The Canon EF-S 55-250mm f/4-5.6 IS STM Lens is a long-reaching zoom lens that provides a 35mm-equivalent focal length range of 88-400mm, covering portrait-length to telephoto perspectives to suit working with distant subject matter. Greatly benefitting this lens' reach is the incorporation of image stabilization, which works to minimize the appearance of camera shake by up to 3.5 shutter speed steps to support handheld use in low-light conditions. An STM stepping focus motor is also integrated into the lens' design to provide smooth, quiet, and fast focusing performance that is ideally-suited to video applications as well as tracking moving subjects. The rear focusing system, high-speed CPU, and an enhanced AF algorithm also contribute to quickened overall AF speeds. Full-time manual focus is also supported to permit fine-tuning of focus even while working in AF modes. Additionally, the front lens section does not rotate during focusing to better facilitate the use of polarizing filters.
On an APS-C camera (those designed for EF-S lenses) - a 55-250mm zoom lens is equivalent to a focal length of 88-400mm with a full frame 35mm camera.
On bright days, you have therefore with this lens a lightweight portable zoom with quite some reach when using the cameras for which it was designed.
A 400mm lens with Image Stabilisiation would cost the "Earth" yet this lens has it
The stabilising is quiet - and it works great.
Auto focusng is also very quiet and very quick.
Manually focusing - well, that works too, but it is seldom required; but for specific applications.
All in all - simply fantastic.
I was concerned that the lens would not be very sharp having read a comparison web site. However, I wasn't prepared to pay for an L-series lens which it gave a higher rating to. It produces images sharp enough for my use and. I have been impressed with the Image Stabilization - which cuts down blur from camera shake. I would recommend this lens to all but professional photographers.
Excellent image quality, equal to an L class lens in real world use.
Not as durable but very decent...not too plasticky or loosely held together
Focussing not as fast as an L
99% sure anyone would be happy with it
Well this piece of glass is a terrific lens. I think that it could be one of the most inexpensive lens for its image quality.
Although it as a slow aperture and a middle quality bokeh, this lens has a stunning sharpness and an impressive IS system. You can surprisingly take shots at 250mm handheld with slow shutter speeds like 1/125 or even stopped down.
For those who are in doubt with this one and the 70-200 f4 non IS, this is far better choice in every single aspects for APC cameras. It is smaller, lighter, far cheaper, has IS and similar IQ compared to the L lens.
I love this lens. The images are nice and clear and with the STM motor you hear nothing when focusing! Great value for money if you can't afford an "L" Lens.