Canon's popular mid-range APS-C superzoom with IS and quiet STM autofocus.
The Canon EF-S 18-135mm f/3.5-5.6 IS STM was introduced in 2012 as the all-in-one kit zoom for APS-C EOS DSLRs requiring both standard and moderate telephoto coverage in a single lens, bundled with the EOS 70D and other mid-range bodies. The STM stepping motor provided quiet, smooth autofocus for video recording — a significant improvement over the older IS version's DC micro-motor — and the IS system was rated at 4 stops. It was succeeded by the IS USM version (2016) with Nano USM for faster stills AF performance.
The optical design uses 16 elements in 12 groups. The 67mm filter thread is consistent across Canon's EF-S 18-135mm family and shared with several EF and EF-S primes. At approximately 480g the lens is the heaviest of Canon's EF-S kit zoom options, reflecting the extended 7.5x zoom range. Minimum focus distance of 0.39m enables informal close-up work at the wide end. IS provides approximately 4 stops of shake correction, effective for handheld shooting in low light across the zoom range. The STM stepping motor is smooth and near-silent for video recording. Variable aperture runs from f/3.5 at 18mm to f/5.6 at 135mm.
For photographers wanting a single-lens solution on a Canon APS-C DSLR the 18-135mm IS STM covers the standard 29-216mm equivalent range without requiring a lens change. The STM motor is well-suited to video on Canon's DSLR and mirrorless bodies with Movie Servo AF. Optical quality is good in the centre across the zoom range; at 135mm wide open edge sharpness softens, as expected for a superzoom at this price. The 0.39m minimum focus distance enables casual close-subject work not available to the 18-55mm alternative.
On the used market the IS STM is plentiful and well-priced. Condition checks: STM motor response (confirm smooth, quiet zoom-length operation), IS engagement, and zoom ring smoothness. The EF-S 18-135mm IS USM (2016) provides Nano USM for faster stills AF and a broader focal length response; the price premium determines whether the stills-AF improvement justifies upgrading. Compatible with all Canon APS-C EOS DSLRs and via EF-EOS R adapter on RF-mount bodies.