Canon EF-S 18- vs BM Premium High-Power 420-

Overview of Canon EF-S 18-135mm f/3.5-5.6 IS STM and High-Power 420-1600mm f/8.3 HD Manual Telephoto Zoom Lens

The Canon EF-S 18-135mm f/3.5-5.6 IS STM is designed for versatility in both video and still photography, while the High-Power 420-1600mm f/8.3 HD Manual Telephoto Zoom Lens targets long-distance subjects. Priced at $329.95, the Canon lens offers refined image stabilization and fast autofocus, making it suitable for a range of photography styles. In contrast, the High-Power lens is priced at $139.99, providing an impressive zoom capability of 420mm to 1600mm, ideal for capturing distant subjects like wildlife or sports.

Image Quality Comparison

The Canon EF-S 18-135mm f/3.5-5.6 IS STM excels in image quality, featuring a refined image stabilization system that offers up to four stops of shake correction throughout its zoom range. This lens includes one UD and one PMO aspheric lens, contributing to high resolution and reduced chromatic aberration. The High-Power 420-1600mm lens, while it provides significant zoom capabilities, may not match the image quality due to its manual focus and lower f-stop rating of f/8.3, which can affect light intake and sharpness in lower light conditions.

Zoom and Focal Length

The zoom capabilities of these lenses differ vastly. The Canon EF-S lens has a focal length of 18-135mm, providing versatility for wide-angle to moderate telephoto shots. In contrast, the High-Power lens offers an extraordinary focal length range of 420mm to 1600mm, making it ideal for specialized photography where distance is a factor. This lens can effectively double its power with a 2X teleconverter, bringing its reach to an impressive 1600mm, a feature that significantly enhances its value for wildlife and sports photography.

Autofocus and Usability

The Canon EF-S 18-135mm f/3.5-5.6 IS STM includes a modern inner focusing system that supports fast and accurate autofocus, particularly beneficial for video shooting. It utilizes a stepping motor that enables smooth and quiet focusing, making it an excellent choice for videographers. The High-Power lens, however, is a manual focus lens, which may require more skill and patience from photographers. This could potentially limit its usability for quick action shots, particularly where autofocus is advantageous.

Compatibility and Versatility

Both lenses are compatible with a variety of Canon cameras, including popular models like the Canon EOS 80D, 90D, and Rebel series. The Canon EF-S 18-135mm lens is optimized for various shooting conditions, suitable for both stills and video. The High-Power lens, while also compatible with numerous models, is more specialized for long-range photography and may not be as versatile for everyday use. This makes the Canon lens a better all-rounder for general photography needs.

Price and Value

At $329.95, the Canon EF-S 18-135mm f/3.5-5.6 IS STM is significantly pricier than the High-Power 420-1600mm lens, which is available for $139.99. This price difference of about 59% reflects the advanced features and image quality of the Canon lens. However, the High-Power lens offers incredible value for its zoom capabilities at a much lower price point, making it a compelling choice for photographers focused on long-distance shots without breaking the bank.

Build Quality and Design

Both lenses reflect quality in their construction, but they cater to different needs. The Canon EF-S 18-135mm lens is designed with a compact and lightweight build, making it easy to handle for various shooting scenarios. It also features a zoom ring lock to prevent accidental extension. Conversely, the High-Power lens, while designed for long-range shots, may feel bulkier due to its extensive zoom capability. This could affect portability, especially during long shooting sessions.

Which should you buy?

Choosing between the Canon EF-S 18-135mm f/3.5-5.6 IS STM and the High-Power 420-1600mm f/8.3 HD Manual Telephoto Zoom Lens ultimately depends on your photography needs. If you require a versatile lens with excellent image stabilization and fast autofocus for both video and still images, the Canon lens is the optimal choice. However, if your focus is on long-distance photography, particularly wildlife or sports, and you are comfortable with manual focusing, the High-Power lens offers remarkable value at a significantly lower price.