3.5-5.6 IS USM (2562A002) | Steady image stabilization; quick AF with full-time MF | Close focus 20 inches; 75–18° diagonal view; compact design |
| Canon EF 28-135mm f/3.5-5.6 IS USM (Renewed) | Versatile zoom range with IS | Wide 28-135mm; fast, quiet USM; handheld low-light performance |
| Canon EOS 30D Kit with EF 28-135mm | All-in-one option for budget kits | 8.2MP CCD; big 2.5″ LCD; robust AF |
| Canon EF-S 18-135mm f/3.5-5.6 IS USM | APS-C zoom versatility with Nano USM | Video-friendly, PZ-E1 compatibility |
| Canon EF-S 18-135mm f/3.5-5.6 IS USM (Renewed) | Cost-effective bundle with versatile range | IS, USM, video-ready design |
Canon EF 28-135mm f/3.5-5.6 IS USM Lens
The Canon EF 28-135mm f/3.5-5.6 IS USM offers a versatile zoom range paired with Ring-type USM for swift, silent autofocusing and full-time manual focus. It supports close focusing down to 20 inches and provides a diagonal angle of view suitable for a range of scenes. The lens weighs about 18.9 ounces and measures 3.1 inches in diameter by 3.8 inches long, making it a practical all-purpose option for Canon SLRs.
Canon EF 28-135mm f/3.5-5.6 IS USM Zoom Lens (Renewed)
This renewed version preserves the 28-135mm range with built-in Image Stabilization to minimize camera shake in low-light handheld shooting. The USM drive delivers fast, quiet autofocus, making it well-suited for street and travel photography where speed matters. It provides a flexible option for Canon bodies that require reliable performance without the cost of new-lens pricing.
Canon EOS 30D Kit With EF 28-135mm
This older model pairs an 8.2-megapixel CCD with a 28-135mm lens, offering a broad zoom range in a compact body. A large 2.5-inch LCD supports viewing at unusual angles, while a 9-point AF system provides reliable focusing. The combination is suitable for hobbyists seeking an affordable entry into Canon DSLRs with an all-around zoom lens for various subjects.
Canon EF-S 17-85mm f/4-5.6 USM
This lens covers a useful range that sits slightly wider than 28-135mm periphery. It weighs lightly and features USM for quiet autofocus, with a 67mm filter size. Its diagonal angle of view is broad enough for landscapes and environmental portraits, though it is not an IS version in this specific listing. It remains a popular option for entry-level APS-C bodies needing flexible focal lengths.
Canon EF-S 18-135mm f/3.5-5.6 IS USM
This standard zoom for Canon APS-C bodies blends a broad 18-135mm range with Optical IS and an Ultrasonic Motor for quiet, fast focusing. Its Nano USM technology aims to provide smooth focusing in both stills and video contexts. The lens is designed to be a balanced, all-purpose option for travel, street photography, and everyday shooting with Canon EOS cameras.
Canon EF-S 18-135mm f/3.5-5.6 IS USM (Renewed)
This renewed bundle provides the same versatile zoom range with Image Stabilization and USM for quiet AF, making it an economical choice for photographers upgrading to an APS-C system or building a lightweight travel kit. The included accessories vary, but the core performance remains aligned with the non-renewed version, offering reliable autofocus and a flexible focal length in a compact package.
Buying Guide: Key Purchase Considerations
- Lens mount and camera compatibility: Ensure the lens line matches your Canon body (EF for full-frame and older DSLRs; EF-S for APS-C bodies).
- Autofocus system: USM delivers silent, fast AF, beneficial for moving subjects and video work. Consider Nano USM or traditional USM depending on model.
- Image stabilization: IS helps when shooting handheld in low light or at longer focal lengths. Verify the stabilization specs and effectiveness.
- Focal length range: 28-135mm covers wide to short tele; 18-135mm variants offer broader wide-angle reach, especially on APS-C bodies.
- Image quality vs. size: Higher-end variants may be heavier but provide sharper results and better edge performance. Balance weight with intended use.
- Physical build and handling: Look at diameter, length, weight, and warranty. USM lenses generally have better autofocus performance and durability.
- Video performance: Lenses with fast, quiet AF and Nano USM are particularly suitable for video work or hybrid stills-video use.
- Renewed vs. new: Renewed lenses offer significant cost savings but may come with shorter warranties or cosmetic imperfections. Read seller details carefully.
- Accessories and bundles: Some listings include filters, pouches, or memory cards. Consider value adds when comparing prices.
- Usage scenarios: Landscapes, portraits, travel, and street photography each benefit from different focal ranges and IS performance. Prioritize features that align with your primary subjects.
In sum, the best ultrasonic 28-135mm lens choice depends on your Canon system, budget, and shooting style. Lenses with IS and USM typically provide the strongest all-around performance for daily shooting, while renewed or bundled options offer economical routes to broader focal coverage.