Canon's second-generation stabilised APS-C kit zoom, a solid entry-level performer.
The Canon EF-S 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 IS II is the second generation of Canon's stabilised APS-C kit zoom, introduced around 2011 as the standard bundle lens for mid-range EOS DSLRs including the EOS 600D and 700D. Covering 29-88mm equivalent on APS-C, it addressed the primary limitation of the non-IS variants by adding image stabilisation. The optical formula uses 11 elements in 9 groups. IS is rated at approximately 4 stops, operated by a switch on the barrel. Autofocus uses a DC motor, which produces audible operation noise — a category characteristic of DC-motor lenses rather than ring-type USM designs. At approximately 200g with a 58mm filter thread and a plastic mount, it is a light, practical kit lens for everyday APS-C DSLR use. The zoom barrel extends to its full length at 55mm.
Optical performance is a step above the non-IS variants. Centre sharpness is good from f/5.6 at most focal lengths with the strongest results between 24-50mm equivalent. Corners are softer and improve from f/8. Barrel distortion at 18mm is visible and pincushion at 55mm is moderate — both correctable in most raw processors and in Canon's in-camera processing on compatible bodies. Chromatic aberration is present in high-contrast scenes. The IS system handles handheld shooting at 1/15s at 18mm, making it effective for available-light static subjects. The DC motor autofocus is audible during operation and is picked up by on-camera microphones during video recording, limiting its video utility.
EF-S mount only — not compatible with full-frame Canon EF bodies without vignetting. The 58mm filter thread is shared with the IS STM successor and the non-IS III. The IS II was replaced in Canon's bundle lineup by the IS STM from 2013 onward and is no longer in production. It is identified on the barrel by the IS switch and the absence of STM text. Among the EF-S 18-55mm variants, the IS II sits above the non-IS III (no stabilisation) and below the IS STM (near-silent STM motor, improved build, metal mount). No weather sealing.
The IS II is available at low cost and performs competently for daylight stills and moderate telephoto work. The IS STM version costs marginally more used and provides a quieter AF motor, metal mount, and better suitability for video — it is the better overall choice if the price difference is small. Check IS engages and operates, confirm autofocus responds cleanly across the focal range, and verify the zoom action is even throughout its travel. The IS II is worth choosing over the IS STM only when the price difference is material or when video use is not a requirement.