18-55mm STM f/3.5 vs f/4

MikeJ9116 wrote:

seri_art wrote:

I've ordered a T7i with 18-55 STM f/4. I have an 18-55 STM f/3.5 with my 650D. Of course I'll be able to test both lenses, but I'm wondering if there are any good test comparisons. I haven't been able to find any.

I have not used the f/3.5 STM version but do own the f/4.0 lens. While I can't personally compare IQ between them, I do find I prefer the f/4.0 version for three reason not related to IQ. First is the smaller size. It just fits better on the SL2. Second is the zoom action. It zooms in and out directly without the breathing effect of the previous lenses. I find this makes the zoom action smoother. Especially during video. Third is the rear of the lens is sealed with a piece of glass. This makes it much more resistant to dust getting into the lens from the mount end.

As for IQ, I find it to be excellent for a kit lens. I expected to use it mostly for video but actually use it for stills shooting when I just want to take one lens to have the smallest, lightest package to carry around. It is tack sharp and delivers very good color and contrast. Also, I haven't missed the half stop on the wide end at all.

I agree. I just compared my 18-55/4-5.6 STM to my new Sigma 17-50/2.8 and the Canon kit lens was impressively sharp at equivalent focal lengths up to 50mm. At 55mm, the kit lens I have gets noticeably softer across the frame. Naturally, the F/2.8 lens is a bit sharper but more importantly, it offers a wider range of exposure latitude and more DOF control at the cost of increased size and weight. It also expresses itself in a more pleasant color balance, in my very subjective opinion. The images from the better lens just look and "feel" more detailed and energetic. But I digress. I would have no problem at all keeping the kit lens on my SL2 for everyday shooting. It's an amazing lens for the money and it keeps the whole kit nice and light and nimble. Even better, the 24/2.8 really makes the camera portable. Almost like a compact and the image quality is choice.

Just my 2 cents. TY.