BENOISON Telephoto Lens for Nikon - F Lens 420- vs Canon EF-S 18-
Updated July 2026 — full head-to-head comparison.
Overview of the Products
In this comparison, we have the BENOISON Telephoto Lens for Nikon and the Canon EF-S 18-135mm f/3.5-5.6 IS STM. The BENOISON lens is priced at $67.99, while the Canon lens is significantly higher at $329.95, making the BENOISON lens about 79% cheaper. However, each lens serves different purposes and caters to different users, so understanding their unique features is essential for making an informed choice.
Intended Use and Compatibility
The BENOISON Telephoto Lens is specifically designed for Nikon DSLR cameras, making it an excellent choice for wildlife and astrophotography enthusiasts. With a focal length ranging from 420-800mm, this lens allows photographers to capture distant subjects with impressive detail. On the other hand, the Canon EF-S 18-135mm lens is more versatile, suitable for both video and still images, and is compatible with Canon EOS Rebel series cameras. Its focal length of 18-135mm makes it ideal for everyday photography, such as landscapes and portraits, but it does not reach the extreme telephoto capabilities of the BENOISON lens.
Focusing Mechanism
The BENOISON lens operates solely on manual focus, which is a significant departure from the autofocus systems commonly found in modern lenses. Users must set their Nikon cameras to manual mode and manually adjust the focus, which can be challenging for beginners. Alternatively, the Canon EF-S 18-135mm lens employs an inner focusing system that allows for fast and accurate autofocus. This makes it user-friendly and suitable for capturing spontaneous moments, particularly in video shooting where quick adjustments are necessary.
Build Quality and Design
In terms of build quality, the BENOISON Telephoto Lens is constructed with high-quality materials aimed at durability. It features a non-adjustable aperture ranging from F/8.3 to F/16, depending on the zoom level. The Canon EF-S 18-135mm lens is also well-built, featuring a zoom ring lock to prevent accidental extension, enhancing its portability. While both lenses are designed for reliable performance, the BENOISON lens may require more careful handling due to its manual focus nature.
Image Stabilization
The Canon EF-S 18-135mm lens includes a refined Image Stabilization system that delivers up to four equivalent stops of shake correction throughout its zoom range. This feature is particularly beneficial for handheld shooting, ensuring clearer images even in challenging conditions. In contrast, the BENOISON Telephoto Lens does not mention any stabilization features, which means users may need to rely on tripods or stable surfaces to prevent blurriness, especially at longer focal lengths.
Price Comparison
When comparing prices, the BENOISON Telephoto Lens is significantly more affordable at $67.99 compared to the Canon EF-S 18-135mm lens, which retails for $329.95. This price difference of about $261.96 reflects a considerable gap, making the BENOISON lens an attractive option for budget-conscious photographers. However, it’s crucial to consider that the lens’s manual focus and specialized use might not appeal to everyone.
Versatility and Application
The versatility of the Canon EF-S 18-135mm lens is one of its standout features, making it suitable for a wide range of photographic applications—from landscapes to portraits and even video recording. Its zoom range allows users to adapt to different shooting scenarios seamlessly. In contrast, the BENOISON Telephoto Lens is more specialized, catering primarily to photographers focused on distant subjects. This limitation might be a disadvantage for those seeking an all-in-one solution.
User Experience
User experience varies significantly between the two lenses. The BENOISON lens requires a solid understanding of manual photography techniques, including setting the camera to manual mode and adjusting the focus ring. This can be a learning curve for beginners but rewarding for those who enjoy manual control. Conversely, the Canon EF-S 18-135mm lens is designed for ease of use, featuring a focus adjustment mechanism that simplifies the shooting process, especially in dynamic environments.
Which should you buy?
Ultimately, the choice between the BENOISON Telephoto Lens and the Canon EF-S 18-135mm f/3.5-5.6 IS STM depends on your photography needs and budget. If you're looking for an affordable telephoto lens specifically for Nikon cameras and are comfortable with manual focus, the BENOISON lens is an excellent choice. However, if you desire a versatile lens that excels in various shooting situations and offers autofocus along with image stabilization, the Canon EF-S 18-135mm is worth the investment.