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Good starter lens, good enough for older models

Started Aug 12, 2019 | User reviews
ncampbell2 New Member • Posts: 11
Good starter lens, good enough for older models

I have had this lens for many years. It has taken some abuse and has some battle scars. I have not experienced the 'error 99' with the aperture cable tearing as many people have reported.

Ergonomics and build are good. The focus is quick and accurate. IS works well.

I would consider this lens to be a step up from the first 18-55, but not on par with the STM version or the 15-85 that replaced this lens.

17mm is a mess being not very sharp, high distortion and CA's.

However, the rest of the focal range is quite good and you can get decently close to your subjects for good magnification at 85mm.

Cannot recommend for bodies of 15+MP newer Rebel series or _0D series, but if you're using an old model like I am with the 20D it will work fine. It was made around the same time, so it can keep up with the older lower resolution bodies.

 ncampbell2's gear list:ncampbell2's gear list
Canon EOS 5D Canon EOS 20D Canon EF 50mm F1.8 II Canon EF-S 17-85mm f/4-5.6 IS USM Canon EF 24-85mm f/3.5-4.5 USM +2 more
Canon EF-S 17-85mm f/4-5.6 IS USM
Zoom lens • Canon EF-S • 9517A002
Announced: Aug 19, 2004
ncampbell2's score
3.5
Average community score
3.6
Canon EF-S 17-85mm f/4-5.6 IS USM Canon EOS 20D
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