Re: First DSLR - 70D 18-55 or 700D 18-135
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Thought I'd offer some feedback on the 18-135 STM having actually owned it with my T4i/650D since its release (almost 2 years). I also briefly owned the 18-55 STM for comparison testing and sold it. I also own the 35 IS, 60 Macro, 70-200 F4 IS, etc., and previously owned a 17-55 2.8, so I know "sharp" lenses.
Photozone shows slightly higher MTF50 scores across the board for the 18-55 STM, but only 2-4% in most cases, and I assume that's from a single copy of each lens. The Digital Picture's Lens Image Quality comparison is a wash between the two, if not a win for the 18-135 STM at 18mm and 50/55mm wide open. So take your pick of reviews.
I did my own "real world" comparison and saw no practical difference in IQ. Overall, both are really quite good for general use. But for me, the extra reach and better build quality of the 18-135 STM tipped the scales in its favor. Mine has a very smooth zoom action with no creep after nearly 2 years. I've played with other copies in Best Buy, etc. which I'm sure are used and abused more than mine, and it's the same. I found the build quality better than the 17-55 2.8 I had, which zoomed unevenly at the wide end and also creeped significantly. The 18-135 STM also has a zoom lock, were this ever to become an issue.
Perhaps it's being confused with the older, inferior non-STM version? That seems to be a common fallacy on these boards, especially with folks who haven't owned the STM.
Anyway, since the OP is looking for a one-zoom-lens solution (as opposed to 18-55 + 55-250) with longer reach for travel, I'd strongly recommend the 18-135 STM over the 18-55 STM, as I think the (debatable) difference in IQ is less critical. It's great on the T5i/700D. I will say I found the 18-135 STM more comfortable to hold on the 70D due to the larger grip and better balance, despite the overall increase in weight. But if the 70D + 18-135 stretches the budget too thin, or precludes the addition of a fast prime for low light, the T5i/700D is the way to go.