Canon's first IS kit zoom — the EF 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 IS that added stabilisation.
The Canon EF 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 IS is the first stabilised version of Canon's APS-C kit zoom. Adding IS to the basic 18-55mm formula was a significant practical improvement — enabling handheld shooting at slower shutter speeds. Covering 29-88mm equivalent. The IS version was a meaningful upgrade over the non-IS original.
Basic kit zoom optics with the addition of IS stabilisation — approximately 4 stops. Centre sharpness acceptable. The IS addition was the headline improvement. Variable aperture. Adequate for casual photography with the stabilisation benefit. The later IS II and IS STM versions improved further. A practical evolution of the Canon APS-C kit zoom.
Canon EF mount, APS-C. Filter thread 58mm. Weight approximately 200 grams. Build quality basic. IS stabilisation — the key feature. The IS version was the first Canon APS-C kit zoom with stabilisation. The IS II and IS STM versions are improved. No weather sealing. AF motor is not USM — audible.
Very cheap. The IS stabilisation is the sole advantage over non-IS. The IS STM version is dramatically preferred for silent AF and improved optics. Only at near-zero prices. A basic kit zoom with the IS benefit. Superseded by multiple improved versions.