Canon's ultra-compact RF-mount APS-C kit zoom, designed for the R10 and R50.
The Canon RF-S 18-45mm f/4.5-6.3 IS STM was introduced in 2022 as the standard kit lens for Canon's APS-C RF-mount cameras including the R10, R50, and R100. Covering a 29-72mm equivalent range, it prioritises compactness over optical ambition. It is one of the smallest and lightest Canon zoom lenses ever made.
Optical quality is adequate for a kit lens with decent centre sharpness improving when stopped down. The slow f/4.5-6.3 aperture is a significant limitation in low light. IS provides approximately 4 stops of stabilisation. The STM motor is quiet and smooth for video autofocus. Build is entirely plastic and very lightweight.
Canon RF-S mount only, 49mm filter thread. This competes directly with the RF-S 18-150mm f/3.5-6.3 IS STM which offers much more range at the cost of size. There is no faster-aperture RF-S standard zoom available from Canon.
Very affordable used. Check IS operation and STM motor responsiveness. The slow aperture means this is primarily a daylight lens. For anything more demanding the RF-S 18-150mm or an adapted EF-S 17-55mm f/2.8 are better options. Adequate as a starter lens but most users will outgrow it quickly.