What To Know
- 6 IS STM offer a focal length range of 55mm to 250mm, providing versatility for capturing a wide range of subjects, including portraits, wildlife, and sports.
- 6 IS is constructed with a durable polycarbonate body, while the EF-S 55-250mm f/4-5.
- 6 IS STM features a quieter and more precise STM autofocus system, making it better for video recording and capturing fast-moving subjects.
The Canon EF-S 55-250mm f/4-5.6 IS and EF-S 55-250mm f/4-5.6 IS STM are two telephoto zoom lenses designed for Canon APS-C format DSLR cameras. While they share similar focal lengths and apertures, they differ in their autofocus systems and other key features. This blog post aims to provide a comprehensive comparison of the Canon EF-S 55-250mm f/4-5.6 IS vs STM, guiding aspiring photographers in making an informed decision.
Focal Length and Aperture
Both the Canon EF-S 55-250mm f/4-5.6 IS and EF-S 55-250mm f/4-5.6 IS STM offer a focal length range of 55mm to 250mm, providing versatility for capturing a wide range of subjects, including portraits, wildlife, and sports. Their maximum aperture ranges from f/4 at the wide end to f/5.6 at the telephoto end, allowing for sufficient light gathering and background blur.
Image Stabilization
Both lenses feature Image Stabilization (IS), which helps to reduce camera shake and produce sharper images, especially in low-light conditions. The IS system in the EF-S 55-250mm f/4-5.6 IS uses a traditional optical image stabilizer, while the EF-S 55-250mm f/4-5.6 IS STM employs a newer Hybrid IS system that combines optical and electronic stabilization for improved effectiveness.
Autofocus System
The primary difference between the two lenses lies in their autofocus systems. The Canon EF-S 55-250mm f/4-5.6 IS uses a traditional DC autofocus motor, which provides reliable and reasonably fast autofocus performance. However, it can be slightly noisy and may struggle in low-light conditions.
In contrast, the Canon EF-S 55-250mm f/4-5.6 IS STM features a Stepping Motor (STM) autofocus system. STM motors are quieter, smoother, and more precise than DC motors, making them ideal for video recording and capturing fast-moving subjects.
Optical Quality
In terms of optical performance, both lenses deliver sharp and detailed images throughout the zoom range. They feature a similar optical construction, including 12 lens elements in 9 groups, providing good contrast and color reproduction. However, the EF-S 55-250mm f/4-5.6 IS STM is slightly sharper at the wide end and exhibits less distortion at the telephoto end.
Build Quality and Handling
The Canon EF-S 55-250mm f/4-5.6 IS is constructed with a durable polycarbonate body, while the EF-S 55-250mm f/4-5.6 IS STM has a more premium metal construction. Both lenses have a retractable design, making them compact and easy to carry. The EF-S 55-250mm f/4-5.6 IS STM features a zoom lock switch to prevent accidental extension of the lens while not in use.
Price
The Canon EF-S 55-250mm f/4-5.6 IS is typically priced lower than the EF-S 55-250mm f/4-5.6 IS STM. The price difference reflects the differences in autofocus systems and build quality.
Which Lens is Right for You?
The choice between the Canon EF-S 55-250mm f/4-5.6 IS and EF-S 55-250mm f/4-5.6 IS STM depends on your specific needs and budget.
- Canon EF-S 55-250mm f/4-5.6 IS: A good value for the price, offering reliable autofocus and sharp image quality. Suitable for budget-conscious photographers or those who do not prioritize fast autofocus.
- Canon EF-S 55-250mm f/4-5.6 IS STM: A more premium option with a quieter and more precise autofocus system. Ideal for video recording, capturing fast-moving subjects, and those who value high-quality construction.
Conclusion: Making an Informed Decision
The Canon EF-S 55-250mm f/4-5.6 IS vs STM comparison highlights the strengths and weaknesses of each lens. By understanding their key features, you can make an informed decision that aligns with your photography style and budget. Whether you choose the EF-S 55-250mm f/4-5.6 IS for its affordability or the EF-S 55-250mm f/4-5.6 IS STM for its superior autofocus, both lenses are capable of producing impressive results for aspiring photographers.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Which lens has better autofocus performance?
A: The Canon EF-S 55-250mm f/4-5.6 IS STM features a quieter and more precise STM autofocus system, making it better for video recording and capturing fast-moving subjects.
Q: Is the EF-S 55-250mm f/4-5.6 IS weather-sealed?
A: No, neither the Canon EF-S 55-250mm f/4-5.6 IS nor the EF-S 55-250mm f/4-5.6 IS STM is weather-sealed.
Q: Which lens is better for wildlife photography?
A: Both lenses are suitable for wildlife photography, but the EF-S 55-250mm f/4-5.6 IS STM has a slight advantage due to its faster and more precise autofocus system.
