Canon EF-S 55-250mm f/4-5.6 IS STM Review
The Canon EF-S 55-250mm f/4-5.6 IS STM ($349.99 direct)($299.00 at Amazon) is a telephoto lens for Canon APS-C D-SLR cameras. It covers a field of view that's roughly equivalent to an 88-400mm zoom on a full-frame camera, delivering impressive telephoto reach at its maximum zoom. The modest f/4-5.6 aperture isn't the best for low-light shooting, but the light and compact design and affordable price make it a better choice for non-professional shooters. If you need f/2.8 zoom, the Sigma 120-300mm F2.8 DG OS HSM($3,599.00 at Amazon) earns our Editors' Choice with its impressive sharpness, constant f/2.8 aperture, and build quality, but it's a hefty and expensive beast.
The lens itself measures just 4.4 by 2.8 inches (HD), weighs 13.2 ounces, and is compatible with 58mm threaded filters. It sets itself apart from Canon's previous take on this design with an STM focus motor, which delivers smooth, silent focus when used in Live View with a compatible Canon SLR—these include the T5i($...
The Canon EF-S 55-250mm f/4-5.6 IS STM is a sharp telephoto zoom, but its aperture is anything but ambitious.
Impressive sharpness; STM focus motor; 4.5x zoom range; Light and compact design
Modest aperture; Plastic lens mount; Lens hood not included