Canon — USM autofocus 22-55mm wide-to-standard zoom built for EOS IX APS film cameras
Canon EF 22-55mm f/4-5.6 USM was a budget wide-to-standard zoom introduced in 1998 as one of two kit lenses for the EOS IX Lite, Canon's APS-format SLR, while remaining fully usable on ordinary 35mm EOS film and later digital bodies.
It used 9 elements in 9 groups, including a replica aspherical element, behind a 5-blade diaphragm closing to f/22-32. Canon specified a 58mm filter thread, a 0.35 metre minimum focus distance giving roughly 0.2x magnification, and a weight of just 175 grams.
A Micro USM motor gave quick, near-silent autofocus rare in a lens this cheap, and its close minimum focus allowed loose macro-style framing unusual for a kit zoom. On APS bodies the range acted as a 28-69mm equivalent, while full-frame EOS cameras keep genuine wide-angle reach at 22mm.
Tied to the short-lived APS format, secondhand supply is limited and prices stay low, though interest has grown among photographers adapting it to mirrorless bodies. Buyers should confirm USM autofocus engages promptly and check the front element for scratches.